Something Silver, Something Gold – Pokemon Heartgold/Soulsilver

By Taylor Bock

Many of us have fond memories of our days when we collected Pokémon cards and played the video games. We could tell you the names of all the original 150 Pokémons, give you their types and number, describe their strengths and weaknesses. Hell, some of us can still do that.

Some Pokémon veterans have been disappointed with the last few games. Each is relatively the same as the last.

Collect, battle, go through the thin plotline and eventually become the reigning champ. The formula doesn’t change, and the Pokémon you pick up never really holds the same charm as that original generation we grew up with.

Well my friends, “Soul Silver” and “Heart Gold” give us a chance to go back to those original generations that obsessed us so.

Both games come with the new Pokéwalker accessory. This is basically a pedometer that you can load a Pokémon into and walk with.

The more you walk with your Pokémon, the more it begins to love and respect you. This may not be important to everyone, but if you’re the type with an active imagination, it can be fun.

Be forewarned: buying the game new will run you nearly 40 bucks. So, if that Pokéwalker isn’t really that interesting to you, you might as well wait to find the game used. Or, just grab an old Gameboy and play one of the older games.

I won’t lie to you, this is pretty much the exact same game you’ve played a hundred times before.

New features include an improved battle system, better graphics and animations, plus an entire other region to explore when you defeat the Elite Four. In addition, the Pokémon in your first slot will follow you around in the game world, just like in the original “Gold and Silver.”

If you haven’t played the game in a while and you’re looking to revisit the old school, then give the game a shot. If you’re just looking for a quick Pokémon fix, you’d be better off just getting a used copy of Diamond, Pearl or one of the older GBA games.