Basics of the Game

Items can be found in the field as Pokéball icons; examine them by facing them and pressing A. Be aware that some Pokéball icons may actually be Voltorb or Electrode.

Hidden items are invisible and require you to face the tile they are on and press A to find them. Look for contextual clues like empty grass patches or standalone trees, and later use the Itemfinder to detect them.

Some NPCs will give you items directly when you speak to them, sometimes requiring a specific task or time of day.

Berries and Apricorns can be found in trees.

Wild Pokémon can be encountered by walking in tall grass, in caverns, or by using moves like Headbutt, Surf, or Fishing Rods.

Trainer Battles occur when you enter a trainer's line of sight. You will battle 1 to 6 Pokémon and gain money and experience.

Hidden Machines (HMs) teach moves that overcome field obstacles like rocks, trees, or darkness, and are necessary for progression. You typically receive an HM after defeating the appropriate Gym Leader.

In towns, visit Pokémon Centers to heal your Pokémon's HP, PP, and status conditions for free. Use the PC to store Pokémon (you can only carry six at a time), store items, and get your Pokédex evaluated. The second floor of Pokémon Centers allows trading and battling with other players via a Game Link cable (Game Boy Color) or infrared ports (Nintendo 3DS VC). The Time Capsule allows trading with Pokémon Red, Blue, Green, and Yellow Versions.

Visit Poké Marts to buy items like Pokéballs, medicine, and other useful resources.