Changes Since Ruby/Sapphire

Discover the key differences and new features introduced in Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire compared to previous generations, including Mega Evolution and Pokémon-Amie.

This guide details the changes made in Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire compared to earlier Pokémon games.

Changes since Generation IV (Diamond/Pearl/etc.)

All Pokémon moves are now individually categorized as either Physical or Special. Physical moves use the Attack stat against the foe's Defense, while Special moves use the Special Attack stat against the foe's Special Defense. Previously, moves were categorized as Physical or Special based on their type (e.g., all Fire-type moves were Special). This change allows Pokémon like Flareon, with high Attack but low Special Attack, to utilize Fire-type moves effectively by learning Physical-based Fire moves like Fire Fang. This diversification enables more varied movesets for all Pokémon types.

Changes since Generation V (Black/White/etc.)

Building on the popular Double Battles introduced in Ruby and Sapphire, which became the standard in official VGCs, Black and White introduced Triple and Rotation Battles. These battle formats, discussed further in the Pokémon Battles section, introduce new strategies and complexities with the addition of a third Pokémon in Triple Battles, and mind-games through the ability to rotate Pokémon at any time in Rotation Battles.

Additionally, many Pokémon now have a third, rarer Ability known as a “Hidden Ability”. These are often superior to a Pokémon's standard Abilities. In this game, Hidden Abilities can be obtained rarely when sneaking up on Pokémon.

Changes since Generation VI (X/Y)

Mega Evolution allows familiar Pokémon to achieve stronger forms mid-battle by holding a specific Mega Stone. For example, Charizard can Mega Evolve into Mega Charizard by holding a Charizardite. Many other Pokémon also gain this ability.

Pokémon-Amie allows players to interact with any of the 719 Pokémon on the bottom screen by petting, feeding, or playing with them. While primarily for fun, Pokémon-Amie is also the method to evolve Eevee into Sylveon, one of the new Fairy-type Pokémon. Fairy-types are super-effective against Dragon, Fighting, and Dark-types, and immune to Dragon moves, making them effective counters to Dragon-types.