How to Play Pokemon Pearl

Pokemon Pearl is the twin to the Diamond edition of the Nintendo DS video game. Both games are basically the same, but there are a few Pokemon exclusive to each version. Everyone can play Pokemon Pearl, even if they aren't fans of the franchise.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Nintendo DS

Explore the Pokemon World

1. Buy a copy of Pokemon Pearl, and put the cartridge into your DS. Turn the power on and select Pearl. Then, start your game.

2. Create a new file to begin your adventure. Several questions will be asked to help define your character's gender, name and rival's name.

3. Watch the intro screens, and you'll soon be asked to pick your first Pokemon. Your choices are Turtwig, Chimchar and Piplup, whose attributes are grass, fire and water. Some players recommend Chimchar because he is one of the few new fire Pokemon, but your choice doesn't affect the game too much.

4. Journey into different zones and towns to catch other Pokemon and fight trainers for badges. Keep your eyes open for the Pokemon that are exclusive to the Pearl version, including Slowpoke, Sealeo, Purugly and Misdreavus. You'll also occasionally see a shiny Pokemon, which is the same as its regular breed, except in color.

5. Fight every Pokemon in the Sinnoh area. You only need to see each Pokemon rather than catch it like in previous games. Once you complete the Sinnoh Dex, you'll have access to the National Dex.

6. Play Pokemon Pearl with your friends over a Wi-Fi network. You can trade Pokemon and challenge each other to duels. The game may change one player's Pokemon levels temporarily to help even the match.

Tips & Warnings

• When you hatch an egg, put a Pokemon with the Flame Body or Magma Armor in your party, and the hatching time will be cut in half.
• You can play Pokemon Pearl without using the DS touch screen, although the stylus makes it much easier to navigate the PokeDex and in-game watch.
• Some special Pokemon are only available at official Nintendo events. Take your DS along to download these rare monsters.
• You have to trade Pokemon with someone who plays the Diamond version if you want to complete your Pokedex and get all 482 monsters.
• Take regular breaks from playing Pokemon Pearl because it can be unhealthy for your eyes to look at the small screen all day.