The month of December 2024 has been exciting for the Pokemon ROM hack community. With so many talented creators constantly working on new ideas, updates, and unique features, it’s a great time for fans to explore fresh hacks or revisit updated ones. But have you wondered if there’s anything new this month or which hacks have received significant updates?
This post covers the Top 5 New Pokemon GBA ROM Hacks Released or Updated in December 2024. Some of these are completely new hacks, while others are well-known projects that have gotten major updates this month.
Before we dive in, let’s clarify:
- This list is not ranked in any particular order.
- It simply highlights some of the newly released or updated ROM hacks from December 2024.
- Each hack is explained in detail to help you decide which one to try next!
Pokemon Hodgepodge Platoon
- Creator: The Pebbler Platoon
- Release Date: December 13, 2024
Pokemon Hodgepodge Platoon is a mini ROM hack designed for players who love battles and strategy. This completed hack focuses on battling in the HP Platoon Facility, where you can only use rental Pokemon.
Here’s what makes it stand out:
- Over 80 Fakemon (fan-made Pokemon): These were created by 20 different artists, giving the game a unique feel.
- Battle Swap System: Similar to the Emerald Battle Factory, you choose 3 Pokemon from a random pool of 6 and use them to face random trainers.
- Skill-Based Gameplay: The challenge lies in using unfamiliar Pokemon, analyzing their moves and abilities, and forming the best strategy to win.
This hack is perfect for players who want to test their battling skills and Pokemon knowledge. Unlike traditional games where you can rely on overleveling or powerful Pokemon, Hodgepodge Platoon requires you to adapt and think on your feet.
If you believe in your battling style and want a fun challenge, this ROM hack is worth playing!
Pokemon Quetzal
- Creator: TenmaRH
- Update Date: December 11, 2024
Pokemon Quetzal isn’t a new release, but it’s one of the most popular hacks in the community and received a moderate update this month. It caters to fans in both Spanish and English, making it accessible to a broader audience.
What’s new in the latest update?
- Mechanics Updates: Improved gameplay mechanics to match modern standards.
- New Pokemon: Addition of Pokemon from the latest generations.
- Resprites: Some older Pokemon have been given fresh new looks.
- Overworld Updates: Improved visuals and map details.
- Miscellaneous Fixes: Other minor updates to enhance the overall experience.
This ROM hack is packed with features, including:
- Gigantamax, Dynamax, Terastalization, and Z-Moves.
- A follower system where your Pokemon follows you around.
- Over 100 playable characters and 73 starter Pokemon.
- Multiplayer functionality for battles and trading.
- DexNav for easier Pokemon hunting and tracking.
- Various difficulty modes to suit every player.
Whether you’re a long-time fan of Pokemon Quetzal or someone new to it, this update ensures a fresh and enjoyable experience. With its unique features and regular updates, it’s a ROM hack that every Pokemon fan should try at least once!
Pokemon Freezai’s Mountain
- Creator: Freezai
- Release Date: December 3, 2024
Pokemon Freezai’s Mountain is a completed ROM hack that falls under the escape room style category. It’s a unique take on Pokemon games, focusing on exploration, resource collection, and solving puzzles rather than traditional gameplay.
Here’s what makes it special:
- Challenging Puzzles: Solve 5 tough Pokemon battle puzzles that test your creativity and knowledge.
- Quality-of-Life Features: Run from trainer battles, custom AI for unique interactions, and more.
- Pseudo-Legendary Starters: Start your journey with powerful pseudo-legendary Pokemon.
- Unique Map: The game features a completely new map designed for exploration and challenges.
This ROM hack is ideal for players who enjoy solving puzzles and want a break from traditional Pokemon gameplay. The combination of strategy, exploration, and battle mechanics makes it a fun and engaging experience.
Pokemon ROWE
- Creator: rioluwott
- Update Date: December 23, 2024
Pokemon ROWE isn’t new, but it received a massive update this month that completely transformed the game. With version 2.0, even older save files are no longer compatible, as the changes are so extensive.
New Features in v2.0:
- Pokemon from Generations 1 to 9.
- 16 gym badges and all 8 Sevii Islands.
- Hisuian forms and 16 new Mega Evolutions.
- Seasonal changes and 10 random starter Pokemon.
Even before this update, Pokemon ROWE was known for its impressive features, such as:
- Open-world exploration with no set order for gym battles.
- A follower system where your Pokemon walks with you.
- Character customization options.
- Multiple difficulty settings to suit casual and competitive players.
Whether you’ve played this hack before or are trying it for the first time, the latest update ensures a brand-new experience for everyone.
Pokemon Emerald Legacy
- Creator: TheSmithPlays
- Release Date: December 12, 2024
Pokemon Emerald Legacy is a completed ROM hack that enhances the original Pokemon Emerald with modern features and improvements. It’s designed to give players a nostalgic yet fresh experience.
Key Features:
- Quality-of-Life Updates: Improved moves, abilities, stats, and evolution methods.
- New Content: Post-game features, side quests, and updated encounter locations.
- Modern Gameplay Elements: Changes to trainers, battles, items, and more.
This ROM hack stays true to the essence of Pokemon Emerald while adding modern mechanics to make it feel like a brand-new game. Many players have praised it for its balance of nostalgia and innovation.
If you’re a fan of the original Emerald or looking for a reason to revisit it, Pokemon Emerald Legacy is the perfect choice.
Conclusion
That’s our list of the Top 5 New Pokemon GBA ROM Hacks Released in December 2024. As a reminder, this list isn’t ranked—it’s simply a showcase of some of the best ROM hacks released or updated this month.
Each hack offers something unique, whether it’s intense battles, puzzles, open-world exploration, or modern features. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Pokemon ROM hacks or someone new to the community, there’s something here for everyone.
We hope you enjoyed this list! Let us know your thoughts and suggestions to help us improve future posts. Happy gaming!
