Read this if the game doesn't load.
Get to Know About PokeLand 0 – Episode 1: Rise of Darkness (GBA)
I first heard about PokeLand 0 – Episode 1: Rise of Darkness when a friend casually mentioned a hidden gem for the GBA, and I couldn’t believe something like this existed under my radar. Right from the intro, you’re thrown into a slightly grittier world than the classic Pokémon titles, with darker color palettes and an ominous soundtrack that really sets the mood. You play as a rookie trainer whose home region is suddenly plagued by mysterious shadows, and the storytelling leans into themes of corruption and redemption in a way I haven’t seen in most fan projects.
What sets this episode apart is its fresh roster of fan-designed creatures and environments that still feel comfortably Pokémon-esque. The PokeLand region is split into zones that range from misty swamps to abandoned factories, each hiding its own secrets and trainers to battle. I loved how each new area teased fragments of a larger conspiracy, so you’re constantly lured forward—never just grinding, but genuinely curious about what comes next and how it ties into the rise of a sinister organization.
Combat-wise, they’ve kept the familiar turn-based system but added small tweaks—like combo moves triggered when certain team members swap in together, and environmental hazards like acid rain or collapsing platforms during boss fights. The difficulty ramps up nicely, too; those early shadow Pokémon hits can be punishing if you ignore type matchups or skip the healing items you find tucked away in corners. If you’re a completionist, chasing down all the hidden TM copies and reverse-engineering puzzle locks gives you plenty of side content before you even think you’re “done.”
In the end, PokeLand 0 feels like an affectionate love letter to the GBA era, but with enough original ideas to stand on its own. It’s rough around the edges—occasional sprite glitches and music loops remind you it’s a fan labor of love—but that only adds to its charm. If you ever get the chance to pop this cartridge into your old handheld or load it up in a good emulator, carve out a weekend for it. You might just find yourself staying up late to see how deep the darkness really goes.