View source for Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire

{{Short description|2002 video games}}
{{Good article}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=December 2023}}
{{DISPLAYTITLE:''Pokémon Ruby'' and ''Sapphire''}}
{{Infobox video game
| title = {{ubl|''Pokémon Ruby''|''Pokémon Sapphire''}}
| italic title = no
| image = File:PokemonRubySapphireBox.jpg
| caption = North American box art for ''Pokémon Ruby'' and ''Pokémon Sapphire'' depicting the [[legendary Pokémon]] [[Groudon]] and [[Kyogre]] respectively
| developer = [[Game Freak]]
| publisher = {{vgrelease|JP|[[The Pokémon Company]]|WW|[[Nintendo]]}}
| director = [[Junichi Masuda]]
| producer = {{ubl|Hiroyuki Jinnai|Takehiro Izushi|Hiroaki Tsuru}}
| designer = [[Shigeki Morimoto]]<br/>Junichi Masuda<br/>[[Shigeru Ohmori]]
| programmer = Tetsuya Watanabe
| artist = [[Ken Sugimori]]
| writer = {{ubl|Toshinobu Matsumiya|Akihito Tomisawa}}
| composer = {{ubl|[[Go Ichinose]]|[[Junichi Masuda]]|Morikazu Aoki}}
| series = ''[[Pokémon (video game series)|Pokémon]]''
| platforms = [[Game Boy Advance]]
| released = {{vgrelease|JP|November 21, 2002|NA|March 19, 2003|AUS|April 3, 2003|EU|July 25, 2003}}
| genre = [[Role-playing video game|Role-playing]]
| modes = [[Single-player]] and [[multiplayer]] with link cable
}}{{nihongo foot|'''''Pokémon Ruby Version'''''|ポケットモンスター ルビー|Poketto Monsutā Rubī|lit. "Pocket Monsters: Ruby"|lead=yes|group=lower-alpha}} and {{nihongo foot|'''''Pokémon Sapphire Version'''''|ポケットモンスター サファイア|Poketto Monsutā Safaia|lit. "Pocket Monsters: Sapphire"|lead=yes|group=lower-alpha}} are 2002<!--Japanese release--> [[role-playing video game]]s developed by [[Game Freak]] and published by [[The Pokémon Company]] and [[Nintendo]] for the [[Game Boy Advance]]. They are the first installments in the third generation of the [[Pokémon (video game series)|''Pokémon'' video game series]], also known as the "advanced generation". After years of Nintendo being the sole publisher of the franchise in all regions, The Pokémon Company co-published the games for the first time since the establishment of the joint-owned company in 1998. They were first released in Japan in late 2002, and internationally in 2003. ''[[Pokémon Emerald]]'', a third version, was released two years later in each region. [[Video game remake|Remakes]] of the two games, titled [[Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire|''Pokémon Omega Ruby'' and ''Alpha Sapphire'']], were released for the [[Nintendo 3DS]] worldwide in November 2014, exactly twelve years to the date of the original ''Ruby'' and ''Sapphire'' release date, with the exception of Europe, where it released a week later.

The gameplay is mostly unchanged from the previous games; the player controls the main character from an [[overhead perspective]], and the controls are largely the same as those of previous games. As with previous games, the main objectives are to catch all of the Pokémon in the games and defeat the [[Elite Four]] and the Pokémon League Champion; also like their predecessors, the games' main subplot involves the player character defeating a criminal organization that attempts to take over the region. New features, such as double battles, [[Pokémon abilities]], Pokémon Contests, and 135 new Pokémon were added.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Leane |first=Rob |date=June 21, 2019 |title=How Pokemon Ruby and Sapphire Saved Poke-Mania |url=https://www.denofgeek.com/games/pokemon-ruby-sapphire-history-recap/ |access-date=October 7, 2023 |website=Den of Geek |language=en-US |archive-date=January 12, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210112211449/https://www.denofgeek.com/games/pokemon-ruby-sapphire-history-recap/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=November 7, 2022 |title=Pokémon Ruby/Sapphire are still the series' most groundbreaking titles, 20 years on |url=https://www.gamingbible.com/features/pokemon-ruby-and-sapphire-series-most-groundbreaking-titles-20221107 |access-date=October 19, 2023 |website=GAMINGbible |language=en |archive-date=November 2, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231102182603/https://www.gamingbible.com/features/pokemon-ruby-and-sapphire-series-most-groundbreaking-titles-20221107 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Rochlin |first=Jason |date=November 21, 2022 |title=Pokemon Ruby and Sapphire Marked Evolutions for the Series that Continue 20 Years Later |url=https://gamerant.com/pokemon-ruby-sapphire-20-year-anniversary-graphics-gameplay-narrative-influence/ |access-date=October 19, 2023 |website=Game Rant |language=en |archive-date=September 20, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230920190514/https://gamerant.com/pokemon-ruby-sapphire-20-year-anniversary-graphics-gameplay-narrative-influence/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Owing to the increased capabilities of the Game Boy Advance, four players may be [[Game Boy Advance Game Link Cable|connected to each other]] at a time instead of the previous limit of two. Additionally, the games can be connected to an [[Nintendo e-Reader|e-Reader]] or other third-generation ''Pokémon'' games.

''Ruby'' and ''Sapphire'' received mostly positive reviews; praise was given to the new features and Pokémon designs, though critics were divided in their assessment of the games, especially on the gameplay and graphics. Most of the complaints focused on gameplay not changing much in relation to previous generations. With over 16.22 million copies sold, they were a commercial success and became the [[List of best-selling Game Boy Advance video games|best-selling game for the Game Boy Advance]]; however, the games sold less than previous generations with ''Red'' and ''Blue'' having sold nearly 31 million units worldwide, and ''Gold'' and ''Silver'' selling over 23.10 million units.

==Gameplay==
{{See also|Gameplay of Pokémon{{!}}Gameplay of ''Pokémon''}}
The basic mechanics of ''Ruby'' and ''Sapphire'' are largely the same as their predecessors. As with all ''Pokémon'' games for [[handheld console]]s, the gameplay is in [[third-person (video games)|third-person]], overhead perspective and consists of three basic screens: a [[overworld|field map]], in which the player navigates the main character; a battle screen; and the menu, in which the player configures their party, items, or gameplay settings. Players begin the game with one Pokémon and can capture more using [[Poké Ball]]s. They can also use their Pokémon to battle other Pokémon. When the player [[random encounter|encounters a wild Pokémon]] or is challenged by a trainer to a battle, the screen switches to a [[turn-based]] battle screen where the Pokémon fight.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://gameboy.ign.com/articles/389/389660p1.html|title=Pokemon: Ruby Version|publisher=[[News Corporation (1980–2013)|News Corporation]]|work=[[IGN]]|first=Craig|last=Harris|date=March 17, 2003|access-date=August 2, 2008|archive-date=August 22, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110822224748/http://gameboy.ign.com/articles/389/389660p1.html|url-status=live}}</ref> During a battle, the player may [[Gameplay of Pokémon#Pokémon moves|use a move]], use an item, switch their active Pokémon, or flee, although fleeing is not an option in battles against trainers. All Pokémon have [[hit points]] (HP); when a Pokémon's HP is reduced to zero, it faints and cannot battle until it is revived. If the player's Pokémon defeats the opposing Pokémon (causes it to faint), it receives [[experience points]]. After accumulating enough experience points, it will [[experience point#Level-based progression|level up]]; most Pokémon [[Pokémon evolution|evolve]] into a new species of Pokémon when they reach a certain level.<ref>''Pokémon Sapphire Version instruction booklet'', p. 35</ref>

Apart from battling, capturing Pokémon is the most essential element of ''Pokémon'' gameplay. During a battle with a wild Pokémon, the player may use a Poké Ball on them. If successful, the Pokémon will be added to the player's active party, or stored if the player already has the maximum six Pokémon in their party.<ref>''Pokémon Sapphire Version instruction booklet'', p. 37</ref> Factors in the success rate of capture include the HP, status effects such as Paralysis or Sleep, and the strength of the Poké Ball used: the lower the target's HP and the stronger the Poké Ball, the higher the success rate of capture is.<ref>''Pokémon Sapphire Version instruction booklet'', p. 32</ref> Other trainers' Pokémon cannot be captured.

===New features===
{{See also|List of generation III Pokémon}}
The most prominent change in the battle mechanics is the introduction of double battles, in which the opposing parties each use two Pokémon at the same time. Consequently, certain [[Pokémon moves]] can affect multiple combatants at once.<ref>Hollinger, p.3</ref> Multi battles were added alongside double battles. They are identical to double battles, but there are two trainers to a side, each controlling one of the two Pokémon sent out. Also new to the games are [[Pokémon abilities|innate abilities]] and [[Pokémon natures|natures]]; the former is shared by every Pokémon of a certain species, while the latter may vary among a particular species. Abilities grant their holders certain powers in battle, such as immunity against certain [[Pokémon types|types]] of moves or strengthening a certain type of move. Natures, like innate abilities, affect the strength of Pokémon in battle; however, they affect the stats of the Pokémon rather than directly affecting the strength of the moves.<ref>Hollinger, p.6</ref> Another stat introduced in ''Pokémon Ruby'' and ''Sapphire'' is Condition, an important factor in Pokémon Contests, mini-games in which participants perform moves before a judge. Both Pokémon and their moves have a Condition, which is increased by using Pokéblocks, which are candies made from berries.<ref>Hollinger, p.76</ref> Secret bases were added as a one-off feature where players could open up a hole in the world and customize the area with various items picked up in-game. Players who linked up with others who set up secret bases were able to battle an [[Non-player character|NPC]] version of that trainer within their secret base.

Like [[Pokémon Gold and Silver|''Pokémon Gold'', ''Silver'']], and ''[[Pokémon Crystal|Crystal]]'', ''Pokémon Ruby'' and ''Sapphire'' keep track of real-life time; this influences events like tides and berry plant growth. However, unlike their predecessors, ''Ruby'' and ''Sapphire'' do not differentiate between day and night. Also, due to the differences in the technical specifications of Game Boy link cables and Game Boy Advance link cables, ''Ruby'' and ''Sapphire'' cannot be linked with Pokémon games of previous generations; one cannot battle with or trade with the previous generations.<ref>''Pokémon Sapphire Version instruction booklet'', p. 50.</ref>

===Connectivity to other devices===
[[File:Eon Ticket.jpg|thumb|The Eon Ticket could be scanned in by the [[Nintendo e-Reader|e-Reader]] to go and catch either [[Latios]] or [[Latias]], depending on the game.]]
''Ruby'' and ''Sapphire'' have limited [[Nintendo e-Reader|e-Reader]] support. Nintendo released Battle-e Cards, a set of e-Reader cards that contained trainer battles in which the player could see previously hidden Pokémon.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://gameboy.ign.com/articles/437/437914p1.html|title=Pokemon Battle-e Cards|publisher=[[News Corporation (1980–2013)|News Corporation]]|work=[[IGN]]|first=Craig|last=Harris|date=September 12, 2003|access-date=August 3, 2008|archive-date=September 26, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110926215708/http://gameboy.ign.com/articles/437/437914p1.html|url-status=live}}</ref> A special e-Reader card called the Eon Ticket was also released; obtained through the Mystery Gift function, the Ticket allows the player to reach a place called Southern Island. There, the player faces either [[Latios]] or [[Latias]], depending on which version of the game is used.<ref name="eonticket">{{cite web|url=http://www.pokemon-games.com/eon.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070819201845/http://www.pokemon-games.com/eon.html|archive-date=August 19, 2007|publisher=[[Nintendo]]|work=Pokemon-games.com|title=The Pokémon Ruby & Sapphire "EON Ticket" Summer Tour is coming to Toys 'R Us!|access-date=July 18, 2008}}</ref>

''Ruby'' and ''Sapphire'' are also able to connect to the [[GameCube]] games ''[[Pokémon Colosseum]]'', ''[[Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness]]'' and ''[[Pokémon Box: Ruby and Sapphire]]''. In the former two, once players reach a certain point in the game, they are able to transfer Pokémon between ''Colosseum'' / ''XD'' and ''Ruby'' / ''Sapphire''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://gameboy.ign.com/articles/454/454914p1.html|title=Pokemon Colosseum Linkup Revealed|publisher=[[News Corporation (1980–2013)|News Corporation]]|work=[[IGN]]|date=October 15, 2003|access-date=July 17, 2008|archive-date=June 13, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110613233739/http://gameboy.ign.com/articles/454/454914p1.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Additionally, those who pre-ordered ''Colosseum'' were able to access the Pokémon [[Jirachi]] and see a preview of the movie ''[[Pokémon: Jirachi Wish Maker]]''. ''Pokémon Box'' allows players to store and organize their Pokémon on the GameCube.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://cube.ign.com/articles/533/533098p1.html|title=Pokemon Box: Ruby & Sapphire|publisher=[[News Corporation (1980–2013)|News Corporation]]|work=[[IGN]]|first=Craig|last=Harris|date=July 3, 2004|access-date=July 17, 2008|archive-date=December 5, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111205045048/http://cube.ign.com/articles/533/533098p1.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Also, in the European version of ''[[Pokémon Channel]]'', players could receive a Jirachi at a certain point in the game, which they could then transfer over to ''Ruby'' or ''Sapphire''.

==Plot==

===Setting===
{{Multiple image
| direction         = vertical
| image1            = Hoenn (map).jpg
| alt1              = 
| caption1          = ''Ruby'' and ''Sapphire'' are set in the Hoenn region, designed to be similar to Japan's island of Kyushu if rotated 90°. (pictured below).
| image2            = Kyushu relief map.svg
| alt2              = 
| caption2          = [[Kyushu]] island, Japan
}}

''Pokémon Ruby'' and ''Sapphire'' occur in the Hoenn region, some distance from the Kanto and Johto regions featured in previous games. The design of Hoenn was based on the Japanese island and region of [[Kyushu]]; however, Hoenn is rotated 90° relative to Kyushu, as [[Junichi Masuda]] felt that it would provide a better gameplay balance.<ref name="hiddenpower">{{cite web|url=http://www.gamefreak.co.jp/blog/dir_english/?p=29|title=Hidden Power of Masuda|publisher=Game Freak|date=September 9, 2004|access-date=August 2, 2008|archive-date=March 11, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120311103537/http://www.gamefreak.co.jp/blog/dir_english/?p=29|url-status=live}}</ref> Like Kyushu, Hoenn possesses many smaller islands, and part of the region is dominated by sea routes, several of which contain areas where the player can dive underwater.

===Story===
{{See also|List of Pokémon characters{{!}}List of ''Pokémon'' characters|List of Pokémon}}
Like other ''Pokémon'' games, ''Ruby'' and ''Sapphire''{{'}}s gameplay is [[linear gameplay|linear]]; the main events occur in a fixed order.<ref>Hollinger, p.12</ref> The [[protagonist]] of ''Pokémon Ruby'' and ''Sapphire'' are Brendan and May, who have recently moved to a small town called Littleroot Town. At the beginning of the games, the player chooses either [[Treecko]], [[Torchic]], or [[Mudkip]] to protect Professor Birch, the regional professor, from attacking [[Poochyena]]. After defending Birch, the player is taken to his lab and receives the chosen Pokémon as their [[starter Pokémon]]. After that, the player encounters May/Brendan, the child of Professor Birch. The player's rival, who appears as the professor's child, is also a [[Pokémon Trainer]] and occasionally battles the player.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://guides.ign.com/guides/17508/page_6.html|title=Walkthrough: Badge #1|publisher=[[News Corporation (1980–2013)|News Corporation]]|work=[[IGN]]|access-date=August 2, 2008|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080709011448/http://guides.ign.com/guides/17508/page_6.html|archive-date=July 9, 2008}}</ref> The games' two main goals are defeating the eight Gym Leaders, proving oneself worthy of challenging the Elite Four and Hoenn League Champion to become the new Hoenn League Champion and completing the [[Pokédex]] by capturing, evolving, and trading to obtain all 202 Pokémon available between ''Ruby'' and ''Sapphire''. It is possible to obtain all 386 Pokémon, but this requires trading with [[Pokémon FireRed and LeafGreen|''Pokémon FireRed'' and ''LeafGreen'']] or ''[[Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness]]'' and ''[[Pokémon Colosseum]]''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://guides.ign.com/guides/17508/page_14.html|title=Guides: Pokemon Ruby/Sapphire Guide (GBA) Walkthrough: Pokemon League Championship|publisher=[[News Corporation (1980–2013)|News Corporation]]|work=[[IGN]]|access-date=August 2, 2008|archive-date=August 20, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110820082754/http://guides.ign.com/guides/17508/page_14.html|url-status=live}}</ref>

In addition to the main quest of defeating the Gym Leaders, there are side quests in which the player can aid NPCs by fulfilling tasks, usually by obtaining items. The most prominent subplot involves [[Team Aqua]] and [[Team Magma]], crime syndicates who want to use Pokémon to alter the climate of Hoenn: in ''Ruby'', the villains, Team Magma, want to use the legendary Pokémon [[Groudon]] to dry up the oceans of Hoenn and increase the region's landmass; in ''Sapphire'', Team Aqua are the villains and they try to use Groudon's counterpart, [[Kyogre]], to flood the landmasses of Hoenn and increase the region's ocean.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://guides.ign.com/guides/17508/page_7.html|title=Walkthrough: Badge #2|publisher=[[News Corporation (1980–2013)|News Corporation]]|work=[[IGN]]|access-date=August 2, 2008|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080706153004/http://guides.ign.com/guides/17508/page_7.html|archive-date=July 6, 2008}}</ref> Prior to facing the eighth Gym Leader, the player has a showdown with Magma or Aqua where the team's leader uses a mystical orb that awakens the slumbering Pokémon, believing it has the power to enthrall their respective target, only for the Pokémon to become enraged and cause catastrophic, region-wide climate changes—a drought in ''Ruby'', and heavy rainfall in ''Sapphire''—until it is defeated or captured by the protagonist.<ref>Hollinger, pp. 61–62</ref> The player's father Norman also introduces them to Wally, a sickly young boy whom the player helps capture a Pokémon to be his companion as he moves away from the big city. Wally eventually overcomes his illness and becomes a successful Pokémon Trainer, ultimately becoming the final challenger the player must face before the Elite Four.

==Development==
[[File:JunichiMasudaJI1.jpg|left|thumb|Development director Junichi Masuda]]
''Pokémon Ruby'' and ''Sapphire'' were developed by [[Game Freak]] and [[Nintendo]] under the direction of [[Junichi Masuda]]. As with its predecessors, [[Ken Sugimori]] was the art director, although these were the first games in which he did not single-handedly produce all of the art.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamefaqs.com/portable/gbadvance/data/471243.html|title=Pokemon Ruby Version Info|website=GameFAQs|access-date=July 18, 2008|archive-date=August 5, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110805131846/http://www.gamefaqs.com/gba/471243-pokemon-ruby-version/data|url-status=live}}</ref> When asked where his design team came up with the ideas for all of the new Pokémon, Sugimori stated that they got their ideas from past experiences in their childhood involving nature, animals, and the media and then base them on insects. Even looking at the world in a different perspective sometimes provided inspiration for the creatures. "First we select an insect and after that we add essential elements to the insects to make it more like Pokemon, such as adding some hard shape to it, to be more like steel," Sugimori said, describing the process of creating a Pokémon.<ref name="interview">{{cite interview |url=http://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=91965 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070211042435/http://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=91965 |title=Nintendo Interviews: Game Freak on Pokemon! |work=[[Computer and Video Games]] |publisher=[[Future plc]] |first1=Junichi |last1=Masuda |subject-link1=Junichi Masuda |first2=Shigeki |last2=Morimoto |subject-link2=Shigeki Morimoto |first3=Ken |last3=Sugimori |subject-link3=Ken Sugimori |interviewer=Stuart Bishop |date=May 30, 2003 |access-date=July 18, 2008 |archive-date=February 11, 2007 |url-status=dead }}</ref>

As the Game Boy Advance was able to handle enhanced graphics, ''Ruby'' and ''Sapphire'' were the first games in the series that allowed up to four people to share information at one time, as opposed to the previous limit of two. However, the development team used a more basic graphics engine to keep the game simple and not overly confusing. The team wanted the games to appeal to a large audience, so the game was designed to be easy enough for younger generations of children to play, but new features were added to bring the veteran gamers back.<ref name="interview"/>

Masuda stated that the basic philosophy of all ''Pokémon'' games is communication; in the ''Pokémon'' series, this is manifested in trading and battling with other people. When asked about the new concept of [[Gameplay of Pokémon#Double battles|double battles]], the developers noted that they tried to focus more on the original one-on-one battles as the main type of competition and only added the double battles as a "new challenge". They stated that if they receive positive feedback about the double battles, the feature may appear more in future generations.<ref name="interview"/>

The games were the first in the series that did not contain all of the Pokémon from previous generations. Sugimori stated that the team tried to include all the new Pokémon as well as some from previous generations. When asked about any features that could not be included due to technical restrictions, Masuda noted that he wanted each individual Pokémon to make up to three different cries depending on its mood.<ref name="interview"/>

===Audio===
{{Infobox album
| italic_title = no
| name         = ''Pokémon Ruby'' and ''Sapphire'' soundtrack
| type         = studio
| artist       = Junichi Masuda, Go Ichinose and Morikazu Aoki
| cover        = 
| alt          = 
| released     = April 26, 2003
| recorded     = 
| venue        = 
| studio       = 
| genre        = [[Video game music]], [[soundtrack]], [[Content (media)|audio]]
| length       = 
| label        = [[Media Factory]]
| producer     = Unknown
| prev_title   = 
| prev_year    = 
| next_title   = 
| next_year    = 
}}

The audio of ''Ruby'' and ''Sapphire'' consists entirely of game music and sound effects; all dialogue is on-screen. The music, composed by Junichi Masuda, Go Ichinose and Morikazu Aoki, is completely instrumental except for two tracks with vocals, "Trick Master" and "Slateport City". The soundtrack of the game was released under the Mediafactory label in Japan on April 26, 2003; the album reached #297 on the [[Oricon]] charts and charted for one week.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.oricon.co.jp/music/release/d/506402/1/|title=Pokemon Ruby & Sapphire Super Complete Music|publisher=[[Oricon]]|access-date=November 26, 2008|language=ja|archive-date=October 18, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121018141030/http://www.oricon.co.jp/music/release/d/506402/1/|url-status=live}}</ref> Junichi Masuda wrote only battle tunes, Go Ichinose wrote most of the town, route, fanfare & 'Spotted' tunes, whereas Morikazu Aoki did the remainder.

The soundtrack is noted for its heavy use of [[trumpet]]s,<ref>{{cite web |title=The Internet Reacts To The New Pokémon Remakes |url=http://www.kotaku.com.au/2014/05/the-internet-reacts-to-the-new-pokmon-remakes/ |date=May 8, 2014 |publisher=Kotaku |access-date=May 9, 2016 |archive-date=June 1, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160601070209/http://www.kotaku.com.au/2014/05/the-internet-reacts-to-the-new-pokmon-remakes/ |url-status=dead }}</ref> but it also makes heavy use of French horns, strings ensembles, and even pianos.

{| class="collapsible collapsed" border="0" style="width:70%"
! style="width:12em; text-align:left" | DISC 1
! |
|-
| colspan="2" |

{| class="wikitable"
|-
!colspan="5"|Disc 1
|-
! No.
! Track title (Japanese)
! Track title (English Translation)
! Composer
! Arranger
|-
| 1
| タイトルデモ ～ホウエン地方の旅立ち～
| Title Demo ~Departure in the Hoenn Region~
| Go Ichinose
| Go Ichinose
|-
| 2
| タイトルデモ2 ～ダブルバトル～
| Title Demo 2 ~Double Battle~
| Junichi Masuda
| Go Ichinose
|-
| 3
| タイトル ～メインテーマ～
| Title ~Main Theme~
| Junichi Masuda
| Go Ichinose
|-
| 4
| オープニングセレクト
| Opening Select
| Morikazu Aoki
| Morikazu Aoki
|-
| 5
| ミシロタウン
| Littleroot Town
| Go Ichinose
| Go Ichinose
|-
| 6
| オダマキ研究所
| Birch Laboratory
| Morikazu Aoki
| Morikazu Aoki
|-
| 7
| ハルカ
| May
| Go Ichinose
| Go Ichinose
|-
| 8
| たすけてくれ！
| Help!
| Go Ichinose
| Go Ichinose
|-
| 9
| 戦闘！野生ポケモン
| Battle! Wild Pokémon
| Junichi Masuda
| Junichi Masuda
|-
| 10
| 野生ポケモンに勝利！
| Wild Pokémon Defeated!
| Junichi Masuda
| Morikazu Aoki
|-
| 11
| 101番道路
| Route 101
| Morikazu Aoki
| Morikazu Aoki
|-
| 12
| コトキタウン
|Pokémon
| Morikazu Aoki
| Morikazu Aoki
|-
| 13
| ポケモンセンター
| Pokémon Center
| Junichi Masuda
| Go Ichinose
|-
| 14
| 回復
| Recovery
| Junichi Masuda
| Morikazu Aoki
|-
| 15
| 視線！たんぱんこぞう
| Glance! Youngster
| Morikazu Aoki
| Morikazu Aoki
|-
| 16
| 視線！ミニスカート
| Glance! Lass
| Go Ichinose
| Go Ichinose
|-
| 17
| 戦闘！トレーナー
| Battle! Trainer
| Junichi Masuda
| Junichi Masuda
|-
| 18
| トレーナーに勝利！
| Trainer Defeated!
| Junichi Masuda
| Go Ichinose
|-
| 19
| レベルアップ
| Level Up
| Junichi Masuda
| Morikazu Aoki
|-
| 20
| トウカシティ
| Petalburg City
| Morikazu Aoki
| Morikazu Aoki
|-
| 21
| 連れて行く
| Bring Along
| Junichi Masuda
| Go Ichinose
|-
| 22
| 104番道路
| Route 104
| Go Ichinose
| Go Ichinose
|-
| 23
| トウカの森
| Petalburg Woods
| Morikazu Aoki
| Morikazu Aoki
|-
| 24
| マグマ団登場！
| Team Magma Appears!
| Go Ichinose
| Go Ichinose
|-
| 25
| 戦闘！アクア・マグマ団
| Battle! Team Aqua/Magma
| Junichi Masuda
| Junichi Masuda
|-
| 26
| アクア・マグマ団に勝利！
| Team Aqua/Magma Defeated!
| Go Ichinose
| Go Ichinose
|-
| 27
| カナズミシティ
| Rustboro City
| Go Ichinose
| Go Ichinose
|-
| 28
| トレーナーズスクール
| Trainer's School
| Go Ichinose
| Go Ichinose
|-
| 29
| 海を越えて
| Crossing the Sea
| Go Ichinose
| Go Ichinose
|-
| 30
| ムロタウン
| Dewford Town
| Go Ichinose
| Go Ichinose
|-
| 31
| 視線！うきわガール
| Glance! Tuber♀
| Morikazu Aoki
| Morikazu Aoki
|-
| 32
| カイナシティ
| Slateport City
| Go Ichinose
| Go Ichinose
|-
| 33
| 海の科学博物館
| Oceanic Museum
| Junichi Masuda
| Morikazu Aoki
|-
| 34
| 110番道路
| Route 110
| Morikazu Aoki
| Morikazu Aoki
|-
| 35
| サイクリング
| Cycling
| Go Ichinose
| Go Ichinose
|-
| 36
| ゲームコーナー
| Game Corner
| Go Ichinose
| Go Ichinose
|-
| 37
| 当たり！
| Success!
| Morikazu Aoki
| Morikazu Aoki
|-
| 38
| 残念
| Bad Luck
| Morikazu Aoki
| Morikazu Aoki
|-
| 39
| BDタイム
| BD Time
| Morikazu Aoki
| Morikazu Aoki
|-
| 40
| 大当たり！
| Jackpot!
| Morikazu Aoki
| Morikazu Aoki
|-
| 41
| シダケタウン
| Verdanturf Town
| Go Ichinose
| Go Ichinose
|-
| 42
| 113番道路
| Route 113
| Go Ichinose
| Go Ichinose
|-
| 43
| ふたごちゃん
| Twins
| Go Ichinose
| Go Ichinose
|-
| 44
| ハジツゲタウン
| Fallarbor Town
| Junichi Masuda
| Go Ichinose
|-
| 45
| ロープウェイ
| Ropeway
| Go Ichinose
| Go Ichinose
|-
| 46
| えんとつやま
| Mt. Chimney
| Go Ichinose
| Go Ichinose
|-
| 47
| 視線！やまおとこ
| Glance! Hiker
| Go Ichinose
| Go Ichinose
|-
| 48
| 111番道路
| Route 111
| Go Ichinose
| Go Ichinose
|-
| 49
| ジム
| Gym
| Junichi Masuda
| Morikazu Aoki
|-
| 50
| 戦闘！ジムリーダー
| Battle! Gym Leader
| Junichi Masuda
| Junichi Masuda
|-
| 51
| ジムリーダーに勝利！
| Gym Leader Defeated!
| Junichi Masuda
| Morikazu Aoki
|-
| 52
| バッジゲット
| Get Badge
| Junichi Masuda
| Morikazu Aoki
|-
| 53
| わざマシンゲット
| Get Technical Machine
| Junichi Masuda
| Morikazu Aoki
|-
| 54
| なみのり
| Surf
| Morikazu Aoki
| Morikazu Aoki
|}
|}

{| class="collapsible collapsed" border="0" style="width:70%"
! style="width:12em; text-align:left" | DISC 2
! |
|-
| colspan="2" |

{| class="wikitable"
|-
!colspan="5"|Disc 2
|-
! No.
! Track title (Japanese)
! Track title (English Translation)
! Composer
! Arranger
|-
| 1
| 119番道路
| Route 119
| Go Ichinose
| Go Ichinose
|-
| 2
| ヒワマキシティ
| Fortree City
| Morikazu Aoki
| Morikazu Aoki
|-
| 3
| 120番道路
| Route 120
| Morikazu Aoki
| Morikazu Aoki
|-
| 4
| インタビュアー
| Interviewers
| Go Ichinose
| Go Ichinose
|-
| 5
| サファリゾーン
| Safari Zone
| Go Ichinose
| Go Ichinose
|-
| 6
| 視線！ジェントルマン
| Glance! Gentleman
| Go Ichinose
| Go Ichinose
|-
| 7
| ミナモシティ
| Lilycove City
| Go Ichinose
| Go Ichinose
|-
| 8
| 美術館
| Art Museum
| Morikazu Aoki
| Morikazu Aoki
|-
| 9
| わざ忘れ
| Forget Move
| Morikazu Aoki
| Morikazu Aoki
|-
| 10
| ユウキ
| Brendan
| Go Ichinose
| Go Ichinose
|-
| 11
| 戦闘！ユウキ・ハルカ
| Battle! Brendan/May
| Junichi Masuda
| Junichi Masuda
|-
| 12
| 進化
| Evolution
| Junichi Masuda
| Morikazu Aoki
|-
| 13
| 進化おめでとう
| Congratulatory Evolution
| Junichi Masuda
| Morikazu Aoki
|-
| 14
| フレンドリィショップ
| Poké Mart
| Go Ichinose
| Go Ichinose
|-
| 15
| おくりびやま
| Mt. Pyre
| Junichi Masuda
| Go Ichinose
|-
| 16
| 視線！サイキッカー
| Glance! Psychic
| Go Ichinose
| Go Ichinose
|-
| 17
| 視線！オカルトマニア
| Glance! Hex Maniac
| Go Ichinose
| Go Ichinose
|-
| 18
| おくりびやま外壁
| Mt. Pyre's Outer Wall
| Go Ichinose
| Go Ichinose
|-
| 19
| アジト
| Hideout
| Go Ichinose
| Go Ichinose
|-
| 20
| どうぐゲット
| Get Item
| Junichi Masuda
| Morikazu Aoki
|-
| 21
| アクア団登場！
| Team Aqua Appears!
| Go Ichinose
| Go Ichinose
|-
| 22
| 戦闘！アクア・マグマ団のリーダー
| Battle! Team Aqua/Magma's Leader
| Junichi Masuda
| Junichi Masuda
|-
| 23
| 目覚める超古代ポケモン
| Awakening the Super-Ancient Pokémon
| Morikazu Aoki
| Morikazu Aoki
|-
| 24
| 日照り
| Drought
| Go Ichinose
| Go Ichinose
|-
| 25
| 大雨
| Heavy Rain
| Go Ichinose
| Go Ichinose
|-
| 26
| ダイビング
| Diving
| Go Ichinose
| Go Ichinose
|-
| 27
| ルネシティ
| Sootopolis City
| Go Ichinose
| Go Ichinose
|-
| 28
| めざめのほこら
| Cave of Origin
| Morikazu Aoki
| Morikazu Aoki
|-
| 29
| 戦闘！超古代ポケモン
| Battle! Super-Ancient Pokémon
| Junichi Masuda
| Junichi Masuda
|-
| 30
| 視線！ビキニのおねえさん
| Glance! Swimmer♀
| Morikazu Aoki
| Morikazu Aoki
|-
| 31
| サイユウシティ
| Ever Grande City
| Go Ichinose
| Go Ichinose
|-
| 32
| きのみゲット
| Get Berry
| Morikazu Aoki
| Morikazu Aoki
|-
| 33
| コンテストロビー
| Contest Lobby
| Go Ichinose
| Go Ichinose
|-
| 34
| コンテスト！
| Contest!
| Go Ichinose
| Go Ichinose
|-
| 35
| 結果発表
| Result Announcement
| Go Ichinose
| Go Ichinose
|-
| 36
| コンテスト優勝
| Contest Championship
| Go Ichinose
| Go Ichinose
|-
| 37
| おふれのせきしつ
| Sealed Chamber
| Go Ichinose
| Go Ichinose
|-
| 38
| 戦闘！レジロック・レジアイス・レジスチル
| Battle! Regirock/Regice/Registeel
| Junichi Masuda
| Junichi Masuda
|-
| 39
| カラクリ屋敷
| Trick House
| Go Ichinose
| Go Ichinose
|-
| 40
| すてらねぶね
| Abandoned Ship
| Morikazu Aoki
| Morikazu Aoki
|-
| 41
| バトルタワー
| Battle Tower
| Morikazu Aoki
| Morikazu Aoki
|-
| 42
| チャンピオンロード
| Victory Road
| Go Ichinose
| Go Ichinose
|-
| 43
| 視線！エリートトレーナー
| Glance! Cooltrainer
| Go Ichinose
| Go Ichinose
|-
| 44
| 四天王登場！
| Elite Four Appears!
| Go Ichinose
| Go Ichinose
|-
| 45
| 戦闘！四天王
| Battle! Elite Four
| Junichi Masuda
| Junichi Masuda
|-
| 46
| チャンピオンダイゴ
| Champion Steven
| Go Ichinose
| Go Ichinose
|-
| 47
| 決戦！ダイゴ
| Decisive Battle! Steven
| Junichi Masuda
| Junichi Masuda
|-
| 48
| ダイゴに勝利！
| Steven Defeated!
| Morikazu Aoki
| Morikazu Aoki
|-
| 49
| 栄光の部屋
| Room of Glory
| Go Ichinose
| Go Ichinose
|-
| 50
| 殿堂入り
| Induction to the Hall of Fame
| Junichi Masuda
| Go Ichinose
|-
| 51
| エンディング
| Ending
| Go Ichinose
| Go Ichinose
|-
| 52
| The END
| The END
| Go Ichinose
| Go Ichinose
|}
|}

{| class="collapsible collapsed" border="0" style="width:70%"
! style="width:12em; text-align:left" | BONUS TRACKS
! |
|-
| colspan="2" |

{| class="wikitable"
|-
!colspan="5"|Bonus Tracks
|-
! No.
! Track title (Japanese)
! Track title (English Translation)
! Composer
! Arranger
|-
| 53
| TRICK MASTER
| TRICK MASTER
| Go Ichinose
| Go Ichinose
|-
| 54
| SLATEPORT CITY
| SLATEPORT CITY
| Go Ichinose
| Go Ichinose
|-
| 55
| STEVEN STONE
| STEVEN STONE
| Junichi Masuda
| Junichi Masuda
|}
|}

==Release==
''Pokémon Ruby'' and ''Sapphire'' were released in Japan on November 21, 2002,<ref name="releasedates">{{cite web|url=http://www.gamespot.com/gba/rpg/pokemonrubyversion/similar.html?mode=versions|title=Pokemon Ruby Version for Game Boy|website=[[GameSpot]]|access-date=June 22, 2009|archive-date=March 6, 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070306145819/http://www.gamespot.com/gba/rpg/pokemonrubyversion/similar.html?mode=versions|url-status=live}}</ref> in North America on March 19, 2003,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.pokemon.com/us/pokemon-video-games/pokemon-ruby-version-and-pokemon-sapphire-version|title=Pokémon Ruby Version and Pokémon Sapphire Version|website=Pokemon.com|access-date=May 27, 2018|archive-date=May 27, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180527201344/https://www.pokemon.com/us/pokemon-video-games/pokemon-ruby-version-and-pokemon-sapphire-version/|url-status=live}}</ref> in Australia on April 3, 2003,<ref>{{cite web |last1=Kosmina |first1=Ben |title=Pokémon Ruby/Sapphire Australian Release Date |url=https://www.nintendoworldreport.com/news/8179/pokemon-rubysapphire-australian-release-date |website=Nintendo World Report |access-date=January 15, 2003 |archive-date=January 31, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210131200752/https://www.nintendoworldreport.com/news/8179/pokemon-rubysapphire-australian-release-date |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="releasedates"/> and in Europe on July 25, 2003.<ref name="releasedates"/> Nintendo did not promote ''Ruby'' and ''Sapphire'' at [[E3 2002]];<ref>{{cite magazine|url=http://www.gamepro.com/article/previews/25010/pokemon-ruby-and-sapphire-versions|title=Preview: Pokemon: Ruby and Sapphire Versions|date=July 15, 2002 |magazine=[[GamePro]]|publisher=IDG Entertainment|access-date=November 30, 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090414111021/http://www.gamepro.com/article/previews/25010/pokemon-ruby-and-sapphire-versions|archive-date=April 14, 2009}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Villoria |first1=Gerald |title=E3 2002: Pokemon GBA details confirmed |url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/e3-2002-pokemon-gba-details-confirmed/1100-2867055/ |website=GameSpot |publisher=Red Ventures |access-date=December 6, 2002 |archive-date=January 29, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210129031817/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/e3-2002-pokemon-gba-details-confirmed/1100-2867055/ |url-status=live }}</ref> however, it launched a {{USD}} $7 million promotional campaign that lasted from March to May 2003.<ref name="Tobi">{{cite news|last=Elkin|first=Tobi|url=http://www.accessmylibrary.com/coms2/summary_0286-23085650_ITM|title=Pokemon grows up with its demographic; Nintendo puts $7 mil behind latest versions.|publisher=[[Advertising Age]], [[Bnet]]|date=March 2003|access-date=July 17, 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090112051426/http://www.accessmylibrary.com/coms2/summary_0286-23085650_ITM|archive-date=January 12, 2009|url-status=dead}}</ref> In July and August 2002 they were promoted through a tour across Japan at Pokémon Festa 2002.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Lake |first1=Max |title=It's Pokemon Festa 2002! |url=https://www.nintendoworldreport.com/news/7492/its-pokemon-festa-2002 |website=Nintendo World Report |publisher=NINWR, LLC. |access-date=April 4, 2021 |date=June 25, 2002 |archive-date=August 1, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210801052800/https://www.nintendoworldreport.com/news/7492/its-pokemon-festa-2002 |url-status=live }}</ref> In addition to rewarding pre-orders of the games with merchandise, Nintendo held a contest in which participants submitted videos of themselves singing the [[Pokémon Theme|''Pokémon'' theme song]] with their own re-written lyrics; the grand prize for that event was a [[Lugia]] [[PT Cruiser]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://gameboy.ign.com/articles/389/389147p1.html|title=Pokemon Hit the Road|access-date=July 18, 2008|date=March 12, 2003|publisher=[[News Corporation (1980–2013)|News Corporation]]|work=[[IGN]]|first=Craig|last=Harris|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080117214241/http://gameboy.ign.com/articles/389/389147p1.html|archive-date=January 17, 2008}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://gameboy.ign.com/articles/385/385760p1.html|title=Pokemon Pre-Sell Goodies|date=February 11, 2003|publisher=[[News Corporation (1980–2013)|News Corporation]]|work=[[IGN]]|access-date=July 18, 2008|first=Craig|last=Harris|archive-date=August 8, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110808150335/http://gameboy.ign.com/articles/385/385760p1.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Later that year, Nintendo launched the EON Ticket Summer Tour, in which 125 [[Toys "R" Us]] stores across the United States offered the Eon Ticket e-Card in stores from July 19 to September 1.<ref name="eonticket"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://gameboy.ign.com/articles/435/435984p1.html|title=Nintendo Celebrates Pokemoniversary|access-date=July 18, 2008|date=August 29, 2003|first=Craig|last=Harris|publisher=[[News Corporation (1980–2013)|News Corporation]]|work=[[IGN]]|archive-date=June 13, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110613234811/http://gameboy.ign.com/articles/435/435984p1.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Nintendo aired two [[television advertisement]]s, "Faces" and "Names", on prime-time network, cable, and syndication. "Faces" featured Pokémon juxtaposed with human look-alikes; "Names" featured people shouting out the names of Pokémon and emphasized the fact that the games introduced 100 new Pokémon.<ref name="Tobi" /> Additionally, Nintendo collaborated with United Kingdom beverage brand [[Vimto]] to promote the games.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.brandrepublic.com/news/183606/nintendo-teams-vimto-new-pokemon-games|title=Nintendo teams up with Vimto for new Pokemon games|date=June 24, 2003|work=Brand Republic|publisher=[[Haymarket Group]]|access-date=December 2, 2008|archive-date=April 16, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090416140006/http://www.brandrepublic.com/news/183606/nintendo-teams-vimto-new-pokemon-games|url-status=live}}</ref>

===''Pokémon Emerald''===
{{Main|Pokémon Emerald{{!}}''Pokémon Emerald''}}
{{nihongo foot|'''''Pokémon Emerald Version'''''|ポケットモンスター エメラルド|Poketto Monsutā Emerarudo|lit. "Pocket Monsters: Emerald"|lead=yes|group=lower-alpha}} is a third version after ''Pokémon Ruby'' and ''Sapphire'', developed by Game Freak, published by The Pokémon Company and Nintendo for the Game Boy Advance. It was first released in Japan in 2004, and was later released internationally in 2005.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamefaqs.com/portable/gbadvance/data/921905.html|title=Pokemon Emerald Info|publisher=[[CBS Interactive]]|work=[[GameFAQs]]|access-date=August 2, 2008|archive-date=August 9, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110809044647/http://www.gamefaqs.com/gba/921905-pokemon-emerald-version/data|url-status=live}}</ref> ''Emerald'' received generally positive reception<ref>{{cite web |title=Pokemon Emerald Version |url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/pokemon-emerald-version/critic-reviews/?platform=game-boy-advance |work=[[Metacritic]] |access-date=November 2, 2013 |archive-date=January 6, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210106231301/https://www.metacritic.com/game/game-boy-advance/pokemon-emerald-version |url-status=live }}</ref> and by fiscal year 2007 sales had reached 6.32 million units.<ref>{{cite web |title=Million-Seller Titles of NINTENDO Products |url=https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/pdf/2007/070427e.pdf#page=6 |work=[[Nintendo|Nintendo Co. Ltd.]] |access-date=November 2, 2013 |archive-date=September 27, 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070927171153/http://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/pdf/2007/070427e.pdf#page=6 |url-status=live }}</ref>

==Reception==

===Critical response===
{{Video game reviews
| GR = 84% (55 reviews)<ref name="GR">{{cite web|url=http://www.gamerankings.com/htmlpages4/471243.asp|title=Pokemon Ruby Version Reviews|publisher=[[CBS Interactive]]|work=[[GameRankings]]|access-date=August 2, 2008|archive-date=August 6, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130806113649/http://www.gamerankings.com/gba/471243-pokemon-ruby-version/index.html|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamerankings.com/htmlpages4/563596.asp|title=Pokemon Sapphire Version Reviews|publisher=[[CBS Interactive]]|work=[[GameRankings]]|access-date=August 2, 2008|archive-date=May 13, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130513065410/http://www.gamerankings.com/gba/563596-pokemon-sapphire-version/index.html|url-status=dead}}</ref>
| MC = 82% (33 reviews)<ref name="MC">{{cite web|url=http://www.metacritic.com/games/platforms/gba/pokemonsapphire|title=Pokemon Sapphire Reviews|publisher=[[CBS Interactive]]|work=[[Metacritic]]|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080504025052/http://www.metacritic.com/games/platforms/gba/pokemonsapphire|archive-date=May 4, 2008 |access-date=July 17, 2008}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.metacritic.com/games/platforms/gba/pokemonruby|title=Pokemon Ruby Reviews|publisher=[[CBS Interactive]]|work=[[Metacritic]]|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080504025047/http://www.metacritic.com/games/platforms/gba/pokemonruby  |archive-date=May 4, 2008 |access-date=July 17, 2008}}</ref>
| 1UP = B−<ref name="1up">{{cite web|url=http://www.1up.com/do/reviewPage?cId=3103339&p=19&sec=REVIEWS|title=Pokemon Ruby and Sapphire Review|date=January 1, 2000|work=[[1UP.com]]|publisher=[[Ziff Davis Media]]|access-date=November 26, 2008|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110629063946/http://www.1up.com/reviews/pokeacutemon-ruby-sapphire_2|archive-date=June 29, 2011}}</ref>
| CVG = 9/10<ref name="cavrev">{{cite web|url=http://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=90745|title=Review: Pokémon Ruby & Sapphire|first=Maura|last=Sutton|publisher=[[Future Publishing]]|work=[[ComputerAndVideoGames.com]]|access-date=November 13, 2008|date=May 8, 2003|archive-date=April 16, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090416210323/http://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=90745|url-status=dead}}</ref>
| EuroG = 7/10<ref name="euro">{{cite web|url=http://www.eurogamer.net/article.php?article_id=53163|title=Pokemon Ruby & Sapphire Review|first=Martin|last=Taylor|work=[[Eurogamer]]|access-date=November 13, 2008|date=September 8, 2003|archive-date=August 4, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130804163804/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/r_pokemonrubysapphire_gba|url-status=dead}}</ref>
| Fam = 34/40<ref>''ゲームボーイアドバンス - ポケットモンスター ルビー・サファイア''. Weekly Famitsu. No. 915 Pt.2. Pg.120. June 30, 2006.</ref>
| GSpot = 8.1/10 (''Ruby'')<ref name="gamespot">{{cite web|url=http://www.gamespot.com/gba/rpg/pokemonrubyversion/review.html?om_act=convert&om_clk=gssummary&tag=summary%3Breview&page=2|title=Pokemon Ruby Version|publisher=[[CBS Interactive]]|work=[[GameSpot]]|date=March 18, 2003|first=Greg|last=Kasavin|access-date=July 17, 2008|archive-date=October 8, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221008101115/https://www.gamespot.com/reviews/pokemon-emerald-review/1900-6123643/|url-status=live}}</ref>
| GameZone = 9.5/10 (''Ruby'')<ref name="gamezone">{{cite web|url=http://gameboy.gamezone.com/gzreviews/r20800_GBA.htm|title=Pokemon Ruby Review|publisher=Gamezone Online|work=GameZone|first=Louis|last=Bedigian |access-date=November 13, 2008|date=March 24, 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081104011045/http://gameboy.gamezone.com/gzreviews/r20800_GBA.htm <!--Added by H3llBot-->|archive-date=November 4, 2008}}</ref>
| IGN = 9.5/10 (''Ruby'')<ref name="ign">{{cite web|url=http://gameboy.ign.com/objects/017/017508.html|title=IGN: Pokemon Ruby Version|publisher=[[News Corporation (1980–2013)|News Corporation]]|work=[[IGN]]|access-date=October 13, 2008|archive-date=July 18, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130718164439/http://www.ign.com/games/pokemon-battle-e/gba-17508|url-status=live}}</ref>
}}

The games met with mostly positive reviews. ''[[IGN]]'' gave them an "Amazing" 9.5 out of 10 rating and awarded them the Editor's Choice Award; in 2007, the games were collectively named the tenth best Game Boy Advance game of all time in an ''IGN'' article.<ref>{{cite web|first=Craig|last=Harris|date=March 16, 2007|url=http://gameboy.ign.com/articles/772/772284p4.html|title=Top 25 Game Boy Advance Games of All Time|publisher=[[News Corporation (1980–2013)|News Corporation]]|work=[[IGN]]|access-date=March 18, 2007|archive-date=August 27, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110827013819/http://gameboy.ign.com/articles/772/772284p4.html|url-status=live}}</ref> ''GameZone'' also gave the games a 9.5 out of 10 rating and awarded them an Outstanding Award.<ref name="gamezone" /> ''[[GamePro]]'' gave the games 5 out of 5 stars and named them Editor's Choices.<ref name="gamepro" /> ''[[ComputerAndVideoGames.com]]'' gave the games a 9 out of 10, and ''[[GameSpot]]'' gave the games 8.1 out of 10,<ref name="cavrev" /> naming it the best Game Boy Advance game of March 2003.<ref name=gotm>{{cite web | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20050123194209/http://www.gamespot.com/gamespot/features/all/gotm/040503/index.html | url=http://www.gamespot.com/gamespot/features/all/gotm/040503/index.html | title=''GameSpot''{{'}}s Month in Review: March 2003 | author=((The Editors of ''GameSpot'')) | date=April 5, 2003 | work=[[GameSpot]] | archive-date=January 23, 2005 | url-status=dead }}</ref> ''[[Eurogamer]]'' and ''[[1UP.com]]'' were less enthusiastic about the games, however; ''Eurogamer'' gave the games 7 out of 10, and ''1UP.com'' gave them a B−.<ref name="1up" /><ref name="euro" />

Reviewers were divided in their critiques of the games, especially concerning the gameplay and graphics. ''IGN'' praised the "deep design" and noted that the addition of features such as double battles greatly increased the strategic aspect of the games. ''GamePro'' also thought that the addition of double battles "add[ed] challenge" and "made the harder battles far more strategic than before—the way the game should be".<ref name="gamepro">{{cite magazine|url=http://www.gamepro.com/nintendo/gameboy_advance/games/reviews/28564.shtml|title=Review: Pokemon: Ruby and Sapphire Versions|publisher=IDG Entertainment|magazine=[[GamePro]]|date=March 17, 2003|access-date=July 17, 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080611061516/http://www.gamepro.com/nintendo/gameboy_advance/games/reviews/28564.shtml|url-status=live|archive-date=June 11, 2008}}</ref> Likewise, ''ComputerAndVideoGames.com'' called the gameplay "incredibly compelling and addictive".<ref name="cavrev" /> ''GameZone'' noted that the gameplay was more refined and challenging than that of previous titles.<ref name="gamezone" /> However, ''GameSpot'' called the games "a cakewalk from start to finish" and claimed that ''Ruby'' and ''Sapphire'' "don't offer much of a challenge".<ref name="gamespot" /> ''Eurogamer'' also felt that the mechanics "[get] very tired, very fast".<ref name="euro" /> ''1UP.com'' also felt that the games were formulaic and that double battles were underused.<ref name="1up" />

''ComputerAndVideoGames.com'' was enthusiastic over the graphics, calling them "gorgeous".<ref name="cavrev" /> Other reviewers were less enthusiastic, however. ''GamePro'' felt that the graphics were only "a fair bit prettier" than those of the Game Boy Color games;<ref name="gamepro" /> ''GameZone'' said that the games "still [use] the simple animations and basic character designs that were created for the original, color-less Game Boy".<ref name="gamezone" /> ''IGN'' and ''1UP.com'' noted that the graphics had received only a minor upgrade,<ref name="1up" /><ref name="IGNp3" /> and ''Eurogamer'' felt that the graphics had been upgraded to a "functional level at best".<ref name="euro" /> The audio was generally well-received: ''GameZone'' and ''GameSpot'' both felt the audio was catchy; ''GameZone'' gave the audio an 8 out of 10 score, saying that while the music "was annoying at times, [...] it's also very good. [...] I found myself humming the music when I wasn't playing". Other complaints included the removal of the time system of ''Gold'' and ''Silver'' and the inability to import Pokémon from the games of previous generations.<ref name="IGNp3">{{cite web|url=http://gameboy.ign.com/articles/389/389660p3.html|title=IGN: Pokemon Ruby Version Review|last=Harris|first=Craig|date=March 17, 2003|work=[[IGN]]|publisher=[[News Corporation (1980–2013)|News Corporation]]|page=3|access-date=November 26, 2008|archive-date=November 16, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131116030356/http://www.ign.com/articles/2003/03/17/pokemon-ruby-version?page=3|url-status=live}}</ref>

===Sales===
''Pokémon Ruby'' and ''Sapphire'' were highly anticipated.<ref>{{cite magazine |url=http://www.gamepro.com/article/news/27187/japan-catches-a-light-case-of-pokemania|title=Japan Catches A Light Case of Pokemania|date=December 21, 2002|magazine=[[GamePro]]|publisher=IDG Entertainment|access-date=December 2, 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090414113254/http://www.gamepro.com/article/news/27187/japan-catches-a-light-case-of-pokemania|archive-date=April 14, 2009}}</ref><ref>{{cite press release|url=http://www.accessmylibrary.com/coms2/summary_0286-22709780_ITM|title=America Braces for Next Huge Pokemon Wave; Pokemon Ruby, Pokemon Sapphire for Game Boy Advance Give New Game-Play and Learning Experience|work=AccessMyLibrary|access-date=November 30, 2008|publisher=[[Business Wire]]|date=March 17, 2003|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120716174318/http://www.accessmylibrary.com/search/?q=America%20Braces%20for%20Next%20Huge%20Pokemon%20Wave;%20Pokemon%20Ruby,%20Pokemon%20Sapphire%20for%20Game%20Boy%20Advance%20Give%20New%20Game-Play%20and%20Learning%20Experience.|archive-date=July 16, 2012|url-status=dead}}</ref> In Japan, they sold 1.25 million units within the first four days of release and were the best-selling games of the 2002 holiday season;<ref>{{cite magazine |date=December 19, 2002 |title=EU Wraps Up Microsoft Inquiry |url=https://www.wired.com/techbiz/media/news/2002/12/56928?currentPage=2 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120918075733/http://www.wired.com/techbiz/media/news/2002/12/56928?currentPage=2 |archive-date=September 18, 2012 |access-date=November 30, 2008 |magazine=[[Wired (magazine)|Wired]] |publisher=[[Condé Nast Publications]]}}</ref> sales totaled around 4.4 million within six weeks of release.<ref name="NMM" /> They also became the first games to sell 2 million copies in Japan since 2001's ''[[Final Fantasy X]]'' and the first games for a handheld console to do so since 2000's ''Yu-Gi-Oh! Duel Monsters 4''.<ref>{{cite magazine|url=http://www.gamepro.com/article/news/27520/top-30-japanese-video-games-12-08-02|title=Top 30 Japanese Video Games 12/08/02|date=December 18, 2002|magazine=[[GamePro]]|publisher=IDG Entertainment|access-date=November 30, 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090414113259/http://www.gamepro.com/article/news/27520/top-30-japanese-video-games-12-08-02|archive-date=April 14, 2009}}</ref>{{efn|If the two games are counted as one}}

In North America, Nintendo sold 2.2 million units by April 2003, less than one month after the games' release in that region.<ref name="NMM">{{cite web|url=http://gameboy.ign.com/articles/392/392355p1.html|title=Nintendo Makes Money|date=April 4, 2003|publisher=[[News Corporation (1980–2013)|News Corporation]]|work=[[IGN]]|access-date=July 17, 2008|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040618035314/http://gameboy.ign.com/articles/392/392355p1.html|archive-date=June 18, 2004}}</ref> In the United States, ''Ruby'' and ''Sapphire'' were the second- and third-best-selling games of 2003, respectively.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Riley |first1=David M. |title=The NPD Group Reports Annual 2003 U.S. Video Game Industry Driven By Console Software Sales |url=https://www.npd.com/press/releases/press_040126a.htm |website=[[The NPD Group, Inc.]] |access-date=January 24, 2004 |archive-date=February 9, 2004 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040209031659/http://www.npd.com/press/releases/press_040126a.htm |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.accessmylibrary.com/coms2/summary_0286-7679844_ITM|title=2003's top video games.|date=March 9, 2004|work=AccessMyLibrary|publisher=[[The Charlotte Observer]]|access-date=November 30, 2008|agency=[[Knight Ridder|Knight-Ridder/Tribune]]|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090112030210/http://www.accessmylibrary.com/coms2/summary_0286-7679844_ITM|archive-date=January 12, 2009|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=March 2003 |title=Financial Review |url=https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/pdf/2003/annual0303e.pdf |website=www.nintendo.co.jp/ |access-date=November 2, 2023 |archive-date=November 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231128043740/https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/pdf/2003/annual0303e.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref> The games enjoyed success in Europe as well.<ref>{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=March 27, 2006 |title=FROM THE MIND OF A JAPANESE SCHOOL BOY TO THE BIGGEST GAME FRANCHISE OF ALL TIME! |url=https://www.gamesindustry.biz/from-the-mind-of-a-japanese-school-boy-to-the-biggest-game-franchise-of-all-time |access-date=October 8, 2023 |website=GamesIndustry.biz |language=en |archive-date=November 2, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231102182604/https://www.gamesindustry.biz/from-the-mind-of-a-japanese-school-boy-to-the-biggest-game-franchise-of-all-time |url-status=live }}</ref> Even before release, European retailers imported cartridges from the United States to meet the high demand.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.theregister.co.uk/2003/04/28/importers_warned_over_gba_pokemon/|title=Importers warned over GBA Pokemon titles|date=April 28, 2003|work=[[The Register]]|publisher=Situation Publishing Ltd|access-date=November 30, 2008|archive-date=October 3, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121003222909/http://www.theregister.co.uk/2003/04/28/importers_warned_over_gba_pokemon/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Fahey |first=Rob |date=July 29, 2003 |title=UK Charts: Market boosted massively as Pokemon storms UK retail |url=https://www.gamesindustry.biz/uk-charts-market-boosted-massively-as-pokemon-storms-uk-retail |access-date=October 8, 2023 |website=GamesIndustry.biz |language=en |archive-date=November 2, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231102182603/https://www.gamesindustry.biz/uk-charts-market-boosted-massively-as-pokemon-storms-uk-retail |url-status=live }}</ref> Upon release, 500,000 copies were sold in its first weekend and sold {{nowrap|1.5 million}} within eight weeks.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Harris |first1=Craig |title=Pokemon Super Packs |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2003/10/27/pokemon-super-packs |access-date=November 5, 2021 |work=[[IGN]] |date=October 27, 2003 |language=en |archive-date=November 5, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211105072532/https://www.ign.com/articles/2003/10/27/pokemon-super-packs |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Fahey |first=Rob |date=July 31, 2003 |title=Pokemon sells half a million in Europe |url=https://www.gamesindustry.biz/pokemon-sells-half-a-million-in-europe |access-date=October 8, 2023 |website=GamesIndustry.biz |language=en |archive-date=September 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230928084349/https://www.gamesindustry.biz/pokemon-sells-half-a-million-in-europe |url-status=live }}</ref> They were the second-best-selling games of the holiday season in 2002.<ref>{{cite magazine|url=http://www.gamepro.com/article/news/31990/game-boy-advance-shipments-hit-10-million-in-europe|title=Game Boy Advance shipments hit 10 million in Europe|date=December 9, 2003|magazine=[[GamePro]]|publisher=IDG Entertainment |access-date=November 30, 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090414111015/http://www.gamepro.com/article/news/31990/game-boy-advance-shipments-hit-10-million-in-europe|archive-date=April 14, 2009}}</ref> The games were brought up at [[E3 2003]] by [[Satoru Iwata]] as a symbol of how successful the Game Boy Advance was at the time.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Doree |first1=Adam |title=E3 2003: Nintendo Conference Report |url=http://archive.videogamesdaily.com/news/200305/033.asp |website=Kikizo |publisher=Superglobal Ltd. |access-date=April 4, 2021 |date=May 13, 2003 |archive-date=June 10, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210610102723/http://archive.videogamesdaily.com/news/200305/033.asp |url-status=live }}</ref>

With 16.22 million units sold worldwide as of 2023, they are the [[List of best-selling Game Boy Advance video games|best-selling games for the Game Boy Advance]].<ref>{{cite web |last1=Harris |first1=Golin |title=Pokémon X and Pokémon Y Sell More Than 4 Million Units Worldwide in First Two Days |url=https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20131015006009/en/Pok%C3%A9mon-Pok%C3%A9mon-Sell-4-Million-Units-Worldwide |website=[[Business Wire]] |date=October 15, 2013 |access-date=January 25, 2019 |archive-date=January 26, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190126113801/https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20131015006009/en/Pok%C3%A9mon-Pok%C3%A9mon-Sell-4-Million-Units-Worldwide |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamasutra.com/view/news/202366/Pokemon_X__Y_sell_4M_copies_in_first_weekend.php|title=Pokemon X & Y sell 4M copies in first weekend|last=Rose|first=Mike|date=October 15, 2013|work=[[Gamasutra]]|publisher=Think Services|access-date=October 16, 2013|archive-date=October 19, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131019020122/http://gamasutra.com/view/news/202366/Pokemon_X__Y_sell_4M_copies_in_first_weekend.php|url-status=dead}}</ref> However, analysts noted that with "young kids...gravitating toward ''[[Yu-Gi-Oh!]]''" at the time, ''Pokémon''{{'}}s popularity was waning even before the American release of ''Ruby'' and ''Sapphire''.<ref>{{cite news |last=Chronis|first=George T. |url=http://www.accessmylibrary.com/coms2/summary_0286-22555674_ITM|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090112035729/http://www.accessmylibrary.com/coms2/summary_0286-22555674_ITM|title=Pokemon pundits see luster fading: new games seen a solid, no record breakers|date=February 24, 2003|work=AccessMyLibrary|publisher=Video Business|access-date=November 30, 2008|archive-date=January 12, 2009 |url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Finney |first=Daniel P. |date=July 13, 2003 |title=Made in Japan, Played in U.S.A.: Yu-Gi-Oh! Is the Latest Big Draw |language=en-US |newspaper=Washington Post |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/archive/lifestyle/2003/07/13/made-in-japan-played-in-usa-yu-gi-oh-is-the-latest-big-draw/94c75b94-519e-4d8e-8fb5-8a6ceff00230/ |access-date=October 19, 2023 |issn=0190-8286}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=CNN.com - Yu-Gi-Oh: An animation sensation - Jun. 27, 2003 |url=https://www.cnn.com/2003/SHOWBIZ/TV/06/26/yugioh/?fbclid=IwAR0LNr4Aaw6CgY8A5F0RYSeupBS0uQW5MF2Wq5mVrXUcYiuXsA-MLEKIyXc |access-date=October 19, 2023 |website=www.cnn.com |archive-date=August 17, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240817145344/https://www.cnn.com/2003/SHOWBIZ/TV/06/26/yugioh/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Yu-Gi-Oh is the next Pokemon for 4Kids Entertainment. - Dec. 4, 2002 |url=https://money.cnn.com/2002/12/04/news/holiday_yugioh/index.htm?fbclid=IwAR2TvlP16DcS-0iHhIy1jqvh5B1kV3ftqQToFjEVrxcY0Ehp2SLgVrq_fL0 |access-date=October 19, 2023 |website=money.cnn.com |archive-date=November 2, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231102182603/https://money.cnn.com/2002/12/04/news/holiday_yugioh/index.htm?fbclid=IwAR2TvlP16DcS-0iHhIy1jqvh5B1kV3ftqQToFjEVrxcY0Ehp2SLgVrq_fL0 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=February 23, 2003 |title=Bye-bye Pokemon, Yu-Gi-Oh! is here |url=https://www.baltimoresun.com/news/bs-xpm-2003-02-23-0302230229-story.html |access-date=October 23, 2023 |website=Baltimore Sun |archive-date=November 2, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231102182603/https://www.baltimoresun.com/news/bs-xpm-2003-02-23-0302230229-story.html |url-status=live }}</ref> This was reflected in the games' sales compared to those of previous generations: [[Pokémon Red and Blue|''Red'' and ''Blue'']] sold nearly 31 million units worldwide,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://hdl.handle.net/10022/AC:P:28|format=PDF|title=Pokemania: Secrets Behind the International Phenomenon|publisher=Columbia Business School|author=Safier, Joshua|author2=Nakaya, Sumie |date=February 7, 2000|doi=10.7916/D8V12CPD |hdl=10022/AC:P:28 |access-date=August 5, 2011}}</ref> and [[Pokémon Gold and Silver|''Gold'' and ''Silver'']] sold over 23 million units.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.the-magicbox.com/Chart-JPPlatinum.shtml|title=Japan Platinum Chart Games|publisher=The Magic Box|access-date=July 5, 2008|archive-date=August 1, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190801030711/http://www.the-magicbox.com/Chart-JPPlatinum.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.the-magicbox.com/Chart-USPlatinum.shtml|title=US Platinum Chart Games|publisher=The Magic Box|access-date=July 5, 2008|archive-date=May 9, 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080509132932/http://www.the-magicbox.com/Chart-USPlatinum.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref>

===Awards===
{| class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! Year !! Award !! Category !! Result
|-
| style="text-align:center;" | 2003
|[[Golden Joystick Awards]]
| Handheld Game of the Year
| {{Nom}}
|-
| style="text-align:center;" rowspan="3" | 2004
| [[7th Annual Interactive Achievement Awards|Interactive Achievement Awards]]
| [[D.I.C.E. Award for Mobile Game of the Year|Handheld Game of the Year]]
| {{Nom}}
|-
| rowspan="2"|[[1st British Academy Games Awards|British Academy Game Awards]]
| Children's Game
| {{Nom}}
|-
| Game Boy Advance Game
| {{Nom}}
|}

==Legacy==

===Remakes===
{{Main|Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire{{!}}''Pokémon Omega Ruby'' and ''Alpha Sapphire''}}
{{nihongo foot|'''''Pokémon Omega Ruby'''''|ポケットモンスター オメガルビー|Poketto Monsutā Omega Rubī|"Pocket Monsters: Omega Ruby"|lead=yes|group=lower-alpha}} and {{nihongo foot|'''''Pokémon Alpha Sapphire'''''|ポケットモンスター アルファサファイア|Poketto Monsutā Arufa Safaia|"Pocket Monsters: Alpha Sapphire"|lead=yes|group=lower-alpha}} are [[enhanced remake]]s of ''Pokémon Ruby'' and ''Sapphire''. The new titles were developed by Game Freak and published by Nintendo for the [[Nintendo 3DS]]. They were released worldwide for the [[Nintendo 3DS]] on November 21, 2014, exactly twelve years after the original release date of ''Ruby'' and ''Sapphire'', while the European release was the following week.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.pokemon.com/us/pokemon-video-games/pokemon-omega-ruby-and-pokemon-alpha-sapphire/ |title=Pokémon Omega Ruby and Pokémon Alpha Sapphire |publisher=[[Nintendo]] |access-date=May 7, 2014 |archive-date=December 19, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191219135518/https://www.pokemon.com/us/pokemon-video-games/pokemon-omega-ruby-and-pokemon-alpha-sapphire/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.shacknews.com/article/84410/pokemon-omega-ruby-and-alpha-sapphire-announced | title=Pokemon: Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire announced | publisher=Shacknews LTD | date=May 7, 2014 | access-date=May 7, 2014 | last=Watts | first=Steve | archive-date=May 11, 2014 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140511135824/http://www.shacknews.com/article/84410/pokemon-omega-ruby-and-alpha-sapphire-announced | url-status=live }}</ref>

===Related games===
{{Main|Pokémon Pinball: Ruby & Sapphire{{!}}''Pokémon Pinball: Ruby & Sapphire''|Pokémon Colosseum{{!}}''Pokémon Colosseum''|Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness{{!}}''Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness''}}

====''Pokémon Box: Ruby and Sapphire''====
{{nihongo foot|'''''Pokémon Box: Ruby and Sapphire'''''|ポケモンボックス ルビー＆サファイア|Pokemon Bokkusu Rubī & Safaia|lead=yes|group=lower-alpha}} or simply {{nihongo foot|'''''Pokémon Box'''''|ポケモンボックス|Pokemon Bokkusu|lead=yes|group=lower-alpha}}, is a [[Spin-off (media)|spin-off]] ''Pokémon'' game for the [[GameCube]], bundled with a [[GameCube – Game Boy Advance link cable]] and a [[Memory Card]] 59.<ref name="ignboxpreview">{{cite web|url=http://cube.ign.com/articles/532/532019p1.html|title=IGN: Pokemon Box: Ruby and Sapphire Preview|publisher=[[News Corporation (1980–2013)|News Corporation]]|work=[[IGN]]|first=Craig|last=Harris|date=July 20, 2004|access-date=September 28, 2008|archive-date=April 3, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120403025959/http://cube.ign.com/articles/532/532019p1.html|url-status=live}}</ref> It was released in Japan on May 30, 2003, and in North America on July 12, 2004,<ref>{{Cite web |last=Harris |first=Craig |date=2004-06-08 |title=''Pokemon Box'' Coming Stateside |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2004/06/08/pokemon-box-coming-stateside |access-date=2024-05-13 |website=[[IGN]] |language=en |archive-date=May 13, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240513125813/https://www.ign.com/articles/2004/06/08/pokemon-box-coming-stateside |url-status=live }}</ref> but only through the [[New York City|New York]] [[Pokémon Center]] and its online store,<ref name="ignboxpreview"/> and it is no longer available in either location.{{as of?|date=October 2019}} The game was released in some parts of Europe as '''''Pokémon Memory Magic''''' due to translation problems<ref>{{cite web|url=http://n-europe.com/news.php?nid=4558|title=N-Europe: News: Pokémon Name Change|publisher=N-Europe|author=Tim|date=September 28, 2008|access-date=February 15, 2009|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110925223128/http://n-europe.com/news.php?nid=4558|archive-date=September 25, 2011}}</ref> and Europeans could only get the game by using points from Nintendo of Europe's loyalty program or by buying the ''Pokémon Colosseum Mega Pack''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://n-europe.com/news.php?nid=6515|title=N-Europe: News: Pokémon Box Gets Starring Role|publisher=N-Europe|first=Ashley|last=Boyd|date=May 15, 2004|access-date=September 28, 2008|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111002121450/http://n-europe.com/news.php?nid=6515|archive-date=October 2, 2011}}</ref>

The game is essentially a storage system for the [[Game Boy Advance]] ''Pokémon'' games that allow players to trade and store Pokémon that they have caught in ''Ruby'', ''Sapphire'', ''[[Pokémon Emerald|Emerald]]'', [[Pokémon FireRed and LeafGreen|''FireRed'' and ''LeafGreen'']] onto a GameCube memory card.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Pokémon Box E3 2003 Preshow Report |url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/pokymon-box-e3-2003-preshow-report/1100-6027626/ |access-date=June 29, 2022 |website=GameSpot |language=en-US |archive-date=June 29, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220629152009/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/pokymon-box-e3-2003-preshow-report/1100-6027626/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Pokémon Box Ruby and Sapphire Impressions |url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/pokymon-box-ruby-and-sapphire-impressions/1100-6029812/ |access-date=June 29, 2022 |website=GameSpot |language=en-US |archive-date=June 29, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220629152009/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/pokymon-box-ruby-and-sapphire-impressions/1100-6029812/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Players can then organize and interact with their Pokémon on the GameCube, such as allowing them to breed. Unique Pokémon can also be acquired. Another feature allows ''Ruby'' and ''Sapphire'' to be played on the television via the GameCube – Game Boy Advance link cable. Options such as taking [[screenshot]]s of the game are available in this mode.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamespot.com/gamecube/puzzle/pokemonbox/news.html?sid=6029812&mode=previews|title=Pokémon Box Ruby and Sapphire Impressions|publisher=[[CBS Interactive]]|work=[[GameSpot]]|date=July 10, 2003 |access-date=September 28, 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121106222726/http://www.gamespot.com/pokemon-box-ruby-and-sapphire/previews/pokmon-box-ruby-and-sapphire-impressions-6029812/|archive-date=November 6, 2012|url-status=dead}}</ref> Another addition is the "Showcase", where players can create and display game pieces of Pokémon.<ref name="ignboxreview"/>

Nintendo referred to the game as "the most exclusive Pokémon software ever offered to North American ''Pokémon'' fans,"<ref name="BoxAllgame"/> but it was generally considered to be unnecessary, receiving a score of 50% on [[GameRankings]] from 1 review.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamerankings.com/htmlpages2/914971.asp|title=Pokemon Box: Ruby and Sapphire Reviews|publisher=[[CBS Interactive]]|work=[[GameRankings]]|access-date=September 28, 2008|archive-date=October 11, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121011233119/http://www.gamerankings.com/gamecube/914971-pokemon-box-ruby-and-sapphire/index.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Craig Harris of ''IGN'' gave the game a "[[Wiktionary:meh|Meh]]" rating of 5.0 out of 10, praising the interface, which makes the organization of Pokémon much easier as compared to the Game Boy Advance interface, as well as the emulator which allows ''Ruby'' and ''Sapphire'' to be played on the GameCube. He also stated that the game was a good deal due to the inclusion of a memory card and link cable. However, Harris cited the "Showcase" as "entirely unnecessary and completely out of place", and said that overall the game lacked much to do. He wrote, "It's targeted specifically for the truly die-hard ''Pokemon'' fan, but it requires so many specific elements to actually be useful to anyone."<ref name="ignboxreview">{{cite web|url=http://cube.ign.com/articles/533/533098p1.html|title=IGN: Pokemon Box: Ruby and Sapphire Review|publisher=[[News Corporation (1980–2013)|News Corporation]]|work=[[IGN]]|first=Craig|last=Harris|date=July 23, 2004|access-date=September 28, 2008|archive-date=December 5, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111205045048/http://cube.ign.com/articles/533/533098p1.html|url-status=live}}</ref> ''[[Allgame]]'' gave the game three and a half out of five stars.<ref name="BoxAllgame">{{cite web|url=http://www.allgame.com/cg/agg.dll?p=agg&sql=1:43616|title=Pokémon Box > Overview|publisher=[[Macrovision Corporation]]|work=[[Allgame]]|first=Scott Alan|last=Marriott|access-date=September 28, 2008|archive-date=January 2, 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100102111731/http://allgame.com/game.php?id=43616|url-status=dead}}</ref>

==Notes==
{{Notelist}}

==References==
{{Reflist}}
{{Refbegin}}
* {{cite video game|title=Pokémon Ruby|developer=[[Game Freak]]|publisher=[[Nintendo]]|date=March 19, 2003}}
* {{cite video game|title=Pokémon Sapphire|developer=[[Game Freak]]|publisher=[[Nintendo]]|date=March 19, 2003}}
* {{cite book|title=Pokémon Sapphire Version instruction booklet|publisher=Nintendo|year=2003}}
* {{cite book|publisher=[[Prima Games]]|year=2003|title=Pokémon Ruby Version [and] Sapphire Version: Prima's Official Strategy Guide|location=USA|first=Elizabeth M.|last=Hollinger|isbn=0-7615-4256-6|url-access=registration|url=https://archive.org/details/pokemonrubyversi00holl}}
{{Refend}}

==External links==
* {{Official website|https://www.pokemon.com/us/pokemon-video-games/pokemon-ruby-version-and-pokemon-sapphire-version/}}

{{Pokémon Generation 3|state=expanded}}
{{Pokémon video games}}
{{Portal bar|Video games|2000s}}
{{Authority control}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire}}
[[Category:2002 video games]]
[[Category:Game Boy Advance games]]
[[Category:Game Boy Advance-only games]]
[[Category:Game Freak games]]
[[Category:Japanese role-playing video games]]
[[Category:Multiplayer and single-player video games]]
[[Category:Pokémon video games|Ruby and Sapphire]]
[[Category:Role-playing video games]]
[[Category:Video games developed in Japan]]
[[Category:Sequel video games]]
[[Category:Video games directed by Junichi Masuda]]
[[Category:Video games with gender-selectable protagonists]]
[[Category:Video games scored by Go Ichinose]]
[[Category:Video games scored by Junichi Masuda]]
[[Category:Video games scored by Morikazu Aoki]]
[[Category:Video games set in Japan]]
[[Category:Video games set on fictional islands]]
[[Category:Video games set underwater]]
[[Category:Games with GameCube-GBA connectivity]]