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Pocket Monsters Kin (Japan)

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Getting to Know Pocket Monsters Kin

Game Boy Color
RPG
5· 0 votes

Pocket Monsters Kin (Japan) is the Japanese release of Pokémon Gold Version for the Game Boy Color, launched in 1999. Developed by Game Freak and published by Nintendo, it's a role-playing game that kicked off the second generation of the Pokémon series. This version was only sold in Japan, with English versions arriving later under the Pokémon Gold title, but this ROM preserves the original text and regional quirks. You play as a young trainer setting out from a small town to explore the Johto region. The core loop involves catching wild Pokémon using Poké Balls, battling other trainers in turn-based fights, and collecting eight gym badges to challenge the Pokémon League. A new day-and-night cycle affects which creatures appear, and you can breed Pokémon to produce eggs. The game also introduces two new types (Dark and Steel) and a real-time clock for events like the Bug-Catching Contest. Today, Pocket Monsters Kin remains a landmark entry because it expanded the formula so thoughtfully. Compared to the original Red and Blue, it offers a larger world, 100 new species, and mechanics like held items and shiny Pokémon that became series staples. If you're curious about the franchise's evolution or want to experience the Japanese text as it was originally presented, this is a solid way to do it.

GAME INFO

Platform: Game Boy Color
Genre: RPG
Released: 1999
Players: 1
Region: Japan

How to play Pocket Monsters Kin online

Getting Started: Start by choosing your character's name and then picking a starter Pokémon from Professor Elm's lab: Chikorita (Grass), Cyndaquil (Fire), or Totodile (Water). These early decisions shape your first few hours. The game is entirely in Japanese, so if you don't read the language, you'll need to rely on memory of the English version or a guide for menus and item names. Once you leave New Bark Town, explore routes and tall grass to encounter wild Pokémon. Weaken them in battle using your starter's attacks, then throw a Poké Ball to capture them. The real-time clock matters - certain Pokémon only appear at night or on specific days. Keep an eye on your Pokedex and stock up on Poké Balls at the Poké Mart. Battling gym leaders is the main goal. Each gym specializes in a type, so build a balanced team. Use the town's Pokémon Center to heal and save frequently. The B button cancels selections, and pressing Start opens the menu where you can check your party, items, and save your progress.

CONTROLS

Controls

Arrow Keys: D-Pad / Movement
X: A button (jump / confirm)
S: B button (run / attack / cancel)
Enter: Start / Pause
V: Select

Pocket Monsters Kin FAQ

What makes Pocket Monsters Kin stand out among Game Boy Color titles of its era?

It was the first Pokémon game to include a real-time clock, a day-and-night cycle, and breeding mechanics. These additions made the world feel more alive and gave players new ways to collect rare creatures, setting it apart from earlier entries and most other Game Boy Color RPGs.

Is Pocket Monsters Kin exclusive to Game Boy Color or did it appear on other systems?

This version was only released for the Game Boy Color in 1999. While the game was later remade for the Nintendo DS as Pokémon HeartGold, the original Japanese ROM is unique to Nintendo's handheld.

In what year was Pocket Monsters Kin originally released?

It launched in Japan on November 21, 1999.

All Game Boy Color games