Pokémon HeartGold & SoulSilver: Complete Guide
HeartGold & SoulSilver Pokédex →Pokémon HeartGold and SoulSilver are remakes of Gold and Silver for the Nintendo DS, released in 2009. They rebuild Johto and Kanto with the fourth generation's mechanics, new graphics and a large number of additions, and they are often named among the best remakes the series has produced.
The most noticeable change is that your lead Pokémon follows you around the map and reacts when you talk to it. Combined with the classic two-region design, it gives the games a warm, personal feel.
They suit anyone who wants to see Johto and Kanto at their best, from first-time players to those who remember the originals.
HeartGold & SoulSilver quick facts
| Release date | September 12, 2009 |
|---|---|
| Platform | Nintendo DS |
| Region | Johto, Kanto |
| Generation | Generation IV |
| Versions | Pokémon HeartGold and Pokémon SoulSilver |
| New Pokémon | None (no new species) |
| Starters | Chikorita, Cyndaquil and Totodile |
| Legendary and Mythical | Raikou, Entei, Suicune, Lugia, Ho-oh, Articuno, Zapdos, Moltres and Mewtwo |
Story and structure
This section avoids spoilers and sticks to the broad structure.
The adventure begins in New Bark Town, where Professor Elm asks you to run an errand and entrusts you with your first Pokémon. A rival with a sharp temper pushes you along, and you travel through Johto to challenge eight Gym Leaders.
Team Rocket returns, and two towers in Ecruteak City hide legends connected to the cover Pokémon.
Johto and Kanto
After the Johto League you can travel to Kanto and take on its original eight Gym Leaders, making this one of the largest games in the series.
The final mountain
A mountain on the border between the regions holds the strongest trainer in the game. Reaching it takes time, but the battle is the hardest in the series.
The remakes also add the Battle Frontier, a post-game facility from Platinum.
New mechanics explained
A Pokémon at your side
Your lead Pokémon walks behind you, and you can talk to it to see its mood. Some Pokémon react to events, and you can use it to find items.
Tip: Pick a lead Pokémon you like to look at. It is the one you will see most of the time.
The Pokéwalker
A pedometer accessory in the box let you transfer a Pokémon to it and earn watts as you walked. You could then use the watts to catch new Pokémon and find items.
Tip: Use it as a long-term collection tool, because it is a slow but steady source of rare finds.
The Pokéathlon
A sports complex where Pokémon compete in athletic events. It is a side activity with its own rewards.
Tip: Try it when you want a break from battles. It is a side activity, so you can come and go without losing story progress.
Starter Pokémon
Professor Elm offers three starters, and each evolves twice. The levels differ slightly between lines.
| Starter | Final form | Final typing | Evolves at |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chikorita | Meganium | Grass | Levels 16 and 32 |
| Cyndaquil | Typhlosion | Fire | Levels 14 and 36 |
| Totodile | Feraligatr | Water | Levels 18 and 30 |
Chikorita line
Chikorita is a defensive Grass Pokémon with supportive moves.
Watch out: It is weak to many types and has modest offense.
Cyndaquil line
Cyndaquil is quick and hits hard, and Typhlosion is a strong special attacker.
Watch out: Water, Rock and Ground opponents are a problem.
Totodile line
Totodile is physically strong, and Feraligatr has a wide movepool.
Watch out: Grass and Electric attacks hurt.
Our recommendation
For a first playthrough, we recommend Totodile for its power and movepool, or Cyndaquil if you prefer speed. Chikorita is best left for a second run.
Version differences
HeartGold and SoulSilver share the same story and differ in cover legendary and a few wild Pokémon.
- HeartGold features Ho-oh and SoulSilver features Lugia.
- Some wild Pokémon are exclusive to one version, so trading helps complete the Pokédex.
Both versions include the same story and Kanto post-game.
Keep exploring
Tips for new players
- Walk with different lead Pokémon to see their reactions.
- Explore Kanto after the Johto League. It adds a lot of experience and items.
- Try the Pokéathlon when you want a break from battling.
- Catch a balanced team, because the Gyms cover many types.
- Make use of the Safari Zone, where you can customize the area with blocks.
- Check the Pokégear radio for hints about events and rare Pokémon.
- Save before the final mountain battle.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between HeartGold and SoulSilver?
They share the same story and map. HeartGold features Ho-Oh and SoulSilver features Lugia, with a few version-exclusive Pokémon.
Are HeartGold and SoulSilver remakes?
Yes. They remake Pokémon Gold and Silver for the Nintendo DS.
Do you visit Kanto in HeartGold and SoulSilver?
Yes. After the Johto League you can visit Kanto, and all 16 Gym Leaders can be challenged.
Can I still play HeartGold and SoulSilver?
Yes. The full single-player game works on the DS, DS Lite, DSi and any 2DS or 3DS.
Does online play still work?
No, not officially. The Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection shut down on May 20, 2014, which ended online battles, trading and the GTS. Local wireless trading and battling still work, as does moving Pokémon forward through Pal Park, Poké Transfer and Poké Transporter. Bringing Gen 4 Pokémon to modern games takes a 3DS with Poké Transporter and Pokémon Bank installed.
What is the Pokéwalker?
A pedometer accessory that came with the games. You carried a Pokémon on it as you walked and earned rewards. It still works, because it connects to the game by infrared rather than online.