About REGIUS: An Island Adventure
An Emerald-based ROM hack with a brand-new island region and modern battle/QoL upgrades.
In REGIUS, you’re not walking the familiar Hoenn loop — you’re exploring a scattered chain of islands where each landmass has its own feel and ecosystem. The core premise is discovery: sailing between islands, uncovering the remains of a forgotten civilization, and learning what’s really at the heart of the archipelago. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
This release is a beta that’s described as fully playable with only a few areas currently inaccessible (linked to missing HMs like Strength). The project is marked as Progressing, with planned updates aimed at expanding story content and adding Pokémon from later generations. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
Good to know: REGIUS is an Emerald hack (not FireRed). If you’re a Gen 3 fan and you like Emerald’s pacing, this will feel instantly familiar — but fresher.
Main Features
🏝️ New island region with varied biomes
⚔️ Physical / Special Split (with icons)
🧬 48 brand-new Pokémon species
🤝 Double Battle mode by default (toggleable)
🧰 HMs work without teaching moves
✨ Extra QoL options & expanded bag space
Gameplay Enhancements (the real list)
REGIUS keeps a “vanilla Emerald” foundation but layers in a set of specific upgrades designed to modernise how the game feels moment-to-moment:
- Physical / Special Split (with icons) so you can read move categories at a glance. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
- 48 new Pokémon species added to the region’s biodiversity. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
- Double Battle Mode: most trainers initiate doubles by default, but you can toggle it off in the options menu. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
- Signature abilities for select new Pokémon; plus Cacophony is made functional (works like Soundproof). :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
- Revamped HM system: you don’t need to teach HMs — once obtained, any capable Pokémon can use the field effect, and HM moves can be replaced freely without a Move Deleter. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
- Smashable rocks can drop items, making exploration more rewarding. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
- Expanded bag pockets for more room, plus a scrolling options menu with additional player settings. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}
There are also smaller, very specific improvements:
- Shuckle Berry Juice: Shuckle can produce Berry Juice by holding any berry.
- Nicknaming from the party menu (no need to find the Name Rater flow).
- Trade evolution items usable out of battle like evolution stones.
- More forgiving loss penalty (money calculation improved).
- Surf music removal so surfing doesn’t interrupt route music. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}
Tips for new players
- Try double battles early: if you leave Double Battle Mode on, build with synergy (spread moves, support, pivots). :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}
- Use the HM freedom: you can keep your movesets clean because HMs don’t need to be taught. :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}
- Explore thoroughly: item-drop rocks and island variety reward curiosity and detours. :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}
- Expect beta edges: a few areas may be blocked until later updates due to missing HMs like Strength. :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}
REGIUS FAQ
What base game is REGIUS: An Island Adventure built on?
REGIUS is based on Pokémon Emerald. :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}
Who made REGIUS?
The creator listed is Gelatino. :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}
Is this a completed ROM hack?
It’s listed as Progressing and described as a fully playable beta, with some areas currently inaccessible and planned expansions for story and later-generation Pokémon. :contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19}
What’s the biggest gameplay change?
Three standouts: physical/special split, double battles by default (toggleable), and the HM system that works without teaching moves. :contentReference[oaicite:20]{index=20}
Can I play REGIUS on mobile?
Yes — RomHaven’s browser player works on desktop and mobile. For mobile, landscape mode is best for Emerald-era UI.
More Pokémon ROM hacks
Want something else after REGIUS? Browse more playable titles here: