Playing Pokemon Red and Blue: A Guide for 2025

Fans of the Pokemon franchise remain passionate about the original 151 creatures, and as we approach 2025, many are eager to know how to access and play Pokemon Red and Pokemon Blue.

The anticipation is building for the 30th anniversary of the Pokemon series, which started with Red and Green in Japan in 1996, followed by the international release of Red and Blue shortly after. Despite their age, these classic titles continue to captivate audiences, with players frequently diving back in for challenges like Nuzlocke runs.

With such an iconic character like Pikachu leading the franchise, many might assume that accessing these classic games on the Nintendo Switch would be straightforward. However, due to some limitations, this isn’t as simple as it seems. This article aims to guide you on how to play Pokemon Red and Blue in 2025.

Accessing Pokemon Red and Blue on Nintendo 3DS

A Nintendo 3DS is on the right side of the image, while Pokemon Red, Blue, and Yellow are on the left — The Pokemon Company

As of 2025, one of the most accessible methods to play Pokemon Red and Blue, along with Yellow, is through the Nintendo 3DS ports. Unfortunately, the Nintendo 3DS eShop is now offline, restricting new purchases. This means players can only download these games if they had been previously purchased.

For those looking to acquire these titles without prior ownership, there’s a possibility to purchase a used Nintendo 3DS that comes with the games installed. However, this is contingent upon the device not being wiped clean before resale, and the previous owner remaining logged into their eShop account.

Another option is to seek out special edition Nintendo 3DS or 2DS models, some of which come with Pokemon Red or Blue pre-installed. Keep in mind, these are often sold for significantly more than their original retail price due to their rarity.

Playing Original Pokemon Red or Blue Cartridges

the Hyperkin Retro Sq is visible — Hyperkin

Surprisingly, even in 2025, finding an original game cartridge from 1997 remains a viable option. Thankfully, thanks to modern technology, these cartridges can be enjoyed on devices beyond the traditional Game Boy.

If you possess an original cartridge of Pokemon Red, Blue, or Yellow, consider utilizing FPGA devices such as the Analogue Pocket. This innovative device slims into your pocket and boasts a stunning backlit screen with a 10x scale.

Alternatively, devices like the GB Operator or the Hyperkin RetroN Sq enable users to play their original cartridges on a computer and even back up ROMs and save data for later use. While it is illegal to download ROMs unless you own a copy of the game, securing a legal backup of your cartridge is perfectly lawful.

These legal ROMs can then be played on modern handhelds like the Miyoo Mini or the Anbernic RG35XX Plus. It’s important to reiterate that illegal downloading of ROMs is neither condoned nor endorsed.

Exploring Pokemon FireRed, LeafGreen, and Let’s Go

Pikachu and a Pokemon trainer stand ready for battle — Game Freak/The Pokemon Company

If securing a copy of Pokemon Red and Blue proves challenging, you may have better luck locating the Game Boy Advance titles, Pokemon FireRed and LeafGreen. However, like many Pokemon titles, these variants can also be quite pricey, particularly if you’re looking for original packaging.

Unlike their Gen 1 predecessors, FireRed and LeafGreen have not been rebooted for modern consoles. However, you can still enjoy the Kanto region titles on a television setup using a Nintendo GameCube equipped with a Game Boy Player, though this may incur substantial cost if you don’t already own the hardware.

The closest option for playing on a Nintendo Switch are the Pokemon Let’s Go Pikachu and Let’s Go Eevee. These titles serve as modern remakes of the original games, featuring an appealing art style and incorporating mechanics from Pokemon Go. While they do bring a fresh experience, they aren’t a true substitute for the originals and incorporate mandatory motion controls that can be frustrating.

Still, they might represent an affordable and engaging introduction to the original 151 Pokemon for a new generation of gamers.

It is hoped that The Pokemon Company will eventually allow players to purchase digital versions of these iconic titles, enabling fans to experience Pokemon Red, Blue, and Yellow on the Nintendo Switch—nearly 28 years after their original launch.

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