The Differences Between Pokemon Diamond and Pearl

Despite being the fourth major series in the overall Pokemon franchise, Pokemon Diamond/Pearl are still incredibly welcoming to new players, making them great games for newcomers to the RPG genre. Both games are incredibly similar, with only a few major differences to speak of. The most notable differences are the included Pokemon you can catch, with both games containing a few exclusive Pokemon. 

For example, if you want to catch the stylish bladed bug Scyther or the smelly but effective Stunky, you’ll have to play Pokemon Diamond. Conversely, classic Pokemon like Slowpoke and the cute but fierce Houndour can only be captured in Pokemon Pearl. As always, both games have an exclusive “legendary” Pokemon to discover, which can only be caught with patience and practice. In Pokemon Diamond, you’re able to catch the Steel Dragon Dialga. Pokemon Pearl players can try their hand at catching the Water Dragon Palkia. Both Pokemon are super powerful and well worth the effort.

Your Life as a Pokemon Trainer

As is customary in Pokemon games, you’ll start your adventure as a bold and brave youngster living in a quaint hometown. Located in the Sinnoh region, everyone is obsessed with capturing and training Pokemon, wild and often cute creatures that roam the island. With your best pal Barry at your side, you head to a nearby lake to investigate rumors of a mysterious Pokemon. Although you are unsuccessful at locating the mythological Pokemon, things quickly become hectic when a wild Pokemon starts to attack your party. Using a nearby briefcase dropped by the Pokemon-studying Professor Rowan, you’ll have the option of choosing one out of three starter Pokemon to begin your adventure.

As always, Pokemon are categorized by their elemental type, offering different approaches for the battles to come. Fans of nature and grass can pick the adorable Turtwig, while those who prefer a hotter strategy can choose the blazing Chimchar. My personal preference (and always a safe bet) is the absolutely adorable yet convincingly destructive Piplup, a penguin with water-type powers. Regardless of your decision, this marks the start of your Pokemon adventure, sending you across Sinnoh to fight in fierce Pokemon battles against anyone who crosses your path. As you battle, you’ll be able to recruit new Pokemon to your team while strengthening your existing party. Every Pokemon has a unique set of moves along with its inherent elemental strengths and weaknesses, so it’s a good idea to experiment with your team. With over 150 unique Pokemon to discover and catch, there are tons of different strategies to utilize.

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