When you throw a Pokeball, it bounces around a bit more and then turns a color if you've successfully caught the Pokemon you were aiming for. This might seem trivial but I like all the little details they've improved upon. Another great enhancement to the game are the status bars that tell you how close your Pokemon are to reaching their next experience level!

All of the Pokemon I've come across are designated as either male or female. I guess there will be some sort of breeding mechanism later in the game. Perhaps when I put two of the same Pokemon in a box… something to try tomorrow! One interesting thought; if Nidoran male and Nidoran female have different Pokedex numbers, why don't Caterpie male and Caterpie female? Must be because the Nidorans evolve differently?

At one point, I received a spotted egg from Professor Oak's aide. It didn't have any Hit Points or attacks, but after carrying him around for a while he seemed to hatch on his own. You guessed it… Togepi! His initial attacks were defensive only… until I taught him (what I believe is) the Swift!

The buildings and townspeople are similar to those in the Red and Blue versions but it's so refreshing to be lost (again) on a whole new map. I have to admit I hope I find a bicycle shop soon! Another interesting note; the Cable Club is now located on the second floor of the Pokemon Centers and there are more booths. I think this means cartridges make use of the IR port as well as the game-link cable.

By now, I've made it through three or four of the towns, passed a few puzzle-levels, and even picked up my first badge. To earn it, I had to fight a trainer who used only bird Pokemon. The badge itself looks like a pair of wings.

At the end of the day I've caught about a dozen Pokemon, though I'm not quite brave enough to explore the computer terminals. I'd hate to accidentally let go of my electric sheep while trying to trade him for one of the Pokemon in my backpack!

Phew! That's a lot to pick up in one day.

- Ron