Pokemon games have been a staple of the gaming world since their inception in the late 90s. These games, originally designed for handheld consoles like the Game Boy, have evolved over time and are now available on various platforms. However, for those who want to relive the nostalgia of playing the original Pokemon games on their iPhone or iPad, emulation is the way to go. This tutorial will guide you through the process of emulating Pokemon games on your iOS devices using two popular emulators: AfterPlay and Delta.
While emulating itself isn’t illegal, downloading copyrighted game files (ROMs) can be. Make sure you own a physical copy of the game you intend to emulate and obtain the ROMs through legal means. Additionally, be cautious about downloading emulators from untrusted sources. Stick to the reputable options mentioned in this guide to avoid malware and security risks.
AfterPlay is a cloud-based gaming service that allows you to play a variety of games, including Pokémon titles, directly from your browser without the need for downloads or installations. Here’s how to use it:
Open Safari on your iPhone or iPad and navigate to afterplay.io.
Once the website loads, add it to your home screen for easy access.
Download the ROM files of the Pokemon games you want to play from a trusted source. Be sure to respect copyright laws when doing so.
Save the downloaded ROMs to your iPhone’s files.
Open AfterPlay from your home screen.
Tap the three horizontal lines in the top left corner.
Tap the + Add Game button.
Select the console that you want to add a game for.
Tap the Select File button.
Navigate to, and select, the Pokemon game that you want to play.
AfterPlay also supports features like fast-forward, save states, and cheats for supported games.
Advantages of AfterPlay:
No Downloads Required: Since it’s cloud-based, there’s no need to sideload anything.
Ease of Use: Simple and user-friendly interface.
Legal and Safe: AfterPlay operates within legal boundaries, making it a safer option compared to traditional emulators.
Emulate Pokemon Games on iPhone and iPad with Delta
Delta is an emulator for iOS that supports a range of game systems, including Nintendo Game Boy, Game Boy Advance, and more. It allows you to play Pokémon games by loading ROMs onto your device.
If you need a more in-depth tutorial on how to install AltStore and Delta, follow this guide.
Steps to Install Delta:
Download Delta: Delta is not available on the App Store, so you’ll need to download it from a third-party source like AltStore.
Install AltStore: Visit the AltStore website on your computer, download AltStore, and follow the instructions to install it on your iOS device.
Install Delta Through AltStore: Once AltStore is installed, use it to search for and install Delta on your iPhone or iPad.
Obtain Pokémon ROMs: You need to have the ROM files for the Pokémon games you want to play. Remember, downloading ROMs for games you do not own is illegal.
Load ROMs onto Delta: Transfer the ROM files to your device and open them with Delta to start playing.
Advantages of Delta:
Wide Range of Supported Systems: Play games from various consoles, not just Pokémon titles.
Customizable Controls: Tailor the on-screen controls to your preference.
Offline Play: Once ROMs are loaded, no internet connection is needed.
More Tips
Before downloading any ROMs, be sure to verify that you have the legal right to play them. Owning a physical copy of the game typically grants you the right to play a ROM copy.
When using AltStore or other third-party app installers, be cautious and only download apps from trusted sources.
Make sure your iPhone or iPad has enough storage space to accommodate the games you want to play.
A Bluetooth controller can enhance your emulation experience, especially for more complex games.
Playing Pokemon Games from the App Store
These are just a few of the many official Pokemon games available on the App Store, offering a variety of experiences for both casual and hardcore fans. Whether you’re looking for a nostalgic trip down memory lane or a brand new adventure in the Pokemon world, there’s sure to be a game that’s perfect for you.
Pokemon GO: The popular augmented reality game that lets you catch Pokemon in the real world using your phone’s camera and GPS. Explore your surroundings, battle gyms, and team up with friends in raids to catch ’em all!
Pokemon Quest: An action RPG with charming voxel graphics where you control a team of cube-shaped Pokemon to explore, battle, and collect ingredients. Craft powerful gear, cook delicious meals to attract new Pokemon, and conquer the mysterious Tumblecube Island.
Pokemon Cafe ReMix: A puzzle game where you match colorful icons to serve delicious treats to Pokemon customers. Solve puzzles, unlock new Pokemon and cafe ingredients, and create a thriving Pokemon cafe in this casual and addictive game.
Pokemon Masters EX: A gacha-based RPG where you team up with trainers and their famous Pokemon partners to battle your way through various challenges. Collect your favorite trainers and Pokemon, build powerful teams, and participate in cooperative events to earn rewards.
Pokemon HOME: A cloud-based service where you can manage and trade your Pokemon across different games.
Pokemon UNITE: A free-to-play MOBA (multiplayer online battle arena) game where you team up with five other players to battle against another team of six Pokemon. Choose from a variety of iconic Pokemon with unique abilities and work together to score goals and claim victory!
Conclusion
Emulating Pokémon games on your iPhone and iPad offers a way to relive the classic Pokémon experience on a modern device. Whether you choose the cloud-based AfterPlay for its ease of use and legal safety or the more traditional emulator route with Delta for its versatility and offline play, both methods provide a gateway to the nostalgic world of Pokémon. Remember to respect legal boundaries when sourcing game ROMs. For those looking for official Pokémon experiences, the App Store’s offerings, while different from the main series, still capture the charm and fun of the Pokémon universe.
Andrew Myrick is a freelance writer based on the East Coast of the US. He enjoys everything to do with technology, including tablets, smartphones, and everything in between. Perhaps his favorite past-time is having a never-ending supply of different keyboards and gaming handhelds that end up collecting more dust than the consoles that are being emulated.
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