How to play
Start your Gamma Emerald journey
Everything you need before launching Pokémon Gamma Emerald Early Access on Windows - system requirements, installation, keyboard and controller controls, and tips for getting the most out of the rebuilt Hoenn.
Recommended for solid performance
os
Windows 11 (64-bit)
ram
16 GB recommended
gpu
GTX 1060 / RX 580 or better
storage
5 GB on an SSD
Lower-end specs can probably run the game, but may experience slow async loading of routes and towns, and hitching during battle events.
Installation
How to install Gamma Emerald
Download the build
Grab the latest version (currently 1.12.1) from itch.io or GameJolt. Both host the official UndreamedPanic build.
Extract the archive
Unzip the download to a folder on an SSD if you can - the game streams routes and towns in real time.
Run the executable
Launch Gamma Emerald. The first launch takes several minutes while shaders compile - this is normal and stores memory so the game runs efficiently afterwards.
Save often
The developer recommends saving often. If you hit a crash, send the Saved/Logs file from the install folder to the Discord.
Controls
Keyboard and controller mapping
A controller is recommended for the best experience. Stick to one peripheral - switching between controller, keyboard and mouse can clog the UI and cause unexpected bugs.
| Action | Keyboard | Controller |
|---|---|---|
| Move | WASD | Left stick / D-pad |
| Fish | F | X |
| Interact / Confirm | Space / Enter | A |
| Cancel / Back | Tab / Escape | B |
| Menu | Escape / Tab | Start |
| Run | Left Shift | B (held down) |
| Menu next / previous | Q / E | Left / Right shoulder |
| Register / Bike | R | Select |
Tips for new trainers
Make the most of the Early Access
Explore every tile
Hidden items are scattered across the map. The hand-drawn town map will help you find routes and points of interest.
Use automatic HMs
Once you obtain an HM, just interact with the tree, rock or boulder. No need to teach the move to a Pokemon - your party handles it.
Plant berries on the real clock
Berries grow on a real-world 8-hour clock. Plant before you log off and harvest when you come back.
Rematch trainers after the EA
Once you beat the Early Access, head to the second floor of any Pokemon Center to rematch trainers - but you need the Stone, Knuckle and Dynamo badges first.
Trade P2P with friends
Use peer-to-peer trading to complete your Pokedex or shiny hunt together - or do it solo.
Save often
Lower-end systems can hitch or pause during battle events. The developer recommends saving often and sending crash logs to the Discord.