Pokémon Red, Green and Blue

Game notes

What it is & why collectors want it

• The games began in Japan as Pocket Monsters Red and Green in 1996; Pocket Monsters Blue followed later that year.History source ↗
• The international Red and Blue releases followed from 1998, so check the exact version and region shown in any listing.History source ↗
• Collector angle: this is the series’ starting set; the ranked sales row groups Red, Green, and Blue rather than describing one edition alone.History source ↗

Before you buy

What to look for

• Loose cartridge: a lower-cost way to collect; ask for clear front, back, and connector photos, plus a working/test or return policy.
• Complete in box: verify box, manual, and inserts are actually included and match the game’s version and region; check condition in separate photos.
• Sealed: request clear photos of all sides and the wrap. Shrink wrap by itself is not proof of a factory seal.
• Authenticity clues: compare label color and print, spelling, the stamped two-digit label code, Nintendo / “Made in Japan” back markings, and the correct 3.8 mm Game Boy screw. These are clues, not proof; an opened-cart board should be compared with a known-good copy of the same game and region.
• Save battery: Generation I Pokémon save data is stored in battery-backed SRAM. Test that the cart retains a save; an old battery may no longer hold it. Save-data source ↗

Visual signs are not definitive authentication. Ask for specific photos and compare against trusted references; for uncertain or high-value carts, consider an in-person board inspection.

Cartridge authentication guidance: Epilogue’s Game Boy inspection guide ↗

Keep exploring

Related games

• Rank #4 · 1998Pokémon Yellow
• Rank #10 · 1993The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening
• Rank #1 · 1989Tetris