The PokéGear is the smartphone of the 1999 Trainer: a clock, a map of the region, a radio and a phone in a single device. It sets the rhythm of the whole adventure, from Professor Elm’s panicked calls to the rematches with Trainers you meet along the way.
The four functions
The clock
The time and the day, at the heart of the game: they decide which Pokémon you encounter and the events of the week.
The Map
Given by the old man in Cherrygrove City. It displays Johto then Kanto, your position and that of the roaming legendary beasts you have already encountered.
The Radio
Won by completing the Radio Tower quiz (Yes, Yes, No, Yes, No). It picks up broadcasts that have real effects in the game.
The phone
It stores the numbers of your mother, Professor Elm and the Trainers who agree to give you theirs.
The radio and its programs
- Professor Oak’s broadcasts present Pokémon and where they can be found.
- Pokémon Music can alter encounters: some melodies soothe, others attract more Pokémon.
- The Lucky Channel announces a winning ID number: head to the Goldenrod Radio Tower to claim your prize.
- Unown Radio (frequency 13.5, in the Ruins of Alph) attracts the Unown forms you are missing.
- The Poké Flute Channel (in Kanto, after receiving the Expansion Card in Lavender Town) wakes up the Snorlax near Vermilion City.
In Crystal, the Radio Tower also broadcasts Buena‘s show. It announces a password: remember it, and give it to her at the Goldenrod Radio Tower to earn points. The Blue Card she hands you accumulates them, and they can be exchanged for items.
The phone and rematches
After a battle, some Trainers offer you their number. Later, they call you for a rematch, with stronger Pokémon each time, or to tip you off about a rare Pokémon in their area. Some even give you gifts: evolution stones, Nuggets, PP Ups or vitamins.
The PokéGear can only hold a limited number of numbers. Preferably keep those who give items: the Youngster on Route 30 (HP Up after several rematches), the Picnicker on Route 34 (Leaf Stone), the Schoolboy on Route 36 (Fire Stone), the Lass on Route 38 (Thunderstone) or the Pokéfan on Route 39 (Nugget).
