Crystal Challenge Patch

Challenge Run Patch

Latest update: 19th May 2025 (v1.14 Beta)

This patch enhances Pokémon Crystal for challenge run playthroughs, adding a wide range of quality-of-life options. It is regularly updated based on community feedback.

Download

Click here to download the latest stable version

Click here to download the latest beta version

If you are using this patch to create content, please give credit.

Features by Version

v1.14 Beta

• A reorganized EXTRA OPTIONS function in Elm's Lab, with skips to cut down on the amount of text you scroll through.
• An optional Level Cap which will prevent leveling up past the next Gym Leader / Elite Four Member's Ace. (Disabled by default)
• An option to enable and disable extra NPCs - the helpers on 2F Pokémon Center, Move Reminder. (Enabled by default)
• An option to receive 10 Rare Candies at the start of the game instead of collecting them individually as the game progresses. (Disabled by default)
• An option to receive an infinite-use Candy Jar to replace the Rare Candies. (Disabled by default)
• A helpful NPC in ECRUTEAK and SAFFRON Pokémon Centers who will guide you to Rare Candies you have not obtained.
• BOARDER DOUGLAS in MAHOGANY GYM is now hard-coded to always face upwards when Spinners are disabled.

v1.13

• New title screen to indicate it's the Challenge Run Patch.

v1.12

• Added new area to Mahogany Mart which opens up after clearing the Rockets in Radio Tower. The new Mart sells all 50 TMs. This area isn't intended to be used on a timed run, but can be used to obtain renewable TMs if required.

v1.11

• Added option to enable Metronome-only mode.
• Added more Mega sprites for Pokémon capable of MEGA EVOLVING.

v1.10

• Added option to change Spinners into Rotators.
• Added option to receive PROF’S REPEL — an item that toggles Wild Encounters Off and On.

v1.9

• 1/8192 chance for the Red Gyarados to appear as a regular Gyarados.
• Inverse Battles re-added.

v1.7

• Option for Legends: Arceus–style Hidden Power — always rolls for a Super Effective type regardless of DVs.
• Mega Evolution option added — fully functional, though some sprites are still placeholder.

v1.5

• Failsafe added for evolutions that were not triggering correctly.
• Player now turns to face the camera after setting options in Elm’s Lab.

v1.4

• Customize Hidden Power more precisely and choose from:
  • Top
  • Hi-Middle
  • Lo-Middle
  • Bottom DVs
• Top & Hi-Middle = Hidden Power 70; Lo-Middle & Bottom = Hidden Power 50.

v1.3

• Fixed: Incorrect Dex number display.
• Fixed: Poké Ball not disappearing with Random Starters.
• Route 34 signpost resets Abra encounters when interacted with.

v1.2

• NPC added to Pokémon Center 2F who changes in-game time and day.
• Fixed: Night encounter bug on Route 34.

v1.1

• Randomize Starters via the mouse on Elm’s desk.
• Option to hide starter identities in Poké Balls for added mystery.
• Rival can carry randomized starter throughout the game.
  • Evolves normally or at Lv30 for stone/trade evolutions.

v1.0

• Swap Starter Pokémon in any of the three Poké Balls.
• Set your desired Hidden Power type in-game.
• Guarantee specific encounters:
  • Paras & Psyduck in Ilex Forest
  • Abra on Route 34
  • HM Friends catch instantly on first ball if enabled.
• Disable evolutions for your team.
• Rival carries your opposing starter throughout the story.
• Move Reminder added to Blackthorn City (in Move Deleter’s house).
• Gen 1 TM & Egg Move Tutors on 2F of all Pokémon Centers.
• Trade Evolutions now work via Linking Cord (found in Mahogany Mart after defeating Team Rocket).