$ show pret/pokered
This repository is a complete, annotated disassembly of the original Game Boy Pokémon Red and Blue games. It faithfully reproduces the exact ROM images (verified by SHA1 hashes) using the RGBDS assembler toolchain. The codebase is organized into modular subsystems: engine (battle, overworld, events, items, menus), data (maps, Pokémon stats, moves, items, trainers, wild encounters), audio (music and SFX with a macro-based composition language), graphics (sprites, tilesets, fonts), and scripts (map-specific event scripts). It includes custom C tools for graphics optimization, compression, and Virtual Console patch generation. The architecture is a monolithic ROM image with bank switching, using a predef dispatch system for cross-bank calls. Key entry points include the game start routine in home/start.asm and the VBlank handler in home/vblank.asm. This is a high-quality reverse engineering project with extensive comments, consistent coding patterns, and a robust build system, making it an invaluable resource for ROM hacking, retro game development, and studying Game Boy internals.
The LLM identified 5 files worth highlighting for reuse:
Implements a differential bitstream decompression algorithm for Game Boy sprite data. Uses run-length encoding, XOR merging, and flip support. This is a self-contained, reusable routine for any retro game project needing compressed sprite data.
Provides generic assembly macros for defining data tables with automatic width tracking and length assertions. Includes table_width, assert_table_length, list_start, nybble_array, and bit_array. Can be extracted and used in any RGBDS project to enforce data structure integrity.
Implements a weighted move selection AI for turn-based battles. Includes per-trainer AI routines, item usage logic, and switching heuristics. The modular structure allows adaptation to other turn-based games with similar decision-making needs.
Handles save/load to SRAM with checksum verification, box management, and Hall of Fame rotation. Demonstrates a robust pattern for battery-backed save data in Game Boy games. Reusable for any GB/GBC project requiring persistent storage.
Implements a serial communication protocol for two-player battles and trades over Game Boy link cable. Includes synchronization, data exchange, and patch list handling for missing bytes. A reusable pattern for any multiplayer Game Boy game.