Gen2RecompDownloads, setup and play guides

Beginner setup

How to Play Pokemon Gold and Silver with Gen2Recomp

Start with the correct Gen2Recomp download, prepare your own Pokemon Gold or Silver game, complete the first launch, and add the optional 3D view later.

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What you need before starting

A supported device

Use Windows, Mac, Linux or Android. If you are unsure, compare the platform page before downloading.

The correct Gen2Recomp download

Computer users share one download. Android has a separate download. Dramatic Shapes is optional and does not replace the main app.

Your own Pokemon game

Prepare a legally obtained, compatible US copy of Pokemon Gold or Silver. Gen2Recomp does not include the game.

A few uninterrupted minutes

The first Gold or Silver setup takes longer than later launches. Keep the app open until the game begins.

Set up Gen2Recomp and start playing

  1. Choose the download for your deviceOpen the Download page and select the computer version for Windows, Mac or Linux, or the Android version for a phone or tablet.
  2. Prepare Pokemon Gold or SilverKeep your own compatible game somewhere easy to find, such as a Games folder on a computer or the Downloads folder on Android.
  3. Open Gen2RecompComputer users should extract the full download before opening it. Android users should install the app and approve only the installation request shown by their device.
  4. Choose the gameOn the first launch, select Pokemon Gold or Silver when asked. On a computer, you can also drop the game onto the Gen2Recomp window.
  5. Wait for the first setupGold and Silver can take a couple of minutes to prepare. Do not repeatedly close and reopen the app while this is happening.
  6. Start playing and make a saveWhen the title screen appears, check movement and buttons, begin the game, and create a new Gen2Recomp save before adding any optional extras.
Open downloadsComputer setupAndroid setup

What happens after the first setup?

Later launches normally open the prepared game without asking you to choose it again. Gold and Silver are kept separately, so you can set up both games and continue different saves.

Change the controls

Keyboard and controller buttons can be changed fromOptions → Controls. The controls page lists every default button and shortcut.

Adjust performance

If movement looks slow, choose Auto, Balanced or Low from the performance option. This reduces visual extras, not game progress.

See controls and hotkeys

Add the optional 3D-style world only after the game works

Gen2 Dramatic Shapes is a separate extra that changes the appearance of towns, routes and indoor areas. Confirm normal gameplay and saving first, then install the extra so any problem is easier to identify.

Set up Dramatic Shapes

Avoid these common first-time mistakes

  • Do not open individual computer files before extracting the download.
  • Do not choose Pokemon Crystal or a modified game.
  • Do not close Gen2Recomp while Gold or Silver is being prepared.
  • Do not add Dramatic Shapes before confirming the normal game works.
  • Do not replace or remove an older version before backing up progress.