This game presents a version of Johto that, in my opinion, is better than GSC and HGSS. The level curve is much improved, the spritework is beautiful, and the roster of Pokemon is vast without feeling too contrived. It really feels like an enhanced version of the original game and not your typical unrestrained fan game.

For the last few generations, I've grown used to steamrolling through battles with Pokemon that were either overleveled or able to take advantage of poor AI decision-making. Polished Crystal really highlights how much has been stripped away from the battling part of the game to cater to a younger audience. Held items that are mostly reserved for post-game/competitive play (Focus Sash, Choice Band, etc.) are handed to you early on in Polished Crystal and are instrumental in pushing through the gym league. It was a blast applying strategies from the competitive Pokemon world to in-game trainer battles and STILL having to think about each move.

The most fun I've had with a Pokemon game in years.