Generation II: Johto, items and eggs

Updated on 2026-09-02

Generation II — Gold, Silver, Crystal and the remakes HeartGold/SoulSilver (Gen IV) — expanded almost everything.

What arrived

• Dark and Steel types: created partly to rein in Psychic, which dominated Gen I.
• Held items: berries, move-boosting items, Leftovers.
• Breeding and eggs: for the first time you could breed Pokémon at the Day Care.
• Day/night cycle with an internal clock.
• Special split: Sp. Atk and Sp. Def became two separate stats.

Which to play

HeartGold/SoulSilver is one of the most praised entries in the series: it keeps the dual exploration of Johto and Kanto, lets your lead Pokémon follow behind you, and modernises the gameplay. Crystal is the best Game Boy Color version, with Suicune woven into the story.

Recommended team

• Starter: Cyndaquil (Typhlosion, pure Fire, fast) or Totodile (Feraligatr, strong physical).
• Ampharos (via Mareep): Electric with solid Sp. Atk and bulk.
• Crobat (via Zubat, high friendship): extremely fast Poison/Flying.
• Scizor (Scyther + Metal Coat, trade): Bug/Steel, one of the best in the series.
• Tyranitar (via Larvitar): a Rock/Dark pseudo-legendary that sets sandstorm.
• Espeon or Umbreon (Eevee by day/night): special attacker or wall.

Details on the Generation II page.