A dedicated fan, known online as King Cradi, is building a direct sequel to Pokémon Ruby, titled Pokémon Ruby 2. The hack is set five years after an alternate ending in which Team Magma successfully dries up Hoenn’s oceans with Groudon, and it promises a dramatically altered region, a new Dark‑type gym, and upgraded graphics.

Five Years After Team Magma: A Cataclysmic Hoenn Reborn

According to the developer’s YouTube channel, the world of Pokémon Ruby 2 shows a Hoenn that has been reshaped by the ocean‑drying event. Lilycove City appears abandoned, cracked earth and receding shorelines dominate the landscape, and new routes have opened where water once stood.... The hack’s visuals push the Game Boy Advance hardware to its limits, with custom music and improved graphics that give the region a lived‑in, post‑apocalyptic feel.

New Dark‑Type Gym and Expanded Storyline

King Cradi has added a brand‑new Dark‑type gym to the roster of Hoenn’s seven gyms. The gym’s design and challenges are still being refined, but early footage shows a darker aesthetic that contrasts sharply with the original region’s bright, tropical vibe. The story also introduces new side narratives and characters, expanding on the legacy of Team Magma and the consequences of their actions .

Community Buzz and Anticipation for a Free Release

The fan community has reacted enthusiastically to the progress videos... Comments praise the dedication of the developer, noting that the project “stuck with it this long says enough.” Fans are also speculating about alternate scenarios, such as a reverse sequel where Kyogre devastates Hoenn, potentially creating a cooler , ice‑rich climate. The hack will be released for free later this year, but users will need a legitimate copy of Pokémon Ruby to keep the distribution legal.

Unanswered Questions About Legal and Technical Feasibility

While the project is technically impressive, several practical questions remain. First, how will the hack handle the GBA’s memory constraints when adding new graphics and music? Second, will the distribution model—requiring a legitimate Pokémon Ruby copy—be enough to satisfy legal concerns, or could Nintendo pursue further action? Finally, how will the community maage updates and patches once the hack is released?

According to the source, the download is set to release later this year, and the developer has promised to keep fans updated on the final release date and any further teasers. The project illustrates the enduring passion for the Hoenn region and the creative potential of fan communities.