Relive the Classic Pokémon Battles with a DIY Gen 1 Simulator in Google Sheets
The original Pokémon Red, Blue, and Yellow games defined a generation of gamers, blending strategy, nostalgia, and the thrill of building a team of pocket monsters. While modern games and apps have evolved, there’s something uniquely satisfying about recreating the magic of Gen 1 battles using simple tools. Enter Google Sheets—a platform you might not associate with gaming, but one that’s surprisingly capable of simulating turn-based Pokémon battles. Let’s explore how to build your own Gen 1 Pokémon Battle Simulator using spreadsheets, complete with type matchups, move mechanics, and that classic RPG feel.
Why Google Sheets?
Google Sheets is free, accessible, and flexible enough to handle complex calculations. By leveraging formulas, conditional formatting, and dropdown menus, you can replicate the core mechanics of Pokémon battles without writing a single line of code. This project is perfect for educators teaching spreadsheet skills, retro gaming enthusiasts, or anyone who wants to combine logic with nostalgia.
Setting Up Your Battle Arena
Start by creating a spreadsheet with three main sections:
1. Pokémon Data: Compile stats for Gen 1 Pokémon, including HP, Attack, Defense, Speed, and types (e.g., Charizard’s Fire/Flying).
2. Move Database: List moves like Ember, Hydro Pump, or Thunderbolt, along with their power, accuracy, type, and secondary effects (e.g., paralysis).
3. Battle Interface: Design a user-friendly area where players select their Pokémon, choose moves, and see turn-by-turn results.
Use dropdown menus to let players pick their Pokémon and moves. For example, cell A1 could let you select Bulbasaur, Squirtle, or Charmander, while cell B1 displays their available moves based on your move database.
Crunching the Numbers: Damage Calculation
The heart of any battle simulator is its damage formula. Gen 1’s mechanics are famously quirky, so here’s a simplified version to replicate in Sheets:
“`
Damage = ((((2 × Level) / 5 + 2) × Power × (Attack / Defense)) / 50) × STAB × Type Effectiveness
“`
Break this down into spreadsheet functions:
– Level: Assume all Pokémon are level 50 for consistency.
– STAB (Same-Type Attack Bonus): Use an `IF` statement to check if the move’s type matches the Pokémon’s type (e.g., 1.5x bonus if Squirtle uses a Water move).
– Type Effectiveness: Create a reference table for type matchups (e.g., Electric vs. Water = 2x). Use `VLOOKUP` to pull multipliers based on attacker and defender types.
Add randomness for critical hits or missed moves with `RANDBETWEEN`. For example, a move with 90% accuracy succeeds if `RANDBETWEEN(1,100) OpponentSpeed, “Player First”, “Opponent First”)
“`
But don’t forget moves like Quick Attack, which have increased priority! Add a column in your move database to flag priority moves and adjust turn order accordingly.
Adding Visual Flair
Make your simulator visually engaging:
– Conditional Formatting: Change a Pokémon’s row color when its HP drops below 25%.
– Sprites: Insert tiny Gen 1 sprites using `IMAGE` functions linked to URLs.
– Health Bars: Create a progress bar using the `SPARKLINE` function to show remaining HP.
Testing Your Simulator
Try a classic matchup: Charizard vs. Blastoise.
1. Charizard uses Flamethrower (Fire, 90 power, 100% accuracy).
2. The formula checks Blastoise’s Water type (resists Fire, 0.5x damage).
3. Calculate damage, apply it to Blastoise’s HP, and repeat for the next turn.
Adjust formulas as needed—for example, Gen 1’s infamous “Psychic type being immune to Ghost” quirk can be added for authenticity.
Expanding the Experience
Once your basic simulator works, level it up:
– Status Effects: Add columns for burns, paralysis, or sleep. Use `IFS` statements to reduce attack or skip turns.
– AI Opponent: Let the computer choose moves randomly or use a simple logic (e.g., “always pick super-effective moves if possible”).
– Multiplayer Mode: Share the sheet with a friend and take turns editing cells.
Why This Matters Beyond Nostalgia
Building a battle simulator in Sheets teaches problem-solving, logical thinking, and spreadsheet mastery. Educators can use this project to make math or programming relatable. For fans, it’s a creative way to revisit Kanto with a fresh twist.
Final Thoughts
Creating a Gen 1 Pokémon Battle Simulator in Google Sheets is equal parts fun and educational. It proves that even “boring” tools like spreadsheets can unlock creativity—and maybe even settle playground debates over who’s the strongest Pokémon. Whether you’re reliving childhood memories or designing a classroom activity, this project is a testament to the timeless appeal of Pokémon’s strategic depth.
Now, fire up Sheets, pick your starter, and let the battles begin!
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