Brendan

Brendan is either the player or Professor Birch’s child, depending on the chosen protagonist. In the latter role he combines field research with friendly battles against the player.

• Story: His rival meetings punctuate the early and middle route through Hoenn. The playable version instead pursues badges, confronts both villainous teams and enters the League.
• In the game: The rival’s starter responds to the player’s selection. For a playable Brendan, team-building options are not restricted by character identity; use Hoenn’s varied habitats to cover your starter’s weaknesses.

Story spoilers.

Pokémon Emerald · Game Boy Advance · 2004 · Original Game Boy Advance release; not Omega Ruby or Alpha Sapphire. · Picture: Brendan: Pokémon Emerald original-era artwork.