If you’re like me and thought you’d seen it all in Pokémon ROM hacks, let me introduce you to something that completely blew me away—Pokémon Blaze Black 2 Redux. It’s not just a fan-made game; it’s a full-blown reimagining of Gen 5 that delivers challenge, variety, and strategic depth like never before.
Let me walk you through what makes this ROM hack one of the best in the scene—and why it should be your next adventure.
What Is Pokémon Blaze Black 2 Redux?
Created by the legendary ROM hacker Drayano, Blaze Black 2 Redux is a remake of Pokémon Black 2 and White 2, but with a serious twist.
Think tougher AI, better team diversity, and access to all Pokémon from Gens 1–5. It’s the perfect blend of nostalgia and modern challenge.
And if you’re a Nuzlocker? This game was practically made for you.
Why This ROM Hack Stands Out
Image Credit– zwiggo
Full National Dex Early
You don’t have to wait till postgame—Pokémon from all five generations are available before the first Gym.
Competitive Movesets & Abilities
Drayano reworked hundreds of Pokémon with new abilities, typings, and move sets. This means every team battle feels fresh and strategic.
Hardcore Nuzlocke Friendly
With level caps, adjusted boss battles, and fewer RNG gimmicks, this ROM is built for challenge-seekers who love fair but tough fights.
Fairy Type + Modern Mechanics
Fairy typing is included, along with reusable TMs, nature-changing mints, and better held item access. It’s the perfect blend of modern and classic gameplay.
My Favorite Features in Pokémon Blaze Black 2 Redux
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Expanded Wild Encounters
Nearly every route has been redesigned to include varied Pokémon across types and generations. Want a Fire/Ground early on? Grab Numel on Route 2.
Smarter AI
Don’t expect trainers to spam Growl and Tackle. Bosses come with EV-trained Pokémon, held items, and strategies that push you to actually think before clicking moves.
Epic Gym Leader Battles
Each Gym Leader has a full 6-Pokémon team, type synergies, and real battle tactics. My fight against Elesa’s Volt Switch team? Brutal… but so satisfying when I won on my third try.
Best Early Game Pokémon for Your Team
Image Credit- zwiggo
If you’re planning a Nuzlocke run, here are a few MVPs I discovered early on:
- Riolu (Route 20): Early access to Lucario = strong STAB moves.
- Psyduck (Floccesy Ranch): Great typing coverage and early evolution.
- Purrloin: Don’t sleep on it—gets Prankster and fast support options.
Tips to Beat Tough Boss Battles
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Use Type Coverage
Don’t stick to mono-teams. Redux Gym Leaders punish poor coverage. I always kept at least 2 pivot Pokémon to adjust to curveballs.
Learn Their Team
Study boss lineups ahead of time using encounter guides or the documentation. That saved my run more than once.
Don’t Overlevel
Redux includes a level cap system that disables EXP gain if you overlevel. It’s perfect for Hardcore Nuzlocke players like me who enjoy fair challenge without overgrinding.
How to Download and Play Pokémon Blaze Black 2 Redux
Image credit- pokeharbor.com
Here’s how I got started:
1. Get the ROM: You’ll need a clean copy of Pokémon White 2 (USA version).
2. Patch It: Use the .xdelta patch provided on the official Nuzlocke.app guide.
3. Emulate It: I used DeSmuME for PC and DraStic on Android—both worked flawlessly.
4. Start Playing: Dive in and prepare to rethink everything you thought you knew about Gen 5.
Note: Always patch your own legally obtained ROMs. Support the original games!
Should You Try Pokémon Blaze Black 2 Redux?
If you’re craving a Pokémon game that respects your skill level, this is the one. Whether you’re doing a casual run or a full Hardcore Nuzlocke, Pokémon Blaze Black 2 Redux offers depth, variety, and intensity in every battle.
It made me fall in love with Unova all over again—and I’m already planning my next run.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long is Pokémon Blaze Black 2 Redux?
The duration to complete Pokémon Blaze Black 2 Redux varies based on your playstyle. For a standard playthrough, it typically takes around 40–50 hours.
However, if you’re engaging in a Nuzlocke challenge or aiming for 100% completion, including postgame content, expect to invest 60–80 hours or more.
The game offers expanded content, revamped trainer battles, and additional legendary encounters, all contributing to a longer and more challenging experience.
2. What does Blaze Black 2 Redux add?
Blaze Black 2 Redux introduces a plethora of enhancements over the original Black 2:
- Full National Dex Access: Catch all 649 Pokémon, with many available before the first Gym.
- Fairy Type Integration: Incorporates the Fairy type, along with updated Steel-type mechanics.
- Revamped Trainer Roster: Trainers have updated teams, offering two optional difficulty modes.
- Modernized Pokémon Stats: Pokémon stats, abilities, and movesets have been updated to reflect later generations.
- Expanded Postgame: Approximately 2–3 hours of additional content, including new quests and legendary encounters.
- Quality-of-Life Improvements: Features like reusable TMs, nature-changing mints, and early access to evolution items enhance gameplay.
These additions make Blaze Black 2 Redux a comprehensive and challenging experience for both newcomers and veterans.
3. How to get Victini in Blaze Black 2 Redux?
To catch Victini in Blaze Black 2 Redux, follow these steps:
1. Reach Castelia City: Progress through the game until you arrive in Castelia City.
2. Access Liberty Garden: In Castelia’s harbor, take the boat to Liberty Garden.
3. Battle the Trainer: Upon arrival, a strong trainer blocks the lighthouse entrance. Defeat them to proceed.
4. Catch Victini: Inside the lighthouse, you’ll find Victini. Note that Victini is shiny-locked, so it cannot be encountered as a shiny.
This event is inspired by the original Liberty Ticket event in Black and White, offering a nostalgic yet challenging encounter.
4. What is the shiny rate in Blaze Black 2 Redux?
In Blaze Black 2 Redux, the shiny encounter rate has been increased to 1 in 512, significantly higher than the standard 1 in 8192.
This adjustment makes shiny hunting more accessible and rewarding.
However, it’s important to note that certain Pokémon, including Victini, Reshiram, and Zekrom, are shiny-locked and cannot be obtained as shinies.
Final Thoughts: Why I Recommend Pokémon Blaze Black 2 Redux
If you’re serious about Pokémon ROM hacks or looking for a legit challenge with modern mechanics, Pokémon Blaze Black 2 Redux is easily one of the best out there.
It’s strategic, rewarding, and full of surprises—even if you know Gen 5 inside and out.
So grab your emulator, patch that ROM, and get ready to test your skills. I promise—you won’t look at the Unova region the same way again.
Featured Image credit- pokeharbor.com
