Pokémon Dark Rising 2 is one of those fan-made GBA hacks that cranks up the difficulty—like, way up. You start with a choice of three starters, but don’t expect the usual easy ride. The trainers here hit hard, and wild Pokémon levels are no joke. I picked the Fire-type first, regretted it immediately when the first gym wrecked me.

The story’s a darker twist on the usual Pokémon formula, with some weirdly intense dialogue and a plot that actually makes you pay attention. The sprites and maps are surprisingly polished for a ROM hack, though some areas feel a little unfinished (it is a beta, after all). If you’re into grinding and tough battles, this one’s got your name on it. Just don’t say I didn’t warn you about that first gym leader.