Why Gen1Recomp Is Not a ROM Hack
Gen1Recomp is not itself a ROM hack. A ROM hack changes a ROM image so that the modified game can run on compatible hardware or an emulator. Gen1Recomp instead uses a hand-written Lua/LÖVE2D engine and imports data from a supported user-supplied ROM.
“Native recreation” is the most precise short label. “Fan remake” and “port” can describe part of the idea, but both need qualification.
Key terms compared
| Term | Basic meaning | Fit for Gen1Recomp |
|---|---|---|
| ROM hack | Modified ROM intended for original-compatible hardware or an emulator | No |
| Fan remake | Unofficial new implementation of an existing game | Broadly, but less technically precise |
| Native port | Software adapted or rewritten for a target runtime | Broadly, with LÖVE2D qualification |
| Source port | Port built by adapting available original or reconstructed source | Incomplete label; runtime is hand-written |
| Native recreation | New engine that recreates earlier behavior | Best current fit |
| Mod | Add-on loaded by a host project | Fits DramaticShapeVoxelMod |
Where Gen1Recomp fits
The project consulted and credits the pret/pokered disassembly, but its packaged importer says it does not download or invoke that disassembly. The runtime engine is hand-written, and the compatible ROM supplies data.
Calling it a source port without explanation could suggest that the original source was simply recompiled. Calling it a remake could suggest that the package distributes newly recreated Pokemon assets. Neither is a complete description.
Why VoxelMod is a mod
DramaticShapeVoxelMod loads through Gen1Recomp’s mod platform and depends on the host engine. It changes rendering and presentation rather than acting as a modified cartridge image.
It is therefore a Gen1Recomp mod, not a ROM patch and not a standalone remake.
ROM-hack compatibility is unverified
The approved research found no current primary statement promising that arbitrary Gen 1 ROM hacks work. Creator interest in making something possible is not the same as maintained compatibility.
Until the official importer documentation says otherwise:
- do not claim support for arbitrary ROM hacks;
- do not list individual hacks as compatible;
- do not publish patching instructions;
- do not treat one community experiment as official support.
The supported input record currently covers canonical US Red, Blue, and Yellow versions. See Supported Games.
How Project Type Affects Files and Compatibility
Accurate labels help users understand:
- what file the project expects;
- whether the original program is executed;
- where a problem should be reported;
- whether a visual add-on is optional;
- whether a compatibility claim has evidence;
- which copyrights and software licenses apply.
They also reduce misleading search language such as “download Pokemon remake,” which can wrongly suggest that a complete game or ROM is being distributed.
Frequently asked questions
Can Gen1Recomp run any Gen 1 ROM hack?
Unknown. Arbitrary ROM-hack support is not verified.
Is VoxelMod a ROM patch?
No. It is a mod loaded by Gen1Recomp.
Is Gen1Recomp a fan remake?
That broad label is understandable, but “native Lua/LÖVE2D recreation” explains the architecture more accurately.
Is it a source port?
Only with qualification. It uses reference material from a disassembly project, but its runtime is documented as hand-written and imports data from the ROM.