Choose Pokémon HeartGold if you want Ho-Oh or its version-exclusive Pokémon; choose Pokémon SoulSilver if you want Lugia or its exclusives. The games share the same Johto adventure and Pokéwalker support, so if neither legendary nor a particular collection goal matters to you, the better choice is the complete, authentic-looking copy in better condition at a price you accept.
What’s different between HeartGold and SoulSilver?
Nintendo describes both as enhanced versions of Pokémon Gold and Pokémon Silver, returning players to the Johto adventure. Their main differences for choosing a version are the featured legendary Pokémon and which species appear in the wild. Nintendo’s product pages pair Ho-Oh with HeartGold and Lugia with SoulSilver. The official SoulSilver manual confirms that available species and their encounter likelihood differ between versions.
Version-exclusive Pokémon
For a specific wild encounter, choose the version that includes the Pokémon you want. As examples, Bulbapedia lists Growlithe and Gligar for HeartGold, and Vulpix and Teddiursa for SoulSilver. Those examples are not a complete exclusives list. If filling your collection is the priority, check a full list before deciding; trading may also change which Pokémon you can obtain.
What do both games have in common?
The Johto adventure
Both games revisit Johto as enhanced versions of the original Gold and Silver. If you are choosing based on the broad adventure rather than a particular legendary or encounter, the supplied official descriptions present them as close alternatives.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →#1 Best Overall
The Pokéwalker
Nintendo says the Pokéwalker was included with both games. The accessory counts steps and connects to game activities, including finding Pokémon and items on different routes. It is not an advantage unique to either version. For a used copy, check whether the seller actually includes the accessory.
Online features are no longer available
Nintendo UK states that Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection for Nintendo DS/DSi and Wii software was discontinued on 20 May 2014. Online play, matchmaking, competitions and leaderboards are no longer available through that service, so do not choose either game expecting those original online features to work.
Rank #2
- 【One DS game】This page contains only one SoulSilver game.If you want to get all 3 games, please add to shopping list separately, thank you for your support
- [Note] Our main image has been modified, but the items you receive will be the same as the official version. No need to insert a Micro SD behind the DS card. Genuine DS copy please buy with confidence
- 【US copy】Third-party product, but the function is the same as the official function. Support English, effective identification, plug and play, worry-free use!
- 【Perfect Compatibility】Compatible with various general models of 3DS/2DS/NDS/NDSL/NDSI/NDSLL/NDSXL,
- 【24 hours service】We are new sellers, if you have any questions or questions about card games, please contact us, we will provide you with professional solutions!
Which version should you choose?
| Your priority | Choose | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Ho-Oh | HeartGold | Nintendo identifies Ho-Oh with this version. |
| Lugia | SoulSilver | Nintendo identifies Lugia with this version. |
| Particular wild Pokémon | The version with the encounters you want | Species and encounter likelihood differ; check a full exclusives list if collection completion matters. |
| Pokéwalker support | Either | Nintendo says the accessory was included with both games. |
| No version preference | The better used copy | Compare the actual condition, authenticity indicators and included accessories rather than assuming one version is a better deal. |
Check hardware and bundle details before buying
SoulSilver is a Nintendo DS game. Its manual says the Dual Slot feature works only with Nintendo DS and Nintendo DS Lite hardware. Nintendo discusses the games in relation to DS and DSi, but compatibility can depend on the specific feature and hardware, so check the manual and the system you plan to use.
Nintendo’s product information records the Pokéwalker as part of each game’s original package; that does not mean a secondhand listing includes it. Verify the contents of the specific listing. Current resale prices, stock, cartridge authenticity and copy condition are not established by Nintendo’s product pages, so assess those details on the individual offer.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Package includes an Action Replay DS cartridge
- The Action Replay DS cartridge will be updated to the latest firmware if possible and loaded with 1000s of codes. The codes will include codes for most of the Pokemon DS games including: Pokemon Diamond, Pearl, Platinum, HeartGold, and SoulSilver
- The Action Replay DS cartridge is compatible with the Nintendo DS Lite and DS consoles
- Please note that the USB cable, box, or CD-ROM are NOT included
Rank #4
- Play as Tori or Jade in an original adventure based on the show
- Explore Hollywood Arts high school
- Play dozens of rhythm and dance mini-games featuring hit Victorious songs
Rank #3
- Precise fit: Specially designed for Nintendo DS NTSC version consoles, it perfectly matches the cartridge cases of Heartgold and Soulsilver games, providing all-around fit protection against scratches and bumps during transportation or daily storage
- Dual Protection: Each set contains two protective cases, which can store two game cartridges at the same time. Made of high-strength plastic material, the cases are rugged and have good impact resistance, which can effectively resist external pressure and impact to ensure the safety of the items inside the case
- Simple design: The appearance design is simple and generous, with transparent as the main color, which is convenient for players to quickly identify the games inside the box. At the same time, the thin and lightweight design will not take up too much space, whether it is placed on the bookshelf, drawer or carry out, it is very convenient
- Dust and Moisture Resistant: The tightly fitting lid design effectively blocks dust, water vapor and other contaminants from entering the case, preventing the quality of the game cartridge and the box from being affected by moisture or dust, and prolonging its service life
- NTSC only: This case is only suitable for NTSC version of Nintendo DS, customized for the size and specifications of this version of the console to ensure the best fit and provide exclusive protection for users of specific versions of the console
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
