Whats the difference between Pokemon Omega Ruby and Pokemon Alpha Sapphire?

Since the dawn of time (well, 1998), Pokemon has been sold in two versions. And nothing has changed for the most recent game, Pokemon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire.

But what's different between the two games? Which should you buy, and do you need both?

Well, the two games are practically identical. They have the same features, world map, and gyms. The main difference is that in Omega Ruby you'll be fighting Team Magma, while in Alpha Sapphire your rival is Team Aqua which slightly changes the events of the narrative.

Also, a number of Pokemon are exclusive to each version of the game. Certain fossilised Pokemon, some of the legendary monsters, and a few common critters who stalk the land can only be found on one version of the game.

That means if you want to catch 'em all, you'll either need to buy both copies of the game or trade with friends or strangers online. But otherwise, you'll get a full experience, whichever game you pick.

The complete list of exclusive Pokemon can be found below:

Exclusive to Omega Ruby


Standard Pokemon

Seedot
  • Seedot
  • Nuzleaf
  • Shiftry
  • Mawile
  • Zangoose
  • Solrock
  • Throh
  • Skrelp
  • Dragalge
Ancient Pokemon

Kabutops
  • Kabuto
  • Kabutops
  • Shieldon
  • Bastiodon
  • Archen
  • Archeops
Legendary Pokemon

Groundon
  • Ho-Oh
  • Groudon
  • Palkia
  • Tornadus
  • Reshiram
Exclusive versions of Pokemon
  • West Sea Shellos
  • West Sea Gastrodon

Exclusive to Alpha Sapphire


Standard Pokemon

Sableye
  • Lotad
  • Lombre
  • Ludicolo
  • Sableye
  • Seviper
  • Lunatone
  • Sawk
  • Clauncher
  • Clawitzer
Ancient Pokemon

Omastar
  • Omanyte
  • Omastar
  • Cranidos
  • Rampardos
  • Tirtouga
  • Carracosta
Legendary Pokemon

Kyogre
  • Lugia
  • Kyogre
  • Dialga
  • Thundurus
  • Zekrom
Exclusive versions of Pokemon
  • East Sea Shellos
  • East Sea Gastrodon
Which version will you get?