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Sapphire enjoyer here; I would say R/S = Emerald with R/S having better replay value for a regular story playthrough, and Emerald having better longevity and things to do for a static save. The major things I prefer about Sapphire are:
-The starter match-ups seem fairer, with Blaziken "weak" to Team Aqua, Swampert neutral and Sceptile stronger. Yes, I know half of their teams are Dark and the starters can stomp the game anyway.
-I like the original designs for Brendan and May more than the Emerald updates.
-I enjoy doing the contests at a similar pace to the gyms throughout the story, and watching my team evolve and move up the ranks in each hall. Emerald moved them all to Lilycove with Battle Tents replacing their old locations, and by the time I get there I don't want to bother anymore.
-The drizzle thunderstorms are kino.
I don't see the point in arguing over which is "the best" because they both appeal to me for different reasons. I wish someone would make an Emerald romhack that put the contest halls and original outfits back though.
