Are we assuming that /vp/ aside the internet as a whole is what it was back in 2000?
I think /vp/ would be unbelievably hype when sequels were confirmed. I can't really imagine what the majority of topics would have been with just Gen1 to go off of. Probably fake evolutions to existing mons (Steelix would be super liked), waifu threads, blatant shitposting, Stadium discussion and roleplaying or some shit like that.
The lack of wifi would mean that there would PROBABLY be a smaller focus on competitive shit and smogon (if we assume Smogon was even close to as popular then as it is now) since, apart from your small group of friends you won't be battling anyone.
Baby pokemon might be harshly critiqued. There would probably be shitposters complaining about trade evolutions because now you have to buy a link cable to catch them all (the irony would be intentional, that's why it's shitposting). There would be wild speculation about the roaming legendaries, equal parts skepticism toward real encounters ("You mean it had the same HP as when you fought it last time? Yeah right") and My Dad Works at Nintendo level rumors.
Silver would probably be called an edgemaster and there would be vocal detractors and fans who would claim at least he's a complex character, unlike Blue.
The first time someone battled Red the board would go absolutely ape shit.
