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It's one of the best regions designs in terms to playing through it. There's a villain plot and story elements but they aren't forced into the player's face thorough the entire game like in later gens. For most of the game, the player is free to explore and do whatever they want. Even though the level curve makes wild battles are a complete breeze after Mahogany Town, the world is full of expansive routes and dungeons to explore. Then there are things like the bug catching contest as well as the Pokeathlon in the remake which help the world feel alive. Even annoying stuff like randos calling you over stupid stuff add to the immersion.
