This page explains the steps to beginning a game of Pokémon Brilliant Diamond or Shining Pearl.

Choose Your Language

When you first start the game, you will be asked which language you wish to play the game in. After you make a selection, you can say Yes to confirm your choice or say No to change your choice.

Choose Your Photo

After an introduction from Professor Rowan, you are asked to choose your photo from the lineup. This will be your in-game appearance.

Enter your Name

Next, enter your name. It can be up to 12 letters long. After you enter it, you can say Yes to confirm it or say No if you want to change it.

Name Your Friend

Next, you are asked to enter your friend's name. You can choose "I'll tell you..." if you want to enter a custom name, or you can choose one of the four listed names. His official name is Barry. After you enter his name, you can say Yes to confirm it or say No if you want to change it.

Afterward, you start the game in your house in Twinleaf Town.