When acquiring Rare Candies in Pokémon Diamond via cheats, method choice impacts risk, stability, and gameplay integrity. Core cheat types differ significantly:
1. Action Replay (AR) Codes
Direct Item Addition: Spawns Rare Candies directly in the Bag or a specific PC slot. Highly specific codes reduce collateral effects.
- Pros: Precise control, immediate results, minimal unintended consequences if code is well-designed.
- Cons: Requires hardware (AR device). Poorly crafted codes can corrupt saves. Not all codes are equally reliable.
2. GameShark Codes
Memory Manipulation: Alters game memory values tied to items. Similar functionality to AR.
- Pros: Directly adds items. Potentially offers more complex manipulation.
- Cons: High corruption risk if codes are incorrect or conflict. Requires dedicated hardware. Less common than AR for DS era.
3. Arbitrary Code Execution (ACE) / Glitch Exploitation
Non-Hardware Methods: Uses in-game bugs (e.g., void glitch, coin case) to inject code or force encounters.
- Pros: No external device needed (pure in-game execution).
- Cons: Extreme complexity. High probability of catastrophic save corruption, irreparable glitches, or crashing. Execution often requires precise, difficult-to-replicate steps.
Choosing Wisely: Critical Factors
- Safety & Reliability: Prioritize well-tested, recent Action Replay codes sourced from reputable communities. Avoid vague "all items" codes. ACE/Glitches are inherently unstable.
- Risk Tolerance: Understand that any cheat carries corruption risk. ACE/glitches pose the highest danger to your save file. GameShark shares similar hardware risks with AR but is less standardized for Diamond.
- Purpose: For specific, controlled Rare Candy gains, AR codes are optimal. ACE/glitches are unsuitable for reliable, targeted acquisition.
- Legitimacy: All methods render acquired items/Pokémon technically illegitimate. AR/GameShark items appear identical to legit ones. Glitches may leave oddities.
Recommendation
Action Replay codes offer the best balance of control, efficiency, and relative safety for acquiring Rare Candies in Pokémon Diamond when using proven, specific codes. GameShark is a functional alternative but less prevalent. ACE/Glitch methods are strongly discouraged due to their complexity and high likelihood of permanently damaging your save file or game state.
Pro-Tip: Always back up your save (if possible) before using any cheat. Corruption is irreversible.
