Which Pokémon game was the first to feature a female playable character?

Pokémon Crystal was the first Pokémon game to feature a female playable character.

Pokémon Crystal introduced the option to play as a girl, alongside the established male protagonist from Pokémon Gold and Silver. The female character is commonly known as Kris, although players can choose a name at the start of the game.

This addition made Crystal distinct from the earlier versions in the Johto storyline. It also arrived with animated Pokémon battle sprites and a stronger focus on the Legendary Pokémon Suicune, which appears prominently in the game's story.

The playable-character choice is different from having female characters in the game's world. Earlier Pokémon titles included important female characters, such as gym leaders and rivals, but the player controlled only the fixed male hero. Later main-series games expanded the idea with clothing, appearance, and customization options.