A read-only memory (ROM) image, in this specific context, represents a digital copy of the software that would traditionally be found on a physical cartridge used to play the Pokmon Trading Card Game on a handheld gaming device. This digital file enables individuals to experience the game on alternative platforms, such as computers or mobile devices, through the use of emulators. For example, a file with a “.gba” extension, containing the data from a Game Boy Advance cartridge of the Pokmon Trading Card Game, functions as such an image.
The availability of these images facilitates game preservation, allowing individuals to access and enjoy software that may no longer be readily available through conventional retail channels. This access provides a means to study game design, revisit classic titles, and experience gameplay on modern hardware. Furthermore, it allows individuals to engage with the game without requiring access to the original hardware or physical media, lowering the barrier to entry.