- Must have -
- Some basic way to insert data (eg. a numerical code), preferably via the buttons, and show pre-defined screens on the LCD
- Be a pokedex (ie. fit into the toy's case)
- Run on a battery for several hours
- Nice to have -
- A cooler way to insert data (scan QR codes? BLE/NFC? GPS coordinates? Really, I'd appreciate wild ideas)
- A speaker to play sounds
So right off, I think you need to deal with thee power/size issue. Very inexpensive arduino clones are available if the total requirements will run on a 328P uC, same as the UNO.
These run great on 3 AA or AAA batteries.... And an 8MHz version is available for 2 AA batteries which makes it nice for the 3V Nokia displays like my project here:
http://www.hackster.io/rayburne/tiny-serial-terminal
You could use RFID.
You could use plugable EEPROM.
I think I would use SD cards and have a reader in the pookie. Each card would have a time unique to that individual. Another time would have everything else.
Insert card. Power On, read screen. Card can contain another time updated by the uC for this event.
Main points.... Size power. I personally would have the uC go into deep sleep until the PowerOn is depressed. After a few minuter, it can turn itself off again.
Piezo speaker and tone library are very simple.
If you design your responses carefully, you may be able to get away with 3 pushbuttons...
On
Yes
No
Or, with the SD file, a menu can be presented that "rolls" ... 1 button to scroll & 1 button as Enter!
Good luck,
Ray