Here's why:
* Focus on Story and Exploration: Crystal is known for its rich storyline and expansive world. The developers likely felt that a radio system would be a distraction from the main narrative and exploration.
* Limited Hardware: The Game Boy Color had limited hardware capabilities. Adding a radio feature would have required significant resources and might have impacted the game's overall performance.
* Different Gameplay: Pokemon Crystal heavily relies on its turn-based battles and exploration. Radio channels could have been seen as a side activity that didn't fit the core gameplay loop.
While some fans might have enjoyed having a radio system, it's understandable why it wasn't included in Crystal. The developers prioritized other features and aspects that contributed to the game's overall experience.