The Pokemon series has a massive library of games spanning decades and has become a phenomenon captivating players worldwide. From its humble beginnings of Red and Blue on the Game Boy to the expansive open-world exploration of modern titles like Scarlet and Violet, Pokemon Go, and more, Pokemon has evolved while staying true to its roots.
Although every fan has favorites, some games stand out by bringing innovation, memorable stories, or gameplay mechanics that leave a lasting impact. While ranking the top Pokemon games is not easy, we will narrow down the list based on various sources that have tested the game.
Whether you’re a seasoned Pokemon Master who’s been playing since the beginning or a new trainer just starting your journey, this list of the top 10 Pokemon games will highlight the must-play entries.
Top 10 Pokemon Games You Must Play
Here are the top 10 Pokemon games you must play, from nostalgic classics to groundbreaking modern adventures:
1. Pokemon HeartGold and SoulSilver
Pokemon HeartGold and SoulSilver are enhanced remakes of the Pokemon Gold and Silver games released for Game Boy Color. They were launched on the Nintendo DS in 2009 (Japan) and worldwide in 2010. The game takes players back to the Johto region, reimagined with updated graphics, mechanics, and features, making it a fan favorite to this day.
One of the standout features of HeartGold and SoulSilver is the Pokewalker. A pedometer accessory that allows players to transfer Pokemon to walk with them in the real world and let them earn experience points and rewards.
Trainers can also gain access to the Kanto region, earning additional badges and facing off against Red, the strongest trainer in the series, after conquering the Elite Four. It also adds Battle Frontier, providing challenging post-game content, and players can capture legendary Pokemon like Ho-Oh, Lugia, Raikou, and more.
2. Pokemon Red and Blue
Pokemon Red and Blue are the original games that launched the Pokemon franchise to worldwide fame outside Japan. They were released for GameBoy in 1996 (Japan - Red and Green) and 1998 worldwide.
The game introduces players to the Kanto region, where they can catch, train, and battle 151 Pokemon. It follows the journey of a young trainer who aspires to become a Pokemon Champion by defeating eight Gym Leaders, challenging the Elite Four, and facing the ultimate mysterious Pokemon Master.
The turn-based combat system, emphasis on exploration, and trading mechanics set the game foundation that defines the series. The groundbreaking success became a cultural phenomenon, spawning an anime series, a trading card game, and numerous sequels. They remain legendary for establishing the core mechanics and spirit of the Pokemon series, making them a nostalgic classic and a must-play for fans of the franchise.
3. Pokemon Black 2 and White 2
Pokemon Black 2 and White 2 are the direct sequels of Pokemon Black and White, released for Nintendo DS in 2012. Set in the Unova region two years after the original game's events, they continue the story with updated locations, new characters, and an expanded Pokedex.
Several new gameplay features set Black 2 and White 2 apart from their predecessors. One is the new World Tournament, where players can battle past Gym Leaders and Champions from previous generations. The games also allow customization and interaction, such as the ability to encounter Legendary Pokémon like Kyurem, Reshiram, Zekrom, and new Legendary forms.
The franchise also continues to refine its battle system with improved mechanics, compelling post-game content, updated features, and a deeper storyline. This combination provides a rewarding experience for both new players and long-time fans.
4. Pokemon Platinum
Pokemon Platinum is an enhanced version of Pokemon Diamond and Pearl. Set in the Sinnoh region, its foundation was built from its predecessors while introducing new features and improvements. Platinum presents a more complex storyline, notably the addition of Giratina, which was the plot's focus, leading to an expanded storyline in the Distortion World.
One of the notable additions in Pokemon Platinum is the Battle Frontier, where players can challenge various battle formats and earn points for rare rewards. It also improves the battle system, adding Battle Sync mechanics and multiple refinements to the existing Pokémon moves and abilities with remixed soundtracks.
5. Pokemon Ruby/Sapphire/Emerald (Gen 3)
Pokemon Ruby, Sapphire, and Emerald are the third-generation titles in the Pokemon series. Ruby and Sapphire were initially launched, followed by Emerald, which was set in the Hoenn region. They introduce a new world full of landscapes, diverse environments, and a fresh batch of 135 Pokémon.' Players can embark on a Pokemon Trainer journey, aiming to defeat eight Gym Leaders, challenge the Elite Four, and become the Champion.
The best feature of Ruby and Sapphire is the introduction of double battles, wherein two Pokemon are being used at the same time to add a strategic layer to the combat. They also added Pokemon natures, which can influence Pokemon stats through weather mechanics, affecting moves and abilities by weather conditions like rain or sunlight. Emerald players face new challenges, such as the Battle Frontier, offering unique battle formats and rare rewards.
These games, with their rich world of diverse environments and innovative mechanics, are a major step forward for the series. Their influence is still felt today, and they are fondly remembered for their memorable Legendary Pokemon, strong storylines, and strategic depth.
6. Pokemon Sword/Shield (Gen 8)
Pokemon Sword and Shield are the eighth-generation games in the Pokemon series. They take place in the Galar region, inspired by the United Kingdom, and bring players to a vibrant world filled with new Pokemon, landscapes, and features. Players embark on a journey as young trainers and challenge the region’s gym leaders, uncover the mystery behind Legendary Pokemon Zacian and Zamacenta, and ultimately become the Champion of the Galar League.
The major innovation in Sword and Shield is the introduction of the Wild Area. This open-world-like environment allows players to explore, encounter wild Pokemon, and participate in Max Raid Battles, where multiple players can battle gigantic Dynamax or Gigantamax Pokemon.
Dynamaxing is a new mechanism that allows Pokemon to grow bigger and temporarily increase their powers. It is the focus feature of the gameplay, which adds an exciting layer of strategic battles.
With a balance of tradition and new features, Pokemon Sword and Shield offer nostalgic elements for longtime fans and exciting new mechanics for newcomers, making them significant entries in the franchise’s evolution.
7. Pokemon Scarlet and Violet (Gen 9)
Pokemon Scarlet and Violet are the ninth-generation titles in the Pokemon series. Set in the Paldea region, inspired by the Iberian Peninsula, they introduce an open-world environment that allows players to freely explore the world without the structure of routes and progression. Players embark on their journey as students at the prestigious Naranja or Uva Academy. There are also three main storylines: challenging Gym Leaders, Path of Legends, and stopping the nefarious Team Star from disrupting the region's peace.
The most iconic feature of Scarlet and Violet is its fully open-world gameplay, which allows players to explore at their own pace and tackle the objectives in any order. This freedom is enhanced by introducing the Terastal phenomenon, a mechanic that enables Pokemon to crystallize into crystal forms, boosting their powers and adding strategic depth. Scarlet and Violet also offer a multiplayer experience, allowing players to connect with friends and explore the world in real time.
With an innovative blend of open-world exploration, new mechanics, and rich storytelling, Pokemon Scarlet and Violet represent a bold step forward for the series, offering a fresh and dynamic Pokemon experience.
8. Pokemon Legends: Arceus
Pokemon Legends: Arceus is a groundbreaking entry in the Pokemon series. Set in the ancient past of the Sinnoh region, it introduces players to the Hisui region, a wild and untamed world where Pokemon roam free in open environments. Unlike traditional Pokemon with structured progress, Legends: Arceus offers an open-world experience emphasizing exploration, allowing players to catch, battle, and study Pokemon.
The game focuses on research and exploration. It encourages players to approach Pokemon in a new way, whether by sneaking up to catch them, observing their behaviors, or battling them in real time. Arceus also introduces new gameplay mechanics, such as battle-style systems in which moves can be in Strong Style (more damage) or Agile Style (quicker turns).
Focusing on exploration, discovery, and a deeper, more immersive Pokemon world, Pokemon Legends: Arceus redefines the series’ formula. Offering players an innovative and fresh experience while still retaining the core elements that fans love.
9. Pokemon Go
Pokemon GO is an augmented reality (AR) mobile game developed by Niantic in collaboration with The Pokemon Company and Nintendo. It became a global phenomenon after its release in 2016. The game blends a Pokemon universe with real-world exploration. Players use their smartphones to catch, battle, and trade Pokemon in real-world locations using AR technology.
Go encourages players to explore their surroundings, as Pokemon will appear in various locations based on real-world geography. Its core gameplay involves using the mobile's GPS to navigate and find different types of Pokemon. Players can catch Pokemon by traveling to other locations, participating in special events, and interacting with various in-game structures, such as PokeStops and Gyms with real-world landmarks.
Pokemon Go's success lies in its combination of nostalgia, physical activity, and innovative use of augmented reality, making it one of the most popular mobile games ever.
10. New Pokemon Snap
New Pokemon Snap is a photography-based game and a spiritual successor to the 1999 classic Pokemon Snap. Players can embark on a scenic journey within the Lental region and photograph wild Pokemon in their natural habitats. It invites players to explore and capture the beauty of Pokemon in various lush environments, from jungles to underwater locales.
The game's main goal is to complete the Photodex by taking high-quality photos of Pokemon in various poses and situations. Players can use their photographs to earn points; the better the photo, the higher the score. In addition to photography, players can unlock new areas to explore and uncover the mysteries behind the Illumina phenomenon, which is a crucial part of the game's narrative.
With its relaxing yet engaging gameplay, stunning visuals, and the nostalgia it brings to long-time fans of the original Pokemon Snap, the game is praised and gained a significant spot among the top Pokemon games.
That concludes our top 10 Pokemon games, which showcase the series' evolution and introduce new features, regions, and Pokemon while maintaining the core elements that made the franchise a global phenomenon. Check out our top Roblox or mobile games if you want more.