Ranking all Pokémon games from top to bottom
The Pokémon video game series has attracted millions of gamers worldwide since its inception in 1996. Pokémon video games have established themselves as mainstays of the gaming industry thanks to their endearing characters, captivating environments, and addicting gameplay.
In this article, we have picked the top 10 ranked Pokémon video games, taking into account elements like gameplay mechanics, plot, innovation, and overall player experience. So let’s enter the Pokémon universe and discover the best games the franchise has to offer.
Pokémon HeartGold/SoulSilver (gen 4)
Remakes of the second generation games, Pokémon HeartGold and SoulSilver, are widely recognised as some of the best Pokémon games ever made. These games improved on everything that made the originals great by adding new features, better graphics, and modernised gameplay. With its engaging storyline, expansive post-game content, and the inclusion of the Pokéwalker accessory, HeartGold and SoulSilver offers a nostalgic and unforgettable Pokémon adventure.
Pokémon Gold/Silver/Crystal (gen 2)
The day and night cycle, breeding mechanics, and the ability to return to the original Kanto region are just a few of the ground-breaking innovations that were included in the second generation of Pokémon games. Pokémon Gold, Silver, and Crystal built on the success of the first games by offering a lengthier plot, a wide variety of Pokémon, and charming characters. The Battle Tower and the addition of the real-time clock gave the series more depth and replay value.
Pokémon FireRed/LeafGreen (gen 3)
FireRed and LeafGreen were excellent remakes of Pokémon Red and Blue, bringing the classic Pokémon games to the Game Boy Advance. These titles modernized the classic games with enhanced graphics, updated mechanics, and the inclusion of the Sevii Islands. By faithfully recreating the beloved Kanto region while adding new features like the VS Seeker and the ability to capture the legendary Pokémon, FireRed and LeafGreen provided a nostalgic and enjoyable experience.
Pokémon Black/White (gen 5)
Pokémon Black and White introduced a fresh take on the Pokémon formula, with an engaging storyline, an entirely new cast of Pokémon, and a focus on narrative-driven gameplay. These games showcased a significant graphical improvement, brought the Unova region to life, and introduced numerous innovative features like triple and rotation battles. With its unique approach and memorable characters, Pokémon Black and White revitalized the series.
Pokémon Emerald (gen 3)
Considered by many as the definitive version of the third-generation games, Pokémon Emerald expanded upon the foundations laid by Ruby and Sapphire. This title introduced the Battle Frontier, a challenging post-game facility offering a variety of battle formats. With its captivating storyline involving Team Magma and Team Aqua, the Battle Frontier, and the ability to capture both Groudon and Kyogre, Pokémon Emerald provided hours of engaging gameplay.
Pokémon X/Y (gen 6)
Pokémon X and Y marked a significant leap forward for the series, introducing full 3D graphics, a new region called Kalos, and the concept of Mega Evolution. These games offered a fresh take on the Pokémon formula, providing a visually stunning world, a diverse range of Pokémon, and improved online functionalities. The introduction of the Fairy type and the expansive post-game content solidified X and Y as one of the most memorable entries in the franchise.
Pokémon Platinum (gen 4)
Building upon the success of Diamond and Pearl, Pokémon Platinum refined the Sinnoh region, enhanced the gameplay mechanics, and introduced the Distortion World. With its captivating storyline involving Giratina and the improved Battle Frontier, Pokémon Platinum provided an enhanced version of the fourth-generation games, offering a more polished and immersive experience.
Pokémon Red/Blue/Yellow (gen 1)
Pokémon Red, Blue, and Yellow, the original games, continue to have a special place in the hearts of Pokémon fans all across the world. These games created the groundwork for the success of the brand with their straightforward yet addicting gameplay, the opportunity to exchange Pokémon with friends through a link cable, and the goal to become a Pokémon Master. While the first-generation games may feel dated compared to their successors, their impact and nostalgia factor earn them a place on this list.
Pokémon Omega Ruby/Alpha Sapphire (gen 6)
As remakes of Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire, Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire revitalized the Hoenn region with updated graphics, enhanced mechanics, and new features such as the DexNav and Soaring. These games successfully captured the charm of the originals while providing a modernized experience. The inclusion of the Delta Episode added an intriguing post-game storyline, making Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire a must-play for Pokémon enthusiasts.
Pokémon Sun/Moon (gen 7)
Pokémon Sun and Moon brought significant changes to the traditional Pokémon formula, introducing the Alola region, island trials, and the removal of gym battles. With its engaging storyline, captivating characters, and the addition of new gameplay mechanics like Z-Moves, these games offered a fresh and unique Pokémon experience. While some fans were divided on the departure from the series’ traditional structure, Sun and Moon showcased the franchise’s willingness to innovate.
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