Ranking The Best Pokémon Games Of All Time

Pinpoint your nearest Poke Mart; it’s time to check out the best Pokémon games of all time!

Ok, so this was no easy task; there are so many incredible Pokémon games that have dropped over the years across Nintendo’s many consoles. From Red and Blue all the way back in 1996 to modern 3D marvels that make your eyes pop out, we’ve been on some incredible journeys with Pika and his pals, and the fun doesn’t look set to stop any time soon.

So, without further ado, let’s check out the best Pokémon games of all time and find out which titles influenced Brandon and I on our mission to become super nerds. Though to be honest, I think we achieved that goal a long time ago...

1. Pokémon HeartGold & SoulSilver (2009)

Yes, folks, Pokémon HeartGold & SoulSilver rightfully take the top spot in our list of the best Pokémon games!

We all remember when Pokémon Gold and Silver dropped back in 1999. They exceeded all expectations (a little like swots at Hogwarts). Well, HeartGold and SoulSilver polished these classic games and gave them the dual-screen treatment 10 years later, supercharging them with new graphics, features, and game mechanics that made them 10-times better.

Don’t worry; the core stories are still the same, but features like the clunky menu system have been updated, and modern features such as online trading were brought into the fold.

Let’s not forget Lugia and Ho-Oh, who both now look very regal, if they don’t mind me saying. These are two of my favourite legendaries, Pokémon that still feel rare and impressive and worth spending all my time trying to catch.

2. Pokémon FireRed/LeafGreen (2004)

I know Pokémon Red and Blue are the OGs when it comes to Pokémon games, but FireRed and LeafGreen take the original Kanto adventure and supercharge it all the way to 11. Even though I know Pokémon Red like the back of my hand, playing it on the big screen with my Pro Controller on Switch 2 in colour with added extras makes for the best version of the game.

I mean, Pokémon Red where you can also catch Ho-Oh and Lugia? What's not to love?

The gym battles are all the same as the original games, though you'll need to go through different processes to catch some Pokémon like Moltres. There's a new area called the Sevii Islands too, but apart from that, the story is the same.

FireRed and LeafGreen have been notoriously expensive to get hold of in physical form for a long time now, racking up costs of around £80 just for the cartridges alone and spawning a rise of counterfeit units that have duped people time and time again. Having both games on Switch for $16.99 each might finally mean the cartridge prices will go down - here's hoping!

3. Pokémon Pokopia (2026)

Pokémon Pokopia coming in so close to the top might seem like a bold move, but it's the highest-rated Pokémon game of all time for a reason. I absolutely love Pokopia; I've been wanting an alternative Pokémon adventure for years now, something that truly shakes up the original formula and gives me a completely different experience. And believe me, Pokopia provided.

From the moment I turned this game on, I knew I was going to love it. A Ditto transformed into a Pokémon trainer, picking up moves from Pokémon it encounters, creating habitats for them all to live in, terraforming, completing challenges, and exploring new areas. It's like all the best bits of Pokémon Mystery Dungeon (i.e. talking and working with Pokémon) crossed with Animal Crossing and Minecraft.

Like Animal Crossing, certain buildings take time to build, giving you a reason to check back in the next day and the next to watch as your world grows. You still complete a Pokédex, but you fill it simply by coming into contact with Pokémon and not catching them.

And if you've seen any of the clips or images of Peakychu, you shouldn't need another reason to buy this game. I spend far too long looking at the amazing cities people have built using Pokopia and creating my own tropical paradises for my Poké residents to live in, but it's one of the most relaxing games I've ever played, and the Pokémon game we all truly deserve.

4. Pokémon Emerald (2004)

If you follow our coverage of Pokémon ROM hacks, then you'll know all about how highly Pokémon Emerald is regarded in the retro gaming community. It serves as the basis for many Pokémon hacks and is one of the most exciting adventures on the GBA, let alone in the Pokémon series.

Like Pokémon Yellow and Pokémon Crystal, Emerald sits as the 'definitive' edition of Ruby and Sapphire on the GBA, bringing elements from both to the mix and creating the ultimate adventure.

You'll encounter both Team Magma and Team Aqua in Emerald, with a new storyline that leads you to finding Rayquaza, one of the gnarliest Pokémon ever created. You'll get the National Pokédex after defeating the Elite Four, and get a chance of picking up one of the Gold/Silver starters once you've completed it.

5. Pokémon Sun & Moon (2016)

Whether you’ve been a die-hard Pokémon fan since 1996 or first heard about them in 2016, Sun and Moon are two games that are both simple to play and easy to grasp, and both are jam-packed full of exciting Pokémon to discover.

And for a change, the travel to gym, beat gym, become champion formula has been ousted for a different approach.

Sun and Moon are more about learning how your Pokémon tick, what makes them unique, and the mysteries of the wider world. Deep, right? Some of the Pokémon from these two games have featured in the Smash Bros games of late. Pokémon just seem to get everywhere, don’t they!

Listen, I think that these games are every bit as good as Red and Blue (if not better, which is why they’re higher in the list), perfectly made, exciting gameplay, and they look great with the 3D mode turned on!

6. Pokémon X & Y (2010)

X & Y were the first ever 3D rendered Pokémon games and brought the option of customising the main player with new outfits and looks, something we’ve all spent far too long on while playing Sword and Shield.

Listen, the formula is pretty similar in all of the main RPG games. Move through a region collecting Pokémon and gathering information for your Pokedex.

The main difference that separates this title from the crowd are the battle styles and a new type of Pokémon entering the fray. Players can now take part in horde battles and sky battles, and Fairy Pokémon make an appearance for the first time.

Mega Evolutions were first introduced in X & Y as well. It’s a game of firsts, that’s for sure, with lots of other new features such as new training styles and ways to bond with Pokémon that have never before been seen by trainer, ranger, or rocket member!

7. Pokémon Red & Blue (1996)

Man, back in the day we all thought these would always be the best Pokémon games, and it was hard to believe that anything could top them.

Before Gigantamax battles and berries were even a notion, we didn’t think anything could be better than Red/Blue and Gary trekking across Kanto. I can still remember the moment that I picked up my bicycle on this game for the very first time. The music is so memorable, too - simpler times.

For the Switch players amongst us, the main difference between this and Pokémon Let’s Go (ok, one of the main differences) is that there’s no Safari Zone in Let’s Go. The Safari Zone was one of my favourite parts about this, catching Scyther and Kangaskhan using Safari Balls felt so intense!

You haven't lived until you've played Pokémon Red using the Super Game Boy through the SNES or played it on the N64 via Pokémon Stadium and the Transfer Pak. This game will always hold a special place in our hearts as kickstarting our love for Pokémon, and we wouldn't have any of the other games in this list without it!

8. Pokémon Black/White (2010)

Pokémon Black and White released on the DS 16 years ago at the time of writing this article. Just take a minute for that to sink in, remember we're all getting older, and carry on.

Black and White were instant successes, becoming the first DS titles to rack up 5 million sales. I love these two games because graphically, they're amazing. The Unova region was one of the first areas that felt truly different to what had come before too, no doubt because of the processing power of the DS and what the devs were able to achieve.

150 new Pokémon joined the fray in these two games. Not only that, but there was a wider variety of people and languages in these releases too. They felt like the first Pokémon games to really venture outside of the tried and tested formula and create a varied world, something I'm very fond of. Though I'm not fond of Team Plasma - those guys can do one!

There's also the Dream World too, which if you've played Sonic Adventure 2 Battle, is kind of like the Chao Garden. There are Pokémon available there that can't be caught anywhere else, and you can also train your critters in a dream house too!

9. Pokémon Crystal (2000)

Pokémon Crystal is one of my most coveted Game Boy Color cartridges. I don't know whether it's because it's the alternative version of Pokémon Gold/Silver or the translucent blue shell of the cartridge that I find so intriguing, but I love everything about this game.

Crystal was the first Pokémon Game that could be played solely on the Game Boy Color, while Gold and Silver still worked on the DMG. The characters had actual animations rather than being static, locations had been upgraded, and you could play as a girl for the first time.

All three legendary dogs and both Ho-Oh and Lugia can be caught in the game too. Suicine has much more of a role to play in this game, hence being on the cover and title screen. The title screen is my favourite of all three too. Don't get me wrong, I love Lugia and Ho-Oh, but Suicine is just such a mystical character that reminds me of my childhood.

Like FireRed & LeafGreen, Crystal has been one of those games that has attracted collectors over the years, meaning it now comes with a hefty pricetag, especially if you're after a boxed version.

10. Pokémon Let’s Go Pikachu & Eevee (2018)

Pokémon Let’s Go Pikachu & Eevee are remakes of the original Pokémon Red and Blue game, and man, does this game look and feel amazing.

Acting as sort of an amalgamation between Pokémon Go and Sword and Shield, the Let’s Go games add modern features to the classic Kanto story that we all know and love. Talk to Caterpie man, swim around Cinnabar Island, and capture all of the legendary birds to wield against the Elite 4.

Thanks to Nintendo’s hybrid handheld, gamers can either wield a Joycon to capture Pokémon or even enlist the help of a Poké Ball controller, one of the best Pokemon gifts you could buy for a friend or partner. Of course, playing handheld is fun too, but who doesn’t want to almost smash their TV screen with a Pokeball?

For fans of the original Game Boy games, this title is an absolute must-have. Experience the adventure in HD and see how it would have looked if it came out today.

11. Pokémon Ultra Sun & Ultra Moon (2017)

Who fancies a trip back into the Alola region? Pokémon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon certainly look pretty impressive and have some nice scenery; I sure wouldn’t mind venturing through here!

So, there’s a new mystery to solve, and it comes in the form of the Pokémon Necrozoma. Players need to figure out the secrets behind two of its new forms: Pokémon Ultra Sun’s Dusk Mane Necrozma, and Pokémon Ultra Moon’s Dawn Wings Necrozoma.

Come on, Pikachu; we’re up. We’ve got stuff to do!

More Pokémon await, as do epic trainer battles with stunning graphics on the 3DS. Honestly, the attacks look so good with the 3D mode cranked up that you’ll be jumping out of the way of Hyrdo Pumps and Sand Attacks before you know it!

12. Pokémon Platinum (2008)

The DS played host to a ton of incredible Pokémon games. It was a legendary era for the Pokémon Company and also marked a whole host of GBC and GBA re-releases.

If you enjoyed Diamond and Pearl, then Platinum will definitely be of interest. It’s essentially an upgraded version with a whole new set of areas to explore and an exciting secondary form for the mighty Giratina.

As far as the format goes, it’s back to the same trusty 'gym to champion' road to victory. Catch and train Pokémon, then box them without a second thought after you catch better ones. Don’t feel bad, we all do it.

Some of the common features that we play all the time now, such as Poke-themed mini games and dual battles featured in this classic, as well as the iconic global trading system.

13. Pokémon Diamond & Pearl (2006)

Pokémon Diamond & Pearl are two must-have games for the DS, and the adventure into the world of the Sinnoh region brought 107 new Pokémon to the mix.

Plus, as the first games with online play and WiFi battles, they were a major deal!

The premise is the same as always. The evil Team this time is Team Galactic, and there are legendary Pokémon to find and capture once again. Pearl and Diamond brought more side-quests into the mix, parts that have become main features in the series from here on out.

And, in true Pokémon fashion, key elements of the previous games make a comeback like the impressive Pokémon Contests… basically like Crufts for Pokémon.

Compete with the passing of hours and battle through day and night, searching for Pokémon that only arrive at certain times. It’s a wholly immersive experience and one that complements the series as a whole perfectly.

14. Pokémon Omega Ruby & Alpha Sapphire (2014)

Pokémon Omega Ruby & Alpha Sapphire are up next, enhancing the classic Ruby and Sapphire games for the GBA back in 2002.

So what’s happened in the 12 years between these two games? Well, play still happens through the Hoenn region, though there have been some significant upgrades to the game mechanics and Pokédex entries, as well as evolutionary statuses.

Some Pokémon have had major redesigns since you last saw them and, as well as Primal Reversions, Mega Evolutions are now part of the game. You’ve still got to get all the badges and take on the Elite Four. Don’t worry; some things don’t change. Team Magma are the ones causing all the problems this time.

Explore new unlockable areas, delve into the Battle Resort (formerly the Battle Tower), and blast the 3D mode for that extra oomph.

15. Pokémon Trading Card Game (1998)

How many of you have played the Pokémon Trading Card Game? It’s one of the most addictive games I own for the GBC and also a highly underrated title.

Ok, not everyone thinks so.

The Saudi Arabian government banned it because of its irrefutable links to Zionism… Call me naive, but I’m still unsure what Pikachu and water trainer cards have to do with Israel and Palestine?

The premise is still the same as the main RPG series; battle gym leaders, or in this case, Club Masters, and then take on four Grand Masters (aka The Elite Four).

And this is a much cheaper day of collecting and owning all of the different original Pokémon cards. It’s basically got the same appeal to me as Pokémon Snap, an alternative game from the main series that still packs a punch while keeping a cult, obviously super-cool following.

16. Pokémon Snap (1999)/New Pokémon Snap (2021)

The New game might be making waves with modern gamers, but you still can’t beat the classics in my humble opinion.

Ok, so when this first came out, a lot of people thought it was just another money-making Pokémon fad. But to be honest, everyone loved this move away from the typical battle-catch-run to Poke Centre format.

Travel on a railroad through multiple Pokémon habitats. Pokémon Island is filled with all your favourite beasts to monitor in the natural environments, messing around in forests or relaxing on beaches. Sounds idyllic, right?

Get Pokémon into the best position and snap them for Prof Oak. Your camera can only hold 60 photos per level, however, so snap wisely!

And if you spent any amount of time playing the original Pokémon Snap, then the New Pokémon Snap game for Nintendo Switch should feel like Christmas has come every single day of the year.

The concept is exactly the same, though the levels, Pokémon, graphics, and basically everything else about it looks and feels better.

If you’re into the idea of collecting Pokémon pictures for a Photodex rather than capturing critters for your Pokedex, then jump right in. See Pokémon in their natural habitats, use fruit to lure them in, and take amazing pictures for the Professor back in base.

Move one way through a level, repeating it multiple times to get the right shot each time. It’s a game of patience and timing, which means the stressed out amongst you may not get on with it so well!

17. Pokémon Colosseum (2003)

In the same way that it’s always more fun to play as Darth Vader in Star Wars: Battlefront, the idea of stealing other people’s Pokémon is kind of appealing. We’ve all tried to capture a trainer’s Pokémon before now, but now that’s the very premise of the game.

Instead of snagging Pokémon from civilians, however, you play as a reformed member of Team Snagem who is freeing trapped critters from his former associates.

Don’t be fooled into thinking that Colosseum and Pokémon Stadium are the same though. Ok, so there are some similarities, but there’s way more emphasis on the actual 3D story gameplay in this game, not just battling.

This is a bona fide Pokeventure with a cracking multiplayer mode to play with friends couch-co-op style. Move your critters from Ruby or Sapphire over to your team and battle to be the very best.

18. Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Blue Rescue Team and Red Rescue Team (2005)

Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Blue Rescue Team and Red Rescue Team are up next, two games that are as far from the main Red & Blue format as you could possibly get.

What would happen if you took away the trainers and gym leaders and had Pokémon ruling the roost? Well, that’s kind of the premise in this game, except that you play as a human turned into a Pokémon, moving in and out of dungeons to rescue Pokémon in distress.

It’s surprisingly addictive too, and if you love Pokopia, then you'll instantly gel with this series. Instead of controlling different Pokémon by pulling them into battle, you play as a single Pokémon and attack in turn-based fights on the existing map.

Deliver items, rescue Pokémon, and battle through dungeons. It’s as though Sonic and Link teamed up to make this game happen…

19. Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness (2005)

This is one of the best Pokémon games for players who like a touch of darkness. Ok, so it’s not exactly Dark Souls, but the storyline makes it feel a little more cutesy than other titles in the series. Heal the spirits of Shadow Pokémon, use Shadow moves, and free captured creatures from enemy control.

So, who’s the main prize that everyone wants to have in this game then?

Shadow Lugia… oh yeahhhh! It’s really hard to capture though, so be prepared to take a long time trying. Delve into a purification chamber or walk around to purify the souls of captured Pokémon. It’s a 3D game with touches of the original RPG series and a heavy Pokémon Stadium battle feel.

Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness has been known as one of the most expensive GameCube games on the second-hand market for a while now, so it's really nice to see it up on NSO for Switch 2 players with the Expansion service to take advantage of!

20. Pokémon Sword & Shield (2021)

While Sword and Shield don’t disappoint and provide a great gaming experience, they just don’t cut the mustard compared to other games in the series.

Leave the hatemail, it’s the truth.

Don’t get me wrong, though, they still have tonnes of merits. Just delve into the Wild Area for the first time to experience that for yourself first-hand!

I’ve always loved the 3D Pokémon games ever since Pokémon Colosseum dropped for the GameCube, and seeing Pokémon walking around on the big screen while wandering through epic worlds and exploring hidden nooks and crannies on your bike never gets old.

If I’m being honest, however, Hop makes this title so damn annoying. He’s a cocky mother… well, he’s just annoying and doesn’t have a clue what he’s doing.

21. Pokémon Pinball (1999)

So the only way to make Pokémon ever more exciting would be to turn it into a pinball game, right?

Well, yeah! Send Poké Balls hurtling around different Pokémon-themed courses, racking up massive scores and interacting with Pokémon along the way.

I mean, who wouldn’t want a game where you can play on a blue or red-themed table, bashing Psyduck and careening around Mewtwo until you pop out of Bellsprout’s mouth.

It sounds like the best dream ever. You’re playing to capture Pokémon in a spinning Poké Ball, eventually evolving them. It doesn’t take much brain power to tackle and is a great ‘in-between game’ if you’re stuck on a specific section in something more taxing.

22. Pokémon Scarlet & Violet (2022)

Pokémon Scarlet and Violet launched at the tail end of 2022 and features a new Paldea region, over 110 new Pokémon (two of them which you can ride like bikes) and a new Terastallizing Pokémon type that features unique moves and designs.

In the region, there are rare Pokémon that have escaped from Area Zero called “Paradox Pokémon”. These are unique Pokémon that you need to find, battle and capture throughout your exploration.

There’s also new DLC’s that expand on the region, alongside new Pokémon to capture, which I have thoroughly enjoyed and was well worth the purchase. However, Pokémon Scarlet & Violet has showcased a wide range of technical issues at launch and later in the game, issues that can’t go unnoticed and show that the game was rushed.

It's a shame, as this was one of the fastest-selling Pokémon games of all time, which is incredible for Nintendo, but it disappointed many passionate Pokémon fans across the globe. It’s certainly a great Pokémon game, but it’s near the bottom of this list because of those serious technical issues.

Hold berries, cook and camp to become better friends with your Pokémon, and download exciting DLC content without Hop in it… which is the best bit by far!

23. Pokémon Legends: Arceus (2022)

Pokémon Legends: Arceus was a pleasant surprise when it landed on our desks. Not knowing how an open-world Pokémon game would feel, we were a little hesitant, but just a few hours in and learning the ways of the new mechanics, we were intrigued.

Pokémon Legends: Arceus feels like Zelda: Breath of the Wild but with the incredible Pokémon catch mechanics, albeit with graphics that were really below par. The world is indeed open, and even despite trees and mountains that form as you're looking at them like you're on dial-up internet, you get a sense of vastness from it. Having the Pokémon scattered around making you want to keep finding rare or even shiny pocket monsters keeps you coming back too.

The storyline is great too, with many mysteries to be solved that end in a glorious discovery alongside some very memorable characters and new magical Pokémon. It was Pokémon’s first attempt at spicing up the Pokémon franchise, and while I think they've nailed it with Pokopia, I applaud them for mixing things up so much with the Legends series. You won't find Z-A on here, though - it bored us too quickly!