Pokémon is a massive series spanning multiple generations of its core series. On top of thosecore series gamesare many spin-offs, some their own series, others so obscure you probably wouldn’t know it’s officially licensed.
Using the player’s favorite pokémon from the main series, these spin-off games break off into many different genres. In these games are a few gems that easily rival the core series.
1010/10 Pokémon Conquest
Going back in time, Pokémon Conquest shows the role of Pokémon in the time of Feudal Lords. Conquest throws players in the middle of a land of kingdoms they must fight to conquer. This was a drastic change in story from previous releases but further showed how Pokémon fit into the history of the world.Players have their own Pokémon, and team up with other characters to fight in larger 6v6 turn-based battles. Pokémon grew and got stronger based on their link with their Warrior. While it did come down to battles fought, it was a refreshing change from the usual EXP system.
99/10 Pokémon Colosseum
Early Pokémon fans were envious of other trainers' Pokémon and even used cheat codes to steal other their pokémon. Pokémon Colosseum finally gives players the ability to catch the trainer’s pokémon with actual in-game mechanics.Pokémon Colosseum also gave us the first 3-D battle models for pokémon, which was a huge step up for 2003. This was also the first major narrative step away from the core series, focusing on more narrative than previous games.
88/10 Pokémon Snap
With action taking a backseat, Pokémon Snap was a much more relaxing way to see and engage with the Pokémon universe. Movement is on-rails, allowing players to only focus on looking around and seeing pokémon in the wild and not just in battles.
This game expands the world of pokémon, reminding players that Pokémon are more than just tools for battle. Seeing them living in the wild and interacting with one another helps give Pokémon more character than just their stat sheets
77/10 Pokémon Showdown
While Pokémon Showdown is not an officially licensed game, it’s in-depth and big enough to earn a spot on this list. Pokémon Showdown is essentially a massive playground for you to make any team of perfectly trained pokémon.Showdown allows you to bypass all the grinding of training to instantly get the perfect team of pokémon to battle with. Online play for this unlicensed game exploded in popularity. Being a free game that instantly gives you access to any Pokémon sounds like a dream to any Pokémon fan.
66/10 Pokémon Explorers of Time/Darkness
Explorers of Time/Darkness involved a much deeper story than Rescue Team. Introducing the end of the world and time travel set up stakes much higher than previous Pokémon games. This Pokémon game also includes one of the greatest twists in any pokémon game, making you instantly love a Pokémon you may have skipped over before.Taking many of the gameplay elements from Rescue team, this game expands and upgrades these systems. With the many more pokémon added to this game, you’re able to not only play as new ones but also expand and try out more team compositions.
55/10 Pokémon Gale of Darkness
A sequel to Colosseum, this game is even more story driven. Playing as a new protagonist, your goal is to stop team Cipher and their new secret weapon. While many new ideas are introduced, many of the gameplay and art styles are carried over from the previous title.While Shadow Lugia makes his appearance in this game, this quickly becomes a staple look for him. Being able to catch other trainers' shadow pokémon is an incredibly fun mechanic we wish would make another return. Many other smaller changes have been made since Colosseum to streamline the purifying of shadow Pokémon and the battle system.
44/10 Pokémon Blue and Red Rescue Team
The first Mystery Dungeon game, turning players into some of their favorite pokémon. The personality test that decides your pokémon helps you feel more connected and immersed in this world. Being in a land of no humans, it was interesting to see what pokémon are like when they are not begin used by trainers.
Not only was the base game very captivating, but the extensive post-game content leads to a 60+ hour playthrough. Also introducing a partner right away gives you the entire game to bond together and leaves a lasting impact long after you finish this game.
33/10 Pokémon Explorers of Sky
Explorers of Sky is the definitive upgrade from the previous Explorers games. While the base story is mostly similar, the added bonus episodes are incredibly fun and entertaining additions to an already great game.This upgrade also allows you to pick from new starter pokémon, visit new locations and have access to new shops to help players progress. While many changes are smaller, there are so many this game can feel like an entirely new entry.
22/10 Pokémon Unite
While many people turn their nose up at the frustrating mechanics of a MOBA, Pokémon Unite fixes many of those issues. Limiting the ability of a team to snowball a game, this MOBA is repeatedly fun even if you lose.Pokémon Unite offers a ton of ways to earn coins for new pokémon and easy ways to pick up and master your favorites. It perfectly combines this new playstyle with leveling up, learning new moves, and even evolving.
11/10 Pokémon Go
The societal moment from 2016, and the pokémon game that swept the world. This was the biggest AR game to be released at the time. Giving many fans their dream, allowing fans to find andcapture pokémon in the real world.Allowing real-world exploration, and competing against your friends face to face is a pokémon experience like no other. Support for this game has continued for 6 years, adding tons of new pokémon and content. It’s always a good time to jump into this game for the first time or to revisit it after taking a break.
