Ruby, Sapphire and Emerald took a wildly successful formula and built upon it to introduce fans to the Hoenn region. And what that entailed was a massive step forward for the Pokémon games. Although there are dozens of features from the third generation we could talk about, these games changed the series in at least ten important ways. And many of those elements carried forward to later titles, with some still impacting the games almost twenty years later.

How Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire Refreshed the Series

But before we even start listing the ways Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire revitalized the series, we should discuss some background information. From the very outset of the adventure, fans of the franchise could tell this generation of games was going to be something different from what they’d seen before. In both previous generations, the player started out as a long-time resident of a quaint little village. In Red and Blue, they woke up in Pallet town in the Kanto region. And as for Gold and Silver, New Bark Town set the stage. What’s more, the two regions were connected as part of the same continent. And in the second generation, players could explore both Kanto and Johto, which made for a lengthy journey.

Not so with the third generation of games. In Hoenn, players literally arrived in the back of a moving van, where they hopped out to meet their mom in front of a new house. So, from the very start, it was apparent this new region was something entirely different. It was far away, it was exotic, it was exciting. And this is the backdrop for everything in Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire. It’s the breath of fresh air that propelled the series past its successful origins into the titan it currently is. And arguably, without the advancements of Gen III, Pokémon would be a beloved but archaic series.

1. Players Don’t Receive a Pokémon in the Lab

In Pokémon Red and Blue, Professor Oak guides players to his lab, where they receive their first partner. And in Gold and Silver, Professor Elm summons them for an errand, offering a Pokémon to help out along the way. Ultimately, there’s nothing wrong with this story trope, because at the time, it was new enough to keep from getting stale. However, repeating the same narrative for the third game in a row easily could have left fans feeling like they’d done the exact same thing twice before. So, rather than going to a lab to receive a Pokémon, Gen III changed the idea around. While wandering around the outskirts of town, players hear a voice crying for help. And after discovering Professor Birch trapped by a wild Pokémon, they must quickly claim their own starter to battle with and save him.

Essentially, this helps Ruby and Sapphire jump straight into the action, setting the tone for the rest of the story. And though later generations have a similar method for choosing a starter, Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire were the first to deviate from the generic, lab-based introduction.

2. Teams Magma and Aqua

In both of the first two generations of Pokémon games, players repeatedly run into the infamous Team Rocket. And thematically, it makes complete sense. Kanto and Johto are part of the same continent — of course the criminal organization operates in both areas. But Hoenn is an entirely different region, and it only followed to introduce a new team of enemies for fans to struggle against. But Gen III took it a step further than that. Rather than having one underground organization, there were two. And narratively, they not only fought against the player but each other as well. In Ruby, Team Magma acted as the primary antagonist. And in Sapphire, Team Aqua took center stage.

But perhaps the most interesting development is the integral part that these organizations play in the main story. Because while Team Rocket definitely showed up in first two Pokémon games, they weren’t necessarily the catalyst for events. At least, not the way Teams Magma and Aqua are in the Gen III. Because in large part, the narrative for Ruby and Sapphire is taken up with the player’s attempts to stop these teams from reaching their world-shaking goals. So, at the very least, the stakes are higher. Team Rocket might steal Pokémon, but Magma and Aqua threaten the safety of the world.

3. Legendary Pokémon as Major Plot Points

Not only did the rival organizations, Teams Magma and Aqua, play a larger roll in the narrative for the third generation. So, too, did the legendary Pokémon. Because in Ruby, the entire goal of Team Magma was to revive Groudon, the Pokémon responsible for creating land. And ultimately, dry up the seas. Alternatively, Team Aqua wanted to raise Kyogre, the Pokémon of the seas, to return to world to primeval waters. And in large part, the story revolves around a race between the teams and player to get to the legendary Pokémon first. Otherwise, the world is threatened with destruction.

In previous generations, there was little to no such centrality of the legendary Pokémon. If anything, they were more of an achievement than a plot device. In other words, worked into the story rather than a part of the narrative. So, for Ruby and Sapphire to break away from that format and include Groudon and Kyrogre so intrinsically in the story was a major achievement for the series. And like many of the changes these games brought to the series, this carries forward to every other entry.

4. Introducing a Third Legendary Pokémon

Pokémon Red and Blue were largely similar in terms of legendary Pokémon. After defeating the Elite Four, the player had the option of traveling to the deepest part of Cerulean Cave and catching Mewtwo. Gold and Silver at least improved upon this formula by introducing mascot legendary Pokémon. In other words, Ho-oh was the version Pokémon for Gold and Lugia for Silver. And while both were obtainable in each version, the catchable order varied by game. However, in Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire, players had the option to obtain a third legendary Pokémon that was on-par with the version specific mascots, Groudon and Kyogre. Rayquaza, the dragon/flying hybrid, could be caught in both versions of the game. So, in a sense, Gen III combined the ideas of the first two games by introducing version specific legendary Pokémon while also including an “ultimate” legendary available in both versions.

This triumvirate of legendary Pokémon was an idea carried forward for at least two further generations. So, in Diamond and Pearl, players could obtain Dialga, Palkia and Giratina. And in Black and White, Reshiram, Zekrom and Kyurem. While later games seemingly moved on from this concept, it was first introduced in Ruby and Sapphire and was the standard for ten years.

5. From the Depths of the Sea to the Highest Mountain

It wouldn’t be fair to say that the first two generations of Pokémon games have stagnant environments. After all, there are oceans, lakes, caves, mountains, fields and many other geographically diverse areas. However, Ruby and Sapphire again went one step further, introducing many new types of terrain to explore. Perhaps the most exciting of these is the ability to dive to the ocean floor and glide through the depths. In fact, there are some Pokémon in the games which can only be found there. And even one town which cannot be accessed except from underwater. But the changes don’t end there. Players can ride to the top of a volcano in a cable car, traipse through the treetops in Fortree City, brave desert sandstorms, and even explore a shipwreck along Route 108.

Of course, many of the important landmarks in Pokémon games are specific to different generations. And some of these are more exciting than others by nature. But even the way Gen III approached exploring the environment is worth talking about. Because some of those features were never used again, and remain wholly unique to Hoenn.

6. Introducing Double Battles

So far, most of the discussed changes introduced in Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire have been thematic. Or, at least most of them haven’t had much to do with the actual mechanics of the game. Double battles are the opposite. They only affect the gameplay. In the first two generations of Pokémon games, it was only possible to fight one-on-one battles. But in Gen III, on Route 104, that all changed. Because for the first time ever, the player was challenged to a two-on-two battle. Here, Pokémon could attack opponents and others on their team. So, navigating battles became somewhat more difficult. Some moves, like Surf, would actual impact every Pokémon on the field during a double battle. So, it was as likely to make your own partner faint as the opponents’. Again, double battles are a feature which the series retained moving forward, and has appeared in most other versions.

7. Abilities and Natures

Type advantages made up the bulk of battle strategy in Gens I and II. So, if an opponent sent out a fire Pokémon, the best idea was to counter with water. If electric, then ground, and so on. And while type advantages have played a major roll in battle mechanics in every mainline entry, Gen III introduced two other important factors: abilities and natures.

Pokémon abilities are innate, mostly unchangeable characteristics specific to individual Pokémon in a given species. And in effect, they provide passive support during a battle. However, not every ability is helpful. Some might actually hinder a Pokémon. For example, the Comatose ability causes Pokémon to take double damage from specific moves and Klutz prevents held items from having an effect. However, other abilities are largely beneficial, such as Intimidate, which automatically lowers the opponent’s attack stats. So, trainers in Gen III suddenly had to account for the abilities of their chosen Pokémon as well as type advantage and disadvantage. But that isn’t all.

Another new development was Pokémon natures, which affect the growth of a Pokémon whenever it levels up. So, a Pokémon’s stats were no longer dependent on its species and level (as well as any boosting items like HP Up or Calcium). Instead, a creatures nature could influence the way it grew. For example, a Pokémon with the Gentle nature will grow higher in Special Defense and suffer in normal Defense. Those with a Jolly nature sacrifice Special Attack stats for Speed. So, in terms of Pokémon breeding, players would have to pay close attention to nature to ensure a Pokémon met their expectations.

One thing worth noting, though, on abilities and natures is that it is entirely possible for players to ignore these effects and still play through Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire normally. Because they’re passive and latent, they’re always there, and they have been since Gen III. But only hardcore trainers tend to pay close attention to these stats.

8. Pokémon Contests

While the first two generations focused on becoming the best Pokémon trainer in terms of battles, Ruby and Sapphire offered a different option. Pokémon contests were beauty pageant of sorts, where players could enter their Pokémon to win different ribbons. This incorporated an entirely new move structure beyond attack type. Now, moves were also classified in one of five different categories:

• Coolness
• Beauty
• Cuteness
• Cleverness
• Toughness

Each of these characteristics represented a different type of contest. So, if a Pokémon knew several “Cool” moves, they stood a chance at winning a Cool contest. In a contest, moves had different effects, all meant to impress judges and an audience. And at the end, whoever scored best won.

Across Hoenn, there were four levels of contests: Normal, Super, Hyper and Master. Naturally, each rank increased in difficulty. And sometimes, players would have to choose whether they wanted a Pokémon to be good at battling or good at contests, then teach them moves accordingly.

9. Making Pokéblocks

Part and parcel with the introduction of contests is the option to feed Pokémon different treats to influence the way they grow. And in Gen III, this took the form of Pokéblocks. In a mini-game of sorts, players could mash up their harvested berries to create colorful candies to feed their partners. These could help prepare a Pokémon for contests by raising their basic stats in one of the five contest categories. So, different combinations of berries would result in various kinds of Pokéblocks, each enhancing a contest Pokémon’s stats in different ways.

Both Pokémon contests and food enhancement items carried forward to different generations, though often in different forms. For example, Gen IV had Pokémon Super Contests and Poffins, while Gen V boasted Pokémon Musicals.

10. Secret Bases

We’ve saved one of the coolest features for last. Using the move, secret power, Pokémon could discover suitable places throughout Hoenn to form a secret hideout. Sometimes, these bases could be found in rock walls, and other times trees or bushes. But the effect was largely the same. It opened up an empty space where players could decorate and personalize a base of their own. Up to sixteen items could be used at one time in a secret base, including chairs, tables, beds, posters, mats and Pokémon dolls. And if players were lucky enough to catch the department store at the right time, they could purchase rarer items to decorate with. Such items included tents, slides, breakable doors, and mats that played musical notes when stepped on.

Though far from the most integral change Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire brought to the series, secret bases were an entirely unique concept. And though they held little practical value, they were simply a fun way to express personality and individuality in-game.

Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire Undoubtedly Changed the Series

The ten changes mentioned are only a handful of the ways Gen III revitalized the Pokémon franchise. At a time where it was make-or-break for the series, Ruby and Sapphire introduced many new aspects to an already successful franchise. And in essence, set up Pokémon for success in the years to come. So, whether or not you agree that Gen III is the best Pokémon has to offer, it’s indisputable that it brought massive changes to the series.

Over the past two decades, many trainers have tried to rank each generation against the others, to determine the best Pokémon games. And often, they’ve based their assessments on completely different factors. Some focus on the starter Pokémon and others the stories the games tell. Some even base their favorites on the regions they get to explore. But at the end of the day, very few of these rankings actually agree with each other.

In essence, this all points to one fact — very few people are ever going to see eye-to-eye on the best Pokémon games. But that doesn’t mean it’s a topic unworthy of discussion. It’s just one that has to be taken with a grain of salt. Because for the most part, the reasons people like particular generations are entirely subjective. So, with that caveat in mind, let’s discuss the best Pokémon games.

Trying to Stay Objective About the Best Pokémon Games

But first, let’s get one thing out of the way — this list is not simply a personal opinion. In fact, if it were, some of the games would rank far higher and others lower. However, I didn’t want to simply throw out another purely opinion-based ranking system for the Pokémon generations. I wanted to take a look at different factors of each game to try and provide a more objective ranking system. And in doing so, I had to grapple with the fact that my personal favorites didn’t necessarily make it to the top spots. But that’s all right, because none of the games on this list are bad. Quite the opposite, actually. Every one of these is worth playing multiple times. But some might be more worth a replay than others. Here’s how we went about deciding the scores.

1. Starter Pokémon

Obviously, one of the factors fans get most excited for whenever a new generation is announced is the lineup of starter Pokémon. After all, these are the core partners that stay with you throughout your journey. And while design and personal favorites played a small role in the way we ranked this aspect, we also included power stats and type advantages/disadvantages.

2. Primary Legendary Duos

Right after starter lineups, one of the main things fan want to know more about are the representative legendary Pokémon for the new generations. Ever since Gold and Silver, each generation has included at least two game versions, represented by a different legendary Pokémon. And just as with starters, we ranked this factor by overall design, stats and type.

3. Region

Each generation of games introduces a new region to explore, but not all are created equal. Showing a bit of personal bias, Kanto probably isn’t as fun to explore as Galar. But that isn’t the only way to rank a region. We’ve also taken into account the new Pokémon introduced for each realm, including regional variants of existing favorites. Another aspect we’ve looked at is the number and quality of the towns, cities and landmarks in each game.

4. Storyline and Content

The first few Pokémon games started out relatively lax on an in-depth storyline. The primary basis was setting out on an adventure, catching Pokémon, and becoming the best trainer in the region. However, as the games progressed, they began to introduce more narrative aspects, which have been taken into account for our rankings. Both plot and available content have been accounted for here.

5. Critical Reception

Finally, we’ve also taken into account what others have said about each generation of Pokémon games. This includes the aggregate scores for each game from critical outlets and players alike. Because there is often discrepancy between what critics and general players think about a title, we’ve scored these separately.

Counting Down the Best Pokémon Games

8. Pokémon X and Y (Gen 6)

Pokémon X and Y were the first titles released on the Nintendo 3DS system, bringing a breath of fresh air to the franchise. They introduced players to the Kalos region, which is modeled on the cities and countryside of France. Some of the most notable aspects of these games are the 3D graphics and the improved movement system, which allowed players to freely explore the world. Every preceding title operated on the up-down, left-right grid. So, the enhanced traveling aspect greatly differentiated this title from its predecessors.

However, what it boasted in control innovations were tempered by a lackluster story and mid-tier starter Pokémon. And even though the reception for the game was fairly good, the underwhelming region left more to be expected. As such, this generation stands last in our ranking of best Pokémon games.

7. Pokémon Sword and Shield (Gen 8)

The newest generation introduced in the Pokémon Franchise, Sword and Shield represent a major shift from the other titles in several notable ways. The Galar region is arguably the most praiseworthy aspect of these games. And in terms of exploration, these titles blow all others out of the water. The introduction of the Wild Area, which is a free-roam range, allowed players the first glimpse into what an open-world Pokémon game might look like. And rather than running blindly into battles with wild Pokémon, players could see the creatures roaming around in their natural environments.

However, the anthropomorphic starter Pokémon left many fans wanting, and in some ways, the main story simply felt too short. This might have been heightened by the fact that players no longer needed to grind to level up Pokémon, thanks to an improved Exp. Share. But for long-time fans of the series, this represented a backward step. However, all of this pales in comparison to the fact that these were the first titles to exclude the National Pokédex. So, while trainers could catch every existing Pokémon in previous titles, they could not in Sword and Shield. And for the first generation released on the Nintendo Switch, this was an immense letdown.

6. Pokémon Black and White (Gen 5)

In some ways, Pokémon Black and White seem to be the forgotten generation. As the second titles on the Nintendo DS, they did little to improve on the mechanics introduced in Diamond and Pearl. Even though there were new battle styles, like rotation and triple matches. However, these games arguably present the best overall narrative in the entire franchise. In fact, they finally asked the question players (should have) wondered since the beginning. “Is it ethical to make Pokémon fight each other?” This mature theme is woven throughout the story, as players encounter the cult-like Seven Sages of Team Plasma.

Furthermore, Black and White introduced two of the coolest legendary Pokémon, Reshiram and Zekrom. And because this generation is the only one to receive direct sequel titles in Black and White 2, these legendary dragons had more time in the spotlight. As for exploration and notable landmarks, these titles were relatively mediocre. However, one praiseworthy aspect is the introduction of a full roster of new Pokémon. In fact, players only encounter new creatures until the National Dex is obtained in the post-game. While Black and White might not sit high in the ranking for best Pokémon games, they’re decent titles that are worth playing again.

5. Pokémon Sun and Moon (Gen 7)

Each Pokémon generation includes something to make it stand out from all others. And for Sun and Moon, one of the most apparent ways of doing this was by eliminating gym challenges. In all other Pokémon titles, trainers battle eight gyms to collect badges and challenge the Pokémon League. Not so with these games. Instead, players embark on a journey through Alola, a system of islands modeled on Hawaii. Here, they take the Island Challenge, which includes overcoming trials, challenging totem Pokémon and defeating island Kahunas.

Like Black and White, these games feature a more comprehensive story throughout. And despite having relatively uninspiring legendary Pokémon, they do feature several starters who fans have grown to appreciate. As with Galar, the Alola region is fairly open to exploration. Particularly in the Ultimate versions of the games, which made several updates and changes to the base versions. While this generation might not inspire the most loyalty, it undoubtedly deserves a play for its unique story and setting.

4. Pokémon Red and Blue (Gen 1)

Pokémon Red and Blue set the tone for everything Pokémon has become today. And when looking at the best games in the franchise, that can’t be overstated. Even though Gold and Silver took the formula from these games and improved drastically upon them in many ways, there’s just something about the original setting that keeps drawing people in. The starters for this generation are absolutely iconic, making multiple appearances in other generations as well. And the legendary Pokémon, Mewtwo and Mew, are powerhouses in comparison to those of other games.

Still, Red and Blue were extremely light in terms of actual story content. With the premise of becoming a Pokémon master, the player sets out to defeat different gyms. And even with the inclusion of Team Rocket and a main rival, these games are easily surpassed in narrative by other titles. As a fan favorite, the first generation has been remade multiple times for different systems. Fire Red and Leaf Green saw it updated for Game Boy Advance. And Let’s Go! Pikachu and Eevee brought a new take for the Nintendo Switch. However, the original Game Boy Color versions will always hold a special place in the hearts of Pokémon trainers everywhere.

3. Pokémon Gold and Silver (Gen 2)

The first generation of Pokémon games was an undeniable success. But Pokémon Gold and Silver are where things really took off. First releasing on the Game Boy Color in 1999, they introduced the model for the franchise that almost every other generation would follow. In particular, the inclusion of two legendary Pokémon, specific to the different versions. The starter Pokémon, Chikorita, Cyndaquil and Totodile, are some of the most beloved in the franchise. Even though their stats are relatively low due to type disadvantages.

One of the biggest improvements on the first games, which hasn’t been modeled in other generations, is the expansion of connection regions. Kanto and Johto are part of the same continent, and in the second generation, both are accessible. This means players have the option to collect an additional eight badges, for a total sixteen gym challenges. This is unrivaled by any other generation, and makes for one of the longest post-games in the series.

However, because these games released over twenty years ago, they easily feel a bit clunky and outdated today. At least in terms of movement and mechanics. Overall, the play style is the same as every other Pokémon game, which serves as a good connection throughout the franchise. Today, many fans herald Gold and Silver as the pinnacle of best Pokémon games. However, there are two others that make the top for this list.

2. Pokémon Diamond and Pearl (Gen 4)

Pokémon Diamond and Pearl were the first games in the series released for the Nintendo DS back in 2006. The improved graphics and touch-screen elements became staple aspects of the next three generations. However, that’s not what made them memorable as top-tier Pokémon games. The Sinnoh starters were some of the most visually interesting, even beating out those from Gold and Silver. And the legendary Pokémon, Dialga and Palkia, are still compelling fifteen years and four generations later. The Sinnoh region itself is quite different, bisected by Mount Coronet in the center. However, it boasts many geographically diverse areas, like it’s predecessor, Hoenn. And one of the unique developments of this generation was the Underground, where players could dig for treasure and find ancient Pokémon fossils.

Ultimately, the narrative elements focus on time and space, represented by the two legendary Pokémon. And throughout the adventure, players must contend with the villainous Team Galactic, which seeks to manipulate the very fabric of the universe. Though this generation of Pokémon is contested by fans, it can’t be denied as a pillar in the series.

1. Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire (Gen 3)

Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire were the first games to take players to a region not connected to the others in the series. That was made clear from the very start, where trainers find themselves in the back of a moving van, taking them to the Hoenn region. And in a sense, this set the tone for an exotic adventure unlike anything Pokémon fans had seen so far. The first in the series released on the Game Boy Advance, this generation brought to life the world of Pokémon in a vibrant, colorful way unparalleled by the first two generations. The region seemed alive with potential, from the depths of the sea to the top of volcanic Mt. Chimney.

The starter Pokémon for this generation were likewise new and captivating. And in the remakes, Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire, they were given Mega Evolutionary forms that made them all the more powerful.

Though the overall play style is similar to its predecessors, the third generation was also the first to introduce intrinsic narrative elements linked to the legendary Pokémon. Rival gangs, Team Aqua and Team Magma, fight the player at every step while trying to awaken the slumbering Pokémon, Kyogre and Groudon. Though somewhat unrealistic in motive, each faction hopes to reshape the world using the power of the legendary creatures. And it’s up to each trainer to stop them.

Overall, Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire represent the best Pokémon games, because quite simply, they were fantastic. These titles took a successful model and made it even better, offering players dozens of hours of new and refreshing content without excluding the things that make the series great. And if there are any Pokémon games to play over and over again, these are the ones.

So, You Disagree On the Best Pokémon Games

I know what you’re probably thinking — this list is all wrong. But that’s all right. We don’t have to have the same opinions on which Pokémon games are the best. And in fact, there are some on this list I would personally place higher than they landed. I’ve said elsewhere that the best Pokémon generation to start with is Gold and Silver. Or rather, more specifically, the counterpart version, Pokémon Crystal. But in trying to be objective, it simply didn’t make it to where I wanted to place it. At the end of the day, we all have our favorite Pokémon games, and for different reasons. But that’s something that makes this community great. We can all find something to love that keeps us coming back time and time again. So, whether you’re in it for the nostalgia or a brand new player, get to training.

What Is/Are Pokémon?

Speaking plainly, Pokémon seems to be less a franchise and more an overt cultural phenomenon. If you don’t believe me, just check out Pikachu Outbreak. It’s an annual event where over 2,000 of the iconic electric mice Pokémon can be found in parades, waterfronts and malls in Yokohama, Japan. In the same way Star Wars has reshaped the landscape for sci-fi storytelling, Pokémon has become something of a rite of passage for nerdom. But it comes in many forms. From manga and anime to video games and trading cards, the series’ reach seems nearly limitless.

Literally speaking, Pokémon is short for “pocket monsters”, which encapsulates the main idea of the entire franchise. In this fantastic world, humans and Pokémon coexist as companions, friends, and even battling partners. Those who raise Pokémon are known as trainers. Their adventures typically start at the age of ten and last a lifetime. For many trainers, the primary goal is to become the reigning Pokémon champion, the strongest trainer in their region. To do this, they must defeat elite trainers known as gym leaders and collect badges. once they have obtained enough badges, they have the opportunity to participate in Pokémon League tournaments, where the strongest is dubbed champion. But the various regional Pokémon Leagues vary in their requirements and tournament formats.

Generations, Regions and Games — Oh My!

Pokémon, as a series, is broken up into different generations and corresponding geographical regions. In a sense, each generation is a reset for the series, introducing new Pokémon, characters and locations. Chronologically, new generations are released about every four years, which allows ample time for development. But the primary reasoning behind the different generational resets seems to be offering a new, fresh take to the up-and-coming youth just starting out. In that sense, each generation corresponds to a new generation of games — hence, the rite of passage. But if my personal experience is anything typical, people tend to play the games over multiple generations. This allows them to find their own personal favorites.

In the main Pokémon timeline, there are currently eight different generations, as described in the chart below.

Where to Begin Your Journey

Ultimately, there’s no right place to begin when it comes to Pokémon — it’s more a matter of personal preference. There are dozens of different combinations of ways to get started. But the easiest thing to do is pair a generation with a medium and let it go from there. Medium, here, refers to the different forms of media — anima, manga, games, trading cards, and so on. The Pokémon Database can help with choosing a starting generation. It features images of every Pokémon in numerical Pokédex order. And since it can be filtered by generation, you can start to get an idea of which Pokémon you can expect to find in each region, game, or trading card run.

Something worth noting is that subsequent generations typically feature Pokémon from previous generations, though not always. So, for example, you’ll see Charizard in Gen 8 mediums, even though it was one of the first Pokémon ever released — way back in 1996. Also important is the understanding that, if you intend to play Pokémon video games, they’ll require different consoles. Although, some games have been remade for newer generation consoles and systems. The Pokémon website offers a full list of the games, remakes and necessary consoles.

When there are over 800 different Pokémon, multiple regions and mediums, understanding where to start your Pokémon journey can be difficult. But it doesn’t need to be. The Pokémon world is friendly to its fans, giving them multiple ways to enjoy it. But if I had to recommend a starting place, I won’t hesitate to point newcomers to Pokémon Crystal version. Even though it released on Gameboy Color in the U.S. in 2001, it’s still one of the best entries out there. But don’t feel like you have to heed my advice — pick a generation and dive in!

Since the debut of the Pokémon series in the mid-1990s, fans have dreamed about a game entry that allows them to explore the vast, uncharted world. And now, twenty-six years later, we finally have it in Pokémon Legends: Arceus for Nintendo Switch. The newest Pokémon title is a striking departure from the mainline games fans have come to expect over the years. But it’s a welcome addition to the franchise that hopefully signals a new line of similar titles moving forward. Ultimately, it likely won’t take the place of more traditional entries like Ruby and Sapphire. But it’s unique play style and slightly more mature theme mark it as a worth contender for your time.

How Pokémon Legends: Arceus Changed the Series

An Overhauled Play Style

Typically, Pokémon games have centered around a top-down, turn-based play style. And though more recent entries like Sword and Shield have modernized various elements, the gameplay has remained largely the same for decades. However, Pokémon Legends: Arceus makes a drastic departure from the typical format, opting instead for an action-oriented adventure. Though some aspects of the turn-based format remain, they have largely been overhauled into a drastically different experience. For example, all Pokémon now appear on the overworld map. In past games, players would wander around tall grass until suddenly surprised by a Pokémon. Then, the screen would turn to the battle animation, completely separate from the overworld. In Pokémon Legends: Arceus, everything happens seamlessly, from exploration, to battling and all other mechanics.

Part of this new dynamic includes the ability to aim and throw Poké Balls at the creatures in real-time. Meaning players can sneak around, hiding in the tall grass while awaiting the perfect moment to take their shot at catching one. Of course, some Pokémon are far harder to catch than others, and some require a battle to whittle down health beforehand.

The way battles work in Pokémon Legends: Arceus is also reminiscent of the traditional style while bringing noticeable changes. For example, Pokémon still attack in turn order, though it isn’t always one after the other. Because speed determines turn order, which allows some to attack twice in a row before the opponent ever gets a hit in. So, the back-and-forth dynamic is there though it’s not quite what fans have come to expect. Furthermore, the addition of Strong and Agile attack styles for every move gives players a way to tailor each battle to their needs.

Overall, while the new, action-oriented play style is different, it’s a welcome shift from other mainline titles.

New Forms and Evolutions

Typically, recent entries to the franchise have added in new forms, evolutions and Pokémon altogether. And overall, Pokémon Legends: Arceus follows that formula precisely. In fact, there are over twenty new forms and evolutions for players to encounter on their journey across Hisui. And depending on how quickly they train their starting partner, they might see some sooner than later. Because Samurott, Decidueye and Typhlosion have all been given new Hisuian forms that differ from the originals. But if fans take their time leveling up their starters, that’s all right. Because they’ll quickly encounter other new and unique creatures like Kleavor, Wyrdeer, and Basculegion. A full list of new forms and evolutions includes:

In fact, it makes sense for Pokémon Legends: Arceus to have added as many new forms and evolutions as it did. Because it simply continues what its connected mainline games, Diamond and Pearl, started back in 2006, when they added nearly twenty new evolutionary forms for existing Pokémon. So, fans coming to Pokémon Legends: Arceus can easily expect to encounter some exciting new creatures they’ve never seen before.

Filling Out the Pokédex Is an Accomplishment that Makes Sense

In traditional Pokémon games, completing the Pokédex is one of the main challenges presented to trainers. But for some reason, the task is entirely lackluster. Of course, it feels good knowing you’ve caught every Pokémon in the game. After all, the tagline for the series is, “Gotta Catch ‘Em All”. But in some ways, it’s also too easy. Players simply catch a Pokémon once, transfer it to the box, and never worry about it again. Pokémon Legends: Arceus turns this entire system on its head, requiring players to catch, battle with and observe Pokémon to complete a single entry. So, for example, it isn’t enough any longer to go out and catch the first Pikachu seen. Instead, you must complete a combination of different tasks to complete the entry. So, you might catch four specimens, defeat two in battle and see it use Thunderbolt three times before completing the information.

Overall, this makes filling out the Pokédex a much more rewarding accomplishment. Because it feels like you’ve actually carried out research and formed some sort of a connection with the different species out there. And instead of shipping them off to the box and never using them again, you might regularly change your team. All in all, this leads to a much more varied adventure toward completing the Pokédex than the mainline games present.

Side Quests are Meaningful and Make Sense in the Setting

Without giving too much of the plot away, Pokémon Legends: Arceus is set in Hisui, the ancient Sinnoh region. As such, people and Pokémon are only just starting to learn to work together. And ultimately, there’s quite a bit of mystery and trepidation surrounding the unique creatures. So, many of the inhabitants are wary and fearful toward the Pokémon living around Jubilife village. Another new feature of this game is the addition of side quests the player completes for rewards. And unlike many other RPGs which feature pointless, unrelated side missions, the quests in Pokémon Legends: Arceus make sense. Because many of them center around helping the villagers overcome their fear of Pokémon and teaching them to work together.

In effect, you’re helping to build the modern world of Pokémon introduced by each professor in the mainline games. Because in the words of Professor Oak, “People and Pokémon live together by supporting each other”.

Characters are Recognizable and Relatable

In many of the mainline Pokémon games, players are joined on an adventure by a small cast of other characters and rivals. However, there’s rarely ever any in-depth connection to these other individuals. They show up occasionally to battle or offer you free items to help in your adventure. But they never stay long, and there’s little in the way of meaningful connection. While Pokémon Arceus: Legends certainly isn’t the most in-depth RPG in terms of character development, it does far better than other franchise titles. In fact, the player is joined regularly by a cast of characters who at once feel familiar and relatable in a strange world. So, from Irida and Adaman to Professor Laventon and the various wardens, it feels like you actually get to know the individual characters.

So, What’s Wrong with Pokémon Legends: Arceus?

Overall, there’s quite a bit more than could be said positively about Pokémon Legends: Arceus. It’s the first sort of truly open-world game of its type. It feels much more mature and high-stakes than previous entries. And it offers players the sort of experience they’ve wanted for well over two decades. But that doesn’t mean it’s perfect. In fact, one of the main detractors are that the graphics are somewhat subpar for the system. It suffers from massive pixilation issues and occasional environmental glitching. Furthermore, though the story is better than other Pokémon titles, it still might not be considered great. The gameplay is cyclical, throwing fans into re-skinned regions and having them largely perform similar tasks over again.

Yet, for the negative points of Pokémon Legends: Arceus, it’s still a fantastic and evolved entry in a beloved series. Beyond nitpicking smaller details, fans of the franchise should find it a worthwhile experience and come away wanting more.