This review has been updated 13 times since it was first published in November of 2017. With millions of young and young-at-heart gamers hooked on the franchise, Pokémon is one of the most popular video game series in the world. Whether you’re a veteran looking for the next game to buy or a newcomer who wants to try the series for the first time, the titles on these list will provide you with countless hours of battling, catching and training monsters. When users buy our independently chosen editorial picks, we may earn commissions to help fund the Review.

7. Super Mystery Dungeon
Unlike other games in the series where you play a human who wants to catch them all, Super Mystery Dungeon (around $28) allows you to play a Pokemon in a world inhabited solely by these creatures. There are 20 playable characters to choose from.
- Challenging boss fights
- Simplified menu system
- Main storyline is fairly short

6. Omega Ruby
A remake of the franchise’s third generation, Omega Ruby (appx. $36) retains the story, creatures, and characters of the Hoenn region but updates the graphics, battle system, and adds a multitude of new beasts for you to collect. Also, it brings back the popular contest mini-game.
- Great color palette
- Strong online functionality
- Frame rate tends to be unstable

5. Platinum Version
While it’s an older title, Platinum Version (about $300) ‘s immersive Sinnoh region and well-designed set of monsters make it lots of fun to play. The Battle Frontier has a wide variety of special game modes that will prove challenging to any player.
- Interesting legendary beasts
- Many underground areas
- Limited online features

4. Pokken Tournament DX
If you want to experience your favorite Pokemon in a completely different battle system, Pokken Tournament DX (appx. $50) is one of the most interesting entries in the series. It’s a fast-paced, action-packed fighting game that is a blast to play with friends.
- 21 playable characters
- Addictive loot system
- Fluid animations

3. Pokemon X
The first game in the series to be released on the 3DS, Pokemon X (about $31) adds numerous features to the classic battle system such as mega evolutions and horde encounters. Also, its Player Search System allows you to easily trade and battle other trainers online.
- Detailed 3d graphics
- New fairy-type pokemon
- Lackluster story

2. Black Version 2
Black Version 2 (around $113) has many challenges and areas that you can experience after the main story so it’s possible to sink hundreds of hours into the game. Also, it has an engaging, complex plot with compelling and well-written characters.
- Seasonal cycles
- Great soundtrack
- Rotation battles


1. Ultra Sun
Ideal for experienced gamers and ardent fans of the series, Ultra Sun (around $33) is a lengthy and challenging entry to the franchise with numerous callbacks to previous games. Also, it has better graphics and artwork than its predecessors.
- Entertaining mini-games
- Strong world building
- Engaging post-story content

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