Pokémon: Which Game is the Best to Start With? (2024)

The Pokémon franchise is vast and varied. There's the mainline RPG series to consider, but then there's the wider array of spinoffs, such as Pokémon GO or Pokémon Snap, to take into consideration. For newcomers to the franchise, there are almost too many options to discuss. They may be somewhat familiar with the anime show, have played a Pokémon game in the past, or perhaps know nothing about the premise of the Nintendo franchise. Irrespective of the way they have become interested in the Pokémon games, there's an entry point for everyone. It's vital to look at what a fan wants to get from their gameplay experience before they choose where to start.

The focus for many players will be the main RPG series, which is what Pokémon has become so famous for. While the spinoff titles are enjoyable, they're also not the most natural starting point. Many assume that players have a passing knowledge of the Pokémon world and don't contain the classic mechanics that the series popularized. Each title is from a completely different era and Generation, representing the many stages of development that the franchise has gone through. However, there are so many similarities between each installment that, regardless of where new fans may begin, they will surely be able to jump into other projects across the timeline and feel just as comfortable based on the introduction that they've had. So, what's the best game to start with? Longtime fans will have various opinions, but newcomers have excellent options in every direction.

For The Completionists

Pokémon Red Version & Pokémon Blue Version

Whether it's Assassin's Creed or Halo, there are some video game fans out there who consider themselves completionists. Not only do they try to 100% any title they play, to ensure no stone is left unturned, but they also love playing through the timeline of a series. Whether it's in release date order or chronological order, much can be gained from the narrative experience of following a series as intended. For those who consider themselves to be completionists, there's only one way to begin the Pokémon series — and that's right at the start.

The timeline of the Pokémon series perhaps isn't as important as other video game titles, especially because the protagonists are usually different. So from a storytelling perspective, starting from the beginning it's a necessity. However, it's a much more rewarding way to experience the saga. Pokémon Red and Pokémon Blue were the initial outings for this franchise. Not only do they contain the foundations of a much wider world, but from the mechanics to the character development, these blueprints for the series are full of quality decision-making. Indeed, while there are Pokémon secrets and shocking reveals to uncover, the true strength of Red and Blue is the creatures themselves.

Introduced to the Pokédex for the first time, this is one of the most imaginatively designed rosters, and all the titles since have been chasing that initial height. It also makes sense to start with a game that has the core mission of introducing a concept to its audience. No one had ever experienced what a Pokémon game was before these releases, but the titles did a stellar job of making an immediate impact and creating a formula that now has proven longevity. From a historical perspective, this is a great place to start. Fans will be able to progress through the series, seeing how upgrades and new developments move the saga away from its earliest ideas. It's not without its flaws, with graphical issues, a few glitches, and a couple of unrefined elements. What's more, the difficulty level of these Pokémon games is simpler than later installments. These are still gems and fans might also want to check out Pokémon FireRed Version and Pokémon LeafGreen Version, which are enhanced remakes.

For The Casual Fans

Pokémon Sword & Pokémon Shield

Not everyone would care about going back to the start, though, and some might want a more recent title to jump into. Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire are certainly viable options. Even though they're Game Boy Advance games, their refreshed mechanics compared to the Generation I and II titles hold up better. But for a modern gameplay experience that's still relevant and on current-gen consoles, Pokémon Sword and Shield are the must-have titles. That Generation of Pokémon games introduced audiences to the Galar Region, a gorgeous backdrop inspired by the United Kingdom. Full of setting variety, intriguing enemy types, and yet another Pokédex that boasted some instant favorites, Pokémon Sword and Shield was well-received among the community and a massive seller for Nintendo. It's the epitome of what the series can be with current technology and features some compelling gameplay elements that take advantage of those advancements such as Gigantamax transformations.

Although the villainous Team Yell leaves a little to be desired, players will be enchanted by the narrative, which features a mysterious exploration into Galar's rich history and corruption at the core of the league. Exciting Gym battles, stellar Legendaries, and a few new moves to learn, Pokémon Sword and Shield was already a great entry for veterans and is a vibrant entry point for new fans. They are sure to be gripped by the action on offer, and these installments feature a level of polish that is often unseen.

Just like any Pokémon game, the title makes sure to ease any player into this new world, with a basic tutorial and a choice of Starter Pokémon that will stick with the lead for their journey. So, just because the franchise was so far into its run by the time Pokémon Sword and Shield were released, that does not mean it is inaccessible in any capacity. Much like the other RPGs, spin-off games like Pokémon GO will continue to support the title, featuring its Pokémon and the region's lore. What newcomers learn about the franchise from this entry will continue to be relevant.

For The Best Starting Experience

Pokémon Diamond & Pokémon Pearl

Not so long ago, Pokémon returned to its roots and celebrated two titles that so many fans have such fond memories of. Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl were well-received remakes of Pokémon Diamond and Pearl, which have an instantly nostalgic feel attached. Newcomers might find that these remakes are a little more accessible. They still utilize many of the beloved elements of those originals but with access to the Nintendo Switch and all the visual upgrades and technological enhancements that come along with it. However, purists might find more joy in returning to Pokémon Diamond and Pearl to see exactly how fans initially experienced this story. For starters, that character arc is one of the best. Team Galactic becomes a genuinely threatening set of foes, led by the cunning Cyrus. With players still battling to win the League while thwarting the dangerous plot of the antagonists — who wish to reshape the galaxy using the Legendary Pokémon — fans certainly have much to contend with.

From a story perspective, there's plenty to love, and the Sinnoh Region certainly has a charm to it. This Generation featured yet another Pokédex that built a solid following. Particular standouts include the trio of Starters, the aquatic Buizel, the spooky Spiritomb, and the regal Lucario becoming integral to the wider franchise. Even the Pokémon anime series made great use of what Pokémon Diamond and Pearl brought to the table, with Dawn becoming a particularly beloved addition. New features like internet-based play and refinements to the battle mechanics were groundbreaking for the series and went on to influence each subsequent installment. For the most enjoyable experience with fresh ideas that have stood the test of time, this is the way to go.

What's more, it's a great introduction point, as it previously served as an entrance to the brand for a whole generation of players on the Nintendo DS. Ultimately, players have some decisions to make, as to where they want to start. Completionists, casual fans, and those who want to go back to one of their favorites will all have natural homes to find. However, for those who do not fall into any of those camps, the best way to choose is by looking at the Pokédexes themselves. The Pokémon are naturally the most important part of this series, and by choosing a game that has compelling leads, those battles, friendships built, and the quest to "Catch 'em all" will be all the more entertaining.

Pokemon

Expanding across a multitude of media, including TCGs, video games, manga, live-action movies and anime, the Pokémon franchise is set in a shared world of humans and creatures with a wide variety of special abilities.

Created by

Satoshi Tajiri

First Film

Pokemon: The First Movie

Latest Film

Pokémon the Movie: Secrets of the Jungle

First TV Show

Pokémon (1997)

Latest TV Show

Pokémon Horizons (2023)

First Episode Air Date

April 1, 1997

Video Game(s)

Pokémon GO , Pokemon X and Y , Pokémon Legends: Arceus , Pokémon Scarlet and Violet , Pokémon Sword and Shield , Pokémon Diamond & Pearl , Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl , Pokemon Red and Blue , Detective Pikachu , Detective Pikachu Returns , Pokémon: Let's Go, Eevee! , Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu!