In 2016, Pokémon Go took the mobile gaming world by storm. The game gained an instant worldwide popularity, causing Nintendo’s shares to hike for more than 10% within a week. And there was a time when Pokémon Go frenzy gamers were everywhere.
For first timers, it was a whole new experience. But what many people don’t know about the Pokémon universe is that it’s way more than just one game. The Pokémon gaming series are developed by Japanese video game developer Game Freak and was published by Nintendo for the first time in 1996.
The Pokémon gaming universe is so big that it is almost always overwhelming for newcomers. So let’s say you are a new player in the series and don’t know where to start; sometimes even experienced ones get confused.
Allow us to rank the best Pokémon games so you can focus on the game instead of spending your time in searching for the best. Presenting 13 of the best Pokémon games to play this year. We have included only the core games and popular spin offs.
13. Pokémon Trozei
Platform: Nintendo DS
Genre: Puzzle
Genre: Puzzle
Trozei is basically Tetris for Nintendo with Pokémon. Instead of block of different colors, you have Pokémon box falling off the top of the screen. All you have to do is make a match of Pokémon blocks; four same types of Pokémon in a row will make those blocks disappear. Even-though the game isn’t groundbreaking or some sort, it is generally considered as a moderately challenging game.
12. Pokémon Mystery Dungeon
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Platform: Game Boy Advance, Nintendo DS, 3DS
Genres: Roguelike, Role-Playing
Genres: Roguelike, Role-Playing
Pokémon Mystery Dungeon is an entertaining spin-off of main Pokémon series, where you play as a Pokémon rather than human. In many versions of this game you have to take a short personality test before the start to determine which Pokémon you should be.
After you start playing as your assigned Pokémon you gradually form a small team of other Pokémon while navigating dungeon to take on different missions. Since its release in 2005, it has sold over 13 million copies worldwide.
11. Pokémon Ranger
Platform: Nintendo DS
Genres: Action RPG
Genres: Action RPG
Pokémon Ranger is a whole new game with almost no similarity with the traditional RPG styled Pokémon games. It’s basically a role playing game, where you control a Pokémon Ranger and catch Pokémon (temporarily) in the Fiore region. The story has basically 10 principal missions and many sub-missions. Those captured Pokémon are used to complete various tasks throughout the missions.
10. Pokémon Go
Platform: Android, iOS
Genres: Augmented Reality
Genres: Augmented Reality
Pokémon Go is one of the most recent additions to the long line of Pokémon games. It is developed by an American software development company Niantic in a collaboration with Nintendo. The game became a worldwide sensation in 2016, when it broke every record in the app industry. Pokémon Go gained a worldwide popularity mostly among gamers who were not even big Pokemon fans.
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It is a great game in many aspects and is praised for advanced real world concept. However, it is often ridden with technical problems, frequent server outages, and common authentication errors.
9. Pokémon Snap
Platform: Nintendo 64
Genres: First Person shoot, Simulation
Genres: First Person shoot, Simulation
Pokémon Snap is one of the first console based spin-off game of the original series. It is a first person simulation game, where the main character Todd Snap moves on a rail. His objective is to take images of Pokémon – better the quality of images, better will be the scores after the end of each round.
Yes the game is old, but it still has its groove. In 1999, Snap ranked fourth on the top selling games in Japan and slipped to fifth in the next couple of months. In the United Stats alone, about 151,000 copies were released in public.
8. Pokémon Generation VII
Platform: Nintendo 3DS
Genres: Role Playing
Genres: Role Playing
For first timers and people who don’t know all the genuine Pokémon products are chronologically divided into generations. Whenever a new official game in the main series is released with new Pokémon or with other significant features, that sequel is considered as the beginning of a new generation.
In 2016, two such sequels were introduced titled Pokémon Sun and Moon. The two games and their ultra follow ups, which were launched a few months after their original one, are perhaps the most graphically intense games in the entire series and it is not surprising either. In total, this generation bought 84 new Pokémon with many new features and modifications to the older ones.
7. Pokémon Generation VI
Platform: Nintendo 3DS
Genres: Role Playing
Genres: Role Playing
In 2013, Nintendo announced the arrival of sixth-generation Pokémon games with the new Pokémon X and Y. With 3D-rendering feature, these two games revolutionized the Pokemon franchise. In this generation, 72 new Pokémon species were introduced, including Fairy type and Mega Evolution Pokémon.
Other notable features were enhanced trainer customization and three new battle modes; Horde Encounters, Sky Battles and Inverse Battles. Pokémon X and Y were also the first games to be compatible with Pokémon bank. Nearly two years after the arrival of X and Y, Nintendo launched the second main series game of the sixth generation titled Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire
Pokémon X and Y received mostly positive reactions from critics, however the story was pretty disappointing for a single player RPG.
6. Pokémon Conquest
Platform: Nintendo DS
Genres: TRPG
Genres: TRPG
Pokémon Conquest remains one of the popular spin-offs of the Pokémon games in existence. Basically, it is a crossover between Pokémon and other famous Japanese game known as Nobunaga’s Ambition. The game demands a higher level of planning as it is not simply a trainer vs trainer game. Only few selected Pokémon are available in here.
It follows a good and engaging story line, where, as a player you are followed by a Pokémon Eevee throughout the region of Ransei, capturing Pokémon and befriending other warriors to unite the entire region under one nation. The game was widely appreciated by the critics at the time of its release.
5. Pokémon Generation IV
Platform: Nintendo DS
Genres: Role Playing
Genres: Role Playing
The main series games in the fourth generation include Pokémon Diamond and Pearl released in 2006 and Pokémon Platinum in 2008. In this generation a total of 107 new Pokémon species were introduced. For the first time a Pokémon game was enabled with 3D graphics along with features like online multiplayer trading and battling over WiFi.
Generation IV was a major technological milestone in the Pokémon world, however the game failed to freshen things up, and doesn’t add much to the already existing features in Generation III.
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4. Pokémon Generation V
Platform: Nintendo DS
Genres: Role Playing
Genres: Role Playing
The fifth generation of the Pokémon games began after the release of Pokémon Black and White. This time about 156 brand new species were introduced in the Pokémon universe, the most in any generation till date. Many new features like triple battles, rotation battles and battle tests were introduced, where trainer can battle it out and strengthen their existing Pokémon.
Two years later, two direct sequels of the core game were released titled Pokémon Black 2 and White 2, both featuring several new Pokémon that were not available in the previous game. Overall, both the games were fun and engaging.
3. Pokémon Generation III
Platform: Game Boy Advance
Genres: Role Playing
Genres: Role Playing
Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire were launched in 2002, marking the arrival of the third generation of Pokémon games. The game introduced 135 new Pokémon bringing the tally to a staggering 386. In contrast to the previous generation games, it includes more detailed environment, new 2-on-2 battle scenario and a contest sub-game.
This generation, however, left out some of the features that were installed in earlier games such as day-night system and it also somewhat restricted the total number of Pokémon that a player can catch. A revamped version of Ruby and Sapphire named Pokémon Emerald was launched right after the original one.
2. Pokémon Generation I
Platform: Game Boy
Genres: Role Playing
Genres: Role Playing
The first ever Pokémon game released by Nintendo was Red and Green in 1996. What many don’t know about these games is that it was never released outside Japan, however an enhanced version of the game ‘Blue’ was introduced for international release. The first generation introduced all the original 151 species of Pokémon from Bulbasaur to Mew.
Quite frankly, catching all those is still a challenge. Pokémon Yellow was the last of the first generation games and was also a memorable one. The game was largely based on the Pokémon TV series and also featured the Team Rocket. In addition, it had Pikachu that would follow the player.
1. Pokémon Generation II
Platform: Game Boy Color
Genres: Role Playing
Genres: Role Playing
It’s not that the first generation of Pokémon games wasn’t good enough, the real reason why game addicts love the second generation more than anything is its intensity, and it was where the entire game started to open up. The new generation introduced about 100 new Pokémon species, like Chikorita and Celebi, with over 250 Pokémons to collect and train.
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It also introduced the day and night feature for the first time, which had a great influence in the game play. Now certain types of Pokémon could only be caught in a specific time slot. Other features include upgraded inventory, improved user interface and two new Pokémon types (Dark and Steel). Moreover, the Pokémon breeding feature was introduced in Pokémon Gold and Silver.
Pokémon is one of the longest-running franchises in gaming. Fans of the games are always eagerly waiting for the next release in the series, which often brings about tons of new Pokémon and an entirely new region to explore. However, the wait can sometimes be a bit too long leaving you with an unsatisfiable urge for new Pokémon games. Luckily, some fans of the franchise have such a burning desire to play new Pokémon games that they have created their own weird and wonderful Pokémon fan games. Here are some of the best fan games (available for PC and Mobile via emulators) to try out while waiting for the next big Pokémon release.
Pokémon Insurgence
Starting off the list is probably the most popular fan game out there. The game features a brand new story, region, character, mega evolutions and much more. It’s basically the ultimate fan service for any Pokémon fans. The story is also a lot darker and more serious compared to the usual child-friendly storylines that we can expect from Pokémon games. The story takes place in the region of Torren, that is completely overrun by cultists. It’s ultimately up to you to step up and become the hero that saves the region. This game is an absolute must-play for any Pokémon fan with an ounce of self-respect. Do not pass up this wonderful experience.
Pokémon Ash Gray
This game will 100% give you nostalgic feelings of your childhood. Instead of having an original storyline, the game closely follows the adventures of Ash in the first anime series. You will be playing as your childhood hero and the game includes many iconic moments from one of the most recognizable shows to ever land on television. You will have to save your Pikachu from the nasty Spearow, come across the Squirtle squad and save your Charmander from the rain. This game is for anybody with fond memories of the first season of the anime.
Pokémon Glazed
Pokémon Glazed is an astonishingly enormous game. It’s an enormous project and has the trainer start his journey in an entirely new continent that’s called Tunod. It features two completely new regions as well as the Jotho region that you will be able to explore. The game features Pokémon from the fourth up until the sixth generation and provides you with an interesting selection of starter Pokémon. Throughout the game, you will meet interesting new characters as well as old ones from original Pokémon games. The game sometimes tries to be a bit edgy but despite this, it’s one of the best fanmade games currently out there.
Pokémon Phoenix Rising
Phoenix Rising is one of the newest fanmade Pokémon games but has been very well-received by the community so far. The game was made in RPG maker and ultimately tries to bring more RPG elements to the Pokémon game. You will go through an episodic story in a new region called Hawthorne. The first episode of the game is out already, although the wait for the second one could be quite long. So far no release date has been announced. Unless you really want to play a Pokémon RPG, you might want to put this one off until further episodes are released.
Pokémon Reborn
Although the story is lacking compared to some other fan games on this list, Pokémon Reborn is basically the Dark Souls for Pokémon. The game is incredibly difficult and punishes any mistake or misstep that you make. If you thought that the Dark Souls formula could never be applied to a franchise as accessible as Pokémon you were severely wrong. If you’re not that into challenging games I wouldn’t recommend it though as the story and backtracking that’s present in the game won’t be able to hold your attention for too long. This game is purely for Pokémon fans that want to challenge themselves.
Pokémon Uranium
Not having this game on the list would be a travesty. Pokémon Uranium took a grand total of 9 years to make and is probably one of the best fan games out there. So good even, that Nintendo had sent multiple DMCA letters to the developers forcing them to shut down production of the game. Despite this, you will still be able to find and download the game online as other Pokémon fans picked up the game in order to continue development. Be sure to not miss this game as it’s probably one of the most complete Pokémon experiences you will ever receive.
Pokémon 3D
Pokémon 3D is an exact copy of the Gold and Silver games, except that everything is in 3D. Although not many changes were made to the core game itself, playing a Pokémon game in full 3D is so incredibly fun that we recommend anybody to try this out. The game looks a bit Minecraft like as the graphics are still similar to the ones of the original Gold and Silver release but that doesn’t stop the game from being a joy to play. The developers are still fixing some bugs and adding missing content but it’s basically a complete experience.
How often do we find that our beloved and most cherished video games never got a proper remake? There are countless video game titles that were and still are loved by gamers all over the world but have yet to be touched again by a development studio since that original video game development. Thanks to fans, a number of amazing video game titles received an overhaul remake.
Unfortunately, most fan remakes often get the cancelation from the original owners of the IP putting a stop to production and release. We went out looking for the best fan remakes that are completely done or currently in production that has yet to be taken down or completely removed. Toshiba video recorder manual.
Take a look at the list down below and let us know in the comment section about any other fan remakes that the readers may find of interest.
GoldenEye Source: Original Title: 007 GoldenEye [Nintendo 64]
This shouldn't be much of a surprise, the Nintendo 64 original release of GoldenEye was a massive hit. Gamers crammed on the couch to take each other out in various 007 movie characters. The overhaul brings in all those beloved game modes and new added levels. Needless to say, you'll be spending countless hours playing GoldenEye just as you did when the original game released. Download it here.
Black Mesa, Original Title: Half-Life
We shouldn't have to explain just how big of a following, Valve has with the Half-Life series. Half-Life has received its very own remake or overhaul with Valve's latest Source Engine but fans were not completely satisfied. So when the announcement of a fan remake was in the works, gamers were more than welcomed to download the title upon release. The Black Mesa video game title is the re-envisioning of the original Half-Life video game with added dialogue, choreography, music and voice acting. Download it here.
King's Quest IX: Silver Lining, Original Title: King Quest Series
King's Quest may not be the biggest household name now for video games but back in the good old days, everyone knew about the series. A number of titles were released under the King's Quest franchise but over time, graphics and quality began to tamper off. Eventually after King's Quest 7 & 8 released, the series became a failure thus leading a fan group known as Phoenix Online Studios to create King's Quest IX. The video game took ten years to make and provided some fantastic graphics to the video game series. Sierra Online tried to send a cease-and-desist order out to the fan development studio but because King's Quest IX brought in a large amount of fans and the approval of Roberta Williams, King's Quest creator, Sierra Online decided to let the video game release non-commercially. Download it here.
Pokemon Generation 0, Original Title: Pokemon Series
There are so many Pokemon fan video games and remakes out on the internet and while we could make a list about Pokemon fan games in itself, we had to pick just one for the list. We're giving it to Pokemon Generation 0. What sets this video game different from others is that the game focuses on Professor Oak and his journey. According to the developer, Pokemon Generation 0 will be taking place around 35 years before the events of Pokemon Red & Blue. As a fan of the original generation of Pokemon and the show, I can't wait for this game to get released. Download it here.
Super Mario 64, Original Title: Super Mario 64
Everyone has played Super Mario 64 as it's become one of the most popular video game releases of all time receiving a 94 in Metacritic. Players take on the role of Mario as he faces off Bowser, collects a number of stars in different worlds while attempting to save the Princess Peach. A video game remake is currently in the works and it already looks amazing. The development team promises to stay true to the original title but will be adding a few little features such as the multiplayer mode. Download it here.
Sonic Before & After The Sequel, Original Title: Sonic The Hedgehog Series
Fans of the Sega Genesis and more importantly Sonic The Hedgehog series will enjoy these two video games. Created by one developer and fan of the original Sonic series, comes Sonic Before the Sequel and Sonic After the Sequel. Both titles play out very similar to the original Sonic video games where players control Sonic and Tails as they collect rings, battle difficult bosses and stop Doctor Robotnik. Overall the plot for both games is to bridge the gap between original Sonic The Hedgehog through Sonic The Hedgehog 3. Download it here.
Super Smash Bros. Crusade, Original Title: Super Smash Bros.
Nintendo's Super Smash Brothers became a hit when it first released on the Nintendo 64. Gamers could have their favorite Nintendo character fight against one another in what would be the ultimate showdown. Over the years, Nintendo has released a number of installments to the Super Smash Brothers series along with fans remaking the video game and adding characters of their own. For instance, Super Smash Brothers Crusade takes the same gameplay from the original Nintendo release but in a 2D fashion. Additionally, the development has added characters of their own that are not owned by Nintendo like Crash Bandicoot. While the game may not be fully finished yet, there will be over 80 playable characters to choose from upon completion. Download it here.
Project AM2R, Original Title: Metroid 2
Project AM2R or otherwise known as Project Another Metroid 2 Remake, is the remake of the second Metroid video game. The fan development team is making an overhaul of Metroid 2 by adding new graphics and tweaking gameplay. According to the development page, Project AM2R will add the fast paced gameplay of Metroid: Zero Mission, offer the tone from Super Metroid along with tossing new unique gameplay mechanics. Demos have been offered for download as the final game is gearing towards completion. Download it here.
Streets of Rage Remake, Original Title: Streets of Rage
Streets of Rage is one of the most popular video game series from the Sega Genesis and with only three titles released, fans years later were still craving more. Eventually a fan video game studio known as Bomber Games decided to develop a Streets of Rage remake which was completed and released online. The game was downloaded thousands of times and gained a huge following before Sega forced the game to be taken down. Because the video game was so popular, the title still exists online in complete form. New characters are present to play the game along with new stages tossed in and even the ability to make your very own Streets of Rage video game under the game maker option. Unfortunately, you'll have to search around for the video game download yourself. Download it here.
Mushroom Kingdom Fusion, Original Title: Super Mario World
Mushroom Kingdom Fusion plays out much like Super Mario World but with a slightly different twist. Instead of playing as Mario or Luigi, players have over ten different characters to choose from. These characters come from different video games like The Legend of Zelda or Mega Man series and each come with their very own unique abilities. Over time the game has received beta updates though it has slowly lost its pace. Luckily the video game had started to pick back up a bit more with a new iteration of the game release known as Super Mario Fusion Revival. Download it here.