So, you're diving back into the Pokémon world after a long hiatus? Awesome! The world of Pokémon has evolved quite a bit, and there's a ton to explore. Whether you're looking for something familiar or something totally new, I've got some recommendations for you. Let's break it down by what you might be craving in your Pokémon experience.
1. Craving Nostalgia: Back to the Classics
If you're looking to scratch that nostalgic itch, revisiting the games you loved or trying out some classics you missed is a great place to start. Pokémon FireRed and LeafGreen are excellent remakes of the original Red and Blue versions, offering updated graphics and gameplay while retaining the charm of Kanto. These games are perfect if you want a familiar experience with a fresh coat of paint. You'll traverse the same routes, battle the same Gym Leaders, and catch the same iconic Pokémon, but with modern conveniences that make the journey smoother and more enjoyable. The story remains largely unchanged, allowing you to relive your childhood memories or experience the Kanto region for the first time.
For a slightly different take on the classics, consider Pokémon HeartGold and SoulSilver, remakes of Pokémon Gold and Silver. These games introduce the Johto region, which expands upon the original formula with new Pokémon, new challenges, and a post-game adventure that takes you back to Kanto. The updated graphics and improved gameplay mechanics make these games a joy to play, and the addition of features like Pokémon following you in the overworld adds a layer of immersion that wasn't present in the original versions. These games are a fantastic way to revisit a beloved region or experience it for the first time with modern enhancements. Pokémon Emerald is also a choice for nostalgia.
2. Wanting Something New but Familiar
If you’re after something that feels like Pokémon, but with some modern twists, the Nintendo 3DS era is a goldmine. Pokémon X and Y introduced Mega Evolution, a game-changing mechanic that gives certain Pokémon a temporary but powerful transformation during battle. The Kalos region is also a visual treat, inspired by France, and the games offer a greater emphasis on customization and online play. Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire are remakes of the Game Boy Advance classics, Ruby and Sapphire. They've got updated graphics, new features like soaring through the sky on a Latios or Latias, and the Delta Episode, which adds a fascinating new chapter to the story. These games strike a great balance between nostalgia and innovation, making them perfect for players returning to the series after a long break.
Then there’s Pokémon Sun and Moon, set in the tropical Alola region. These games ditch the traditional Gym challenge for Island Trials, offering a refreshing change of pace. They also introduce Z-Moves, powerful, once-per-battle attacks that add a new layer of strategy to combat. The story is more character-driven than previous games, with memorable characters and emotional moments. If you're looking for a Pokémon experience that breaks from tradition while still feeling familiar, Sun and Moon are excellent choices. The Ultra versions (Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon) expand upon the original story with new features and content, making them the definitive versions of the Alola adventure.
3. Ready for a Complete Refresh: Let's Go Modern
For a totally modern Pokémon experience, the Nintendo Switch era is where it's at. Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee! are remakes of Pokémon Yellow, designed to be more accessible to newcomers and Pokémon GO players. They feature simplified catching mechanics inspired by Pokémon GO, as well as co-op play and compatibility with the mobile game. While they might not be for everyone, they're a fun and charming way to revisit the Kanto region. These games also offer a unique visual style and a more streamlined experience, making them a good entry point for players who are new to the series or returning after a long hiatus.
Pokémon Sword and Shield introduce the Galar region, inspired by the United Kingdom, and feature the Wild Area, a vast open-world area where you can encounter Pokémon in their natural habitats. They also introduce Dynamaxing and Gigantamaxing, which allow Pokémon to grow to enormous sizes during battle. The story is engaging, and the games offer a wealth of post-game content, including the Isle of Armor and Crown Tundra expansions. If you're looking for a modern Pokémon adventure with a focus on exploration and online play, Sword and Shield are excellent choices. The expansions add even more content and challenges, making them a worthwhile investment for fans of the series.
Pokémon Legends: Arceus is a bold departure from the traditional Pokémon formula, set in the ancient Hisui region (which would eventually become Sinnoh). It features a more open-world environment, a crafting system, and a greater emphasis on exploration and discovery. You'll be tasked with creating the region's first Pokédex, which involves observing Pokémon in their natural habitats and battling them in real-time combat. The story is engaging and offers a new perspective on the Pokémon world. If you're looking for a Pokémon game that breaks from tradition and offers a fresh, innovative experience, Legends: Arceus is a must-play.
Finally, Pokémon Scarlet and Violet take the open-world concept even further, allowing you to explore the Paldea region (inspired by Spain and Portugal) seamlessly. They feature three main storylines that you can pursue in any order, as well as a new battle mechanic called Terastallizing, which allows Pokémon to change their type during battle. The story is ambitious and the world is vast and full of secrets to discover. While the games have received some criticism for their technical performance, they offer a unique and engaging Pokémon experience that's worth checking out. The integration of multiplayer is also better than ever, letting you explore the region with friends.
4. Spin-Off Suggestions
Beyond the main series, there are some fantastic Pokémon spin-offs worth checking out. Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Explorers of Sky is a beloved roguelike adventure where you play as a Pokémon. It's got a great story, challenging gameplay, and a ton of replay value. Pokémon Snap (both the original and the New Pokémon Snap on Switch) offer a relaxing and charming photography experience where you capture Pokémon in their natural habitats. Pokémon GO is still going strong and offers a unique way to interact with the Pokémon world in the real world. These spin-offs offer a different perspective on the Pokémon universe and are great for players looking for something a little different.
So, What Should You Play First?
Ultimately, the best Pokémon game for you depends on what you're looking for. If you want nostalgia, go for FireRed/LeafGreen or HeartGold/SoulSilver. If you want something new but familiar, try X/Y or Sun/Moon. If you're ready for a complete refresh, Legends: Arceus or Scarlet/Violet are the way to go. And don't forget about the spin-offs! No matter what you choose, welcome back to the world of Pokémon! Have fun catching 'em all (again)!
