November 7 2019

Pokémon Games in Order

Table Of Contents

When Pokémon first debuted in the United States back in 1998, it swiftly became a cultural phenomenon. Over twenty years later, it remains as one of the most popular series ever created. But how has it remained so popular?

Similar to the adorable Pocket Monsters themselves, Pokémon is a game that’s constantly evolving, the exact reason enthusiasts keep coming back for more. In more recent years, the team behind the series has even been taking advantage of modern smartphone technology with games such as Pokémon Go—an augmented reality (AR) game available for Android and iOS.

With that being said, have you ever wondered how many Pokémon video games there are? Or, more specifically, in what order they were released? Then you’re in luck as we’ve conveniently listed every single Pokémon game in order. We have even separated all of the games into handy categories to make things easy-to-find and follow.

Related: If you’re interested in alternative titles, check out the best Pokemon fan-made games.

So, without further ado, here’s every Pokémon game in order starting with the main Pokémon games.

Main Pokémon Games

If you know anything about Pokémon, you’ll know that the main video games are split up into groups known as generations. If you’re unfamiliar with how it all works, each generation includes a new set of Pokémon with new abilities and moves that didn’t exist in the previous games. While most titles here can be ported to PC/phone, if you want an authentic experience, we recommend looking into some of the best handheld gaming consoles.

Pokemon Sword and Shield

Currently, there are seven generations, though that number is soon about to change thanks to the reveal of Pokémon Sword and Shield.

#1 Pokémon Red, Green, and Blue (Game Boy) – 1996

Release in Japan back in 1996, Pocket Monsters Red and Green were the very first Pokémon games ever created. Not only did this series introduced the first generation of Pokémon, but it also introduced a unique system in which you had to capture, train, battle, and trade Pocket Monsters.

As these Pokémon games were first released in Japan, you’re probably wondering when the rest of the world got to join in on the action—which is where Pokémon Blue comes in.

#2 Pokémon Red and Blue (Game Boy) – 1998

After a massive commercial success in Japan, Pokémon Red and Green were later released in 1998 in North America as Pokémon Red and Blue. Pokémon Blue is essentially an enhanced version of Green that completely changed the way we look at video games. A month later, both games became available for folks across the pond in Australia and New Zealand to enjoy.

Fast forward a year (1999) and gamers in Europe could finally enjoy Pokémon and begin their (late) Pocket Monster addiction.

#3 Pokémon Yellow (Game Boy) – 1999

Two years after the success of Pokémon Red and Green, arguably one of the best Pokémon games for Game Boy was released worldwide. Inspired by the gripping Pokémon anime, Pokémon Yellow: Special Pikachu Edition enabled players to finally explore the Kanto region alongside Pikachu—the most memorable and iconic Pokémon to-date. While Pikachu can’t evolve or be traded, he will attempt to assist you in battle in Pokémon Yellow.

This was the first time a Pokémon would follow you outside of the battlefield and one of the last Pokémon games released on the Game Boy.

#4 Pokémon Gold and Silver (Game Boy Color)- 2000

Four years after the release of the first ever Pokémon game, the world of Pokémon changed drastically. Pokémon Gold and Silver began Generation II of Pokémon by introducing a large selection of new creatures, moves, gyms, and trainers. As these games are much larger than the previous titles in the series, you’ll have to spend a big chunk of time catching all of the Pokémon and collecting badges. Though you definitely won’t regret the time you invest in these games.

As Pokémon Gold and Silver were released on the Game Boy Color, you can tell that Nintendo took advantage of the improved hardware capabilities as both of these games look simply incredible.

#5 Pokémon Crystal (Game Boy Color) – 2001

Pokémon Crystal was also revolutionary in that it was the first Pokémon game that enabled you to choose the gender of your Trainer. Today, this may not appear very revolutionary, but back in 2001, it certainly was. Another thing that arguably makes Pokémon Crystal better than Pokémon Yellow are the adorable animations that occur when you encounter a Pokémon.

It truly makes each Pokémon you stumbled upon feel like a special experience.

#6 Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire (‎Game Boy Advance) – 2003

The first Pokémon games released for the Game Boy Advance were Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire. These games not only began the third generation of Pokémon, but they also introduced over 100 new species of Pocket Monsters that we all came to love. To spice things up a little, Ruby and Sapphire also featured brand new 2v2 battles, entertaining contests, and a bunch more innovative features that we still simply can’t get enough of.

As with the previous titles, you can also choose the gender and the name of your Pokémon Trainer in Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire, a feature that adds a personal touch to the game.

#7 Pokémon Emerald (‎Game Boy Advance) – 2005

If you grew up playing the previous Pokémon games in the series, Pokémon Emerald may feel very familiar to you. Released for the Game Boy Advance back in 2005, Pokémon Emerald features music and an art style similar to its predecessors.

Now, this isn’t necessarily a bad thing, rather it actually feels quite nostalgic for a game that came out two years after Ruby and Sapphire.

#8 Pokémon Diamond and Pearl (DS) – 2007

Pokémon Diamond and Pearl were the first Pokémon games to utilize the DS and its unique dual-screens. Since these games were released for a brand new system, there was a fairly large gap between Generation IV and III.

We didn’t mind waiting for Diamond and Pearl as these Pokémon games feature some of, if not the, best Pokémon we’ve ever seen in the video game series.

#9 Pokémon Platinum (DS) – 2009

Taking place in an alternate dimension, Pokémon Platinum enables you to go back to the Sinnoh region found in Pokémon Pearl and Diamond. Compared to the previous games released two years prior, not much actually changed when it comes to Pokémon Platinum. Saying that, some things were actually freshened up and repackaged for Pokémon enthusiasts to enjoy. Of course, this isn’t to say that the new stuff wasn’t good.

Platinum is, in fact, worth buying for the range of Pokémon and their legendary forms alone.

#10 Pokémon Black and White (DS) – 2011

Generation five of Pokémon began with Black and White, games that introduced more than 156 Pokémon in addition to some new battle styles: Rotation and Triple Battles. As there were over 600 Pokémon to collect at the time of their release, they were some of the most entertaining Pokémon games on the market. One of the most intriguing features of Pokémon Black and White is Pokémon Global Link which allows you to access a special area known as Dream World.

To access Global Link, all you need is a Pokémon Trainer Club account and away you go.

#11 Pokémon Black 2 and White 2 (DS) – 2012

As you may have already assumed, Pokémon Black 2 and White 2 are essential sequels to Pokémon Black and White. The main difference between the games is that the second versions were enhanced for both the DSi and 3DS systems. As you return back to the Unova region once again, you may notice that the Pokémon formula essentially stays the same.

Pokémon Black 2 and White 2 offer fresh new content, areas to explore, main characters and a brand new storyline for you to enjoy.

#12 Pokémon X and Y (3DS) – 2013

A mere two years after Pokémon Black and White was released, the series finally moved over to Nintendo’s most recent handheld console at the time, the Nintendo 3DS. Set in the Kalos region, Pokémon X and Y includes deeper character customization that allows you to change the skin color, hairstyle, and clothing of your Trainer. Considering these games were released for the 3DS, they fully take advantage of its unique hardware and features. Pokémon X and Y also introduced Fairy-type Pokémon as well as Mega Evolutions which changed the battling system altogether.

Super Training and Pokémon-Amie gave players the chance to develop a stronger bond with their fascinating Pocket Monsters.

#13 Pokémon Sun and Moon (3DS) – 2016

Set in the new Alola region inspired by Hawaii, Pokémon Sun and Moon features 81 new species of Pokémon, some of which are regional variants known as Alola Forms. In these Generation VIII games, the map is split up into four islands home to a range of different characters and stunning environments. Since you can explore the gorgeous tropical islands, your entire experience while playing Sun and Moon will feel like an epic adventure, rather than a lengthy trek.

One thing that some fans found unnecessary was the fact that gyms were scrapped altogether. Instead, you’re required to complete Island Trials on each of the islands.

#14 Pokémon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon (3DS) – 2017

A year after the release of Pokémon Sun and Moon, sequels Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon were released on the Nintendo 3DS.

While these games are set in the same Alola region found in Pokémon Sun and Moon, the “Ultra” versions introduce new characters, as well as some new Pokémon forms and species for you to catch.

#15 Pokémon Sword and Shield (Switch) – 2019

Set to release on November 15th, Generation VII of Pokémon will begin with Pokémon Sword and Shield. And to say we’re simply stoked for it is an understatement. Not only will they mark the beginning of the eighth Pokémon generation, but they will also be the first main Pokémon games set to release on the Nintendo Switch.

Even though we don’t currently have much information on Sword and Shield aside from the reveal of some Pokémon that will be included, we simply had to feature the games on our “Pokémon games in order” list.

Pokémon Mobile Games & Apps

Pokémon GO is among one of the best iOS games on the market. But did you know that there are actually many more Pokémon mobile games and applications available to play right now?

Pokemon Mobile Games

If you’re one to travel a lot or your daily commute is fairly long, you may enjoy playing some of the Pokémon mobile games and apps that we have listed below.

#1 Pokédex 3D and Pokédex 3D Pro

Available on the beloved Nintendo eShop, Pokédex 3D is a free Pokédex application available on the Nintendo 3DS. This application features stats and in-depth information on Pokémon, including 153 Pocket Monsters from Pokémon Black and White. Shortly after the release of this 3DS app, Nintendo released a National Pokédex version known as Pokédex 3D Pro. The sad thing is that, unlike the original version, the Pro edition isn’t available for free.

The worst part about it? The Pro edition eventually replaced Pokédex 3D in 2012.

#2 Pokémon Bank

Pokémon Bank is another superb application available on the Nintendo 3DS. The thing is, this app is a little different compared to the previous one on our list. This is due to the fact that Pokémon Bank isn’t actually a video game. Rather, it’s a utility app used to store Pokémon in the 100+ storage boxes available. Compatible with a range of different Pokémon games, you will, unfortunately, have to pay to use Pokémon Bank.

Thankfully, it’s an extremely affordable application that costs a mere $4.99 per year (in the US).

#3 Pokémon Go

Even if you aren’t particularly into Pokémon, you can’t deny that Pokémon Go was revolutionary. Released back in the summer of 2016, it’s an essential augmented reality (AR) mobile game that everyone should have installed. Truthfully, it was one of the only reasons I went out that summer, and I’m definitely not the only one who can admit that, either. Pokémon Go works by utilizing your phone’s internal GPS system so that you can wander around the real-world catching a range of Pokémon in real-time.

Since it’s a free app, we highly recommend that you download and try it as soon as possible.

#4 Pokémon Duel

If you’re into digital board games, you’re going to love Pokémon Duel. Available for free on the Google Play and Apple App Store, Pokémon Duel (formerly Pokémon Co-master) is based on the Pokémon Trading Figure board game in which you move pieces across a virtual field. Your main goal in this Pokémon mobile game is to send out your Pokémon figures and move them to the goal on your opponent’s side of the board.

If you reach your goal first, you’re the winner of the game. If your opponent reaches their goal before you reach yours, you lose.

#5 Camp Pokémon

Last on our list of Pokémon mobile games and apps is Camp Pokémon: a free app released for iOS in 2014. Two years later, the game was finally released on Android for everyone to enjoy.

Contrasting some of the other Pokémon games on our list, this application was created to teach younger gamers the basics of Pokémon through a range of fun and engaging games.

Pokémon PC Games

Prefer to play Pokémon across a stunning ultrawide gaming monitor? How about on-the-go using a gorgeous 17-inch gaming laptop? Then you may be interested in learning about all of the Pokémon titles available for PC right now.

Playing Pokemon Games on PC

Today, we’ll be starting off this section with Pokémon TCG Online, a game also available on mobile.

#1 Pokémon TCG Online

Pokémon TCG Online is a fantastic digital Pokémon Trading Card Game available for PC. While it’s also available for download on Apple and Android devices, we decided to list it under Pokémon games for the PC. If you’re new to this game, you can begin by practising against AI. Ready for a challenge? Then jump online and play with your friends or even internet strangers.

The best part about this trading card game is that you only require an Intel Core i3 CPU and therefore you don’t even require the best CPU for gaming to play Pokémon TCG Online.

#2 Pokémon PokéROM Gotta Learn ’em All!

Much like Camp Pokémon, Pokémon PokéROM Gotta Learn ’em All! is a series of educational mini CD-ROMs that work on both Windows and Mac. Once you insert the disc, you’re asked to choose a name as well as the difficulty level that matches elementary school grades (1-5). Each disc contains a different range of educational Pokémon games, from virtual board games, multiplayer quiz games for 1-4 players and even math and science games to boost your knowledge.

Who said Pokémon PC games couldn’t be educational?

#3 Pokémon Project Studio (Red and Blue)

Pokémon Project Studio is a creative computer program that was released in the US in 1999. If you’re old enough to remember playing this game growing up, you’ll likely remember just how fun it was. Project Studio is simply a program that enables you to create Pokémon projects, such as greeting cards and calendars. Available in Red and Blue versions, each program has a different set of stock art from Generation I.

While the classic Pokémon were available in both versions, you’ll have to go ahead and grab both games if you want all of the Pokémon images.

#4 Pokémon: Masters Arena

If you want to test yourself and prove that you’re the best Pokémon Master around, Pokémon Master Arena is the game for you. In actual fact, this Pokémon PC game contains eight mini-games used to test your knowledge. The eight games are: Match a Pokémon Team, Pikachu’s Picture Puzzle, Spinda’s Mahjong, Poké Ball Mystery Challenge, Pokémon Trivia Challenge, Mudkip’s Bingo, Treecko’s Word Jumble, and Wynaut’s Water Shots.

Once complete, you will earn yourself eight posters that can be printed and hung on your wall to show off to your friends.

#5 Pokémon: Team Turbo

Another Pokémon PC game designed for young enthusiasts is Pokémon: Team Turbo. In this Pokémon spin-off, you must complete five mini-games with different difficulty levels in order to earn power-ups. These power-ups can then be used during the six races in order to cross the finish line before your opponents.

While this game was designed for young children, adults will certainly find Pokémon: Team Turbo entertaining.

Pokémon Spin-Offs

There are a number of Pokémon spin-offs that can be split up into a range of different genres available for multiple platforms. From trading card games to pinball titles, here are all of the Pokémon spin-offs on the market right now.

Pokemon Stadium Series Games

First up in our list of spin-offs is the Pokémon Stadium series. This series essentially includes spin-offs of Generation I and Generation II Pokémon games previously released for the Nintendo 64.

Pokémon Trading Card Games

There’s no denying that the ability to play the role of a Pokémon trainer and battle your opponents virtually is second to none. This is why Pokémon Trading Card games are one of, if not the, most popular type of Pokémon video games to this day. While the playing and setup time varies per game, the premise is consistent: you attack your opponent’s Pokémon until they are knocked out. In order to win, you must draw all of the Prize cards by knocking out Pokémon.

Pokémon Pinball Games

First released in Japan back in 1999, Pokémon pinball is exactly as you’d expect: a Pokémon-themed pinball game with a twist. Available for the Game Boy Color, Pokémon Pinball features a range of Pokémon-themed tables and catchable wild Pocket Monsters. Four years later, the game was updated and released on the Game Boy Advance as Pokémon Pinball: Ruby and Sapphire.

Pokémon Mystery Dungeon Games

Pokémon Mystery Dungeon is primarily a collection of turn-based video games that are a spin-off from the main Pokémon series. First released in Japan, the first two games on our list feature all of the 386 Pokémon from Generations I, II and III.

Aside from Shaymin and Arceus, the second set of games features the majority of the Pokémon from Generation IV. Sadly, the Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Adventure Team games are the only Mystery Dungeon titles that weren’t released internationally. Albeit, they were the first Mystery Dungeon games to be released on a home console (WiiWare).

Related: Best Wii U Games

Featuring Generation V and some other Generation Pokémon, Gates to Infinity, was the first solo Mystery Dungeon title. The most recent game in the series features a whopping 720 Pokémon. There’s even been an anime and manga adaptation of these Mystery Dungeon games, too.

Pokémon Ranger Games

Available for the Nintendo DS, Pokémon Ranger is an action-adventure game in which you have to travel across Fiore and capture Pokémon. Instead of taking the role of a Pokémon trainer as you would in the previous games, you fittingly play the role of a Ranger. This means that rather than capturing Pokémon in Poké Balls, you must safely add them to your party using a Capture Styler—a device that enables you to temporarily take charge of wild Pokémon.

Pokémon Rumble Games

The Pokémon Rumble series consists of five, beat ’em up video games available for a range of different platforms. Every single game in the series features a range of Toy Pokémon that you must use in real-time, fast-paced melee battles. At first, you’ll start out with a single Pokémon. But as you progress through the game, there’s a chance to collect over 700 creatures to raise your Adventure Rank.

Pokémon Sega Pico Games

If you’re too young to know what a Sega Pico is, it’s essentially an educational console created by Sega Toys. While the system wasn’t much of a success outside of Japan, there are a few Pokémon games available for the system that focused on educating children. There’s even a Pikachu edition of the Sega Pico which is simply adorable—good luck getting your hands on it, though.

  • Pokémon: Catch the Numbers!
  • Pokémon Advanced Generation: I’ve Begun Hiragana and Katakana!
  • Pokémon Advanced Generation: Pico for Everyone Pokémon Loud Battle!

Pokémon Advanced Pico Beena Games

As you may have guessed, the Advanced Pico Beena is simply the successor to the Sega Pico. Unfortunately, Beena was not released outside of Japan and no games have been released for the system since 2011.

  • Pokémon Advanced Generation: Pokémon Number Battle!
  • Intellectual Training Drill Pokémon Diamond and Pearl: Letter and Number Intelligence Game
  • Pokémon Diamond and Pearl: Search for Pokémon! Adventure in the Maze![80]
  • Pokémon Best Wishes: Intelligence Training Pokémon Big Sports Meet!

Other Pokémon Spin-Off Games

There are plenty of other Pokémon spin-off games that we have conveniently listed below.

Conclusion

There you have it, every single Pokémon video game in order. We simply can’t wait for Generation VIII of Pokémon and we’re hoping that it meets our expectations. With that said, we’d love to know what your favourite Pokémon game is right now. Even if you have more than one favourite, feel free to let us know in the comments below!

Fancy reading another “games in order” article? Then why not head over to our list of every Assassin’s Creed game in order?

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Author

Courtenay Smith