Since its inception on the Game Boy, Pokémon has evolved into a monumental entertainment franchise encompassing trading cards, health apps, and even aircraft. This remarkable journey transformed it into a global phenomenon, captivating audiences of all ages.
Between its initial debut and the Game Boy Advance era, a total of twelve games were launched, each either enhancing the iconic mechanics of Pokémon Red and Blue (or Green in Japan) or branching into novel genres.
This article ranks these significant releases based on a blend of their cultural impact, longevity, Metacritic scores, and personal reflections. Are you prepared to embark on another journey to Catch ‘Em All?
12 Pokémon Pinball
Pinball Wizard
This game is among the pioneering spin-offs that effectively integrate over 151 creatures into diverse genres. True to its name, Pokémon Pinball combines the thrill of pinball with Pokémon elements.
Featuring two boards—Red and Blue—players capture Pokémon by hitting the pop bumpers six times within a two-minute timeframe. Evolving Pokémon is exclusively achieved by collecting items hidden in various targets within the same time limit. The game allows capturing all 151 Pokémon without needing to purchase multiple versions.
Though it received positive responses overall, some critiques noted that the physics mechanics could feel inconsistent, which is a critical aspect of any pinball experience.
11 Pokémon Trading Card Game
Gotta Collect ‘Em All
Launched two years after the Pokémon Trading Card Game became an instant hit, this adaptation for the Game Boy Color successfully transitions the tabletop experience into a digital format.
Players take on the role of a boy journeying across the world, challenging trainers and Club Masters to ultimately reach the Grand Masters and earn Legendary Cards, provided they can overcome their rival, Ronald.
While the rival’s name may be a nod to the Pokémon TCG’s association with fast-food chains, the game offers an enjoyable and economical alternative to the physical card game—despite being unable to replicate the excitement of opening real card packs.
In Japan, a sequel called Pokémon Card GB2: Here Comes Team Great Rocket! added enhancements like a new storyline, the fourth Pokémon card set centered on Team Rocket, and deck effectiveness ratings.
10 Pokémon Pinball: Ruby & Sapphire
A Gem Amongst Spin-Offs
Another offering from the pinball series, this game introduces players to the third generation of Pokémon.
Featuring two boards based on Ruby and Sapphire, there are 204 Pokémon to catch, including all but Deoxys from the Hoenn Pokédex, along with some familiar Johto starters and Aerodactyl.
Players navigate through four modes, including the returning Catch ‘Em and Evolution modes, with two new modes added: Egg Mode for baby Pokémon and Travel Mode to explore different areas.
Fans noted improvement in gameplay physics, along with vibrant visuals and sounds, making it a delightful on-the-go experience.
9 Pokémon Red, Blue & Green
Give A Hand For Those That Started It All
Originally launched as Pokémon Red & Green in Japan and later as Red & Blue worldwide, these titles ignited the Pokémon craze.
Offering an engaging blend of collecting, battling, and trading, they set a high standard for what would become a lasting franchise. Despite some limitations like black-and-white graphics and basic mechanics, the foundational gameplay remains appealing even today.
8 Pokémon Gold & Silver
Double The Pokémon, Double The Fun
Marking the debut of the second generation, Pokémon Gold & Silver significantly revamped the series.
While the narrative isn’t groundbreaking, the introduction of features like breeding, a day/night cycle, and baby Pokémon enhanced the gameplay experience immensely.
One of the most notable surprises was the ability to continue exploring the Kanto region after defeating the Champion, allowing players to access a remarkable total of 16 gym badges. Introducing Togepi also makes a strong case for this generation.
7 Pokémon Puzzle Challenge
Otherwise Known As Panel De Pon
Developed by Intelligent Systems—famous for titles like Fire Emblem and Paper Mario—Pokémon Puzzle Challenge introduces a fresh take on traditional puzzle games, akin to a reversed version of Tetris.
Players must manage a grid of blocks, clearing lines by strategically swapping segments as new rows emerge. The game creatively incorporates theme elements from the Gold & Silver series and includes a challenge mode with computer-controlled trainers and gym leaders.
Regrettably, the franchise has yet to see a sequel. A modern adaptation for the Switch, similar to Tetris 99, would undoubtedly find success.
6 Pokémon Ruby & Sapphire
Fire & Water For The Game Boy Advance
Ruby & Sapphire marked the third generation of Pokémon and became the highest-selling games for the Game Boy Advance.
Introducing double battles, Pokémon natures, and abilities, these features have become significant in both casual and competitive play. Additionally, the antagonists, Team Aqua and Team Magma, aimed to alter the world’s terrain, adding layers of complexity to the narrative.
5 Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Red Rescue Team
The Slightly Worse Of Two Halves
As the final installment for the Game Boy Advance, Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Red Rescue Team is the inaugural title in the beloved Mystery Dungeon series.
Players control a human transformed into a Pokémon, navigating procedurally generated dungeons while unraveling a compelling and heartfelt narrative.
Similar to other games, it has a counterpart in Blue Rescue Team for the DS, which boasts graphical and sound enhancements, as well as dual-screen functionality—features that add depth to the gameplay experience.
4 Pokémon Yellow
An Anime Special
Pokémon Yellow is a unique entry within the main series, serving as both an upgraded version of Red & Blue and a companion to the anime.
Players begin with a Pikachu that follows them—mirroring Ash’s journey—aka showcasing different moods through emoticons. Moreover, the Pokédex reflects the anime’s narrative, excluding certain Pokémon like Meowth that were not part of Ash’s catch.
Although a standout among the original games, Pokémon Yellow has since been overshadowed by newer installments that introduced more advanced features.
3 Pokémon Crystal
Enhanced And Refined
Pokémon Crystal stands as the enhanced version of Gold & Silver, offering substantial improvements that make it the ideal way to experience the second generation on the Game Boy.
While HeartGold and SoulSilver would later surpass it on the DS, Crystal was the first to truly enhance the original gameplay. Some may argue that its features felt like premium content that should have been included in Gold & Silver, thus giving it a cash-grab reputation.
Regardless, additions like animated sprites, a deeper storyline involving the Legendary Dogs, and the introduction of a female-presenting player character make Pokémon Crystal a worthy choice for fans.
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