The question always comes up: what is the best Pokémon game? The truth is, there isn't one "best" game for everyone. Some are looking for the most complete adventure, others the best challenge, and still others the joy of collecting and replaying without getting bored.
In this article, we'll give you a helpful answer: a ranking by player profile, with the games that truly shine depending on what you want to experience with a controller in hand.
Before choosing: 4 simple criteria that change everything
- Exploration: do you want to get lost in routes, caves, secrets, and post-game content?
- Pacing: do you prefer a smooth progression, or a slower but richer adventure?
- Combat & strategy: do you want to optimize a team or just play "by feel"?
- Collection thrill: do you want to catch 'em all, complete the Pokedex, shiny-hunt, or just experience the story?
The "overall" best Pokémon game for many players
Pokémon HeartGold / SoulSilver
If we had to name one title that constantly comes up as a fan favorite, it's this one. Why? Because it checks almost all the boxes: a long adventure, a memorable universe, a true sense of progression, and enormous replayability. It's the kind of game that makes you want to start a new playthrough just "to build a different team."
Ideal if you want: a complete adventure, a "pure Pokémon" feel, and an experience that lasts.
The best Pokémon games according to your style
You want the best content and a "dense" adventure
- Pokémon Black 2 / White 2: ultra-generous, great balance of adventure + post-game.
- Pokémon Platinum: atmosphere, legendaries, memorable areas, and a more solid adventure than Diamond/Pearl.
You want the most "fun" in exploration and capture
- Pokémon Legends: Arceus: different approach, more dynamic capture, sense of exploration.
- Pokémon Scarlet / Violet: open world, freedom of movement, modern experience (with its technical flaws, but a real vibe).
You want the best "old school" Pokémon game and nostalgia
- Pokémon Crystal: the charm of Gen 2, a unique atmosphere, and a real retro flavor.
- Pokémon Emerald: solid pacing, very strong identity, and a beloved generation.
Quick table: which game to choose in 30 seconds?
| Your desire | The best choice | Why |
|---|---|---|
| A complete adventure | HeartGold / SoulSilver | Long, memorable, replayable |
| Content & post-game | Black 2 / White 2 | Very generous, good balance |
| A modern experience | Scarlet / Violet | Freedom, open world, multiplayer |
| Capturing "differently" | Legends: Arceus | More dynamic gameplay |
| Cult classic retro | Crystal / Emerald | Atmosphere, nostalgia, pacing |
And in 2026: the "best Pokémon game" could soon change
After FireRed and LeafGreen in February, an HD video from the official Poké Times account has reignited the rumour of a Ruby and Sapphire Switch port. If it holds up, the ranking above is about to move again.
2026 also brings bad news for older collections: Pokemon Bank closes on 26 February 2027, and Poke Transporter goes with it. Pokemon left on cartridges will have no route to the recent games at all. The steps for moving them to HOME are few, but they come with an expiry date.
A new major installment is in the pipeline: Pokémon Legends: Z-A (announced for late 2025). If Game Freak manages to maintain the exploration feel of Legends: Arceus while improving the depth of adventure, we could have a very serious contender for the title of "best Pokémon game" for a new generation of players.
The next contender now has a name: Pokémon Winds and Pokémon Waves, the tenth generation announced for 2027 on Nintendo Switch 2 only. Our rundown of Pokémon Winds and Waves sorts what is confirmed, starters and region included, from what is still rumour.
Pokeled's little tip for fully enjoying your adventure
Whether you're replaying an old classic or starting a newer game, the real Pokémon pleasure is extending the vibe: collecting, decorating, items that remind you of your team, your starter, your "childhood game."
- Discover our products on Pokeled
- See our collections
- Explore the Pokeled blog
What's the best Pokémon game?
If you want a simple answer:
- The "overall" best Pokémon game: HeartGold / SoulSilver
- The best for content: Black 2 / White 2
- The best for a different experience: Legends: Arceus
And you, how would you rank them? Tell me your top 3, and I'll give you an even more precise ranking based on your style (adventure, competitive, collection, shiny hunt, etc.).
For the DS era specifically, see every Pokémon DS game in chronological order.
