1. Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield (2019)

Genre: Mainline RPG
Features:

• First fully 3D Pokémon RPG on a home console
• Introduced the Galar region, inspired by the UK
• Dynamax and Gigantamax mechanics, allowing Pokémon to grow huge and change forms in battle
• Wild Area: an open-world section with free camera control, weather changes, and cooperative multiplayer raids
• Expansions: The Isle of Armor and The Crown Tundra added new areas, story content, and additional Pokémon

Overview:
Pokémon Sword and Shield marked a turning point for the Pokémon series, with improved graphics and mechanics for the first truly home-console experience. While it received mixed reactions for its reduced National Pokédex, it still delivered solid gameplay, engaging stories, and new features that modernized the series.

2. Pokémon Let’s Go, Pikachu! and Let’s Go, Eevee! (2018)

Genre: Remake of Pokémon Yellow
Features:

• Simplified catching mechanics inspired by Pokémon GO
• Classic Kanto region with updated 3D graphics
• Partner Pokémon (Pikachu or Eevee) that follows you and can learn unique moves
• Multiplayer co-op, where a second player can join in on catching Pokémon and battles
• Connectivity with Pokémon GO to transfer certain species

Overview:
Designed to appeal to both casual fans and newcomers, Pokémon Let’s Go, Pikachu! and Let’s Go, Eevee! blend traditional Pokémon gameplay with modern mechanics from Pokémon GO. This is an ideal entry point for beginners and a great way for long-time fans to revisit Kanto in a fresh way.

3. Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl (2021)

Genre: Remakes of Pokémon Diamond and Pearl
Features:

• Faithful remakes of the original 2006 DS games, set in the Sinnoh region
• Chibi-style overworld graphics with updated battles resembling modern titles
• Quality of life improvements: faster movement, enhanced UI, and better exploration options
• Updated Underground system for finding treasures, fossils, and battling in Hideaways
• Post-game content including the Battle Tower and Legendary hunting in Ramanas Park

Overview:
Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl offer a faithful retelling of the Sinnoh story with a blend of nostalgia and modern enhancements. These remakes retained the core of what made Diamond and Pearl so beloved, while offering new ways to explore and battle.

4. Pokémon Legends: Arceus (2022)

Genre: Open-world action RPG
Features:

• Set in the ancient Hisui region (early Sinnoh)
• First Pokémon game to feature an open-world experience with free-roaming Pokémon in real-time
• Focus on catching, researching, and battling Pokémon in their natural habitats
• Unique battle system combining action elements with turn-based strategy
• Rideable Pokémon for traversal across land, sea, and air

Overview:
Pokémon Legends: Arceus is a bold new step for the series, pushing the boundaries of traditional Pokémon gameplay. With its open-world design, it allows players to immerse themselves in the world of Pokémon in an entirely new way. This game emphasizes exploration and Pokémon research, making it one of the most unique entries in the franchise.

5. Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX (2020)

Genre: Dungeon-crawling RPG
Features:

• Remake of Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Red Rescue Team and Blue Rescue Team
• Beautiful watercolor art style
• Players take on the role of a human transformed into a Pokémon and must explore randomly generated dungeons to rescue other Pokémon
• Engaging, story-driven gameplay with partner mechanics and evolving friendships
• Supports auto-mode and assists to help players navigate challenging dungeons

Overview:
Rescue Team DX is a remake of one of the most beloved Pokémon spin-offs. With its emotional storyline, dungeon-based exploration, and a charming art style, this game is perfect for fans of roguelikes and those who want to experience Pokémon from a different perspective.

6. New Pokémon Snap (2021)

Genre: Photography Simulation
Features:

• A sequel to the original Pokémon Snap from the Nintendo 64 era
• Travel through diverse environments and take pictures of over 200 Pokémon in their natural habitats
• Score points based on the quality and rarity of the photos you take
• Interactive environments: use items like fluffruit and Illumina orbs to lure Pokémon and capture unique behaviors
• A relaxing experience that focuses on exploration and discovery

Overview:
For those looking for a more laid-back Pokémon experience, New Pokémon Snap is a refreshing change of pace. It allows players to appreciate the beauty and behavior of Pokémon in a way that battles never could. Perfect for photography enthusiasts or those looking for a tranquil game.

7. Pokémon Unite (2021)

Genre: Multiplayer Online Battle Arena (MOBA)
Features:

• Free-to-play with optional microtransactions
• Teams of five Pokémon battle against each other to score points by capturing goals and defeating wild Pokémon
• Choose from a variety of Pokémon with different roles, such as Attacker, Defender, and Supporter
• Real-time competitive gameplay with strategic depth

Overview:
Pokémon Unite is an exciting departure from the typical Pokémon formula, offering fast-paced MOBA action with recognizable characters. It’s easy to pick up but offers a deep learning curve for those who want to master its mechanics.

8. Pokémon Café ReMix (2021)

Genre: Puzzle
Features:

• Free-to-play with optional purchases
• Players run a café where they serve Pokémon by solving match-three-style puzzles
• Cute, relaxing gameplay with adorable art style
• Use different Pokémon as staff, each with unique abilities to help solve puzzles

Overview:
Pokémon Café ReMix is perfect for fans of puzzle games and those who want a more casual, relaxing Pokémon experience. The charming art style and easy-going gameplay make it a delightful pick-up-and-play title.

9. Pokémon Scarlet and Pokémon Violet (2022)

Genre: Mainline RPG
Features:

• First fully open-world Pokémon RPG
• Set in the Paldea region, inspired by Spain and Portugal
• Terastal phenomenon allows Pokémon to transform and boost certain types during battle
• Emphasis on non-linear exploration with three main story paths: Victory Road, Starfall Street, and Path of Legends
• Online multiplayer co-op, allowing friends to explore together

Overview:
Pokémon Scarlet and Violet introduced a true open-world experience, breaking away from the structured routes of previous titles. Players can explore at their own pace, making these games feel more alive and dynamic than ever before.