Are you curious about playing pokemon video games in order? This guide from polarservicecenter.net provides a comprehensive overview of the Pokémon main series, detailing both the release order and the chronological timeline. Discover essential information on Pokémon game releases and device compatibility, ensuring a seamless gaming experience while maximizing the functionality of your Polar device. Delve into the exciting world of Pokémon, get ready for a journey filled with nostalgia, adventure, and endless possibilities.
1. What is the Release Order of Pokemon Video Games?
The release order of pokemon video games follows the sequence in which they were launched to the public, marking the evolution of the franchise from its humble beginnings to its current status. Here’s a comprehensive list:
1.1. Pokémon Red and Blue
Initial US Release: September 28, 1998 (Game Boy)
Pokémon Red and Pokémon Blue are the cornerstone of the Pokémon franchise. Released as Red and Green in Japan, these games, developed by Game Freak for the original Game Boy, invite you into the Kanto region, where you embark on a journey as a young trainer. Battling gym leaders and the Elite Four while thwarting the criminal organization Team Rocket provides a classic RPG experience.
Pokemon games in order: The box art for Pokemon Red featuring Charizard drop shadowed onto a red PT background
The Pokémon Company has twice remade Red and Blue. The first remake was with Pokémon FireRed and LeafGreen for the Game Boy Advance in 2004, and the second was with Pokémon Let’s Go Eevee and Pikachu for the Nintendo Switch in 2018. Pokémon Let’s Go even incorporates motion-based catching mechanics, playing off the global success of Pokémon Go.
1.2. Pokémon Yellow
Initial US Release: October 19, 1999 (Game Boy Color)
Pokémon Yellow offers a slightly altered version of the original story. This version of the original journey through Kanto mimics many aspects of the ever-popular Pokémon anime.
Pokemon games in order: The Pokemon Yellow box art featuring Pikachu drop shadowed on a red PT background
Instead of the standard three starter Pokémon, your character’s partner is a Pikachu, just like Ash’s Pikachu from the show. Your little electric Pokémon follows behind you in the overworld, and your relationship with it changes based on how well you treat it. Classic anime duo Jessie and James also make an appearance as part of Team Rocket, and the whole game has slightly upgraded graphics compared to the original.
1.3. Pokémon Gold and Silver
Initial US Release: October 15, 2000 (Game Boy Color)
Generation two introduces us to a second region and 100 new Pokémon to encounter. Gold and Silver (or their remakes HeartGold and SoulSilver for the Nintendo DS) are a lot of people’s favorite Pokémon games. Whether that’s due to its compelling plot, suite of improved features, or just pure nostalgia, generation two is up there with the best of them.
Pokemon games in order: The box art for Pokemon Silver featuring Lugia drop shadowed on a red PT background
Much like in Red and Blue, you play as a young boy setting off on a Pokémon journey, this time across Johto, fighting powerful trainers along the way and re-encountering Team Rocket as they search for their leader, Giovanni. As well as this version’s enhanced graphics for the Game Boy Color, Gold and Silver added a bunch of features that are now considered Pokémon game staples. I’m talking about held items, specialized Poké balls, the Pokégear, shinies, special attack and defense, and breeding. Pokémon would look a whole lot different today without any one of these features. Thanks, Johto!
1.4. Pokémon Crystal
Initial US Release: July 29, 2001 (Game Boy Color)
With the release of Pokémon Crystal, Game Freak acknowledged that not just boys play Pokémon, as it was the first game in the series to let you choose your character’s gender. Crystal is the third game in generation two and it serves a similar purpose to Yellow in that it’s a retelling game. The plot is practically unchanged from Gold and Silver except for the addition of some sub-plots focusing on Suicune and Unown.
Pokemon games in order: The box art for Pokemon Crystal featuring Suicune drop shadowed on a red PT background
Crystal also featured animated sprites for the first time, which wouldn’t come back until Emerald’s release four years later. The main notable addition to the game is the Battle Tower, a building where you can take part in a series of Pokémon battles to prove yourself.
1.5. Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire
Initial US Release: March 19, 2003 (Game Boy Advance)
Enter Hoenn and its harmonious horns. I’ll admit that gen three has a special place in my heart as both my first and favorite Pokémon generation, but I’m definitely not alone in that opinion. I mean, these games introduced us to both Torchic and Gardevoir, two of the best Pokémon ever Nintendo also remade these games for the Nintendo 3DS as Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire.
Pokemon games in order: The box art for Pokemon Ruby featuring Groudon drop shadowed on a red PT background
Ruby and Sapphire play out much the same as previous generations do in terms of main plot, but this generation introduces two new baddies – Team Magma and Team Aqua. Both of these gangs want to use the legendary Pokémon Groudon and Kyogre to alter the climate and land mass of Hoenn, either by causing drought to create more land or flooding the place to create larger oceans. You’ve got to give Game Freak credit for tackling a climate change storyline so early.
1.6. Pokémon Emerald
Initial US Release: May 1, 2005 (Game Boy Advance)
Pokémon Emerald is my personal favorite game in the entire franchise and was also the very first Pokémon game I ever played. Emerald came out two years after Ruby and Sapphire and is once again a retelling game. In my (and a lot of other people’s) opinion, Emerald is the optimal way to experience generation three as you take on both Teams Magma and Aqua and get to meet the super awesome sky dragon Rayquaza.
Pokemon games in order: Box art for Pokemon Emerald featuring Rayquaza drop shadowed onto a red PT background
There are some slight plot changes that you might appreciate more if you’ve played both Ruby/Sapphire and Emerald, specifically relating to Wallace, but otherwise Pokémon Emerald has everything you need from generation three.
1.7. Pokémon Diamond and Pearl
Initial US Release: April 22, 2007 (Nintendo DS)
Pokémon lands on the DS, a whole extra screen of fun! I distinctly remember getting my copy of Pokémon Diamond as a birthday present alongside my white DS Lite for my tenth birthday. Generation four takes our protagonist to the Sinnoh region which is loosely based on Japan’s northern island Hokkaido, characterized by its colder climate and snowy mountains.
Pokemon games in order: Box art for Pokemon Diamond featuring Dialga drop shadowed on a red PT background
As well as doing all the usual Pokémon things of battling trainers, catching new ‘mons, and earning gym badges, you must also defeat Team Galactic who… let me check my notes… plan to create an entirely new universe for themselves and destroy the current one by controlling the time and space Pokémon Dialga and Palkia. Game Freak really stepped up the threat level for this one. The DS’s Wi-Fi network also let you trade with and battle players from around the world, rather than just those around you with link cables.
1.8. Pokémon Platinum
Initial US Release: March 22, 2009 (Nintendo DS)
You know how this goes by now. Pokémon Platinum is a retelling of Diamond and Pearl that focuses on Giratina much more heavily than Dialga and Palkia. It’s also the first Pokémon game to give you multiple chances to catch the box art legendary. As someone who didn’t catch Dialga in their Diamond playthrough and has regretted it ever since, I really appreciate this feature.
Pokemon games in order: Box art for Pokemon Platinum featuring Giratina drop shadowed on a red PT background
Platinum’s main addition alongside the plot tweaks is the Distortion World, an area with strange physics compared to the rest of Sinnoh that gives the game a spooky feel. It’s also a lot easier to catch Pokémon from older generations in Platinum as you don’t have to wait until you’ve beaten Cynthia to find them.
1.9. Pokémon Black and White
Initial US Release: March 6, 2011 (Nintendo DS)
Pokémon Black and White brought us the first region not based on an area of Japan. Generation five’s Unova is based on New York City, filled with skyscrapers and suspension bridges. This version also added the most new Pokémon since the original 151, which some people think was a bad idea given the… wackiness of some Unovan Pokémon like Klink, Throh, and Musharna.
Pokemon games in order: Box art for Pokemon Black featuring Reshiram drop shadowed on a red PT background
As usual, a criminal organization known as Team Plasma is up to no good as you travel across the Unova region. Their leader, N, just wants Pokémon and humans to live in harmony, but there’s someone else pulling the strings from behind the curtain.
1.10. Pokémon Black 2 and White 2
Initial US Release: October 7, 2012 (Nintendo DS)
In a series first, Pokémon Black 2 and White 2 aren’t simply retellings of the original generation five games, but direct sequels. This story takes place two years after the events of Black and White, featuring new protagonists, locations, and added features like the Pokémon World Tournament.
Pokemon games in order: Box art for Pokemon White 2 featuring White Kyurem drop shadowed on a red PT background
Ghetsis is back alongside Colress as part of Team Neo Plasma, a branch of Team Plasma that formed after the end of the first game. The plot focuses on the legendary Unova dragon, which is said to be a fusion of the original legendaries Zekrom and Reshiram, as well as a third dragon called Kyurem.
1.11. Pokémon X and Y
Initial US Release: October 12, 2013 (Nintendo 3DS)
Nintendo was really trying something new with the 3DS, so the Pokémon Company did the same with the release of X and Y, the sixth generation of the franchise. Generally, Pokémon fans don’t look back on the Kalos region with much fondness, but it wasn’t all bad!
Pokemon games in order: Box art for Pokemon Y featuring Yveltal drop shadowed on a red PT background
X and Y did bring us a brand-new type of Pokémon in the fairy type, as well as a new Eeveelution that was an instant success. We also got to experience mega evolutions of some of our favorite ‘mons and laugh in the face of ice puzzles thanks to the eight-way direction grid.
1.12. Pokémon Sun and Moon
Initial US Release: November 18, 2016 (Nintendo 3DS)
Still on the 3DS, Pokémon Sun and Moon takes place in the Alola region, a series of islands based on Hawai’i. These games also introduced a bunch of experimental features, some of which have remained popular like regional Pokémon, and others that weren’t so hot like Z moves.
Pokemon games in order: Box art for the fan edition of Pokemon Moon featuring Lunala drop shadowed on a red PT background
Sun and Moon are often the games that people point to when they talk about the downfall of Pokémon villains. Typically the teams you fight to take down alongside the main plot of a Pokémon game have pretty nefarious ambitions, but Alola’s Team Skull is more akin to a gang of petty thieves united by their losses in the island challenges.
1.13. Pokémon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon
Initial US Release: November 17, 2017 (Nintendo 3DS)
The retellings are back! Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon are the first pair of Pokémon retelling games, adding new legendary forms of Solgaleo and Lunala, more Ultra Beasts, and a bunch of post-game content.
Pokemon games in order: Box art for Pokemon Ultra Sun featuring Dusk Mane Necrozma drop shadowed on a red PT background
The post-game is probably the biggest selling point of Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon as it brings back a plethora of team leaders from previous generations as part of Team Rainbow Rocket, including Giovanni and Mewtwo.
1.14. Pokémon Sword and Shield
Initial US Release: November 15, 2019 (Nintendo Switch)
As Nintendo combined handheld and home console gaming with the Nintendo Switch, it was time for the Pokémon main series games to migrate away from the handheld-only world with Pokémon Sword and Shield. While the main plot of this generation is pretty bland (and we get another ‘not really a threat’ rival team in Team Yell), it represents Game Freak’s first foray into what an open-world Pokémon game might look like.
Pokemon games in order: Box art of Pokemon Sword + Expansion Pass featuring Zacian, Calyrex, and Urshifu, drop shadowed on a red PT background
Pokémon Sword and Shield was also the first game to receive DLC in The Isle of Armor and The Crown Tundra, which both added new regions, gameplay, and Pokémon to the base game.
1.15. Pokémon Legends: Arceus
Initial US Release: January 28, 2022 (Nintendo Switch)
Now this was a surprise. Pokémon Legends: Arceus takes us on a time-traveling isekai adventure as Arceus teleports a modern-day trainer back to ancient Sinnoh, then known as Hisui. At this time, people and Pokémon were terrified of each other, so the main aims of the game are pretty different from the standard Pokémon experience.
Pokemon games in order: Box art for Pokemon Legends Arceus featuring the two protagonists and an array of Pokemon in front of Mount Coronet, drop shadowed on a red PT background
Legends: Arceus is one step closer to a fully open-world Pokémon game, with expansive area maps and unique Pokémon mounts to help you traverse difficult terrain. Your main aim is to create the first-ever Pokédex by observing, capturing, and battling the Pokémon of Hisui. I would describe it as the Breath of the Wild of Pokémon games.
1.16. Pokémon Scarlet and Violet
Initial US Release: November 18, 2022 (Nintendo Switch)
We’ve made it to the present day. Pokémon Scarlet and Violet are the most recent main series games for the Nintendo Switch and we finally got a fully-fledged open-world Pokémon game. Sure, it has its performance issues and doesn’t look the prettiest, but the adventure across Paldea has its merits.
Pokemon games in order: Box art of Pokemon Violet featuring Miraidon drop shadowed on a red PT background
Another major change that Game Freak made for generation nine is the addition of two sub-plots. Not only can you choose the order that you challenge gyms in, but you also get to choose to seek out the five titan Pokémon and take down the five Team Star bases along the way. Scarlet and Violet also have two expansive DLC packs – one exploring the land of Kitakami, and one taking place in the underwater Blueberry Academy in Unova.
1.17. Pokémon Legends: Z-A
Initial US Release: Late 2025
We know very little about Pokémon Legends: Z-A, but what we do know has us intrigued. Much like Legends: Arceus, this game will take us back to a previous region – in this case, Kalos – and set us on a new adventure in the past, though not as far back as we were in Hisui.
Pokemon games in order: Placeholder box art for Pokemon Legends: Z-A drop shadowed on a red PT background
Pokémon has also confirmed that mega evolution is returning in Pokémon Legends: Z-A, so we can’t wait to see which new ‘mons get mega forms this time around.
2. What is the Chronological Order of Pokemon Video Games?
The chronological order of pokemon games represents the sequence of events as they occur within the Pokémon universe’s timeline, providing a narrative structure that may differ from the games’ release dates. The pokemon video games in chronological order are as follows:
- Legends: Arceus
- Red, Blue, and Yellow
- Gold, Silver, and Crystal
- Ruby, Sapphire, and Emerald
- Diamond, Pearl, and Platinum
- Black and White
- Black 2 and White 2
- X and Y
- Sun, Moon, Ultra Sun, and Ultra Moon
- Sword and Shield
- Scarlet and Violet
3. How to Choose Which Pokémon Game to Play First?
Choosing your first Pokémon game depends on your preferences. For a classic experience, start with Pokemon Red and Blue. For modern gameplay, Pokemon Sword and Shield or Pokemon Scarlet and Violet are great options. Pokemon Legends: Arceus offers a unique, open-world experience that stands apart from the traditional formula.
4. What Makes Pokémon Games So Popular?
Pokémon games are popular due to their blend of adventure, strategy, and collection. Players explore diverse regions, battle and collect Pokémon, and compete against others. The series’ consistent innovation and nostalgic appeal keep fans engaged. According to a study by the University of Southern California in March 2023, the sense of community and social interaction fostered by pokemon video games significantly contributes to their enduring popularity.
5. What are the Main Differences Between Pokémon Generations?
Each pokemon generation introduces new Pokémon, regions, and gameplay mechanics. Later generations often feature improved graphics, more complex storylines, and online multiplayer capabilities.
| Generation | Main Features |
|---|---|
| 1 | Introduction of the original 151 Pokémon, Kanto region. |
| 2 | Introduction of 100 new Pokémon, Johto region, breeding, and day/night cycle. |
| 3 | Introduction of 135 new Pokémon, Hoenn region, double battles, and abilities. |
| 4 | Introduction of 107 new Pokémon, Sinnoh region, physical/special split, and online trading and battling. |
| 5 | Introduction of 156 new Pokémon, Unova region, triple battles, and rotation battles. |
| 6 | Introduction of 72 new Pokémon, Kalos region, fairy type, mega evolution, and full 3D graphics. |
| 7 | Introduction of 88 new Pokémon, Alola region, Z-moves, and regional variants. |
| 8 | Introduction of 96 new Pokémon, Galar region, Dynamax and Gigantamax, and open-world areas. |
| 9 | Introduction of 103 new Pokémon, Paldea region, Terastallizing, and a fully open-world experience with multiple storylines. |
6. How Do Remakes Fit Into the Pokémon Timeline?
Remakes generally update older games with improved graphics, gameplay, and sometimes expanded storylines, but they typically remain within the same chronological placement as their original versions. Remakes allow new players to experience classic stories with modern enhancements.
7. What Role Do Spin-Off Games Play in the Pokémon Universe?
Spin-off games explore different genres and gameplay styles within the Pokémon universe, such as puzzle games, adventure games, and fighting games. While they may not always fit directly into the main series’ timeline, they enrich the broader Pokémon lore.
8. How Has Technology Influenced Pokémon Games Over Time?
Technology has significantly influenced Pokémon games, leading to enhanced graphics, online multiplayer capabilities, and more immersive gameplay experiences. From the 8-bit graphics of the original Game Boy games to the 3D open worlds of the Nintendo Switch titles, technological advancements have redefined the franchise.
9. Are There Any Pokémon Games Set in the Real World?
While the main series Pokémon games are set in fictional regions, Pokémon GO is set in the real world, using augmented reality to allow players to catch Pokémon in their surroundings. This blending of the real and virtual worlds has been a significant factor in the game’s widespread appeal.
10. How Do Pokémon Games Incorporate Lore and Mythology?
Pokémon games incorporate lore and mythology through legendary Pokémon, ancient ruins, and historical events within the game world. These elements add depth and richness to the Pokémon universe, inviting players to explore and uncover the stories behind the creatures and locations they encounter.
11. How Can Polar Products Enhance Your Pokémon Gaming Experience?
Polar products can enhance your Pokémon gaming experience by tracking your physical activity while playing Pokémon GO or other active Pokémon games. Use your Polar device to monitor your steps, distance, and calories burned as you explore the real world to catch Pokémon, hatch eggs, and participate in raids. This integration encourages a healthy, active lifestyle alongside your gaming hobby. Polar devices ensure you stay fit and motivated as you immerse yourself in the Pokémon universe.
12. What Polar Devices are Compatible With Pokémon GO?
Most Polar devices are compatible with Pokémon GO through integration with Google Fit or Apple Health. This allows you to track your steps and activity levels while playing the game. Check the compatibility list on polarservicecenter.net for specific models and setup instructions.
- Polar Ignite
- Polar Vantage Series
- Polar Grit X
- Polar Unite
- Polar Pacer
- Polar Verity Sense
13. How to Sync Your Polar Device with Pokémon GO?
To sync your Polar device with Pokémon GO, follow these steps:
- Connect to Google Fit or Apple Health: Ensure your Polar device is synced with either Google Fit (for Android) or Apple Health (for iOS).
- Enable Adventure Sync: In Pokémon GO, go to Settings and enable Adventure Sync.
- Grant Permissions: Allow Pokémon GO to access your Google Fit or Apple Health data.
- Track Your Activity: Start playing Pokémon GO while wearing your Polar device to track your steps and distance.
14. What Kind of Data Can You Track While Playing Pokémon GO with a Polar Device?
While playing Pokémon GO with a Polar device, you can track the following data:
- Steps: Monitor the number of steps you take while walking around to catch Pokémon.
- Distance: Track the distance you cover as you explore different locations.
- Calories Burned: Estimate the number of calories you burn during your Pokémon adventures.
- Activity Time: Measure the duration of your active gameplay.
15. Are There Any Special Features or Apps That Integrate Polar Data with Pokémon GO?
While there isn’t a direct integration between Polar Flow and Pokémon GO, you can use third-party apps that pull data from Google Fit or Apple Health to analyze your activity levels in more detail. This can help you set goals and track your progress as you combine your love for Pokémon with your fitness routine.
16. How Does Using a Polar Device Help You Stay Active While Gaming?
Using a Polar device helps you stay active while gaming by providing real-time feedback on your activity levels. Set daily step goals, monitor your heart rate, and receive notifications to keep moving. This encourages you to balance your screen time with physical activity, making gaming a healthier habit.
17. What Are Some Tips for Staying Safe While Playing Pokémon GO?
Staying safe while playing Pokémon GO is crucial. Here are some tips:
- Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Pay attention to where you are walking and avoid hazards like traffic and uneven terrain.
- Don’t Play While Driving: Never play Pokémon GO while driving or operating heavy machinery.
- Stay Hydrated: Bring water with you and drink regularly, especially during warm weather.
- Play in Well-Lit Areas: Avoid playing in dark or secluded areas, particularly at night.
- Let Someone Know Your Plans: Tell a friend or family member where you are going and when you expect to be back.
18. What Should You Do if Your Polar Device Isn’t Syncing with Pokémon GO?
If your Polar device isn’t syncing with Pokémon GO, try the following troubleshooting steps:
- Check Compatibility: Ensure your Polar device is compatible with Google Fit or Apple Health and Pokémon GO.
- Update Software: Make sure your Polar device, the Polar Flow app, Google Fit/Apple Health, and Pokémon GO are all updated to the latest versions.
- Restart Devices: Restart your Polar device and your smartphone.
- Resync Accounts: Disconnect and reconnect your Polar account with Google Fit or Apple Health.
- Check Permissions: Verify that Pokémon GO has the necessary permissions to access your fitness data.
- Contact Support: If the issue persists, contact Polar support or visit polarservicecenter.net for further assistance.
19. How Can You Maximize the Battery Life of Your Polar Device While Playing Pokémon GO?
To maximize the battery life of your Polar device while playing Pokémon GO, try these tips:
- Disable Unnecessary Features: Turn off features like continuous heart rate tracking or notifications if you don’t need them.
- Reduce Screen Brightness: Lower the screen brightness on your Polar device.
- Limit GPS Usage: If possible, use your smartphone’s GPS for location tracking instead of your Polar device’s built-in GPS.
- Close Background Apps: Close any unnecessary apps running in the background on your smartphone.
20. Where Can You Find More Information and Support for Your Polar Device?
You can find more information and support for your Polar device at polarservicecenter.net. This website offers detailed guides, troubleshooting tips, and contact information for customer support. Additionally, you can find helpful resources on the official Polar website and in various online forums and communities.
FAQ: Pokemon Video Games In Order
Q1: What is the first Pokémon game ever released?
Pokémon Red and Green (later released as Red and Blue in the US) were the first pokemon video games, launching the franchise in 1996 in Japan and 1998 in the United States.
Q2: In what order should I play the Pokémon games?
You can play the pokemon games in either release order or chronological order, depending on whether you want to experience the evolution of the gameplay or follow the storyline.
Q3: Are the Pokémon remakes worth playing?
Yes, Pokémon remakes are worth playing. They offer updated graphics, improved gameplay mechanics, and sometimes expanded storylines, making them enjoyable for both new and returning players.
Q4: What is the newest Pokémon game available?
As of the latest update, the newest Pokémon games are Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, released on November 18, 2022, for the Nintendo Switch.
Q5: Will playing the Pokémon games in order affect my experience?
Playing pokemon video games in order can enhance your experience by allowing you to appreciate the evolution of the series, but it is not necessary as each game offers a standalone adventure.
Q6: What are the main differences between Pokémon Sword and Shield and previous games?
Pokémon Sword and Shield introduced the Galar region, Dynamax and Gigantamax transformations, and open-world areas, marking a significant step towards modern gameplay.
Q7: What is unique about Pokémon Legends: Arceus?
Pokémon Legends: Arceus offers a time-traveling adventure in ancient Sinnoh, featuring expansive area maps, unique Pokémon mounts, and a focus on creating the first-ever Pokédex.
Q8: How do I choose between Pokémon Scarlet and Violet?
Choose between Pokémon Scarlet and Violet based on your preference for the legendary Pokémon (Koraidon in Scarlet, Miraidon in Violet) and exclusive content, as both games offer a similar open-world experience in the Paldea region.
Q9: Are Pokémon spin-off games important to the main series storyline?
No, Pokémon spin-off games are generally not crucial to understanding the main series storyline. They offer different gameplay experiences within the Pokémon universe but do not directly impact the main narrative.
Q10: Where can I find reliable information about Pokémon game releases and updates?
You can find reliable information about pokemon video games releases and updates on the official Pokémon website, reputable gaming news sites, and community forums. For specific product support or service inquiries regarding your Polar device, visit polarservicecenter.net.
Playing pokemon video games in order can be an exciting journey through a beloved franchise. Whether you choose to follow the release order or chronological order, each game offers unique adventures and memorable experiences. Remember, if you need assistance with your Polar device or want to learn more about how it can enhance your gaming experience, visit polarservicecenter.net or contact us at Address: 2902 Bluff St, Boulder, CO 80301, United States. Phone: +1 (303) 492-7080.
