Critics have rated dozens of Pokémon titles since the series began in 1996. Here are the 10 highest-scoring entries, listed with their Metacritic scores, release platforms and the key features that earned them critical praise.
Pokémon X / Y (88 / 87) — 2013, Nintendo 3DS
Pokémon X and Y introduced full 3D graphics to the mainline series and added Mega Evolution, a temporary powered-up form for certain Pokémon. Set in Kalos, a region inspired by France, the games were praised for their visual upgrade and the strategic depth Mega Evolution brought to battles. Metacritic scores are 88 for X and 87 for Y.
Pokémon HeartGold / SoulSilver (87) — 2009, Nintendo DS
Remakes of Gold and Silver, HeartGold and SoulSilver refreshed graphics and mechanics while adding features that resonated with fans, such as Pokémon following the player on the overworld. They also let players explore both Johto and Kanto, effectively doubling the playable regions. The pair holds a Metacritic score of 87.
Pokémon Black / White (87) — 2010, Nintendo DS
Black and White launched the fifth generation and delivered a more complex, thematically mature narrative set in Unova, tackling ethical questions about human–Pokémon relationships. Critics awarded the titles an 87 on Metacritic, noting the series’ willingness to experiment with its storytelling.
Pokémon Sun / Moon (87) — 2016, Nintendo 3DS
Sun and Moon broke from several series conventions by removing traditional gyms and introducing Island Trials as a new progression system. Set in Alola and inspired by Hawaii, the games also debuted Alolan forms—regional variants of established Pokémon. They earned an 87 on Metacritic for refreshing the franchise’s formula.
Pokémon Diamond / Pearl (85) — 2006, Nintendo DS
Diamond and Pearl introduced the fourth generation and the Sinnoh region, brought the Global Trade System (GTS) for international trading, and separated physical and special attack categories—changes that added strategic complexity. These titles received an 85 on Metacritic.
Pokémon Ultra Sun / Ultra Moon (84) — 2017, Nintendo 3DS
Released as expanded versions of Sun and Moon, Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon added new story elements, additional post‑game content and extra Pokémon, enriching the Alola experience without fundamentally changing the core mechanics. Critics scored these versions 84 on Metacritic.
Pokémon Platinum (83) — 2008, Nintendo DS
Platinum is an enhanced edition of Diamond and Pearl that deepened the narrative and added new areas such as the Distortion World, the setting for encounters with Giratina. The game also implemented balancing adjustments and battle refinements, earning a Metacritic score of 83.
Pokémon Legends: Arceus (83) — 2022, Nintendo Switch
Legends: Arceus represented a major departure from the franchise’s turn‑based roots, offering a more open, action‑oriented approach where players can capture Pokémon directly in the overworld. Set in an ancient version of Sinnoh, the game provides a prequel narrative and was praised for its bold changes, scoring 83 on Metacritic.
Pokémon Omega Ruby / Alpha Sapphire (83 / 82) — 2014, Nintendo 3DS
These remakes of Ruby and Sapphire modernized the originals with 3D graphics and added mechanics like Mega Evolution. Critics appreciated the balance between faithful recreation of Hoenn and updated presentation; Omega Ruby scored 83 and Alpha Sapphire 82 on Metacritic.
Pokémon Ruby / Sapphire (82) — 2002, Game Boy Advance
Ruby and Sapphire introduced double battles, Pokémon Abilities and dynamic weather effects—mechanics that expanded strategic play. Set in the tropical Hoenn region, the games were notable for their environmental variety and innovation, receiving an 82 on Metacritic.
