The firstPokémongames were thePokémon Red and Greenversions launched on the Nintendo Game Boy in 1996. The games started in Japan, spreading like wildfire in North America soon after.Pokémoncraze is something that may never go away. While new games likePokémon Sword and Shieldare breaking ground in narrative andcombat design,remakes are enhancing nostalgic classics.
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There have been several remakes, includingFire Red, Leaf Green, Heart Gold, Soul Silver, Omega Ruby, and Alpha Sapphire.If the games release chronologically, we could seePokémon DiamondandPearlremakes soon. In the meantime, let’s see which games deserve the remake treatment.
10Pokémon X And Y
Pokémonfever happens every time a game from the main series releases. WithPokémon X and Y,it was no exception. The two games are critically acclaimed for their unique map layout, the introduction ofmega-evolutions,and unique interactions with NPCs. Although it’s not the first in the main series line to receive a remake, bringingPokémon X and Yto the Nintendo Switch could kindle new spirits.
9Pokémon Stadium 2
The sequel to the firstPokémon Stadiumcame back with the ability toupload Pokémon from the second generationofPokémon(Pokémon Gold, Silver, and Crystal). It returned with new mini-games, which was one of the game’s biggest drawing points.
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Years after its release,Pokémon Stadium 2deserves a remake or a sequel. The idea of being able to play handheld games on a television screen is enticing. Plus, storming your way through the Gym Leader Castle is too memorable.
8Pokémon Ranger
AlthoughPokémon Rangeris a role-playing game,it follows a different format than thePokémonmain series. It’s a mission-based game with ten main missions and three sub-missions.Pokémon Rangerwasn’t as successful as the main series, but it did receive generally positive reviews from critics. It takes a while to adapt to its combat system, yetPokémon Rangersuccessfully appeals to a younger demographic with masterclass role-playing elements. The graphics are dated, but a remake from the ground-up could aim to fix its shortcomings.
7Hey You, Pikachu!
The virtual pet gameHey You, Pikachu!accomplished what few other games have attempted. The game uses the Nintendo 64’s Voice Recognition Unit (VRU), which allows you to communicate with Pikachu using 256 words.Hey You, Pikachu!was ahead of its time, but it’s hard to ignore the ingenuity behind the game.
Interestingly enough, there was a time when Clefairy, not Pikachu, was going to be the mascot of Pokémon.Hey You, Pikachu!might not have existed if Clefairy assumed the role. Thankfully, Pikachuwas made the mascot,and games likeHey You, Pikachu!andDetective Pikachuexist.
6Pokémon Snap
Pokémon Snaphas a sequel coming to the Nintendo Switch—but why stop there? The originalPokémon Snapis a Nintendo 64 gem with gameplay, unlike any other game. The Pokémon Company remade the first generation ofPokémontwice, but they have yet to remake the series' lesser-known games.New Pokemon Snapfor Nintendo Switch will undoubtedly rekindle old memories. A renewed interest could lead to aPokémon Snapremake.
5Pokémon Colosseum
WhilePokémon Stadium 2didn’t have a direct sequel,Pokémon Colosseumwas the closest to being one. This newPokémongame was a 3D adventure like never seen before.
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The lethargically slow battles keptPokémon Colosseumfrom reaching its potential. On paper, the game looked phenomenal, but the execution was lacking.Pokémon Colosseumwas a bit too linear and could’ve included more Pokémon. A remake could fix all these things and more.
4Pokémon XD: Gale Of Darkness
IfPokémon Colosseumdeserves a remake, then so doesPokémon XD: Gale of Darkness.The two games are very similar, aside from there being more Pokémon and an easier difficulty level inPokémon XD: Gale of Darkness.Pokémon XD: Gale of Darknessis undoubtedly the easier of the bunch, which might appeal to casual gamers. Hardcore Poké fans might disagree. Whether you preferColosseumorGale of Darkness, a remake is suited for these games.
3Pokémon Black And White
It might be a long way down the road (if ever) that aPokémon Black and Whiteremake releases. This generation took the world by surprise with an immersive world, unlike other previous games. It soon became one of the best-sellinggames on the Nintendo DS.If the Pokémon Company createsPokémonremakes in chronological order,Pokémon Black and Whiteremakes could be sooner than later.
2Pokémon Stadium
The originalPokémon Stadiumproved that consolePokémongames work. Using a Transfer Pak, players could connect their Game BoyPokémongame to play on television. Whether you liked the game for its mini-games, event battles, or the Gym Leader Tower, there is an abundance of content to be found. A remake could enhancePokémon Stadiumfurther.
1Pokémon Diamond And Pearl
It’s long been rumored thatPokémonDiamond and Pearlare the nextPokémonremakes.This generation introduced the crime syndicate Team Galactic, a group known for heinous acts in the Sinnoh region. It follows a traditional path where players beat the game by defeating the Elite Four.PokémonDiamond and Pearlpay homage to the originals while introducing a bulk of new content. As the fourth generation of thePokémonmain series, long-awaited remakes could be shortly down the road.
