We can all agree that this year so far has been pretty big for the Pokemon brand. With the upcoming release of generation 7 games and the impact of Pokemon Go, surely there is nothing to top this?

But there might just be. Let's take a look at the trading card game series and its latest announcement. 

Very recently it was announced that the Pokemon Company is revisiting the past with a special edition TCG set "Evolutions" which is inspired by the original base set cards! These cards will feature unaltered artwork from the original 1999 base set, sparking the nostalgia of every young adult and the hearts of collectors. 

However, being a revisited set, Evolutions will feature current versions of TCG cards, such as EX style and Break cards. Considering this, it is a very exciting time indeed to see some of our favorite Generation 1 Pokemon back in packs. Just when you thought Pokémon couldn't get any better, it just did.

The Evolutions set will drop in November this year for the West and September for Japan.

Pokemon is a franchise that has evolved, if you'll excuse the pun, into one of the greatest selling franchises in video game history. There have been frequent upgrades to the series, including additional poke balls, TMs, HMs, as well as the introduction of double and triple battles. All of this is fantastic for the general progression of the franchise, but I might have left something obvious out. Yes, that's correct, there have also been hundreds of Pokemon additions. For some this is fantastic, but for others, well...

This article will attempt to list the top five Pokemon from the original games, with a detailed explanation of why they're chosen. The list has absolutely nothing to do with cuteness -- I'm boring like that -- but has everything to do with power, statistics, the diversity of its attack types and its type strengths and weaknesses. Remember, all types and attacks are based on generation 1.

5) Gengar

(The shadow Pokemon, Gengar)

Types: Ghost and Poison

Gengar seemingly appreciates appearing mischievous and spooky, but in Pokemon terms, it's a real handful. Gengar notably has several statistical weaknesses; these are, HP, attack, and defense -- since Gengar is a ghost type, it need not worry about normal and fighting types, but should definitely worry about other physical attacks. Its special defense is easily above average allowing it to survive against quite a number of attacks. Its greatest statistics are its very high special attack and high speed, basically allowing Gengar a smash-and-grab fighting style that also leaves itself fairly vulnerable to attacks.

Type strengths and weaknesses wise, Gengar is weak to ghost, psychic and ground. The ghostly monster is resistant to grass and very resistant to bug and poison. Gengar is completely unaffected by normal and fighting attacks.

Gengar is capable of learning some unusual attacks for its type. The mischievous shadowy minion can learn the following: psychic, ghost, electricity, grass, fire and ice. Its greatest attack combination is hypnosis and dream eater, as the latter attack on a sleeping Pokemon restores Gengar's HP.

4) Starmie

(The starfish Pokemon, Starmie)

Types: Water and Psychic

Starmie is a remarkable Pokemon in a myriad of different ways. Boasting higher-than-average special defensive stats and solid defense, it's capable of taking a beating. While perhaps not the greatest at physical attacks, its special attacks are powerful indeed and combined with its high speed, they're its most threatening attributes. Perhaps Starmie's greatest weakness is its low HP, but that's not a problem, as you'll soon learn.

Type weaknesses and strengths wise, this Pokemon is tremendously fortunate to have very few weaknesses. Its weaknesses relating to its water type are, electricity and grass; its weaknesses relating to its secondary type are, ghost and bug. Because this Pokemon has no types which are considered double weaknesses to a single type, that means its defenses are more than adequate. Resistance-wise, Starmie is tough against, water, psychic, fire, ice, and fighting.

Where Starmie particularly shines (yes, pun intended) are its moves - those that are learned and can be learned. This star-shaped creature can learn practically anything and that makes it extremely useful for taking on a surprising number of Pokemon without needing to switch to a different type. Starmie is capable of learning psychic and water abilities, obviously, but is also capable of learning ghost, bug, ice, rock and even grass and lightning. While Starmie isn't capable of learning all assorted moves of those types, having one with ice beam, thunderbolt, psychic and surf will give opponents the jitters. Starmie is also capable of learning the coveted "recover", an ability which restores 50% HP.

All of the above makes Starmie a real contender for the number one spot.

3) Nidoking

(The King Lizard Pokemon, Nidoking)

Types: Poison and Ground

Nidoking is an imposing sight to behold. Boasting higher than average statistics in defense and special defense, he can take a beating. Nidoking shines particularly in speed, HP and special attack making him formidable at attacking powerfully quickly. Add this to his physical attack, which is his strongest attribute and he's a real powerhouse.

Type strengths and weaknesses wise, Nidoking is more fortunate than unfortunate. Because he is a poison type, he need only worry about psychic and ground attacks. For his secondary type, ground, he only needs to worry about ice and water. Resistance-wise, Nidoking is tough and can easily resist bug, rock, and fighting types. He's very resistant (25% damage received) to poison and completely immune to electricity.

Like Starmie, Nidoking is particularly successful due to its moves. Boasting an impressive array of different types, Nidoking is almost a jack-of-all-trades when it comes to moves. Nidoking can learn the following types: poison, ground, fire, ice, electricity, fighting, bug, water and rock. If Nidoking has earthquake, rockslide, and two unusual types, like thunderbolt and ice beam, he can be formidable against many different types.

2) Dragonite

(The dragon Pokemon, Dragonite)

Types: Dragon and Flying

While it perhaps looks similar to another dragon from another media form, Dragonite is definitely something else here. Dragonite boasts some of the most impressive statistics in the original game and features above average speed, solid HP, and even more solid defense. Dragonite's special attack and special defense are particularly high, making it equally dangerous as it is defensive. But the dragon's most prominent stat is its attack, which is very high indeed and capable of ruining a Pokemon's day quite easily.

Type weaknesses and strengths wise, Dragonite is only weak to dragon and rock but is unfortunately very weak (4x damage received) to ice. Resistance-wise, Dragonite is tough against fire, water, bug and fighting and very resistant to grass. Dragonite is completely invulnerable to ground.

Dragonite is capable of learning a large amount of different types of attacks. Dragonite can learn the following: fire, dragon, flying, electricity, ice and psychic. Like the previously discussed Pokemon, Dragonite is devastating with a powerful physical attack like hyper beam and a couple of special attacks like thunderbolt and ice beam.

1) Blastoise

(The shellfish Pokemon, Blastoise)

Type: Water

Who wouldn't find a creature with two cannons protruding out of its shell intimidating? Blastoise's statistics for HP and speed are solid, meaning more-than-above-average. Its attack and special attack are higher still, allowing it to deal damage. Blastoise's greatest asset is its defensive prowess, with defense and special defense all nicely high, allowing it to withstand some serious punishment. This Pokemon is a well-rounded, tough competitor.

Type weaknesses and strengths wise, Blastoise is only vulnerable to grass and electricity. The shellfish Pokemon is resistant to fire, water and ice. The lack of weaknesses and amount of strengths this Pokemon has really sets it apart from most others.

Blastoise isn't capable of learning as many types of attacks as some of the preceding Pokemon in this list, but can still learn a fair few. Our shell fish friend can learn water, fighting, ice, rock, and ground, allowing it some diversity and the ability to surprise unaware opponents. A Blastoise combined with attacks like surf, ice beam, earthquake and rock slide will be a force to be reckoned with.

There you have it. Blastoise is the winner because of its solid-to-high attributes, limited vulnerabilities and the good array of attack types it can learn.

Am I right? Am I wrong? What are your top 5? Leave your answers in the comments.

Did you hear the news you were hoping for? Did anything blow your mind, foregoing your imagination. Let us know in the comments; and remember today several pieces of Nintendo history were made.

Super Smash Bros

For some this is the biggest piece of NEWS this year. Fans of Final Fantasy and Smash Bros will be pleased that one of the most requested characters has been announced. Cloud Strife is here with his buster sword and a new stage in tow. There are no dates on when he will be available, but we were told to expect news in early December. Have fun playing matches to the classic Final Fantasy theme song that will also be included.

The Wii U has not been totally abandoned by third party developers. There are still quite a few games coming to the console.

Hive Jump- Q1 2016

Kerbal Space Program- Q1 2016

Mighty No. 9- 2/9/2016

Lego Marvels Avengers- 1/26/2016

Terarria 4/12/2016

Dragon Quest: VII & VIII

Both games were announced and are set to release next year.

Hyrule Warriors: Legends 

Another bevy of good news; Hyrule Warriors: Legends gives us much to look forward too. A new original character was announced; a girl named Linkle that uses double crossbows. She is the first female version of Link. The release date was announced as March 25, 2016. You will also get a new home menu theme for your 3DS when you purchase the game.

Pokemon: Blue, Red, and Yellow

We were all blindsided by this one. All three of the first generation Pokemon games are coming to the eshop. The games will be true to their original versions sans one feature; players no longer need a link cable to trade Pokemon. You can now use wifi to trade and battle with your friends. These release the same day as the originals did twenty years ago -- February 27, 2016.

MegaMan: Legacy Collection

A collection of the first six MegaMan games; this title offers a lot of content for fans to collect in game. The game will have exclusive challenges that can only be accessed using a MegaMan amiibo. On that note there was also a new gold colored Megaman amiibo announced. It can only be obtained by purchasing a copy of the game's collector's edition. The game is available February 23, 2016.

Final Fantasy: Fates

Fans already knew the game would be releasing in two parts simultaneously. But today all the options for obtaining all three games was revealed. After completing one of the two launch games players will be given the choice to purchase the other game as half price. There is also a bundle available, as well a collectors edition that comes with an art-book and carrying pouch for your DS. This is available for $79.99. Other DLC maps are also planned for the games.

Final Fantasy Explorers

This game was initially released in Japan last December and has received a few updates since. The North American version of the game will gave players access to all of the game's released DLC free of charge. There is also a collectors edition releasing. It will include the game, an art-book, a CD sampler. and exclusive quests. Pick this up on January 26, 2016

Mario & Luigi: Paper Jam 

A release date of January 22, 2016 was announced. If you love Mario RPG's then you need this title. New battle cards with effects to help you get past tricky levels and challenges were revealed. You can use your amiibo to create character cards which are more powerful than battle cards. Mario party amiibos will be compatible with this tittle.

Pokken Tournament

The fighting game everyone is waiting for received some new footage. It was also revealed how players would be able to access the Shadow Mewtwo character that leaked a while back. If your copy is from the first production run; players will receive a special card that allows them to use the character immediately. If not, players can complete a few things in game and use him later. The game releases Spring 2016 for Wii U.

StarFox Zero

Starfox Zero was finally given a new release date. After being pushed back from this holiday season, the game is now slated to release April 22, 2016. Mark your calendars now, people.

amiibo

Of course these popular little trinkets were center stage. Almost every game had a mention of them. We also received a release date for some of the Animal crossing and the Lucas figures -- January 22nd

There are also four great new games coming to the Nintendo eShop. Nintendo is obviously eyeing its casual gamer market.

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• Typo Man-November 19th
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• Fast Racing Neo-December
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• Steam World Heist-December
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• Pokemon Picross-December
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Nintendo Badge Arcade

A free to start title, this game gives you badges to customize your 3DS home screen. Collect the badges using a claw game. Players can pay to receive more chances to collect the badges. Some badges will be limited edition, so make sure you check back often if this is something you are interested in.

Xenoblade Chronicles X

For those waiting on a new Metroid or Legend of Zelda game this is the best Nintendo is offering; an open world space adventure that will release on December 4th. If buying the game physically, there are four packs that can be pre-installed to allow the player to load up the game faster. It is recommended to download the first pack at the least.

Mario Tennis: Ultra Smash

An all-new move was revealed for this game. Performing a jump smash will allow players to jump up and attack the ball before it has had a chance to bounce on their side. This will add a new layer of strategy to matches. Knock your opponent off balance then use the jump smash from the designated point to perform an ultra smash.

There are also mega battles where Toad will add mega Mushrooms to the match to make characters larger; how exciting? Add in amiibos to use as a partner in online and expedition matches.

Animal Crossing amiibo Festival

This game will initially launch packaged with two amiibos and will be the only way to acquire the Isabelle and Digby amiibos. Digby will be even more exclusive as he is only available with the launch copy of the game. Some of the games puzzles and game modes were also showcased. 

Pokemon Super Mystery Dungeon

This game will release on November 20th and feature every single known Pokemon.  The new connection orb will allow you to send and receive rescue requests. The game will also come with a free theme for your 3DS.

Splatoon

Nintendo has done well keeping this seasons sleeper hit stocked with new content. This was the largest update to a previously released game announced.

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• 80 pieces of new gear and outfits
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• 27 new weapon
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• New maps- Both have features that will have you changing your strategy as the match progresses.
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• Museum d' alfonsino
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• Mahi-Mahi Resort 
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• New updates through July
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• New matchmaking
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• No additional charge
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• New website to track stats
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• A Nintendo treehouse tournament is also planned for next year. There are also player tournament modes in development.
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Super Mario Maker

A new portal site was announced that will allow you to search for particular levels on your PC or mobile device. Search for the type of level you wish to play or bookmark one you find while browsing. 

The Legend of Zelda Tri-Force Heroes.

A free update is being developed that will add the Den of Trials areas. Unlike normal dungeons where there might be 4 challenges, these levels will have an overwhelming amount at 30 plus! Did we mention that you and your team must defeat every single enemy in a stage to move on to the next one. But don't be discouraged; the den has checkpoints littered throughout to help you make it a little further.

New outfits are also planned: Linebeck's Uniform, which will let you see inside of chest before opening them, and The Fierce Deity Armor, which will make your sword fire off beams in four different directions.

These are both free updates that will release on December 2nd.

Zelda Wii U

New gameplay footage for this tittle was shown after the reveal of Twilight Princes HD. The new WolfLink amiibo will have an effect when used with this game.

The release window was not updated and the game is still slated for a Wii U release sometime in 2016.

The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess HD

After a weeks of speculation and rumor, Twilight  Princess HD received an official announcement. The first announcement of the event included enhanced visuals, a new wolf Link amiibo, and other enhanced features. This will be a fun experience even for those who have played this classic a few times. The game will also be compatible with other amiibos from the smash series. Twilight Princess HD releases March 4th 2016. Preorder now to receive the official soundtrack for free.

Did you miss the Nintendo Direct event? Here's a recap of all that was announced earlier this week. Everything Nintendo has planned through early 2016 now has a release date. If you're a Nintendo fan, there is much to celebrate.

Pikachu is the most iconic Pokémon and one of the two main faces of the franchise. He’s been with Ash since day one and is the only Pokémon to stay with Ash throughout the entirety of the series. Pikachu was the first Pokémon you got in the games. He was able to follow you around instead of just being trapped inside the Pokéball. Pikachu even has a balloon to parade him through the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade every year. Pikachu is your companion and you loved him for it. I hated him for it.

He's too cute.

One of my biggest problems with Pikachu is the fact that he is cute. He was chosen as Ash’s companion for that sole reason. He’s a yellow mouse with red cheeks. He has a face so cute you just want to grab it and make baby noises to him. He’s small and easy to pick up, perfect for having him lounge on a shoulder. His voice is even made to resemble squeaking, with the "chu" part of his name (a word meaning squeak). Kids are attracted to cute, so this design was used to lure them in and gather more views and players.

In reality, it didn’t matter which Pokémon was chosen. You could have started the game off with an Lickitung and developed the same amount of companionship and loyalty with it as the Pikachu.

In fact, the anime proved that Pokémon not typically considered cute can have a huge impact on the fans if there was a connection to them. In the 280^th episode of the anime, A Poached Ego!, Jessie and James release their Arbok and Weezing into the wild. In the episode, you can see Arbok and Weezing fighting the urge to stay and help their trainers. Tears were shed. Now, I don’t consider Arbok or Weezing to be cute, but this scene was heart wrenching and proves that cute Pokémon are not the only Pokémon that can make good companions. The scene itself is included below.

He can't be used in battle.

In the game, Pikachu doesn’t have the best stats. If you’re going for strong Pokémon, Pikachu will definitely not be your choice. In the original Pokémon Yellow, Pikachu won’t evolve via a Thunder Stone if it feels close to you. This makes Raichu impossible to get and, ultimately, means a decrease in Pikachu’s stats. If you decide to evolve Pikachu straight away to get Raichu, Raichu loses out on all the moves he would have otherwise learned as Pikachu. This means you have a Raichu with a terrible set of moves or you have to spend a good amount of money buying TMs to give him. Even in the newer games where you can evolve Pikachu whenever you want, Raichu's stats, pictured left, are still lacking in comparison to the three original starter Pokémon. Raichu’s speed is extremely high and his attack is average, but everything else is below par. This includes the bonus Raichu and Pikachu recieved in the newer games. 

Raichu isn’t even the best electric Pokémon in the first generation. Besides attack, Electrode has stats that are about the same or higher than that of Raichu’s. The same thing with Jolteon. Besides attack, Jolteon knocks Raichu’s stats out of the water. Don’t even get me started on Zapdos. Not to mention, I’m comparing stats between Raichu and other electric Pokémon. Comparing stats between Pikachu and other electric Pokémon is just painful. Pikachu's stats, pictured above, are just pitiful.

Pikachu gets way too much attention.

Pikachu has been around forever. I don’t care if he’s the face of the franchise. I’m sick of him. A new Pokémon is needed at this point. As of right now, there are over 700 Pokémon. Out of those 700, out of 16 seasons worth of the anime and 25 main games, only one Pokémon has continuously represented the franchise so avidly and been so constant with appearances. Other Pokémon have made re-appearances here and there such as Ash’s Squirtle and Charizard, but the appearances aren’t very long and can’t compare to how long Pikachu has been in the show. Considering how old the show and games are and that there is a new generation of fans, a better Pokémon should be chosen to represent the series again.

Which brings me to the next point. Pikachu always takes the spotlight. It doesn’t matter what happens with the other Pokémon, Ash will always come running to Pikachu first. It’s just plain rude honestly. Towards the end of Pokémon 3: The Movie, Charizard hears of Ash’s distress and flies all the way over to come and help him out. Charizard is fighting Entei, risking his life, to save Ash, his trainer. Then, Charizard takes a hit and they fall to the ground. Since Pikachu was with them, the first thing Ash does upon recovering is run over to Pikachu and ask if he is okay. He doesn’t run over to Charizard, who has actually been fighting or the one that had a harder fall since he weighs more. Nope. He runs over to Pikachu and leaves Charizard in the dust. It’s a horrible case of favoritism.

Game Freak neglected Pikachu in the newest games.

In the games, Pikachu didn’t even receive a mega evolution. Raichu didn’t receive a mega evolution. As the face of the franchise, it would make sense for one of the two to get a mega evolution. Afterall, less popular Pokémon like Lopunny and Audino received mega evolutions. Countless fans have imagined a mega Raichu, like Phatmon from DeviantArt whose concept is posted on the left. Thus, the design couldn’t be why it wasn’t included in the game.Pikachu and Raichu are clearly popular enough to warrant a mega evolution. Game Freak just decided not to include one. It could just be me, but I view that as a sign that Game Freak is actually moving away from Pikachu as the main face of the franchise. If the game developers are giving up on Pikachu, then maybe it’s time that everyone else does as well.

You don’t necessarily have to hate Pikachu, but I think it’s about time that people stop placing such a high value on him. He isn’t a strong Pokémon and he’s been the main face of the universe for way past his due. I think it’s about time the franchise uses a new Pokémon to gain new fans and start again with a different plot, and maybe even a new main character (Ash has been around for a really long time too). You can still like Pikachu’s character and his design, but it’s about time everyone stops worshipping him.

Statisitcs were provided by www.pokemondb.net

The Pokémon World is filled with mystery. Since the 90's, Pokémon Trainers have travelled "across the lands, searching far and wide" to uncover the secrets of this world inhabited by strange, beautiful, and captivating creatures. The Pokémon games have changed tremendously since the release of Pokémon Red and Blue (and Green in Japan). We're going to take a look back through the games and reveal some facts you may have not known about your favorite Pocket Monsters:

1. In Generation I (Red, Blue, and Yellow) Bite and Gust were normal-type moves.

Starting with the very first games, this fact is very weird for those of us who have gotten used to these attacks now. Imagine picking up a Game-boy with Pokémon Red, and furiously tapping A yelling "Pidgey why isn't your Gust sweeping all these grass-type Pokémon!" Sounds terrible, doesn't it? Even worse, dark-type Pokémon didn't exist! These attacks were changed in Generation II and onward. Bite became a dark-type move, and Gust became a flying-type move. There you go Pidgey, now you can defeat those Oddish.

2. In Pokémon Red and Pokémon Blue there's an invisible PC in the Celadon Hotel. 

Most likely an overlooked detail, the Celadon Hotel contains a fully functional PC that you cannot see. In fact, you can even walk through it. The hotel's design is based on that of a Pokémon Center, thus if you walk to the area where you would normally find a PC inside a Pokémon Center you can access this ghost machine.

3. Dragonair (13'01") is bigger than Dragonite (7'03").

I admit this may not be that interesting, but I bet you didn't know! Dragonair is almost twice the height of Dragonite. Evolving may make it shorter, but at least it gains some curves.

4. Pokémon Crystal is the first Pokémon game where you could play as a Female.

This was a huge deal for girl Pokémon fans. Before this game, one always had pretend to be a boy. Girls wanted to feel identified in the world of Pokémon as well. Clearly, the demand was heard. Since Crystal, female protagonists have always been offered. In fact, starting in Generation III, a female can even be your rival. 

5. A level 100 Shuckle can potentially deal the most damage in a single attack.

Honestly, this is just something for fun. It's legitimate, but I can't see it actually working out in battle. I can't even begin to rephrase this so:

A level 100 Shuckle can potentially deal the most damage in one single attack through the use of numerous stat boosters; by using Helping Hand by two different Pokémon in a Triple battle, holding a Metronome, Power Trick, a Skill Swap to Pure Power or Huge Power, 6 Attack boosts, and a Mimicked Me First used on a slower Pokémon using the Defense Curl/Rollout combo. Also, Shuckle's partner must have the ability Flower Gift and the weather must be sunny. On the 5th turn of using Rollout consecutively without any misses, if used against a level 1 Ledyba, Yanma or Combee with minimum Defense stats, that have been hit with negative Defense modifiers (such as Screech), it can deal 481,266,036 damage with a critical hit.

Wow. Who would have guessed?

6. Brendan, from Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire, does not have white hair. His hair is actually black, and only looks white due to his hat. 

In the upcoming remakes of Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire (Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire) this detail is more apparent. However in the previous game versions, most people thought Brendan's hair was actually white and that he wore a bandana. What a strange hat, Brendan. Oh well, look at you now. All tan and showing us all that your hair is, indeed, beneath that white cap.

7. Heatran (Generation IV) is the first, and so far only, Legendary Pokemon that can be Male or Female.

There are some Pokémon that just change the rules of the game. Legendary Pokémon have rarely even had genders. Heatran is a special exemption: it can be Male or Female. Don't get too excited though, this doesn't mean you can make little baby Heatran. This legendary Pokémon is still unavailable for mating, but this fact is pretty interesting considering the rules of breeding.

8. Cryogonal (Generation V) can learn the move Attract, despite lacking a Gender.

Attract does not affect genderless Pokémon. In fact, the only other genderless Pokémon that can learn Attract is Mew for the reason that it can learn ANY attack. For both, however, the attack is useless. So much love to give, yet no love on the receiving end... What a tragic tale.

9. Pokémon Black 2 and White 2 are the only core series games in which the Pokémon Day Care is inaccessible before entering the Hall of Fame. 

You usually encounter a Pokémon Daycare around the beginning of your adventure. You've been breeding two Pokes since Generation II, and listening to how "no one knows where the eggs came from". But Pokémon Black 2 and White 2 take that comfort away from you. You must first beat the Elite 4, and then you'll get some breeding time.

10. Pokémon X and Y are the first core series games that give Running Shoes at the start of the game.

This was, personally, the nicest surprise in the most recent Pokémon game. If you've ever played Generation I, you had to deal with walking speed until you got the bike. Thank god things have changed. Not only do you move fast in Pokémon X and Y, you skate. This results in actually having to take a break from the speed and appreciate the walking feature as well.

 I hope these facts were new to most of you. There are still many facts hidden within the regions of Pokémon, it's our job to find 'em all. Are there any strange Pokémon facts you know that weren't mentioned?

Trolling and Pokemon are two concepts that have gone hand in hand ever since we realized that Ekans was just "snake" spelled backwards.

Whether you're using Pokemon pick-up lines (If I were a Milktank, I'd use ATTRACT on you) or using silly Pokemon in competitive battles, there is a wide spectrum of Pokemon troll techniques. However, none of them come close to this one. 

YouTube user SpewInThis posted a video of a man, identifying himself as Ash, calling into a toll-free prayer hotline and reciting the Team Rocket mantra. Take a look. 

Twitch Plays Pokemon introduced us to the worship of Omanyte, so perhaps it's only fitting that we gain more religious overtones to the series from the original trainer himself. 

Regardless, this is one epic prank for all of Poke-kind. It's really hard to get over how well the caller fooled the gals on the hotline. You've done your fan community proud, Ash.  

Pokémon is one of the best-selling games of all time. The franchise takes the number one spot in best-selling game for Gameboy/Gameboy Color, Gameboy Advanced, and Nintendo 3DS.

I've been a Pokémon fan since as far back as I can remember. Along with books, games were an escape from day-to-day reality; which as a kid, can sometimes be daunting. Between curfew, always having to go with my parents EVERYWHERE (oil changes were the worst), and school, there are always certain things kids turn to for "escape". For me it was anime, novels, and Pokémon. Pokémon hold its own category because it was so massively important to me. The show, the cards, the video games. To this day I collect plushies and figures. I have played every Pokémon game to date, and would like to rank the handheld games from best to worst.

Please keep in mind that this is an opinion piece and it does not represent the official thoughts of GameSkinny. 

#1. Pokémon Gold & Silver/Crystal

RATINGS
IGN: 10/9

GAMESPOT: 8.8/ 8.4

COPIES SOLD: 23 Million

As I have mentioned, this is a personal ranking, and the reason for Generation 2 being my favorite go beyond just the game. The first time I played Gold and Silver, I really enjoyed the new types, 16 gyms, story, legendaries, etc. But when my father brought home Crystal one day, I could not contain myself. I didn't care that it was roughly the same game because I could play as a girl. Pokémon adventures were for girls too! I was only 8 years old. In fact, I had played every Pokémon game from Red, Yellow, and Silver that same year. I had also felt embarrassed to tell my friends who were girls that I loved Pokémon so much, especially since you could never play as a girl. But now, that had changed. 

G/S/C brought two new types: Dark and Steel, the chance to go back to Kanto and complete the 8 badges after the Johto League, and 100 new Pokémon. They were the first Pokémon games to incorporate day and night. The new legendary Pokémon, Ho-oh and Lugia, had captivating stories behind them, as did Suicune in Crystal. All around, these games were perfect. Game sales wise, this game (Gold and Silver) sold 23 million copies worldwide. Crystal sold less, with 3.85 million.

In 2009, Gold and Silver remakes were released with updated graphics, an adorable feature where the first Pokémon in your party followed out around (Yes, even Wailord), and a Pokéwalker. The Pokéwalker allowed you to transfer one Pokémon to the device, and carry it around on your belt or pants. It had a pedometer, and with each step, the Pokémon inside would gain experience. You could also catch Pokémon and collect items, then transfer them to your game. Pokémon Heartgold and Soulsilver sold 12.72 million copies, staying in the top 10 best selling games for Nintendo DS. 

#2. Pokémon Ruby & Sapphire/Emerald

RATINGS 
IGN: 9.5/8

GAMESPOT: 8.1/ 7.5 

COPIES SOLD: 16.22 million/6.32 million

These games are pretty much tied with my #1 choice. Ranking is difficult...

I was 10 years old when Ruby and Sapphire released, and I literally replayed the story about 5 times. How could I not? It's the best-selling GBA game for a reason. The graphics improved miles past the previous generation, the digital scenery is wonderful, you have a dad. With 135 new Pokémon, new types of Pokéballs, Pokémon Contests, secret bases, and, in Pokémon Emerald, the introduction of Battle Frontier, Pokémon R/S/E revolutionized the Pokémon games. Pokémon Emerald went even further, with a wireless adapter that, finally, took Pokémon battling and trading to a new technological level. The story involved two criminal organizations, one that wanted to flood the world, and the other that wanted to cover it in land. Pretty ridiculous. But Pokémon battles within deserts, volcanos, and oceans are unforgettable. Taking the cable car up the Mt. Chimney and diving were two of my favorite things.

Remakes of Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire were announced this year, titled Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire. To see this amazing game in 3D graphics is beyond exciting. R/S/E brought so many fun features to the table. They are easily one of the best generations and I cannot wait for the remakes.

#3. Pokémon Red & Blue/Yellow

RATINGS
IGN:10/10

GAMESPOT: 8.8/8.9

COPIES SOLD: 23.64 million 

As the games that begun a whole era, sold 23.64 million copies worldwide, and made so many people fall in love with Pokémon, Pokémon R/B/Y are probably the top game for some. If I could, I would put the first 3 in my ranking as #1. Alas, that is impossible.

Pokémon Red and Blue changed the gaming world. Pocket Monsters coming to life, travelling the world at 10 years old, and being oh, so patient in doing so (referring to the walking speed). Oh the years without running shoes. Despite the flaws, which are easily pointed out now over 16 years later, Pokémon R/B/Y was the perfect game. It was such a satisfying adventure, to travel Kanto kicking butt and catching Poke's. Pokémon Yellow only made it better with an adorable Pikachu following you and trainers that were oh so eager to give up their really rare starter Pokémon. Yeah it's cliche, but my team was Pikachu, Charmander, Bulbasaur, Squirtle, Pidgey, and Caterpie immediately (You'd be proud, Ash). 

Pokémon FireRed and LeafGreen only improved the adventure. Updated PC, bag space, and the ability to run! The wonders 8 years can do to walking speed. Plus the début of wireless trading and battling, detailed Pokémon sprite designs, and more of your favorite rival "smelling ya later." This game is nostalgia painted beautifully. The remakes sold 11.82 million copies worldwide, becoming the 2nd best-selling GBA game after Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire. In fact, Pokémon dominated the GBA charts, taking spots #1,#2, and #3 (with Emerald). 

#4. Pokémon X & Y

RATINGS
IGN: 9

GAMESPOT: 8

COPIES SOLD: 12.26 million

I almost put this game lower on the list because I found that it tried to avoid some of the fundamental things that make a Pokémon game what it is: grinding. I also found it terribly easy. I know, I know, I'm older now, it should be easier, but when you beat the Elite Four + Champion with only a Lapras, there is a problem. 

Regardless, Pokémon X and Y were thoroughly enjoyable. Finally Pokémon surpasses the 3D graphics of Pokémon Stadium. Although the graphic jump from game to game is always giant, from Black and White 2 to this, the jump was massive. Full 3D characters, Pokémon, and cities; Pokémon with facial expressions, and an attractive Professor! This game had it all. Pokemon-Amie, Mega Evolutions, Character designs, movie-making, facilitated trading, Wonder-trading, a new Dragon-slaying Fairy Type, Super-training, the list goes on.

With Mega evolution as the big reveal, Pokémon X and Y has become the turning point for new Pokémon games. There are still so many Pokémon to be Mega-Evolved and so much time. This is the best-selling Nintendo 3DS game to date, and well deserved. The new game mechanics are very well-done, the story is heartfelt, and the there are hundreds of things to do even after beating the game.

#5. Pokémon Black 2 & White 2

RATINGS
IGN: 9.6

GAMESPOT: 6.5 

COPIES SOLD: 7.81 million

These sequels definitely were an improvement over their predecessors. It could be because of my age, but it was very satisfying to see familiar Pokémon. I also enjoyed the idea of a sequel, rather than just a 3rd game with slightly new and improved features, like all the previous games had done. 

Bit by bit, Pokémon is adding new things to get used to. This game introduced DNA splicers and allowed the mascot Pokémon, Kyurem, to "absofuse" with either Reshiram or Zekrom, creating Black Kyurem or White Kyurem. The Dream World feature was also cool. But overall the game didn't keep me as entertained as earlier ones. Even though I enjoyed it more than Black and White, it felt strange given that Team Plasma kept with their same "free the Pokemon" argument after what was uncovered in the prequels.

#6. Pokémon Diamond & Pearl/Platinum

RATINGS
IGN: 8.5/ 8.8

GAMESPOT: 8.5/ 8

COPIES SOLD: 17.63 million/ 7.06 million

As the first Nintendo DS Pokémon games, Pokémon Diamond and Pearl sold 17.63 million copies worldwide. The story tackles the creation of time and space, and features 107 new Pokémon to catch and love.

Some of my fondest memories of this game are making Poffins to feed my Pokémon and the contests which, although did not surpass Ruby/Sapphire/Emerald contests, were still pretty cute. I liked accessorizing my Pokémon and making them dance. Also, the Elite Four Champion, Cynthia, is probably my favorite champion after Blue. It's nice to see Champions using all types of Pokémon; it makes it more challenging. The Pokétch was another cool feature. It came loaded with useful "apps" like a calculator, dowsing machine, a Pokémon daycare tracker, move tester, and more.

Despite this, I thought the new Pokémon designs were bland. Platinum brought a whole new world to the game, the Distortion World, but it was a letdown after the amount it was advertised. Don't get me wrong, these games were good, really good, but they did not best their predecessors. 

#7. Pokémon Black & White

RATINGS
IGN: 9

GAMESPOT: 7.5

COPIES SOLD: 15.58 million

Being last on the list does not mean these games were bad, it just means I didn't enjoy them as much as the ones above. Ratings and sales-wise, they did great. The story introduced a new ethical question that Pokémon games had never addressed before: Is it wrong to use Pokémon to battle? The main antagonist, N, spends the game telling you that Pokémon should be free, and simultaneously, battling you with Pokémon. Unfortunately they miss the chance to make the questioning of Pokémon battling an important theme, which would have been great.

What happened to me while playing this game was that I was overwhelmed with the new Pokémon. The game didn't give you anything familiar until you beat it. They treated you like Ash, new region, new Pokémon, go. Perhaps if I was younger, I would have enjoyed it. But the fact that there were 151 new Pokémon, without any old ones included, made the game less nostalgic and less enjoyable. Plus I found a lot of the new Pokémon to appear quickly drawn and less likeable. 

So that's it! That's my ranking. Feel free to argue/agree in the comments, or let me know if I missed anything. For all Pokémon news keep up with GameSkinny.com.

My little brother Robert is one of the best gamers I know, and I like to take full credit for that.

When I got my first console, a Playstation, he was about a year old, and being the cool big sister of 7 years he wanted to spend time with me, and I was pretty into Crash Bandicoot then and didn’t want to be bothered by a baby, so I improvised. He got handed a controller that wasn’t plugged into anything and would sit there for hours mashing buttons.

We’ve had our ups and downs gaming together; he lost the back off my GameBoy Colour when we had swapped to make them look cooler (purple on green and vise versa), and then he proceeded to delete my Pokemon Yellow Game which had 142 Pokemon on it. I nearly committed Sibling-cided that day.

We rock the geek chic look

At the end of the day though, he’s my baby brother and he rocks, so here is a little interview I did with him.

What’s your favourite game and why?
I guess, after some thought, it would have to say that my favorite game would have to be Halo 2, it may not be a very recent game, or have the best graphics, but it was a defining game for me. 

I know that a lot of people hated the game for its ending but by the time I got to Halo 2, Halo 3 was already out (although i never played Halo 3 till quite some time after that) so I wasn't too bothered about the ending.
The game itself had some groundbreaking levels, some I must have played at least 100 times over, especially the level with the scarab.

I found the game itself amazingly fun, especially when it came to multiplayer; it had some great maps to play on. Personally, it got me into gaming, I mean, I was already into gaming but Halo 2 got me deeper into it, more than any other game has done since.

Halo 2 also got me into the entire Halo series, because of it, I've read all the books and graphic novels, I've got the film on blu-ray and even got the short anime series that they done. I guess my life just wouldn't be the same without it.

What’s your first gaming memory?

Sonic the Hedgehog – Green Hill Zone – our Uncle had it on the Megadrive (The Genesis).

If you could be any computer game character who would it be and why?

I would be Sora from Kingdom Hearts. He has it set in life, I guess everything I want.

What is your least favourite game?

It has to be Cameo, an early release title for the Xbox 360. I hated every last moment; the gameplay, the story and the worst of all, the glitches. I came across a glitch more often than I did a bad guy.