We all adore the Pokémon franchise for its captivating RPGs. Exploring diverse regions, forging friendships, and assembling teams of powerful Pokémon for epic battles are at the heart of the experience. While each new generation introduces fresh Pokémon and regions, the core gameplay remains largely unchanged. Beyond fan-made games, a plethora of spin-off titles explore the Pokémon world through different genres. In fact, spin-offs now outnumber mainline games, with more on the horizon. If you’re seeking a break from “catching them all” but still crave time with your favorite pocket monsters, this list showcases the best Pokémon spin-off games to date.
Pokémon isn’t the only franchise boasting excellent spin-offs. The best Mario and Zelda spin-offs are also worth exploring.
Pokémon Go
Pokémon Go
Platforms: Android, iOS
Genre: Role-playing (RPG), Simulator
Developer: Niantic Labs, The Pokémon Company
Publisher: Niantic Labs
Release: July 06, 2016
This mobile phenomenon captivated the world and converted even the most resistant to the Pokémon craze. Pokémon Go’s simple premise – venturing into the real world to discover and capture Pokémon – brought the dream of a Pokémon-filled reality closer than ever before. Years later, the game thrives with a vast roster of Pokémon, regular events, collaborative features, and more. Its true magic lies in encouraging exploration and fostering connections among players.
Get ready for Mega Evolution in Pokémon GO!
New Pokémon Snap
New Pokémon Snap
Platforms: Nintendo Switch
Genre: Simulator, Adventure
Developer: Bandai Namco Studios
Publisher: Nintendo
Release: April 29, 2021
The original Pokémon Snap was an N64 classic, and anticipation for a sequel remained high. While the Wii U’s gamepad seemed ideal for this on-rails photography game, it wasn’t until the Switch that New Pokémon Snap arrived. Thankfully, it lives up to expectations. Instead of capturing Pokémon through battles, players embark on safari-like expeditions, capturing stunning photos of Pokémon in their natural habitats. Observing these creatures interact and thrive brings a new dimension to their personalities, transcending types and attacks. Though relatively short, New Pokémon Snap offers immense replay value.
New Pokemon Snap – Official Switch Trailer
Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Explorers of Sky
Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Explorers of Sky
Platforms: Wii U, Nintendo DS
Genre: Role-playing (RPG), Turn-based strategy (TBS)
Developer: Chunsoft
Publisher: Nintendo
Release: April 18, 2009
While every Pokémon Mystery Dungeon game has its merits, Explorers of Sky on the DS holds a special place. This RPG adopts the Mystery Dungeon format, casting players as humans transformed into Pokémon, partnering up to navigate randomized, enemy-filled dungeons. While battles offer limited control, the exploration, diverse jobs, and engaging quests are the game’s true strengths. A charming story and added content compared to its predecessors enhance the experience. Be prepared for some grinding, however.
Pokemon Mystery Dungeon Explorers of Sky English Trailer (HD)
Pokémon Conquest
Pokémon Conquest
Platforms: Nintendo DS
Genre: Role-playing (RPG), Strategy, Turn-based strategy (TBS)
Developer: Koei Tecmo Games
Publisher: The Pokémon Company, Nintendo
Release: March 17, 2012
Given the strategic element of Pokémon type matchups, a tactics game feels like a natural fit. Pokémon Conquest’s fusion with Nobunaga’s Ambition may seem unusual, but the result is a compelling and addictive tactics game. Though the story is simple, discovering and recruiting Pokémon, each paired with a warlord, is deeply engaging. While not on par with titles like Three Houses, Conquest deserves more recognition.
Pokémon Conquest Trailer
Detective Pikachu Returns
Detective Pikachu Returns
Platforms: Nintendo Switch
Genre: Adventure
Developer: Creatures Inc.
Publisher: The Pokémon Company, Nintendo
Release: October 06, 2023
Detective Pikachu Returns truly captures the essence of Pokémon as partners. Set in Rhyme City, Tim Goodman and Pikachu team up to solve mysteries and crimes. Gameplay follows the classic adventure formula – explore scenes, gather clues, and interview witnesses – with the added charm of Pokémon involvement. This game provides a unique perspective on a world where Pokémon and humans coexist, offering a richer narrative than many other titles. Its accessibility makes it perfect for younger audiences eager to join Detective Pikachu on his adventures.
Detective Pikachu Returns – Nintendo Direct 6.21.2023
Pokkén Tournament DX
Pokkén Tournament DX
Platforms: Nintendo Switch
Genre: Fighting, Arcade
Developer: Bandai Namco Entertainment
Publisher: Nintendo of America, Nintendo of Europe, Nintendo
Release: September 22, 2017
Considering the constant battles in the Pokémon world, a dedicated fighting game seemed inevitable. While Pokkén Tournament DX’s roster isn’t extensive, it features key favorites. This one-on-one fighter avoids being a mere clone of existing games, introducing a unique Field and Dual Phase system that dynamically alters character movesets. This offers depth for dedicated fighting game enthusiasts while remaining accessible and enjoyable for casual players who appreciate witnessing their favorite Pokémon in dynamic, non-turn-based combat.
Get Ready for Pokkén Tournament!
