Since Pokemon’s debut, numerous monster-collecting games have emerged, often drawing comparisons and accusations of imitation. While Pokemon remains a dominant force, many titles offer similar gameplay loops and aesthetics, carving their own niche in the monster-hunting genre. With the anticipation building for the next mainline Pokemon title, players seeking similar experiences have a wealth of options to explore. This list showcases seven games that, while reminiscent of Pokemon, offer unique twists and gameplay elements.
Exploring the town of Moonstone Island blends creature collecting with life simulation elements, creating a charming hybrid reminiscent of Stardew Valley and Pokemon. Players explore the titular island, collecting and battling Spirits using a turn-based card system. The game also features farming, crafting, and exploration, alongside magical elements. The presence of rare Holo Spirits adds a collectible element akin to Shiny Pokemon, appealing to completionists and fans of the core mechanic.
Diving into the Faylands with Fay Keeper
A screenshot from the Fay Keeper Steam page, an upcoming RPG from BGS Studios, invites players to explore the Faylands kingdom, collecting and training unique Fay beasts. The game’s visuals evoke a nostalgic Pokemon Crystal aesthetic, with the protagonist sporting a familiar backwards baseball cap. While a release date remains unconfirmed, early screenshots suggest a strong visual resemblance to the classic Pokemon style.
Cultivating Cuteness in Ooblets
Ooblets gameplay screenshot shares similarities with both Pokemon and Moonstone Island, combining creature collection with farming and card-based combat. The distinctive art style sets Ooblets apart, offering a unique visual experience. Players collect and battle adorable Ooblets, with Gleamy Ooblets providing a similar thrill to hunting Shiny Pokemon.
Wrangling Slimes in Slime Rancher
Slime Rancher gameplayWhile the creatures in Slime Rancher may only superficially resemble Pokemon like Muk or Ditto, the core gameplay loop of collecting and managing different Slimes resonates with Pokemon fans. The game incorporates farming and exploration elements, providing a compelling experience for players invested in slime-wrangling and resource management.
Embarking on a Research Adventure in Coromon
Coromon Ice CaveOften considered a spiritual successor to Pokemon, Coromon casts players as Battle Researchers, exploring the world of Velua and assembling a team of Coromon. The turn-based battle system and environmental puzzles evoke a strong Pokemon feel, while the intricate storyline offers a deeper narrative experience.
Raising Monsters in Monster Hunter Stories
Monster Hunter Stories offers a unique perspective within the Monster Hunter universe. Instead of hunting monsters, players collect eggs and raise them into powerful companions. This focus on raising and battling monsters provides a distinctly Pokemon-esque experience, especially for fans of the egg-hatching mechanic.
Entering the Controversial World of Palworld
No list of Pokemon-like games would be complete without mentioning Palworld. Dubbed “Pokemon with guns,” the game has garnered significant attention and controversy. Despite developer efforts to differentiate it from Pokemon, the core gameplay of collecting creatures and using them in combat, combined with some visually similar designs, draws inevitable comparisons. The survival game elements add a unique layer to the familiar formula.
The popularity of the monster-collecting genre ensures that Pokemon-inspired games will continue to emerge, offering players a diverse range of experiences that capture the spirit of capturing, training, and battling fantastical creatures.
