Differing from handhelds, video game consoles have the potential to display better graphics on a larger screen. Console games use a controller instead of a small amount of buttons like the Game Boy. Pokémon games aren’t always better on a console, but it really boils down to preference.

Whether it’s a main series Pokémon game or a spin-off of some sort, the following games are innovational. Spearheading the forefront of video games, the following games appeared on iconic consoles such as the GameCube, Wii, and Switch. Do you prefer to play as a Pokémon or be the trainer leading them into battle? These are the ten best console games ranked from worst to best.

10 Hey You, Pikachu!

This virtual pet simulation game is often overlooked because of its lack of availability. As the first console game to center on Pikachu, it is a game that is fun for collecting Pika Points, unlocking new items, and bonding with your yellow rodent-like pal.

Unfortunately, you need a Nintendo brand microphone to play Hey You, Pikachu!, which is why only a handful of people played it. You can find replacement microphones, but they are scarce and cost a pretty penny. Remarkably, the Nintendo 64’s Voice Recognition Unit can recognize 256 words!

9 PokéPark 2: Wonders Beyond

It’s definitely not the best Pokémon console game ever made, but there is enough content to keep you engaged for hours. It contains many of the Pokémon from the Pokémon Black & White mainline Pokémon games because it released around the same time.

PokéPark 2: Wonders Beyond can be appreciated for its pleasant setting that encourages you to make friends in the game. Its world is its strong suit, but it doesn’t do much to stand out. If you’re looking for a relaxing Pokémon experience, PokéPark 2: Wonders Beyond might be for you.

8 Pokémon XD: Gale Of Darkness

It could be debated endlessly why Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness is better than Pokémon Colosseum, and vice versa. With that said, both games are exceptional in their own right, and both have an intriguing story to go along with dynamic Pokémon battles. Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness perhaps acted as a stepping stone for Pokémon Sword & Shield due to accomplishing so much on console first.

7 Pokémon: Let’s Go, Pikachu! And Let’s Go, Eevee!

A first-generation Pokémon remake was long overdue when these games released. Featuring the Kanto region, it displays graphical improvements, as well as several other gameplay changes.

The game was rebuilt from the ground-up. It offers Poké Ball Plus and two-player support. It’s even possible to connect the game to Pokémon GO! Whether you choose Pokémon: Let’s Go, Pikachu! or Let’s Go, Eevee!, you are bound to enjoy this authentic journey.

6 Pokémon Stadium 2

Pokémon Stadium 2 might not have changed much since its predecessor, but it is an exceptional Pokémon console game. It features Pokémon from Generation II, which included Pokémon like Togepi and Typhlosion.

We have to give credit to Pokémon Stadium 2 for being more challenging and for its unique mini-games. In this case, it’s hard to beat the original. Albeit, Pokémon Stadium 2 is a worthy successor and a phenomenal console game.

5 Pokkén Tournament

This arcadey fighting game was the first Pokémon title to be released for the Nintendo Switch (originally released for the Wii U). The Pokémon Company took a chance with a different type of Pokémon game; the result is staggering.

As one of the few games that let you control Pokémon, you engage in battle while launching an array of techniques. Its kind of like Mortal Kombat meets Pokémon. It plays in three-dimensions and is highly competitive. It doesn’t contain every Pokémon, but a great deal of polish went into the ones they added.

4 Pokémon Colosseum

Before Pokémon Sword & Shield wowed Poké Fans around the world, Pokémon Colosseum was the definitive console Pokémon role-playing game. It wasn’t part of the mainline series, but it did take after it in many ways. The fact it wasn’t a main series game could explain why it is overlooked.

This is one of those games that would play phenomenally if it were remade or remastered. Pokémon Colosseum’s adventure contains a gripping story and superb gameplay.

3 Pokémon Stadium

The first Pokémon game to be released for a console deserves credit, especially since it is an exceptional game. Pokémon Stadium supports a Transfer Pak to play handheld Pokémon games on the big screen.

It contains an abundance of features, including Pokémon battles (featuring the original 151 Pokémon) and mini-games. The chance to see Pokémon on an antiquated tube television for the first time made it well worth the purchase. Even years later, the mini-games hold up!

2 Pokémon Snap

The Nintendo 64 is host to a variety of Pokémon console games, including the first for a console. Pokémon Snap stands above the pack because of its immersive environments and ingenious premise.

The game revolves around taking pictures of Pokémon and sending them to Professor Oak for his rating. The game’s secret paths, Pokémon, and locations give it replay value. Reaching 100% completion is a realistic goal. Pokémon Snap is unique, and we wouldn’t be surprised if it gets a remake or sequel.

1 Pokémon Sword & Shield

Pokémon Sword & Shield introduced numerous game mechanics, such as the Rotom Bike, a bike that maneuvers splendidly. The game’s Wild Area invites players to test their mastery against wild Pokémon and trainers, as well as face-off against Gigantamax Pokémon.

The story is not convoluted or needlessly long. People love Pokémon Sword & Shield because of its amiable characters and immersive gameplay. Pokémon Sword & Shield are the best Pokémon console games made thus far.

NEXT: Pokémon: 5 Mysteries That Took Years To Solve (& 5 That Were Never Explained)