Hello I am relatively new to the Pokemon world. The only Pokémon game I have really played is Pokémon go (when it was popular back in 2016) I’ve been meaning to get into it more as my interest in it increases. What are some games that I can start off with. Like as a beginner / first timer. I have a Nintendo DS and Switch. (I can also do emulators)  https://vlc.onl/

Edited March 20, 20242 yr by W1edra

Pokemon Black/White and Black 2 White 2 on the DS.
Pokemon HeartGold and SoulSilver on the DS.

Pokemon Platinum on the DS.

 

Spin-off games:
Pokemon Legend Arceus on the Switch. 

Pokemon Colosseum and Pokemon XD: Gale of Darkness on the Gamecube.

Pokemon Mystery Dungeon (All of them).

 

Welcome to the Pokémon world! For beginners, I’d recommend starting with Pokémon Let's Go Pikachu/Eevee on Switch—they’re very beginner-friendly and tie into your Pokémon Go experience. On DS, Pokémon Diamond, Pearl, or HeartGold/SoulSilver are great classics to get started. 99 nights in the forest

Edited December 2, 2025Dec 2 by Thenut

On 3/16/2024 at 11:56 AM, W1edra said:

Hello I am relatively new to the Pokemon world. The only Pokémon game I have really played is Pokémon go (when it was popular back in 2016) I’ve been meaning to get into it more as my interest in it increases. What are some games that I can start off with. Like as a beginner / first timer. I have a Nintendo DS and Switch. (I can also do emulators)  https://vlc.onl/

 

If you’re new to the Pokémon world, that’s completely fine , it’s a great time to start exploring it! Since you mentioned you have a Nintendo DS, a Switch, and can also use emulators, you actually have a lot of good options to begin with.

 

If you want the best classic experience, I highly recommend starting with Pokémon Emerald on an emulator. The story, the region, the pacing, and the difficulty are all perfectly balanced for a first-timer. It’s one of the most beloved Pokémon games ever made, and for good reason.

 

Another great option, especially if you want a long-term experience that includes content from many generations, is Pokémon Revolution Online (PRO) 😚. It’s a fan-made MMO that lets you play through multiple regions and doesn’t skip any of the important parts from the original games. It’s a very complete experience and perfect if you want something that grows with you over time.

 

If you prefer playing directly on your consoles:

 

On the Nintendo DS, you can start with Pokémon HeartGold/SoulSilver or Pokémon Platinum .. both are beginner-friendly and fantastic.

On the Nintendo Switch, the easiest starting point is Pokémon Let’s Go Pikachu/Eevee, or if you want something more modern, Pokémon Scarlet/Violet.

 

 

But honestly: Emerald is the perfect first adventure, and PRO is great if you want to experience everything in one place.