17. Pokemon HeartGold and SoulSilver (2009)
What it’s about: HeartGold and SoulSilver put you in control of a new trainer as they set off on a grand adventure across Johto. Of course, while the game may have new mechanics and Pokemon, the mission’s the same: you’ve still got to catch them all and be the best that you can be.
Why we like it: For a certain generation of Pokemon players (myself included), Silver and Gold were the definitive Pokemon games. It’s unsurprising, then, that the remakes that fuse improved gameplay with the power of nostalgia remain a fan favorite. It’s true that they didn’t exactly reinvent the wheel, but these impressive remakes captured (not in a Pokeball) everything we loved about the originals and added a fresh coat of paint that made the experience feel new again.
The enhanced graphics, updated mechanics, and additional features like the Pokéwalker accessory, which let you take your Pokémon on the go, all contributed to the sense of adventure. And let’s not forget the thrill of seeing your Pokémon follow you around, a feature that made the world feel more alive and your bond with your Pokémon even stronger.
