X and Y propelled the series forward and laid down the groundwork for what was to come in Sun and Moon.

While it is only cosmetic, it added to the role-playing element of the experience in a fun way. X and Y also brought in a lot more customisation, allowing you to change the look and style of your trainer. It was a welcome touch that finally let you pet and play with your favourite battling buddies. The Pokemon-Amie system was also introduced for the first time, which lets you interact with your Pokemon companions and form bonds with them. The charming sprites of yesteryear turned into gorgeous 3D models on the handheld, which elevated the battle sequences to new animated heights. It was a significant change from the other titles that came before it, and felt like it truly marked the start of a new era for the long-running franchise. Pokemon X and Y took Pokemon into the world of 3D on the Nintendo 3DS and let us experience its universe like never before. This version also has some graphical enchantments over Diamond and Pearl, with more appealing sprite animations in battle. It throws up quite a compelling dilemma with no obvious cut and dry answers. Instead, Black and White features Team Plasma, a group that believe Pokemon should be allowed to roam free and not be tied down by a trainer. The antagonists in this one aren’t so clearly as nefarious as Team Rocket always seem to be with their tail cutting habits and treatment of Pokemon. As the only game to get a direct sequel with Black and White 2, the fifth generation of Pokemon puts more of an emphasis on its storytelling, and plays around with the concept of right and wrong. It often gets overshadowed by other entries thanks to its less memorable Pokemon designs, but it’s maturer tone and interesting plot still help it stand out in the line-up. Pokemon Black and White is a little bit of an odd duck in the main series.

Pokemon black and white nintendo ds