RBGY led the international world with a complex monster-catching battle system and incredibly varied team customization that was primarily exclusive to Japanese titles like Shin Megami. The game is a wonder of assembly programming for its time, and with iconic character designs and music, its lackluster story isn't the largest factor in its quality. GSC expanded upon the combat, introduced breeding, and added shiny Pokemon, all while having two regions on the same cartridge.

RSE gave us abilities, greater story focus, and extensive exploration with dungeons, puzzles, and secrets across the region. DPP added online capabilities, experimented with 3D for cutscenes, and the possibility for expanded evolutionary lines. BW/2 added triple battles, increased activities outside of battle, expanded the story, and brought us some of the most well-produced game locations and music in the series.

XY brought the series into 3D, added Mega Evolution for older fan favorites, included more personal Pokemon interaction, and improved competitive convenience in a culturally-captivating region that I wished reached its full potential. SM (specifically) took advantage of version differences in a unique manner, tested HM removal, experimented with real-time Pokemon riding, added an effective method for obtaining high IV Pokemon, and set a pattern of inclusive game mechanics onward.

All the previous Pokemon games had flaws, but I believe they were good games in their own regard. I'm not saying that a game's graphical complexity equals its quality. Numerous games, from Puppet Combo's library to Mortis Ghost's Off, have proved that story and atmosphere play larger roles than visuals alone. My problem lies with what is likely a reduced number of Pokemon yet a reduced amount of quality in performance and design despite what may very well be a lackluster story. I don't mind if you disagree with me or argue in its favor, but you don't have to insult me.