Every Pokémon Generation Ranked From Worst To Best

Pokémon Diamond and Pearl contain the last truly great Pokémon generation. While later games introduced some fine creatures, the quality has undeniably been on the decline since we visited the Sinnoh region.

Gen 4 is perhaps best known for its slew of powerful evolutions for creatures introduced in earlier games. Electabuzz, Magmar and Rhydon, already formidable in their own rights, became even stronger was Electivire, Magmortar and Rhyperior. Eevee got two new evolutions in Leafeon and Glaceon, while Kirlia and Snorunt got interesting alternative forms with Gallade and Froslass.

As far as original Pokémon go, Lucario and Garchomp are two of the most fearsome creatures in the whole franchise, and Dialga, Palkia and Giratina remain some of the strongest legendary Pokémon. The starters are perhaps the most universally solid of the series, with Turtwig being weak but adorable, Chimchar one of the best fire starters of all time and Piplup a triumph in both stats and design.

The low points include Bidoof and its equally weak evolution Bibarel, Mantyke, the unnecessary baby form of Mantine, and Probopass, a powerful but ugly evolution of the equally detestable Nosepass. While gen 4 largely avoided the trap of basing Pokémon on inanimate objects, Bronzor and Bronzong are close enough to earn negative points.