Pokémon remains amazing, but there are quite a few games that resemble it or use the same idea in a different way. If you feel like trying something new, these are great alternatives that still keep that collecting and training feeling. Some are more modern, others are more classic or relaxed, but all of them are well-rated by fans of the genre.
You might even find a new favorite among them.
10 games like Pokémon you should definitely try
Official website: Visit Temtem
- Platform: PC, PS5, Switch
- Genre: MMO creature collector
Temtem is the closest alternative to Pokémon, but it is fully online with other players. You can see everyone running around and battle together, which makes the world feel much more alive.
The gameplay is slightly more tactical thanks to double battles and fewer random elements. This makes it feel like a more competitive version of Pokémon.
It is always online, which not everyone will like. But if you're looking for multiplayer, this is one of the best choices.
This ranks #1 because it’s the most complete alternative that still strongly resembles Pokémon.
Official website: Visit Palworld
- Platform: PC, Xbox
- Genre: survival crafting
Palworld quickly became popular because it combines Pokémon with survival gameplay. You catch creatures, but you also need to build, survive, and fight.
This makes it feel much less “safe” than Pokémon and a lot more open and chaotic. That makes it unique, but sometimes a bit overwhelming.
It’s not for everyone, but if it clicks, you can easily sink hours into it.
It ranks high because it gives the genre a completely different twist.
Official page: View Nexomon on Steam
Original publisher page (outdated): PQube Nexomon: Extinction page
Note: The original publisher page still exists but appears outdated and not actively maintained anymore. The Steam page is the most up-to-date source for the game.
- Platform: PC, Switch, PlayStation, Xbox
- Genre: RPG
Nexomon may look very similar to Pokémon at first, but it really stands out thanks to its humor and dialogue. The story feels more personal and less standard.
The game is accessible but still offers enough content to keep you engaged for a long time. The writing style especially makes it different from most Pokémon clones.
It feels less serious, which actually makes it fresh and fun to play.
This one is here because it’s a strong all-round RPG with Pokémon vibes.
Official website: Visit Cassette Beasts
- Platform: PC, Switch, Xbox
- Genre: RPG
Cassette Beasts does something Pokémon never does: you transform into the monsters yourself. This creates a completely different way of playing and strategizing.
The world feels open and creative, with lots of unique combinations and systems. It stays surprising, even after many hours.
It’s less well-known, but often praised for its originality.
This one stands out because it truly innovates within the genre.
Official website: Visit Monster Sanctuary
- Platform: PC, Switch, PlayStation, Xbox
- Genre: RPG
Monster Sanctuary combines turn-based battles with platforming and exploration. You truly explore the world instead of just fighting battles.
The system is deep but still accessible enough for casual players, offering plenty of strategy without becoming overwhelming.
The game is often underrated but has built a strong fanbase.
This one is here because it blends Pokémon with another genre.
Official website: Visit Ooblets
- Platform: PC, Switch, Xbox
- Genre: life sim
Ooblets isn’t about intense battles, but about relaxed gameplay with dance battles and collecting. Everything feels light and cheerful.
It’s designed to help you unwind without stress or competition, which makes it very different from most games in this genre.
The style is unique and very colorful, adding to its charm.
This one stands out as the most relaxing take on Pokémon-like games.
Official website: Visit Coromon
- Platform: PC, Switch
- Genre: classic RPG
Coromon feels like the old Pokémon games, but with modern quality and features. It’s clearly made for fans of the classic style.
The game is easy to understand but still deep enough to stay interesting for a long time.
It truly brings back that nostalgic feeling without feeling outdated.
This one is here because it directly appeals to classic Pokémon fans.
Official website: Visit Monster Hunter Stories
- Platform: PC, Switch
- Genre: RPG
This game is similar to Pokémon but much more serious and story-driven. You truly build a bond with your monsters and their growth.
It has stronger RPG elements and feels bigger and more epic, making it less simple than Pokémon.
It’s especially suited for players looking for more depth.
This one is included because it offers a more mature take on the concept.
Official website: Visit Slime Rancher
- Platform: PC, Xbox, PlayStation
- Genre: sandbox
Slime Rancher isn’t about battling, but about collecting and managing your ranch. It still captures that Pokémon feeling of “wanting to collect everything.”
It’s very relaxed and designed to be played without stress, making it perfect for casual gameplay.
The gameplay is simple but addictive thanks to its progression system.
This one is here because it uses the Pokémon idea in a completely different way.
Official website: Visit Digimon
- Platform: multiple consoles
- Genre: RPG / training simulator
Digimon is a Japanese franchise and is much bigger there than in Europe, which makes it less mainstream in the Benelux.
The gameplay is more complex than Pokémon and focuses heavily on training and decision-making. Evolutions are less straightforward and often depend on multiple factors.
This makes it interesting, but also less accessible for new players.
This ranks #10 because it’s more popular in Japan and less relevant to Western audiences.
Conclusion: you don’t have to stick with Pokémon
Pokémon remains a strong franchise, but it’s definitely not the only option.
These games show how the concept can be explored in many different ways.
Whether you want to relax, play multiplayer, or dive into something deeper, there’s always something that fits.
Try one and you might just discover your new favorite.
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