Somehow, Pokemon is officially 30 years old. We don’t know if this is a fun fact as much as a rude awakening, but regardless, it is worthy of celebration. After all, for many of us at GameSpot, the Pokemon series has been a fundamental part of our gaming history. More so than most game series, which are often less frequent with new releases, the Pokemon series has remained a constant in our lives—forever evolving (get it?) alongside us and acting as a sort of companion through all the various stages of our lives. As much as we’ve grown and changed, so has the iconic series–in some ways, we’d argue parts of it are unrecognizable. In light of this momentous occasion (and with a new generation just around the corner), we’ve decided to round up–quite scientifically, mind you–a definitive list of the best Pokemon.
So, you might be wondering what our guidelines were for this list. We’re we looking for the best Pokemon statistically? Perhaps the most popular, or the most criminally underrated? When it comes to parameters, I gave absolutely none to my colleagues; I merely asked them what they think the best Pokemon is. Is this list nothing more than a compilation of GameSpot’s personal favorite Pokemon? Maybe (yes). But that’s the joy of Pokemon–every one of these little guys is the best to someone.
Exeggutor (Alolan version)
Many Pokemon’s appearance can grab your attention, but Alolan Exeggutor is one of those ones that really makes your eyes widen. And why not? Such majesty, such lack of grace. A range of emotions conveyed by those faces. Alolan Exeggutor is spectacular, and at least one of those faces suggest it’s just incredibly happy to be here. Because of that, no other Pokemon feels me with such delight every time I see it. — Chris Pereira
Dragapult
Following its introduction in Sword and Shield, Dragapult quickly gained an enthusiastic fanbase thanks to its incredible speed and immunity to both Fighting- and Normal-type attacks. However, if you think that’s the only reason why I can’t get enough of this cool little guy (yes, I know he’s 9′ 11″, but spiritually), you’re sorely mistaken. I am obsessed with Dragapult’s design and the layers of reasoning behind it.
According to Dreepy’s–Dragapult’s pre-evolution–Pokedex entry, Dreepy was reborn as a Ghost-type Pokemon and is often called to wander the seas it used to inhabit during prehistoric times. Based on this descriptor and shape, it seems safe to say Dragapult is then based on the real-life ancient amphibian Diplocaulus. Adding fuel to this theory is the fact that we’ve never found the ending vertebrae of a Diplocaulus tail, hence why Dragapult turns invisible at the end. Brilliant, right? Dragapult also shares notable similarities with alligators, which have been known to carry their children on their heads. Though, as far as I know, alligators don’t also use their babies as ammo, so plus one cool point for Dragapult there.
Oh and have you ever wondered why it’s the “Stealth Pokemon,” or why its head is shaped like, well, that? Turns out, this Ghost pokemon is based on the ghost bomber jet, the Northrop B-2 Spirit. From its runway-esque chevron detailing and overall shape, which is designed with real-life aerodynamics in mind, to its eyes, which resemble the semaphore flags used during military drills, a lot of its design harkens to this fun fact.
Anyways, I am putting way too much thought into what was supposed to be a short and silly entry, so I’ll end it with this: Just look at him. He’s sleek as hell and a Dragon-Ghost type, two of the coolest things. What a legend. — Jessica Cogswell
