Ever thought about playing every single Pokémon game in a row? Yeah, every region, every generation, one massive Poké-journey from Pallet Town to Paldea. Sound crazy? Welcome to Reddit, where passionate fans are turning that dream (or nightmare) into a full-on challenge. This isn’t just about catching ’em all it’s about surviving the grind, bonding with the community, and proving to yourself that you can do the unthinkable: a full Pokémon marathon binge.
The Allure of a Full Pokémon Playthrough
Nostalgia Hits Hard
For many of us, Pokémon isn’t just a game it’s a childhood memory. Revisiting every title in order is like taking a trip through time, reliving moments you may have forgotten, from picking your first starter to facing off against the Elite Four.
Challenge and Bragging Rights
Let’s be honest not everyone has the stamina or the patience to pull this off. That’s what makes it so enticing. Finishing all mainline games? That’s next-level. On Reddit, that kind of dedication earns serious respect.
Community and Connection
What makes this journey special isn’t just the games it’s sharing the experience. Reddit threads are full of live updates, advice, polls, and emotional highs and lows. You’re never binging alone.
Preparing for the Ultimate Pokémon Marathon
Gathering the Games
To do it right, you’ll need access to over 30 mainline Pokémon games, including remakes. That means multiple platforms or a good emulator setup.
Platforms and Emulation
Some folks stick to original hardware (Game Boy, DS, Switch), while others go digital with emulators. Emulators make it easier, faster, and often safer in terms of save data management.
Time Commitment and Planning
Let’s not sugarcoat it this is a marathon in the truest sense. We’re talking hundreds of hours. Some Reddit users break it up over months; others go full binge mode for weeks on end.
Tools of the Trade
Emulators, ROMs, and Legality
While Nintendo’s policy is strict, many Redditors use emulators for practicality. Just make sure you’re aware of the legalities owning the original copy of the game is key.
Hardware Setups
Some go all out: dual screens, backup batteries, modded DS consoles, capture cards, etc. Others keep it simple with a Switch and their PC.
Save Backups and Syncing
You don’t want to lose a 50-hour save file. Tools like PKHeX, checkpoint apps, and cloud backups can be lifesavers.
Reddit’s Role in Pokémon Marathons
Subreddits That Inspire
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r/pokemon
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r/pokemonChallenges
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r/nuzlocke
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r/3DS
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r/gaming
These communities are filled with stories, strategy tips, and encouragement.
Popular Marathon Threads
Every few months, someone starts a thread: “I’m playing every Pokémon game in order. AMA.” These turn into support groups where everyone chimes in with advice and virtual high-fives.
Sharing Progress and Seeking Help
Reddit becomes a Pokémon diary. People post screenshots, favorite teams, tough battles, and game rankings. Others jump in with encouragement or solutions.
The Core Series Games Played in Order
Generation I – Red, Blue, Yellow
Where it all began. Chunky sprites, broken mechanics, but pure gold in memory.
Generation II – Gold, Silver, Crystal
The best sequels in gaming history? With Johto and Kanto, it’s like two games in one.
Generation III – Ruby, Sapphire, Emerald, FireRed, LeafGreen
The Game Boy Advance era brings vibrant visuals and deeper mechanics. Emerald’s Battle Frontier is a big test for marathoners.
Generation IV – Diamond, Pearl, Platinum, HeartGold, SoulSilver
Welcome to Sinnoh and one of the longest storylines. Platinum smooths things out. HG/SS? Perfection.
Generation V – Black, White, Black 2, White 2
Often underrated, Gen V offers one of the best narratives. It’s fresh, dark, and addictive.
Generation VI – X, Y, Omega Ruby, Alpha Sapphire
The 3D shift begins. ORAS is a gem (pun intended). X/Y? Not as beloved, but still key in the journey.
Generation VII – Sun, Moon, Ultra Sun, Ultra Moon
Aloha from Alola. Story-heavy, cutscene-heavy a love-it-or-hate-it generation for binge players.
Generation VIII – Sword, Shield, BDSP, Legends: Arceus
Galar brings open-world elements. BDSP is divisive, but Legends: Arceus is a refreshing detour.
Generation IX – Scarlet, Violet, DLCs
Paldea’s open world is buggy but bold. The DLCs add serious content. Expect to pour dozens of hours here.
Marathon Challenges and Strategies
Permadeath (Nuzlocke)
For the brave: fainted Pokémon are gone for good. The emotional pain is real.
Completing the Pokédex
Some players aim to complete every regional Dex. That’s hardcore. And exhausting.
Speedrunning vs. Casual Bingeing
Some aim to finish each game in record time. Others just soak in the nostalgia. There’s no wrong way to binge.
Physical vs. Emotional Burnout
Avoiding Fatigue
Switch it up. Play a short game after a long one. Take breaks. Touch grass (seriously).
Dealing With Repetitiveness
Change your team lineup. Try new strategies. Use different Pokémon types.
Keeping the Fun Alive
Set mini goals. Document your journey. Share with friends or Reddit.
Top Tips from Reddit Bingers
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Don’t rush. Enjoy the ride.
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Save often — like, really often.
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Use spreadsheets to track progress.
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Mix playstyles (casual, Nuzlocke, monotype).
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Celebrate small wins every badge counts.
The Reward After the Binge
Satisfaction and Community Respect
Posting “I just finished every Pokémon game” gets you serious upvotes and respect.
What You Learn
It’s not just about Pokémon. It’s about commitment, memory, strategy, and maybe even a little self-discovery.
The “Post-Marathon Blues”
When it’s over, you’ll miss it. Many Redditors even start again with different rules or challenges.
Is It Worth Playing Every Pokémon Game?
If you love Pokémon and want the ultimate journey yes, 100%. It’s tough, but incredibly rewarding. The nostalgia, the challenge, the emotional rollercoaster it’s a wild ride that leaves a lasting impression.
Conclusion
So, there you have it. The Reddit-powered, sleep-depriving, joy-filled madness of playing every Pokémon game in a marathon binge. Whether you’re in it for the nostalgia, the challenge, or the clout, one thing’s for sure it’s a journey you’ll never forget. Ready to start your own Poké-marathon? Reddit’s cheering you on.
FAQs
1. How long does it take to play every Pokémon game?
It varies. A casual playthrough of all mainline titles can take 400–600 hours, depending on your pace and whether you include side content.
2. Do you have to play the spin-offs too?
Not unless you want to. Most marathons focus on the mainline games, but some diehards include Mystery Dungeon, Ranger, and more.
3. What’s the best order to play them in?
Release order is most popular for watching the evolution of gameplay. Some prefer chronological in-universe timelines or by region.
4. Is it okay to use emulators for this binge?
Technically, it’s a gray area. Many players use emulators but ensure they own the original cartridges to stay legally safe.
5. What’s the most challenging Pokémon game?
Many say Emerald’s Battle Frontier or the Ultra games with their heavy difficulty spikes and postgame content.
