Pokémon Black and White (2010)

Best: Seasons. Pokémon games often dabbled with day-and-night cycles, dating back to the days of Gold and Silver. Depending on the time of day, different Pokémon would appear. Pokémon Black and White took it a step further, introducing seasons. Not only did this dictate what Pokémon would show up during the seasons, but it also had a cosmetic effect: The seasonal shifts caused certain Pokémon to change appearance. This was a savvy way to keep players playing long after they’d hit the credits, provided they really wanted to catch ‘em all.

Worst: Triple battles. Double battles ruled. Triple battles? Not so much. As with all Pokémon games prior and since, you’re allowed to have up to six Pokémon in your party. Part of the tension in Pokémon battles is the guessing game—not knowing who comprises your opponent’s lineup, what pinch-hitter they might be sitting on. Having half a team on the battlefield from the jump diffuses that tension.