22 games like Pokemon to play on PC & Steam in 2023

Check out these great Pokemon alternatives if you don’t have a Nintendo Switch to enjoy games from this fantastic series.

Whether you watched the anime back in the day or played the various installments on your Game Boy / DS / 3DS, we are all familiar with the franchise to a greater or lesser extent. If you still haven’t picked up the latest Nintendo handheld (or want an alternative experience on PC), here’s our list of games like Pokemon on PC.

Of course, they don’t offer identical gameplay; that would probably be considered plagiarism. However, there are a number of titles that work as solid Pokemon alternatives with similar game mechanics, stories, and characters.

The article was updated on 2nd March, 2023. We have added two more games to the list.

Best games like Pokemon

The first twelve will be games that we especially recommend to those who’d like something very close to Ash’s (or, should we say, Red’s?) adventures. The rest will be honorable mentions that aren’t knockoffs of Pokemon, although they still have similar vibes to the famous series.

Bugsnax

From the developers of Octodad, this game portrays a vast island full of creatures called Bugsnax: as you can imagine, you can catch them, but not with a Pokeball. In fact, you can utilize all sorts of traps and baits instead. Simultaneously, we’re trying to figure out what happened to Elizabert Megafig, the person who invited us here in the first place.

Prepare for lots of hunting for more Bugsnax to capture. Then, when you are ready, you can take on the biggest of them in a battle, using the help of the snacky friends you already have. Other than just fighting, your task is to find out what happened with Elizabert and her crew – the plot is also a big part of your journey, similarly to Nintendo’s iconic monster-catcher. 

You can play this title via Game Pass! Here’s a quick reminder that if you’re a new subscriber, you will pay only $1 / 1€ / £1 / 4 zł for the first month. The good thing is that it applies to both “versions” of the subscription:

Coromon

Speaking of games like Pokemon on Steam, this one accurately represents some of the older titles from this super-popular series. We’re a member of an organization called Lux Solis. In our world, Velua resides great evil. We need to gather as many Coromons as possible and embark on an adventure that will decide the fate of our land. Your monsters have unique abilities, so you must think carefully before choosing who will join you in the battle.

The game looks like a classic 2D isometric title from Nintendo, and it feels like it, too. There will be six challenging bosses (called Titans) fought in turn-based battles and puzzles to solve. Don’t worry – you will be getting dozens of new monsters to help you achieve your goal.

Digimon Story Cyber Sleuth

Hey, there’s no way Digimons wouldn’t have made it here! Begin your adventure in EDEN, a digital world controlled by hackers. You’re a newbie, and you want to prove your worth and be able to tame digital monsters. Similar to Digimon’s greatest rival, there are three starter creatures to choose from, and you will have plenty more to catch along the way.

While looking for Pokemon-like games, you definitely should include this title. After all, it’s incredibly similar to the other series: turn-based battles, many monsters to catch, and absolutely stunning visuals. What else do you need in a game like that?

Digimon Survive

Haters will say that Digimon is a cheap, inferior Pokemon knock-off. We dare to disagree with this statement. It’s different regarding world design, how monsters communicate, and the mature plot. These variations are also evident in the recently-released Digimon Survive, which we decided to add to our list.

Its gameplay focuses on character interactions, which you explore through well-executed visual novel mechanics. There’s plenty of reading, but don’t worry. You still have plenty of battles to fight and XP grinding to do if you’re into turn-based combat.

Monster Crown

Do you feel that going retro would be a better idea? Monster Crown will grant your wish. Its story is much darker – you’re trying to end the tyranny of a malicious person ruling the world. Make pacts with monsters so that they join you in your quest, and then breed them to create even more powerful creatures.

It’s a title that would come out back in the Game Boy era and play perfectly for an alternative creature-catcher. The game radiates a grim aura (partially because of a surprisingly mature plot), so if you want a more “grown-up” setting for collecting monsters, you’ve just found it.

Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin

Monster Hunter in itself is quite popular. With Wings of Ruin, the developers decided on a different spin. Firstly, it’s an RPG with turn-based combat, which you normally wouldn’t connotate with the series. Instead of hunting monsters, you befriend them. If things aren’t going your way, you can change the creatures that help you during the battle.

You’re trying to guard a Rathalos Egg together with Ena, a girl who you stumble upon on your way. As you’re the grandson of a hero named Red (it can’t be a coincidence, right?), you decide to explore the world with the girl and gather more creatures (called Monsties here) that will fight alongside you.

Monster Sanctuary

Imagine blending Dead Cells with one of the Pokemon like games on Steam, and you’ll get Monster Sanctuary. There are more than a hundred monsters to catch on this dangerous journey, which you can then train and utilize their abilities to conquer the challenges of the Sanctuary.

Sometimes, you will have to fly or rush through obstacles and all sorts of environmental puzzles – without your creatures, it’s impossible to proceed further. The pixel art reminiscent of the first title we’ve mentioned above combines with its gameplay. You fight monsters in a Metroidvania-like fashion to later use the creatures you’ve got to help you with platforming. Keep in mind that this game is also available on GP if you want to try it out.

Nexomon: Extinction

Maybe the developers could come up with a bit more creative name to distinguish the title from other Pokemon games for PC, but the title itself isn’t just a cheap copy. Even though it’s directed at casual gamers, it’s capable of being rather engaging and fun. The secret behind its charm is that it focuses on simplified exploration rather than on challenging quests.

This colorful game offers over 300 unique creatures to catch, which you will then use in turn-based fights. It’s a title for those who want a relaxing experience rather than hours of grinding – and Nexomon allows you to chill out like no other game on this list. 

Ooblets

We’ve already seen a side-scroller alternative for Pokemon: how about mixing it with Stardew Valley? The approach to regular combat is also quite fascinating – instead of fighting “normally”, Ooblets engage in turn-based dance battles. Your job is to direct these adorable creatures better than your opponent.

As for the farming aspect, the game offers a full-fledged farming experience. Plant seeds and observe how new Ooblets are coming to life, or take care of your home, decorating it to your liking. It’s nice to know that you can focus on growing the best farm in the world whenever you’re tired from dancing battles!

Slime Rancher and Slime Rancher 2

In Slime Rancher, an FPP sandbox game, you’ll have to manage slimes. All sorts of slimes, we should add. As a professional rancher, Beatrix LeBeau, you absorb your new gooey friends with a special gun-like tool; then, you transport them to your place and get money for that. Easy.

You’ll need to take good care of your slimes, though: they can evolve after they’ve been caught, but you need to help them in the process. After some time, you can create them from scratch – and earn even more cash to get your cool ranch running.

It’s worth noting that there’s also a sequel, Slime Rancher 2, which is currently available on Game Pass and offers even more of what made you love the first entry.

Temtem

Now, what genre haven’t we covered yet? MMORPG? Say no more. Temtem offers you an online side of things, but for a price: it’s MUCH more difficult than most of the previously mentioned titles. To become the greatest Temtem Tamer, you’ll have to do some honest work. You will also need to embark on quite an adventure to fulfill your dream.

There are six Omninesia islands to explore, eight Dojo leaders to beat, and Temtems to add to your squad. Good thing it’s an MMO, so you can bring your friends along on this challenging journey and fight opponents from around the world together! Co-op monster-catcher sounds more than appealing if you ask us. 

ARK: Survival Evolved (Included with PC Game Pass)

ARK: Survival Evolved is a sandbox MMO that transports players to an island teeming with giant prehistoric reptiles. In keeping with the survival genre, your task is to withstand all obstacles in this hostile environment. You’ll be hunting, gathering resources, and crafting.

Taming and breeding dinosaurs is one of the most important features of the game. These creatures can help you survive in so many ways, for example, by carrying equipment and loot back to your settlement, and some can even serve as mounts.

Honorable mentions

These were the Pokemon PC games that gave off similar vibes to the iconic Japanese franchise. Now, we’d like to mention some other titles that may suit your tastes, even if they’re slightly different.

Digimon Masters Online

Digimon Masters Online is a free-to-play MMO based on the Digimon Savers animated series. You join the Digital Accident Tactics Squad, whose mission is to prevent conflicts and ensure the peaceful coexistence of the real and digital worlds of Digimon.

You’ll do this by hunting down dangerous beasts that appear in both places. As you play, you’ll naturally collect more and more different creatures that are waiting to be trained.

DRAGON QUEST XI: Echoes of An Elusive Age

This series feels like it’s overshadowed by Final Fantasy. And it shouldn’t be! DRAGON QUEST XI: Echoes of An Elusive Age is one of the best JRPGs, with a distinctive character design by Akira Toriyama. He did the art for Dragon Ball, which explains why the Dragon Quest crew looks strangely familiar.

Monster Rancher 1 & 2 DX

Now it’s time for a blast from the past. After all, the original versions of Monster Rancher 1 & 2 DX were released over 20 years ago! There is no doubt that the real-time battles and the insanely unique system of creating new creatures through music are the big advantages of these titles.

Ni no Kuni II: Revenant Kingdom

Despite the fact that there are no monsters to read about in the Pokedex in Ni no Kuni II: The Revenant Kingdom, there are Higgledies that replace familiars from Wrath of the White Witch. Certainly, it’s an enjoyable JRPG with a real-time combat system and colorful, anime-like visuals. No fan of the genre should overlook it.

Persona 4 Golden (Included with PC Game Pass)

Many players consider Persona 4 Golden to be one of the top RPGs of all time. That’s not surprising since its gameplay is addictive, and the writing is top-notch, making the characters and the story compelling.

Shin Megami Tensei III Nocturne HD Remaster

Fun fact: The Persona series is a Shin Megami Tensei spin-off. No wonder a remaster of Shin Megami Tensei III provides a familiar JRPG experience, this time in a post-apocalyptic Tokyo. You can fight demons as one of them or join them in their mission to take control of the world.

Siralim Ultimate

Without a doubt, Siralim Ultimate requires players to invest a lot of time, but it will be well spent. It’s a complex dungeon crawler that feels a little bit like Diablo. However, collecting new monsters is also a crucial element of gameplay. Because there are over a thousand creatures to collect, you will most likely spend dozens of hours on this game.

Slay the Spire (Included with PC Game Pass)

How about something for card game enthusiasts? Slay the Spire combines TCG mechanics with the roguelike genre, resulting in a title that’s easy to pick up and fun to play. But there’s a catch: permadeath. Therefore, every time you die, you have to prepare for new challenges.

WORLD OF FINAL FANTASY

If your kid or younger sibling wants to start playing PC games and you’re looking for something good, look no further! WORLD OF FINAL FANTASY is the perfect introduction to the Final Fantasy franchise that won’t scare anyone off. The title is a simpler and cuter version of what we would normally get in the main installments.

Yu-Gi-Oh! Legacy of the Duelist

We’ll end the list with an adaptation of a well-known TCG. It will allow you to explore the lore of the Yu-Gi-Oh! series and build strong decks with over six thousand cards to choose from! If you’d like an online title in this franchise, try Duel Links or Master Duel. Both are free-to-play and feature tons of cards from the traditional TCG.

Phew, that was a lot of games to process! We hope you’ve found yourself a nice alternative to Pokemon on Steam, thanks to our list. As you can see, PC players can rest assured if they want to play a great creature-catcher on their computers.

Are there any other games like Pokemon that you’d recommend? We might have forgotten to mention one or two. Or perhaps you’d like to see a specific idea or game mechanic implemented? Share your ideas in the comment section!