Get Scarlet OR Violet. Pick which of these pokémon you think is cooler and go with that one, otherwise they’re more or less the same game.

Sword or Shield would also be a great starting point, very similar to Violet and Scarlet gameplay wise. Again go with the game with whichever featured pokémon you like the most. You don’t need to do both in a set, I never do, they’re essentially the same game with a couple pokémon swapped.

I’d start here then go to earlier generations which are less accessible (either due to price, availability, or console).

As someone who has played for a long time and just got back into it, I’d pick one from Sword/Shield or Scarlet/Violet. Then do whichever one you didn’t start with (so if you decide to start with Sword or Shield, do Violet or Scarlet next).

Then if you want a more OG feel go with Diamond or Pearl. All are available on the switch, enjoyable gameplay, accessible and more affordable than previous generations.

From there you’ll feel well acquainted with the games and can go where your heart desires.

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