17 Pokémon-like games to play on PC the Steam Deck

Pokémon is one of the most ubiquitous and popular games in the world, but there’s one place you can’t find it: The PC. As a result, Pokémon fans who want to experience the fun of everyone’s favorite collectable monster RPG on their PC or Steam Deck are stuck longing for the day Nintendo finally releases a Pokémon game on that platform.

But wait no longer, as if you’re willing to part with the Pokémon name you can find dozens of Pokémon-style games on the PC and Steam Deck.

Below we’ve listed 17 of the very best Pokémon-like games you can play on the PC and Steam Deck right now:

Coromon is a stylish, upgraded version of the classic Pokémon-style monster-taming game, with crisp pixel graphics and solid mechanics. While there's all the classic monster-taming RPG staples, there's also puzzles, side quests, and a unique setting to explore.

Steam Deck compatible? 100% compatible and verified.

Cassette Beasts takes inspiration from retro styles and technology to create a turn-based monster-battling RPG that feels lofi and retro, while being something new and exciting. There's also unlimited fusion, meaning you can create hundreds of possible monsters, giving things a unique spin.

Steam Deck compatible? 100% compatible and verified.

If "Pokémon but with Monster Hunter monsters" isn't enough to immediately sell you on Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin, then maybe the fact this is one of the more challenging monster-battling RPGs on the market should. This is really exactly what Game Freak should be making for a 3D Pokémon game!

Steam Deck compatible? Not supported, can work in some cases.

With a world and graphics inspired and developed by Studio Ghibli, Ni no Kuni Wrath of the White Witch Remastered introduces you to rich RPG world, and then lets you capture and control any enemy you face. This is one of the deepest and most vibrant RPGs ever made and you owe it to yourself to play it!

Steam Deck compatible? 100% compatible and verified.

The sequel to the original Ni no Kuni, Ni no Kuni II Revenant Kingdom sometimes gets criticism for a weaker story and less compelling protagonist. We'd suggest saving this one for after you've completed the original game, if you're still looking for more.

Steam Deck compatible? 100% compatible and verified.

One of the most earnest attempts to create a Pokémon-style MMO, TemTem succeeds in so many ways making a fun and engaging monster-raising MMO. From what we've seen so far, it's worth checking out, even at the steep, Nintendo-like pricing.

Steam Deck compatible? 100% compatible and verified.

Nexomon and Nexomon: Extinction are stylish 2D attempts to create a monster-taming RPG that goes beyond the archetype. But what sets these games apart is the more ambitious RPG story. Given these games are fully compatible with the Steam Deck, this might be your best way to experience more monster-catching action on the go, without having to pick up a Pokémon game!

Steam Deck compatible? 100% compatible and verified.

A more retro attempt at creating a monster-taming game, Evomon is a cross between Tamagotchi and Pokémon. With its pocket-style gameplay and simple mechanics, this is an addictive monster-training RPG that is definitely worth picking up with its small price point.

Steam Deck compatible? Playable, not verified.

Ever wanted to pit your trained monsters against fantasy creatures? Monster Sanctuary scratches that itch with side-scrolling combat, simple graphics, and an enjoyable gameplay loop. This unique take on the monster-taming genre mixes platforming and the simplicity of the side-scrolling gameplay to make a compelling and deep title.

Steam Deck compatible? 100% compatible and verified.

Some of the most deep and traditional monster-taming games out there, the Siralim series, containing Siralim, Siralim 2, Siralim 3, & Siralim Ultimate, uses randomly generated dungeons to create a seemingly endless series of challenges. This is a true old-school experience, but worth trying to see if it's something you vibe with. And if you do, there's four whole games to experience, all Steam Deck compatible!

Steam Deck compatible? 100% compatible and verified.

Cute, stylized, and retro, Abomi Nation uses roguelike mechanics to give something new every playthrough. Every time you play, Abomi Nation will be different, with different creatures, different starters, and different creatures. Definitely one for fans of randomizers.

Steam Deck compatible? Playable, not verified.

A bait-and-switch game which initially appears cute and wholesome, before transforming into a FPS where you shoot and kill your cute monster friends, Palworld is something we've written about before. Palworld isn't released yet, but we can't wait to get our hands on this insanity in January 2024.

Steam Deck compatible? Unknown, unreleased

Evolings is a cute, pixel-art monster-tamer with roguelike elements, a fantasy setting, and really stylish music and animation. The attacks and animations are so satisfying and you can even grab the incredibly cool soundtrack on its own.

Steam Deck compatible? 100% compatible and verified.

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