15 Shows Every Pokémon Fan Should Watch

Pokémon has captured hearts with its exciting battles, colorful creatures, and stories of friendship. Fans love the adventures of trainers like Ash Ketchum as they catch Pokémon and chase their dreams. If you’re a Pokémon fan looking for more shows with similar vibes, this list is for you. These series offer thrilling battles, deep bonds, or monster-collecting themes that echo what makes Pokémon so special.

From anime to animated adventures, these shows bring the same energy as Pokémon, with unique worlds and characters. Whether you enjoy epic fights or heartfelt stories, there’s something here for every fan. Dive into these 15 shows that will keep you hooked and remind you why you fell in love with Pokémon.

Digimon Adventure (1999)

‘Digimon Adventure’ follows kids who get pulled into a digital world filled with creatures called Digimon. They team up with these monsters to battle evil forces and save both worlds. The show has a mix of action, teamwork, and creature bonding that feels a lot like Pokémon. Each kid has a unique Digimon partner, and their relationships grow through challenges.

The battles are intense, with Digimon evolving into stronger forms, much like Pokémon evolutions. The story dives into themes of courage and friendship, making it a great pick for Pokémon fans who love seeing trainers and creatures grow together. It’s a classic that captures the monster-collecting spirit with its own twist.

Yu-Gi-Oh! Duel Monsters (2000)

‘Yu-Gi-Oh!’ centers on Yugi Moto, a teen who solves an ancient puzzle and gains a powerful alter ego. He battles opponents using a card game where monsters come to life. The strategic duels are similar to Pokémon battles, with players using tactics to outsmart their rivals. The show’s focus on collecting cards and building decks will appeal to fans who love Pokémon’s competitive side.

The series mixes high-stakes tournaments with mystical stakes, keeping you glued to the screen. Friendships and rivalries drive the story, just like in Pokémon. It’s a fun, fast-paced show that delivers the thrill of competition and monster showdowns.

Bakugan Battle Brawlers (2007)

‘Bakugan Battle Brawlers’ is about kids who use cards and transforming creatures called Bakugan to fight in exciting battles. The story follows Dan and his friends as they uncover the secrets of their Bakugan and face off against powerful foes. The strategic battles and creature-collecting feel very close to Pokémon’s core.

Each Bakugan has unique abilities, and players must think carefully to win, much like Pokémon trainers. The show also explores teamwork and loyalty, with friendships that echo the bonds in Pokémon. It’s a great mix of action and strategy for fans who love building teams and battling.

Beyblade (2001)

‘Beyblade’ follows kids who compete in spinning-top battles using customizable Beyblades. Tyson and his friends travel the world, facing rivals in intense tournaments. The battles are fast and exciting, with each Beyblade having unique traits, similar to Pokémon types and moves. Fans of Pokémon’s competitive battles will enjoy the high-energy showdowns.

The show also focuses on friendship and growth, as characters learn to work together and improve their skills. Like Pokémon, it blends action with personal stories, making it easy to root for the characters. It’s a fun watch for anyone who loves fast-paced competitions.

Monster Farm (1999)

‘Monster Farm’ follows Genki, a boy transported to a world where he unlocks monsters from discs to battle and explore. The show has a Pokémon-like vibe with its focus on collecting and training unique creatures. Each monster has distinct abilities, and Genki forms strong bonds with them, much like Pokémon trainers.

The series mixes adventure, battles, and mystery as Genki and his friends uncover the world’s secrets. The creature designs are creative, and the battles are exciting, appealing to fans who love Pokémon’s monster-collecting and training elements. It’s a nostalgic gem with plenty of heart.

Cardcaptor Sakura (1998)

‘Cardcaptor Sakura’ follows Sakura, a young girl who captures magical cards with unique powers. Each card is like a Pokémon, with its own abilities and personality, and Sakura must use strategy to catch them. The show’s mix of action, magic, and character growth feels similar to Pokémon’s adventures.

The story emphasizes friendship and determination, as Sakura grows more confident with each challenge. Pokémon fans will enjoy the collecting aspect and the creative battles. It’s a charming series with a magical twist that keeps you engaged.

Avatar: The Last Airbender (2005)

‘Avatar: The Last Airbender’ follows Aang, a young boy who controls the elements and travels with friends to save the world. While it doesn’t have creature-collecting, the show’s focus on mastering skills and building bonds mirrors Pokémon’s themes. Aang’s journey to become a better leader feels like a trainer’s growth.

The series has epic battles and a rich world, with creatures like Appa and Momo adding a Pokémon-like charm. The mix of action, humor, and heart makes it a must-watch for fans who love Pokémon’s adventurous spirit and teamwork.

Dragon Ball Z (1989)

‘Dragon Ball Z’ is about Goku and his friends fighting powerful enemies to protect Earth. The intense battles and training arcs are similar to Pokémon’s focus on growth and competition. Characters level up through hard work, much like Pokémon evolve or learn new moves.

The show’s mix of action, rivalries, and friendships will hook Pokémon fans who enjoy epic showdowns. It also has a sense of adventure as characters explore new places and face stronger foes. It’s a classic that delivers non-stop excitement.

Hunter x Hunter (2011)

‘Hunter x Hunter’ follows Gon, a boy who becomes a Hunter to find his father, taking on dangerous missions and battles. The show’s creative combat system and unique characters feel like Pokémon’s strategic battles. Gon’s journey to grow stronger mirrors a Pokémon trainer’s quest.

The series has a mix of adventure, teamwork, and intense fights, with characters forming bonds similar to those between trainers and Pokémon. The world is vast and full of surprises, making it a great pick for fans who love exploration and strategy.

My Teen Romantic Comedy SNAFU (2013)

‘My Teen Romantic Comedy SNAFU’ isn’t about battles but focuses on relationships and personal growth, much like the friendships in Pokémon. The story follows Hachiman, a loner who helps others solve problems while learning about himself. The character-driven story feels like the bonds between Pokémon trainers.

The show’s sharp humor and heartfelt moments make it a unique pick for Pokémon fans who enjoy the emotional side of the series. It’s a refreshing change of pace with deep, relatable characters and clever dialogue.

One Piece (1999)

‘One Piece’ follows Luffy and his pirate crew as they sail to find a legendary treasure. The show’s sense of adventure and camaraderie is similar to Pokémon’s journey-driven stories. Each crew member has unique skills, like Pokémon with different abilities, and their teamwork shines in battles.

The series is packed with action, humor, and heart, with a massive world to explore. Pokémon fans will love the epic quests and the bonds between characters, making it a fun and thrilling watch.

Naruto (2002)

‘Naruto’ follows a young ninja named Naruto as he trains to become the strongest in his village. The focus on growth, rivalries, and teamwork feels a lot like Pokémon’s trainer journeys. Naruto’s determination to improve mirrors a trainer’s drive to raise strong Pokémon.

The show has intense battles and a rich world, with characters forming deep bonds similar to those in Pokémon. It’s packed with action and emotion, making it a great fit for fans who love epic stories and character growth.

Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (2009)

‘Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood’ follows brothers Edward and Alphonse as they use alchemy to uncover mysteries and fight enemies. The strategic battles and deep emotional stakes are similar to Pokémon’s mix of strategy and heart. The brothers’ bond feels like the connection between trainers and Pokémon.

The show’s rich story and complex characters make it a standout. Pokémon fans will enjoy the action-packed fights and the journey of growth, making it a must-watch for those who love adventure and depth.

Inuyasha (2000)

‘Inuyasha’ follows Kagome, a girl who travels to feudal Japan and teams up with a half-demon to collect magical jewel shards. The quest-driven story and battles feel like Pokémon’s adventures. Each shard is like a Pokémon, with unique powers that drive the plot.

The mix of action, romance, and teamwork appeals to fans who love Pokémon’s blend of battles and bonds. The vibrant world and engaging characters make it a fun, nostalgic watch for any Pokémon fan.

Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba (2019)

‘Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba’ follows Tanjiro, a boy who becomes a demon slayer to save his sister and avenge his family. The intense battles and focus on growth are similar to Pokémon’s training arcs. Tanjiro’s determination and bonds with others echo a trainer’s journey.

The show’s stunning visuals and emotional story make it a standout. Pokémon fans will love the action and heart, as Tanjiro’s quest feels like a trainer’s path to becoming the best.

What’s your favorite show to watch as a Pokémon fan? Share your thoughts in the comments and let us know which series captures that Pokémon spirit for you!