>>20315028I stopped playing after gen 4 but basically the 3rd version is always a mix between the 2 previous versions plus extended content and improvements in graphics/sprites. So yes, you could just play every 3rd game and you wouldn't miss anything but as you said, in order to savor the improvements and evolution of the game, you should always pick 1 of the 2 first version and then play the 3rd one to get the whole picture. Remakes are optional and I strongly suggest not playing them before the originals.
Personally I played Red -> Yellow -> Gold -> Crystal -> Ruby -> Emerald -> FireRed -> HeartGold
Good luck and enjoy the first games.
