I think these games are the best at capturing the RPG side of pokemon.
Each Pokemon feels much more unique than in other games. Normally, Vulpix, Houndour, and Magmar would all act as fairly similar pokemon; all somewhat fast and strong fire types. With XD however, each is given a particular role. Vulpix gets Shadow Wave/Heat Wave, letting it do solid damage to both mons on the field; Houndoor gets a Dark Move in Faint Attack and a support move in charm, and Magmar acts as a solid Jack of All Trades, being able to bait attacks with follow me while bombing SE hits of Cross Chop, Thunderpunch and Fire Blast.
That being said the game aged like shit. Bad graphics and meh replayability have hurt this game badly.
I still love it though
