>>38057456Gen 3 didn't save the franchise.
Pokémania and its drop era
>Red and GreenStarted off as sleeper hits before blowing up
>BlueMade to capitalize on Pokémon's exploding popularity
>Red and BlueExpands Pokémon's popularity to a worldwide audience
>YellowCapitalizes on the popularity of the anime while also trying to keep up momentum before the true sequel
>Gold and SilverThe big hyped up sequel that was years in the making and marks the end of Pokémania
>CrystalThird version released as Pokémania rapidly declined
Rebuilding era
>Ruby and SapphireThe next Generation and perhaps the first post-Pokémania release
>FireRed and LeafGreenBringing Generation I back into the fold since Ruby and Sapphire severed ties with the original games
>EmeraldExpected third version
Modern era
>Diamond and PearlThe first mainline entries on the highly popular DS
>PlatinumExpected third version released during the high point of the DS' lifespan
>HeartGold and SoulSilverThe highly-anticipated remakes of Gold and Silver
Post-modern era
>Black and WhiteSomewhat controversial soft-reboot but still on the highly popular DS, though its past its prime and emulation and piracy run rampant
>Black 2 and White 2Sequels and the swan song of the DS 7.5 years after it came out
