Generation VI: Kalos.
Kalos is the France generation. Boutiques, a coffee culture in Lumiose, the smallest new-Pokémon count in mainline history (72), and a love story baked into the rival cast. X and Y also launched simultaneously worldwide for the first time, ending the 9-month US wait era.
The mechanic that defined Gen VI
Full 3D, Mega Evolution, and the Fairy type.
X and Y moved the franchise into full 3D on the 3DS. They also introduced Mega Evolution (a battle-only temporary transformation tied to a held Mega Stone) and the Fairy type, which retroactively rebalanced 17 years of Dragon and Dark dominance. Possibly the single biggest competitive shake-up in the series' history.
Signature moves introduced this generation: Draining Kiss, Play Rough, Dazzling Gleam, Geomancy, Oblivion Wing.
Starters
Box legendaries
Top 12 by base-stat total
Key dates
- X and Y launch globally on 3DS, the first worldwide simultaneous Pokémon release.
- Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire ship globally, extending Mega Evolution to Hoenn.
Iconic trainers: Korrina, Olympia, Diantha, Lysandre, Serena / Calem (Rival).
Games in this generation: X, Y, Omega Ruby, Alpha Sapphire.
Full roster (72 Pokémon)
Legacy
Gen 6 is the one where Pokémon went 3D and never looked back. The Fairy type alone reshaped competitive play permanently. Megas remain the most-requested returning feature in Pokémon discourse. And the lack of a Kalos third version or remake remains an open wound for fans.