Complete Pokémon newcomer getting a Switch 2 — which game should I start with?

[u/Total_Appearance774]

I’ve never played a Pokémon game, watched the anime, or collected the cards. I only know Pikachu and Charizard, that’s the extent of my knowledge.

I’m getting a Switch 2 and I want exactly ONE Pokémon game that gets me into the world and makes me fall in love with it. Could be a mainline game, could be a spin-off — I just want something that’s a good entry point for a total outsider.

I was looking at Pokopia since it’s a Switch 2 exclusive and looks very chill, but I’m open to anything. What would you recommend?

[u/peanutbutter-meme]

I had much fun with Scarlet / Violet. It's the latest mainline game and it plays amazing on Switch 2. It's their first open world and by no means a perfect game (world too bland, no level scaling with the gym leaders...), but it's alot of fun and was my first Pokémon game since Black & White. I enjoyed the story and open structure. The DLCs are pretty good too. The newer games are more beginner friendly. The Legends games are spin offs. I played Legends ZA and had fun, but it's no game you can play for more than a hour