Pokémon GO Red or Green: Which One Should You Get?

Pokémon GO Red or Green versions released this past week, so which one will you get?
Pokémon GO Red or Green versions released this past week, so which one will you get? / Photo courtesy of Niantic

Pokémon GO Red or Green versions released this past week, so which one will you get? We are one week away from the Pokémon GO Tour Kanto, and while the versions do offer similar Pokémon there are some key differences that should determine which version you choose. This guide will give you everything you need to know before you make that final decision.

Before we begin, let's get what shouldn't determine your choice out of the way. The classics and favorites of Pokémon's first generation will be available for everyone. No matter which version you choose these Pokémon are available to you:

  • Pikachu
  • Eevee
  • Bulbasaur
  • Charmander
  • Squirtle
  • Pidgey
  • Dratini

Even better, they'll still have a higher chance of being shiny regardless of which version you choose!

Pokémon Go Red or Green: Which One Should You Get?


Much like their Red and Green (or Blue) source material from 1996, each version will offer exclusive Pokémon. Those who choose Red can find:

  • Nidoran ♀
  • Diglett
  • Growlithe
  • Ekans
  • Shellder
  • Mankey
  • Oddish
  • Drowzee
  • Lickitung
  • Electabuzz
  • Ponyta
  • Krabby
  • Hitmonlee
  • Kabuto
  • Scyther

While those who choose Green can find:

  • Nidoran ♂
  • Sandshrew
  • Vulpix
  • Geodude
  • Meowth
  • Psyduck
  • Exeggcute
  • Hitmonchan
  • Bellsprout
  • Koffing
  • Tangela
  • Horsea
  • Magmar
  • Omanyte
  • Pinsir

1. Did You Miss an Event or Community Day Pokémon?

Did you miss an event or Community Day Pokémon that you were really looking to get a shiny version of? If so, choose the version that would allow you to get the shiny of that. You'll have an easier time finding a shiny with great stats!

2. Are You Missing any Pokémon on Either List?

Are you missing any Pokémon on either list? Do you not have enough candies to get the final evolved form of one or more Pokémon on either list? If so, choose the version that will get you closer to completing your Pokédex!

3. Do You Want Another Type of Pokémon?

Do you want another type of Pokémon? Maybe you don't have enough dragon type Pokémon, so you choose Green in hopes of evolving Horsea into Kingdra. Perhaps you want an extra electric type in your pocket so you choose Red for Electabuzz. Roughly 25% of Pokémon have a weakness to electric types!

4. Are You Building a Competitive Team?

Thanks to Pokémon HOME, players can finally transfer their best Pokémon from Pokémon GO to either Pokémon Sword or Shield. Robust stats are everything when it comes to competitive Pokémon battling. If you're building a competitive team, choose the version that will help you strengthen your team best!

5. Do You Have a Favorite?

Do you have a favorite? We could tell you to choose whichever version based on calculated decisions, but not everything is about efficiency. We all have a favorite Pokémon. You already know what you want to choose if your favorite Pokémon in an exclusive.