If ever there was formula for creating a global phenomenon it would probably read something like this: Take four parts CCG, two parts RPG, three parts accessibility and sprinkle it all with a liberal dose of character and adorability. Pokémon's success has catapulted the brand from a gaming franchise into a cultural icon recognized and loved the world over.

For everything that has come in the decade since, it all started right here with Pokémon Red/ Blue. Its unique blend of exploration, training, battling and trading created a game that was far more in-depth than it first appeared and one that actually forced the player to socialize with others in order to truly experience all that it had to offer. The game is long, engrossing and sparkles with that intangible addictiveness that only the best titles are able to capture. Say what you will about the game, but few gaming franchises can claim to be this popular ten years after they first hit store shelves.