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For your first trip through Unova, start with Pokémon Black or Pokémon White, then play Black 2 or White 2 if you want the continuing story. The latter games are sequels set two years later, not upgraded editions that replace the originals. If you want only one game, choose the originals for Unova’s introduction or a sequel for its changed world and additional activities.
How the four games fit together
Pokémon Black and Pokémon White introduce the Unova region and its characters. Pokémon Black 2 and Pokémon White 2 return two years later, with new areas, changed environments and characters, and a story that continues from the first pair. Nintendo described the releases as the first core-series Pokémon games whose storylines continued from one game to another. Nintendo’s announcement explains the sequel setup; The Pokémon Company’s retrospective also describes Unova’s introduction and return.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
Pokemon Black Version - Nintendo DS (Renewed) | $159.95 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
|
Pokémon Black Version 2 (Renewed) | $187.09 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
![Pokemon Black Version Bundle - Nintendo DSi [video game]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51cK5EHLCpL._SL160_.jpg)
|
Pokemon Black Version Bundle - Nintendo DSi [video game] | $499.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |
|
Pokemon Black Version - Nintendo DS (Renewed) | $154.67 | Buy on Amazon |
| 5 |
|
Pokémon - Black Version | $128.40 | Buy on Amazon |
Which pair should you choose?
Choose Black or White first for the original story
Start with either original if you have not played the Unova games and want to see the region before its two-year transformation. The sequels build on that setting and its events, so playing in release-story order gives the returning characters and changed locations their context.
Choose Black 2 or White 2 if you have played an original—or want the follow-up
The sequels are the natural next games after Black or White. They also make sense as a single-game choice if you are more interested in seeing a changed Unova and trying the additional modes and activities than in experiencing the region’s introduction.
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- This renewed game will not come with the original case or manual; cartridge only. It has been cleaned, tested, and is in nice condition.
You do not need to match the sequel to the original version you played to continue the broad story. Choose the other sequel if its version-specific Pokémon or setting appeals more; consult a version-exclusive list for the particular Pokémon you want, since the complete differences across all four games are not covered here.
What the sequels add
Black 2 and White 2 expand the experience beyond the continuing story. Nintendo’s 2012 announcement lists these additions:
Rank #2
- This renewed game will not come with the original case or manual; cartridge only. It has been cleaned, tested, and is in nice condition.
- More Pokémon in the Pokédex: The sequels include Pokémon from throughout the series’ history.
- Medal System: Nintendo UK reported over 250 unique medals in 2012.
- Key System: Unlock additional challenge areas and adjust trainer difficulty.
- Pokéstar Studios: Make customized Pokémon movies.
- Pokémon World Tournament: Battle Gym Leaders familiar from earlier games.
- Join Avenue: Develop an avenue with shops and other activity.
- Memory Link: Sync a save file from the original game to reveal additional events from the intervening two years.
These features make a sequel especially appealing if you have already completed an original or want more activities alongside the main adventure. The medal count is Nintendo UK’s 2012 figure, not a current service or availability measure. Nintendo’s announcement describes the features.
How to choose between Black and White, or between the sequels
The choice within either pair is not only about the box art. The official Pokémon site says Pokémon encounters differ between versions and identifies additional differences in locations and activities. For the sequel pair, Black Kyurem appears in Black 2, while White Kyurem appears in White 2. City and dungeon layouts, Join Avenue shop stock, and available Festival Missions also vary. See the official Pokémon Black 2 and White 2 site for those distinctions.
Rank #3
- 3.25-inch TFT LCD display
- Gaming System Compatibility: Nintendo Dsi
- Bundle Includes: Nintendo Dsi
- Bundle Includes: Pokémon Black Version game, Black Nintendo DSi System, Exclusive Carrying Case, Nintendo DSi AC Adapter, Nintendo DSi Stylus (2), Easy Start Guide and Manuals (Basic & Controls), Support Booklet.
- Gaming System Compatibility: Nintendo DSi
If you have a particular Pokémon in mind, verify that it appears in the version you are considering before buying. The differences listed above do not amount to a complete catalogue of exclusive Pokémon across all four releases.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What to check before buying
These are legacy physical Nintendo DS releases. Nintendo’s 2012 announcement says the games can also be played on Nintendo 3DS family systems. Before purchasing a used cartridge, check its condition, region, the seller’s reputation, and compatibility with your own system. Current stock and prices vary, and no particular seller or current price is established here.
The Japanese official site notes that Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection service has ended. Do not buy expecting the former online features to remain available; the single-player story and the listed offline activities are the relevant reasons to choose between these games.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Brand New in box. The product ships with all relevant accessories
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
