I’m wondering what, in your opinion, is the best Pokémon game. Specifically not your favourite, but the one you would show to a complete newcomer to show what the mainline series is at its best.
My personal thought would be either Emerald or HG/SS, but I admittedly haven’t kept up with the series so much after Black and White 1, which I disliked the designs for and found too slow and hand-holdy.
For me it depends on what I’m looking for in a Pokemon game.
Ruby/Sapphire/Emerald is just a good all rounder, though some of its battle mechanics are outdated.
Diamond/Pearl/Platinum is the best if exploration is your Jam
Black/White/Black2/White2 is the best for combat and battle mechanics
Heart Gold and Soul Sliver if you want an excellent post game