Collider has published a ranked list of the ten greatest "gimmick" Pokémon, highlighting creatures whose evolution methods, abilities or battle mechanics make them stand out within a franchise that now numbers more than 1,000 species. The article defines a "gimmick" broadly, covering anything from unusual evolutions to distinctive competitive tactics or notable appearances.

– Eevee (No. 10): its unstable DNA lets it evolve into eight different specialised forms, including Umbreon and Espeon, each unlocked through different conditions such as friendship or time of day.
– Wobbuffet (No. 9): a Psychic-type that learns no offensive moves, instead surviving hits with high HP before retaliating with Counter and Mirror Coat, aided by its battle-locking Shadow Tag ability.
– Smeargle (No. 8): a weak Normal-type made valuable in competitive play by its unique move Sketch, which lets it permanently learn almost any move used against it.