Pokémon: A Comprehensive Guide to Nintendo Switch Games
Pokémon, a globally renowned media franchise, has been a Nintendo mainstay since its Game Boy debut. The series boasts hundreds of captivating creatures, collectible both in-game and as trading cards, with each generation introducing a plethora of new discoveries. Every Nintendo console has featured numerous Pokémon titles, and the Nintendo Switch is no exception. With Nintendo's confirmed Switch 2 backwards compatibility, existing Switch Pokémon games will seamlessly transition to the new console. This guide details every Pokémon game released on the Nintendo Switch and provides insights into upcoming Switch 2 releases.
Total Nintendo Switch Pokémon Games:
A total of twelve Pokémon games have launched for the Nintendo Switch. This includes core series titles from generations eight and nine, along with numerous spin-offs. For this list, dual-version mainline entries are counted as single releases. Nintendo Switch Online offerings are excluded, but a separate list is provided below.
Note: 2024 marked a hiatus for new Pokémon game releases, following the last mainline title's release two years prior. The Pokémon Company instead released Pokémon TCG Pocket, a hugely successful free-to-play card game app (not included in this list).
Recommended Pokémon Game for 2024:
For Switch players in 2024, Pokémon Legends: Arceus is highly recommended. While it deviates from classic Pokémon gameplay, it offers a refreshing experience. Legends: Arceus incorporates action and RPG elements, introducing explorable open areas, enhanced encounter control, and refined handheld gameplay.
All Nintendo Switch Pokémon Games (Release Order):
- Pokkén Tournament DX (2017): A deluxe Switch port of the Wii U title, featuring new characters and enhanced visuals. This 3-on-3 battling game offers engaging local and online multiplayer.
- Pokémon Quest (2018): A free-to-play game featuring cube-shaped Pokémon and a simple, fun combat system involving Pokémon expeditions and customizable abilities.
- Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! & Let's Go, Eevee! (2018): Remakes of Pokémon Yellow (1998), marking the first mainline Pokémon games on a home console. Set in the Kanto region, featuring all 151 original Pokémon and enhanced accessibility.
- Pokémon Sword & Shield (2019): Introducing Wild Areas for open-world exploration and battles, along with the return of Gyms and the eighth generation of Pokémon, including Dynamax and Gigantamax forms.
- Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX (2020): A remake of the 2005 titles, featuring dungeon exploration, job completion, and Pokémon recruitment.
- Pokémon Café ReMix (2020): A free-to-play puzzle game where players manage a café and serve Pokémon.
- New Pokémon Snap (2021): A sequel to the original Pokémon Snap, featuring on-rails photography in diverse biomes.
- Pokémon Unite (2021): Pokémon's first MOBA entry, featuring 5-on-5 online battles.
- Pokémon Brilliant Diamond & Shining Pearl (2021): Remakes of the 2006 Nintendo DS titles, featuring a chibi art style.
- Pokémon Legends: Arceus (2022): A critically acclaimed title set in the past Hisui region, emphasizing open-world exploration and strategic Pokémon encounters.
- Pokémon Scarlet & Violet (2022): The latest mainline entries, launching Generation 9 with an open-world design and the completed "The Hidden Treasure of Area Zero" DLC.
- Detective Pikachu Returns (2023): A sequel to the original Detective Pikachu game, featuring new puzzles and investigations.
Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack Pokémon Games:
The Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscription unlocks access to:
- Pokémon Trading Card Game
- Pokémon Snap
- Pokémon Puzzle League
- Pokémon Stadium
- Pokémon Stadium 2
All Mainline Pokémon Games:
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Upcoming Pokémon Games on Nintendo Switch:
Following a year without a new Pokémon game release, Pokémon Day 2024 announced a new Pokémon Legends title for 2025. Further details remain undisclosed, but a Switch 2 release is anticipated. The April 2nd Nintendo Direct is expected to provide additional information on the Switch 2 launch date and new game releases.
