As one of the world's most valuable media franchises, Pokémon has become a household name synonymous with Nintendo since its debut on the Game Boy. This beloved series features hundreds of fascinating creatures that you can capture in-game or collect as trading cards, with each new generation adding more to explore. Pokémon games have graced every Nintendo console, and the Nintendo Switch is no exception.
With the official announcement of the Nintendo Switch 2 and its confirmed backwards compatibility, you can confidently invest in any existing Pokémon titles on the Switch, knowing they'll seamlessly transition to the new system. Here's a comprehensive list of every Pokémon game released for the Nintendo Switch, along with details on upcoming titles expected on the Switch 2.
How Many Pokémon Games Are There on Nintendo Switch?
In total, there are **12 Pokémon games available on the Nintendo Switch**. This includes mainline titles from the 8th and 9th generations, as well as numerous spinoffs. For clarity, we've considered mainline games with two versions as one entry. Note that this list does not include Pokémon games available through Nintendo Switch Online, which are listed separately below.
It's worth mentioning that 2024 was a skip year for Pokémon, marking over a year since the last new game release and two years since the most recent mainline title. However, The Pokémon Company released Pokémon TCG Pocket, a highly successful free app version of the trading card game. Although not available on the Switch, it's a must-try for Pokémon fans.
What Pokémon Game Should You Get in 2024?
For those wondering which Pokémon game to pick up on the Switch in 2024, I highly recommend Pokémon Legends: Arceus. While it diverges from the traditional Pokémon formula, it introduces exciting action and RPG elements, offering expansive open areas, greater control over encounters, and a polished handheld experience.
All Pokémon Games on the Nintendo Switch (in Release Order)
Pokkén Tournament DX (2017)
Originally launched on the Wii U in 2016, Pokkén Tournament received a deluxe version for the Nintendo Switch in 2017, featuring new characters and enhanced visuals to leverage the improved hardware. Enjoy thrilling three-on-three battles with friends, both locally and online.
Pokémon Quest (2018)
Pokémon Quest transforms your favorite Pokémon into adorable cube forms. This free-to-play game offers a simple yet engaging combat system where you send your Pokémon on expeditions, equipping them with various abilities to tackle different challenges.
Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! & Let's Go, Eevee! (2018)
These titles are remakes of the iconic 1998 Pokémon Yellow, marking the first mainline Pokémon games on a home console. Set in the Kanto region, they feature all 151 original Pokémon with various forms from previous mainline games. With enhanced accessibility, these remakes are perfect for both newcomers and veterans.
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Pokémon Sword & Shield (2019)
Pokémon Sword & Shield introduced open-world elements through the Wild Areas, allowing free exploration and wild Pokémon battles. These games also brought back the Gym system and introduced the eighth generation of Pokémon, featuring Dynamax and Gigantamax forms.
Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX (2020)
A remake of the 2005 titles, Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Red Rescue Team & Blue Rescue Team, this game marks the first spinoff remake in the series. Developed by Spike Chunsoft, it involves completing jobs in dungeons and unlocking new Pokémon.
Pokémon Café ReMix (2020)
In this charming free-to-play puzzle game, you and Eevee manage a café, serving food and drinks to visiting Pokémon. Similar to games like Disney Tsum Tsum, you connect Pokémon to solve puzzles.
New Pokémon Snap (2021)
After over 20 years, New Pokémon Snap brings back the beloved photography mechanic. Traverse various biomes and capture images of wild Pokémon. Unlock new courses by taking quality photos, offering ample content to explore.
Pokémon Unite (2021)
Pokémon's first foray into the MOBA genre, Pokémon Unite is a free-to-play game where you control a team of five Pokémon in competitive online battles. With a wide selection of Pokémon, you can tailor your team to your strategy. The game has gained recognition in esports tournaments.
Pokémon Brilliant Diamond & Shining Pearl (2021)
Remakes of the 2006 Nintendo DS games, Pokémon Diamond & Pearl, these titles feature the fourth generation of Pokémon with a new chibi art style that honors the originals while offering a fresh look.
Pokémon Legends: Arceus (2022)
Often hailed as one of the best Pokémon games on the Switch, Pokémon Legends: Arceus is set in the past in the Hisui region. Focused on exploration, you can roam freely to capture Pokémon and explore diverse environments. Strategic gameplay is key as you navigate the map and interact with roaming Pokémon.
Pokémon Scarlet & Violet (2022)
Launching Generation 9, Pokémon Scarlet & Violet introduce a fully open world where you can explore freely. The completed DLC pass, The Hidden Treasure of Area Zero, adds to the rich gameplay experience, making it an excellent time to dive into these titles.
Detective Pikachu Returns (2023)
Following the success of the game and movie, Detective Pikachu Returns continues the mystery-solving adventure. Tim's father is missing, and it's up to Detective Pikachu to solve the case with new puzzles and investigations. A must-play for fans of Pokémon and mystery games.
Available Pokémon Games With Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack
The Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscription service offers additional Pokémon titles for those looking to expand their collection. Here are the five Pokémon games available with this membership:
- Pokémon Trading Card Game
- Pokémon Snap
- Pokémon Puzzle League
- Pokémon Stadium
- Pokémon Stadium 2
Pokemon: All Mainline Games
Below is a gallery showcasing all the mainline Pokémon games, spanning nine generations of RPGs and monster-catching adventures.
Upcoming Pokémon Games on Nintendo Switch
After a year without a new Pokémon game, Pokémon Day 2024 brought exciting news about upcoming releases. The highlight was the announcement of a new Pokémon Legends game set to launch in 2025. While details are scarce, it's anticipated that Pokémon Legends Z-A will be available on both the Nintendo Switch and the newly announced Switch 2.
A Nintendo Direct is scheduled for April 2, expected to provide more information on the Switch 2's release date and new games. In the meantime, check out the full list of upcoming Switch games for confirmed titles and our predictions for what might be released on the Switch 2.
