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 wealth of new discoveries. Every Nintendo console has featured numerous Pokémon titles, and the Nintendo Switch is no exception. With Nintendo's confirmation of backwards compatibility for the Switch 2, existing Switch Pokémon games will seamlessly transition to the new console. This guide details every Pokémon game released on the Nintendo Switch, along with information on upcoming Switch 2 releases.

The Nintendo Switch Pokémon Lineup: A Total of 12 Games

A total of twelve Pokémon games have graced the Nintendo Switch. This includes core series entries from generations eight and nine, plus a variety of spin-offs. For clarity, mainline games with dual versions are counted as single releases. Pokémon titles available via Nintendo Switch Online are excluded from this list (see below for details).

Note: 2024 marked a hiatus for new Pokémon game releases, the first in over a year, and two years since the last mainline title. The Pokémon Company instead launched Pokémon TCG Pocket, a free mobile app featuring Pokémon trading cards, which has achieved significant popularity. While not a Switch title, it's a worthwhile addition for Pokémon enthusiasts.

Recommended Pokémon Switch Game for 2024: Pokémon Legends: Arceus

For Switch players seeking a new Pokémon experience in 2024, Pokémon Legends: Arceus is highly recommended. While it deviates from the classic Pokémon formula, it offers a refreshing take on the series. Legends: Arceus incorporates action and RPG elements, introducing open-world exploration, enhanced encounter control, and refined gameplay for a captivating handheld experience.

All Nintendo Switch Pokémon Games (Release Order)

• Pokkén Tournament DX (2017): A deluxe version of the Wii U title, featuring new characters and enhanced visuals. Its three-on-three battle system offers engaging local and online multiplayer.

• Pokémon Quest (2018): A free-to-play game featuring cube-shaped Pokémon and a straightforward combat system involving expeditions and customizable abilities.

• Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! & Let's Go, Eevee! (2018): Remakes of Pokémon Yellow, marking the series' first mainline console releases (excluding Wii U). Set in the Kanto region, featuring all 151 original Pokémon and enhanced accessibility.

• Pokémon Sword & Shield (2019): The first installment with open-world aspects ("Wild Areas"), featuring gym battles 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 and Pokémon recruitment.

• Pokémon Café ReMix (2020): A free-to-play puzzle game where players manage a Pokémon café.

• New Pokémon Snap (2021): A sequel to the original Pokémon Snap, featuring on-rails photography in diverse environments.

• Pokémon Unite (2021): Pokémon's foray into the MOBA genre, featuring team-based online battles.

• Pokémon Brilliant Diamond & Shining Pearl (2021): Remakes of the Nintendo DS titles, featuring a chibi art style.

• Pokémon Legends: Arceus (2022): A critically acclaimed title set in the past, emphasizing open-world exploration and strategic Pokémon encounters.

• Pokémon Scarlet & Violet (2022): The latest mainline entries, introducing Generation 9 and a fully open world.

• Detective Pikachu Returns (2023): A sequel to the original Detective Pikachu, featuring puzzle-solving and investigation.

Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack Pokémon Games

The Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack offers access to additional Pokémon titles:

• 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 are pending, but a release on both the Switch and Switch 2 is anticipated. A Nintendo Direct scheduled for April 2nd may provide further information.