Pokémon, a globally recognized media franchise, has been a cornerstone of Nintendo's offerings since its inception on the Game Boy. With an extensive universe filled with hundreds of unique creatures to capture and collect, each new generation introduces even more to explore. Pokémon games have graced every Nintendo console, and the Nintendo Switch is no exception to this tradition.
With the official announcement of the Nintendo Switch 2 and its promise of backward compatibility, you can confidently invest in the current lineup of Pokémon games for the Switch, knowing they will transition smoothly to the new console. Below, we provide a comprehensive overview of all Pokémon games available on the Nintendo Switch and the latest updates on upcoming titles expected for the Switch 2.
How Many Pokémon Games Are There on Nintendo Switch?
A total of **12 Pokémon games** have been released for the Nintendo Switch. This count encompasses both the mainline entries from the 8th and 9th generations and a variety of engaging spinoffs. For clarity, we've considered mainline games with two versions as a single release. Note that this list does not include Pokémon games accessible through the Nintendo Switch Online service, though you can find those listed separately.
It's worth noting that 2024 marked a rare hiatus for new Pokémon game releases, with the last new game launched in 2023 and the most recent mainline title in 2022. In the meantime, The Pokémon Company released Pokémon TCG Pocket, a highly popular free app focused on Pokémon trading cards, though it's not available on the Switch.
What Pokémon Game Should You Get in 2024?
For those pondering which Pokémon game to dive into on the Switch in 2024, my top pick is Pokémon Legends: Arceus. While it may not deliver the classic Pokémon experience, it's perfect for those seeking innovation. Legends: Arceus blends action and RPG elements, offering expansive open-world exploration, more dynamic encounters, and a polished handheld experience.
Nintendo Switch Pokémon Legends: Arceus
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All Pokémon Games on the Nintendo Switch (in Release Order)
Pokkén Tournament DX (2017)
Originally launched on the Wii U in 2016, Pokkén Tournament DX was enhanced for the Switch in 2017. This deluxe version added new characters and improved graphics to leverage the Switch's capabilities. The game's three-on-three battles are a thrilling experience, whether playing locally or online.
Pokkén Tournament DX - Nintendo Switch
18See it at Best Buy
Pokémon Quest (2018)
Pokémon Quest transforms your beloved Pokémon into adorable cube forms. This free-to-play title on the Switch offers a straightforward combat system and sends your Pokémon on exciting expeditions. Equip them with various abilities to navigate diverse challenges.
Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! & Let's Go, Eevee! (2018)
These games are remakes of the iconic 1998 Pokémon Yellow, marking the first mainline Pokémon titles on a home console. Set in the Kanto region, they feature all 151 original Pokémon with new forms. Their accessibility features make them an excellent entry point for both newcomers and seasoned fans on the Switch.
Pokémon: Let's Go, Eevee! - Switch
30$59.99 save 13%$51.99 at Walmart
Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! - Switch
36$48.79 save 0%$48.79 at Walmart
Pokémon Sword & Shield (2019)
Pokémon Sword & Shield introduced elements of an open world to the series, featuring Wild Areas for free exploration and encounters. They brought back the beloved gym battles and introduced the eighth generation of Pokémon, along with innovative Dynamax and Gigantamax forms.
Pokémon Sword - Nintendo Switch
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Pokémon Shield - Nintendo Switch
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Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX (2020)
A remake of the 2005 titles, Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX is the first spinoff to receive this treatment. Developed by Spike Chunsoft, it involves navigating dungeons and completing jobs to unlock new Pokémon.
Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX - Nintendo Switch
8See it at Amazon
Pokémon Café ReMix (2020)
In this charming puzzle game, you and Eevee run a café, serving Pokémon with food and drinks. Similar to Disney Tsum Tsum, Pokémon Café ReMix is free-to-play and available on the Nintendo eShop.
New Pokémon Snap (2021)
After over two decades, New Pokémon Snap arrived on the Switch as a sequel to the original. Developed by Bandai Namco, it lets you explore various biomes with an on-rails camera to photograph Pokémon in their natural habitats. High-quality photos unlock new courses, offering extensive content.
New Pokémon Snap - Nintendo Switch
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Pokémon Unite (2021)
Pokémon's foray into the MOBA genre, Pokémon Unite, is a free-to-play title where you command a team of five Pokémon in competitive online battles. With a wide selection of Pokémon, you can tailor your team to suit your strategy. It has gained recognition in esports, hosting various championships.
Pokémon Brilliant Diamond & Shining Pearl (2021)
These remakes of the 2006 Nintendo DS games, Pokémon Diamond & Pearl, feature the fourth generation of Pokémon in a chibi art style. They remain faithful to the originals while offering a fresh look.
Pokémon Brilliant Diamond & Pokémon Shining Pearl Double Pack - Nintendo Switch
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Pokémon Legends: Arceus (2022)
Set in the ancient Hisui region, Pokémon Legends: Arceus emphasizes exploration and strategic encounters. As one of the best Pokémon games on the Switch, it offers a unique experience with Pokémon freely roaming the map.
Out Now Pokemon Legends: Arceus for Switch
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Pokémon Scarlet & Violet (2022)
Launching Generation 9, Pokémon Scarlet & Violet introduce a fully open world for players to explore at will. The completed DLC, The Hidden Treasure of Area Zero, makes it an ideal time to delve into these latest mainline titles.
Pokémon Scarlet & Violet - Nintendo Switch
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Detective Pikachu Returns (2023)
Following the success of the original game and movie, Detective Pikachu Returns sees you solving mysteries alongside Pikachu. With new puzzles and investigations, it's a must-play for fans of Pokémon and mystery games alike.
Detective Pikachu Returns - Nintendo Switch
17See it at Amazon
Available Pokémon Games With Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack
Subscribers to the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack can access additional Pokémon titles. Here are five games available through this service:
- Pokémon Trading Card Game
- Pokémon Snap
- Pokémon Puzzle League
- Pokémon Stadium
- Pokémon Stadium 2
Pokemon: All Mainline Games
For those interested in the full history of Pokémon, here is a list of all mainline games across nine generations, offering a rich legacy of RPGs and monster-catching adventures:
Pokemon Red Version
Nintendo
Pokemon Green Version
Game Freak
Pokemon Blue Version
Nintendo
Pokemon Yellow: Special Pikachu Edition
Nintendo
Pokemon Gold Version
Nintendo
Pokemon Silver Version
Nintendo
Pokemon Crystal Version
Nintendo
Pokemon Ruby Version
Game Freak
Pokemon Sapphire Version
Game Freak
Pokemon FireRed Version
Game Freak
Upcoming Pokémon Games on Nintendo Switch
Following a year without a new Pokémon game, Pokémon Day 2024 announced exciting developments. The highlight was the confirmation of a new Pokémon Legends game slated for 2025, tentatively titled Pokémon Legends Z-A, which is expected to launch on both the Nintendo Switch and the upcoming Switch 2.
A Nintendo Direct is scheduled for April 2, promising more details on the Switch 2's release date and new game announcements. Stay tuned for the latest on upcoming Switch games and predictions for what titles will grace the Switch 2.
