Pokémon: A Comprehensive Guide to Nintendo Switch Games (and What's Next)
Pokémon, a global media powerhouse, has been a Nintendo mainstay since the Game Boy. The franchise boasts hundreds of captivating creatures, collectible both in-game and as trading cards, with each generation expanding this vibrant roster. Every Nintendo console has seen numerous Pokémon releases, and the Nintendo Switch is no exception. With Nintendo's confirmed Switch 2 backward compatibility, existing Switch Pokémon games are a safe bet for future enjoyment. This article details every Pokémon game released on the Nintendo Switch, plus what we know about upcoming titles for the Switch 2.
How Many Pokémon Games Are on Nintendo Switch?
A total of twelve Pokémon games have launched on the Nintendo Switch. This includes core series entries from generations eight and nine, along with numerous spin-offs. For clarity, dual-version mainline games are counted as single releases. Nintendo Switch Online offerings are excluded from this list (see below for details).
Note: 2024 marked a hiatus for new Pokémon game releases (the last mainline title arriving two years prior). The Pokémon Company instead released the hugely successful Pokémon TCG Pocket, a free mobile app. While not a Switch title, it's highly recommended for Pokémon fans.
What Pokémon Game Should You Play in 2024?
For a Switch Pokémon experience in 2024, I suggest Pokémon Legends: Arceus. While it deviates from classic Pokémon gameplay, that's where the older generation games excel. Legends: Arceus introduces action-RPG elements, offering refreshing open-world exploration, enhanced encounter control, and polished handheld gameplay.
All Nintendo Switch Pokémon Games (Release Order)
Pokkén Tournament DX (2017): A deluxe Switch port of the Wii U title, featuring added 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 chibi-style Pokémon and simple, expedition-based combat.
Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! & Let's Go, Eevee! (2018): Remakes of Pokémon Yellow, marking the franchise's home console debut. These titles feature the original 151 Pokémon and enhanced accessibility.
Pokémon Sword & Shield (2019): Introducing Wild Areas for open-world exploration and the return of Gyms. This installment features Dynamax and Gigantamax Pokémon forms.
Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX (2020): A remake of the 2005 titles, featuring dungeon crawling and Pokémon recruitment.
Pokémon Café ReMix (2020): A free-to-play puzzle game where you manage a Pokémon café.
New Pokémon Snap (2021): The long-awaited sequel to the original Pokémon Snap, offering on-rails photography gameplay.
Pokémon Unite (2021): Pokémon's foray into the MOBA genre, featuring 5v5 online battles.
Pokémon Brilliant Diamond & Shining Pearl (2021): Remakes of the Nintendo DS originals, featuring a charming chibi art style.
Pokémon Legends: Arceus (2022): A critically acclaimed title set in the ancient Hisui region, emphasizing open-world exploration.
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 gameplay.
Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack Pokémon Games
The Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack offers additional Pokémon titles:
All Mainline Pokémon Games
[Images of all mainline Pokémon game boxes, spanning generations 1-9.](/uploads/00/173871725267a2b8441b9c0.jpg, /uploads/44/173871725267a2b8446fd39.jpg, /uploads/76/173871725267a2b844ae095.jpg, /uploads/58/173871725367a2b8450951c.jpg, /uploads/51/173871725367a2b84544876.jpg, /uploads/94/173871725367a2b845967e3.jpg, /uploads/32/173871725367a2b845db6f8.jpg, /uploads/75/173871725467a2b8462d091.jpg, /uploads/05/173871725467a2b8467b1cb.jpg, /uploads/11/173871725467a2b846c321c.jpg)
Upcoming Pokémon Games on Nintendo Switch
Following a year without new releases, Pokémon Day 2024 announced a new Pokémon Legends game for 2025. Further details are pending, but a Switch 2 release is anticipated. An upcoming Nintendo Direct (April 2nd) may reveal more.
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