Pokémon: A Comprehensive Guide to Nintendo Switch Games
Pokémon, a globally recognized media powerhouse, has been a Nintendo mainstay since its Game Boy debut. The franchise 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 seen its share of Pokémon titles, 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 play on the new console. This article details every Pokémon game released on the Nintendo Switch, and what we know about upcoming releases on the Switch 2.
How Many Pokémon Games Are on Nintendo Switch?
A total of twelve Pokémon games have been released for the Nintendo Switch. This includes core series entries from generations eight and nine, along with numerous spin-offs. For this list, dual-version mainline games are counted as single releases. Games available through Nintendo Switch Online are excluded, but details on those are provided below.
Note: 2024 marked a hiatus for new Pokémon game releases. The Pokémon Company instead launched Pokémon TCG Pocket, a free mobile app featuring Pokémon cards, which has achieved significant popularity. While not a Switch title, it's worth noting for dedicated Pokémon fans.
Recommended Pokémon Game for 2024: Pokémon Legends: Arceus
For Switch players seeking a worthwhile Pokémon experience in 2024, Pokémon Legends: Arceus is highly recommended. While it deviates from classic Pokémon gameplay, it offers a refreshing take on the series, incorporating action and RPG elements, expansive open areas, 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 new characters and enhanced visuals. Its 3-on-3 battle system is ideal for both local and online multiplayer.
- Pokémon Quest (2018): A free-to-play game where Pokémon are adorable cube-shaped creatures. Simple combat involves sending Pokémon on expeditions and equipping them with various 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 features.
- Pokémon Sword & Shield (2019): The first installment to feature open-world elements ("Wild Areas"), along with the return of Gyms and the introduction of Generation VIII 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, serving Pokémon and solving puzzles by connecting Pokémon icons.
- New Pokémon Snap (2021): A long-awaited sequel to the original Pokémon Snap, featuring on-rails photography gameplay across diverse biomes.
- Pokémon Unite (2021): Pokémon's foray into the MOBA genre, a free-to-play title featuring 5-on-5 online battles.
- Pokémon Brilliant Diamond & Shining Pearl (2021): Remakes of the Nintendo DS titles, featuring a chibi art style and the fourth generation of Pokémon.
- Pokémon Legends: Arceus (2022): A critically acclaimed title set in the past, emphasizing exploration and strategic Pokémon encounters.
- Pokémon Scarlet & Violet (2022): The latest mainline entries, launching Generation IX and featuring a vast open world.
- Detective Pikachu Returns (2023): A sequel to the original Detective Pikachu game, involving puzzle-solving and investigation.
Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack Pokémon Games
The Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack offers 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, Pokémon Day 2024 announced a new Pokémon Legends title for 2025. Further details are pending, but it's anticipated to release on both the Switch and Switch 2. A Nintendo Direct scheduled for April 2nd may provide additional information.
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