Pokémon Prepares Massive Launch for Nintendo Switch

Pokémon: A Comprehensive Guide to Nintendo Switch Games (Past, Present, and Future)

Pokémon, a global 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 plethora of new discoveries. Every Nintendo console has seen its share of Pokémon titles, and the Nintendo Switch is no exception. With Nintendo's official Switch 2 announcement confirming backward compatibility, existing Switch Pokémon games are future-proofed. This guide covers all Switch Pokémon games released to date, along with insights into upcoming Switch 2 releases.

How Many Pokémon Games Are on Nintendo Switch?

A total of 12 Pokémon games have graced the Nintendo Switch. This includes core series entries from generations 8 and 9, plus 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 first in over a year (and two years since the last mainline title). The Pokémon Company instead released Pokémon TCG Pocket, a free mobile card game app that achieved significant success. While not on the Switch, it's a noteworthy title for Pokémon enthusiasts.

Best Pokémon Switch Game for 2024?

For a fresh Pokémon experience in 2024, I recommend Pokémon Legends: Arceus. While it deviates from the classic Pokémon formula, it offers a compelling blend of action and RPG elements, introducing open-world exploration, enhanced encounter control, and refined gameplay.

### Nintendo Switch Pokémon Legends: Arceus

All Nintendo Switch Pokémon Games (Release Order)

Pokkén Tournament DX (2017)

A deluxe version of the Wii U title, featuring enhanced visuals and new characters. Its 3-on-3 battle system is perfect for both local and online multiplayer.

### Pokkén Tournament DX - Nintendo Switch

Pokémon Quest (2018)

A free-to-play game where Pokémon are adorable cube creatures. Simple combat mechanics and Pokémon expeditions make for engaging gameplay.

Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! & Let's Go, Eevee! (2018)

Remakes of Pokémon Yellow, marking the first mainline Pokémon games on a home console. Set in Kanto, featuring all 151 original Pokémon and enhanced accessibility.

### Pokémon: Let's Go, Eevee! - Switch

### Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! - Switch

Pokémon Sword & Shield (2019)

Introducing Wild Areas for open-world exploration and the return of Gyms. Features Dynamax and Gigantamax Pokémon forms.

### Pokémon Sword - Nintendo Switch

### Pokémon Shield - Nintendo Switch

Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX (2020)

A remake of the 2005 titles, featuring dungeon exploration and job completion.

### Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX - Nintendo Switch

Pokémon Café ReMix (2020)

A free-to-play puzzle game with café management elements.

New Pokémon Snap (2021)

The long-awaited sequel, featuring on-rails photography of Pokémon in diverse environments.

### New Pokémon Snap - Nintendo Switch

Pokémon Unite (2021)

Pokémon's foray into the MOBA genre, featuring 5-on-5 online battles.

Pokémon Brilliant Diamond & Shining Pearl (2021)

Remakes of the Nintendo DS classics, featuring a charming chibi art style.

### Pokémon Brilliant Diamond & Pokémon Shining Pearl Double Pack - Nintendo Switch

Pokémon Legends: Arceus (2022)

A critically acclaimed title set in the ancient Hisui region, emphasizing exploration and open-world gameplay.

### Out Now Pokemon Legends: Arceus for Switch

Pokémon Scarlet & Violet (2022)

The latest mainline entries, introducing Generation 9 and a vast open world.

### Pokémon Scarlet & Violet - Nintendo Switch

Detective Pikachu Returns (2023)

The sequel to the popular mystery game, featuring new puzzles and investigations.

### Detective Pikachu Returns - Nintendo Switch

Pokémon Games via Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack

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

Upcoming Pokémon Games on Nintendo Switch

Following a year without a new release, Pokémon Day 2024 announced a new Pokémon Legends game for 2025. Further details are awaited, but a Switch and Switch 2 release is anticipated. A Nintendo Direct scheduled for April 2nd may provide further information.