Pokémon: A Comprehensive Guide to Nintendo Switch Titles

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 expanding this diverse roster. Every Nintendo console has featured Pokémon games, and the Nintendo Switch is no exception. With the Nintendo Switch 2's confirmed backward compatibility, existing Switch Pokémon games are a safe bet for future enjoyment. This guide details all Nintendo Switch Pokémon releases and offers insights into upcoming Switch 2 titles.

The Nintendo Switch Pokémon Lineup: A Total of 12 Games

A remarkable twelve Pokémon games have graced the Nintendo Switch. This includes core series entries from generations eight and nine, alongside 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. However, The Pokémon Company launched the hugely successful Pokémon TCG Pocket, a free mobile app featuring Pokémon cards. While not on the Switch, it's a worthwhile addition for Pokémon enthusiasts.

Pokémon Game Recommendation for 2024: Pokémon Legends: Arceus

Seeking a Switch Pokémon game in 2024? I recommend Pokémon Legends: Arceus. While it deviates from classic Pokémon gameplay, it offers a refreshing experience. Legends: Arceus incorporates action and RPG elements, featuring explorable 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 three-on-three battle system is ideal for both local and online multiplayer.

• Pokémon Quest (2018): A free-to-play game transforming Pokémon into adorable cube creatures. Simple yet engaging 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 mainline series' home console debut. Set in the Kanto region, these remakes feature all 151 original Pokémon and boast enhanced accessibility features.

• Pokémon Sword & Shield (2019): The series' first open-world installment, introducing Wild Areas for free exploration and battles, alongside the return of Gyms. Dynamax and Gigantamax Pokémon forms were also introduced.

• 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.

• New Pokémon Snap (2021): The long-awaited sequel to Pokémon Snap, featuring on-rails photography gameplay across diverse biomes.

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

• Pokémon Brilliant Diamond & Shining Pearl (2021): Remakes of the 2006 Nintendo DS titles, featuring a charming chibi art style.

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

• Pokémon Scarlet & Violet (2022): Generation IX's flagship titles, introducing a vast open world and innovative gameplay mechanics.

• Detective Pikachu Returns (2023): The sequel to the popular Detective Pikachu game, featuring puzzle-solving and investigation elements.

Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack Pokémon Games

The Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscription unlocks additional Pokémon titles:

• Pokémon Trading Card Game
• Pokémon Snap
• Pokémon Puzzle League
• Pokémon Stadium
• Pokémon Stadium 2

All Mainline Pokémon Games

[Image collage of mainline Pokémon game box art]

Upcoming Pokémon Games on Nintendo Switch

Following Pokémon Day 2024, a new Pokémon Legends game is slated for 2025. Further details are awaited, but a Switch 2 release is anticipated. An upcoming Nintendo Direct (April 2nd) may reveal more information.