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Pokémon, often hailed as one of the world's most valuable media franchises, has been a beloved part of Nintendo's lineup since its debut on the Game Boy. With hundreds of captivating creatures to catch in-game or collect as trading cards, each new generation adds more excitement to the mix. Pokémon games have been a staple on every Nintendo console, and the Nintendo Switch is no different.
With the official announcement of the Nintendo Switch 2 and its promise of backward compatibility, you can confidently invest in any current Pokémon games for the Switch, knowing they'll transition seamlessly to the new system. Here, we've gathered a comprehensive list of all Pokémon games released for the Nintendo Switch, along with details on upcoming titles for the Switch 2.
How Many Pokémon Games Are There on Nintendo Switch?
In total, **12 Pokémon games have been released for the Nintendo Switch**. This number includes the mainline games from the 8th and 9th Pokémon generations, as well as a variety of spinoffs. For clarity, we consider mainline entries with two versions as a single release. Note that this list does not include the Pokémon games available through Nintendo Switch Online, which you can explore in the section below.
It's worth mentioning that 2024 was a year without a new Pokémon game release, marking over a year since the last game and two years since the last mainline title. However, The Pokémon Company did release Pokémon TCG Pocket, a free mobile app that has become a massive hit. Although not available on the Switch, it's a must-try for Pokémon enthusiasts.
What Pokémon Game Should You Get in 2024?
For those looking to dive into a Pokémon game on the Switch in 2024, I highly recommend Pokémon Legends: Arceus. While it may not capture the classic Pokémon experience, it offers a fresh take with more action-oriented and RPG elements. Explore vast open areas, gain more control over your encounters, and enjoy 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 released for the Wii U in 2016, Pokkén Tournament was revamped into a deluxe version for the Nintendo Switch in 2017. With new characters and enhanced visuals, this three-on-three battle system is perfect for both local and online multiplayer fun.
Pokkén Tournament DX - Nintendo Switch
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Pokémon Quest (2018)
In Pokémon Quest, your favorite Pokémon take on a charming cube form. This free-to-play game offers a simple yet engaging combat system, where you send your Pokémon on expeditions and equip them with various abilities to tackle different 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 to grace a home console. Set in the Kanto region, you'll encounter all 151 original Pokémon. With accessible features, these remakes are perfect for both newcomers and longtime fans.
Pokémon: Let's Go, Eevee! - Switch
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Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! - Switch
36$48.79 save 0%$48.79 at Walmart
Pokémon Sword & Shield (2019)
Pokémon Sword & Shield introduced the series to semi-open world elements with the Wild Areas, allowing for free exploration and battles with wild Pokémon. This eighth-generation game also brought back Gyms and introduced 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)
This remake of the 2005 titles Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Red Rescue Team & Blue Rescue Team offers the first-ever spinoff remake in the Pokémon series. Developed by Spike Chunsoft, the game involves completing jobs in dungeons and unlocking new Pokémon.
Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX - Nintendo Switch
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Pokémon Café ReMix (2020)
In Pokémon Café ReMix, you and Eevee run a café, serving Pokémon with food and drinks. This free-to-play puzzle game, similar to Disney Tsum Tsum, involves connecting Pokémon to solve puzzles and keep your customers happy.
New Pokémon Snap (2021)
After over 20 years, New Pokémon Snap brought back the beloved photography game to the Nintendo Switch. Developed by Bandai Namco, you ride through various biomes capturing pictures of Pokémon in their natural habitats. Unlock new courses by taking great photos and discover the vast content available.
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 game where you control a team of five Pokémon in competitive online battles. With a diverse roster of Pokémon to choose from, tailor your team to suit your strategy. The game has also gained recognition in the esports scene.
Pokémon Brilliant Diamond & Shining Pearl (2021)
Remakes of the 2006 Nintendo DS games, Pokémon Brilliant Diamond & Shining Pearl bring back the fourth generation with a fresh chibi art style. Explore the Sinnoh region and discover a wide variety of Pokémon to battle and catch.
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 is often praised as one of the best Pokémon games on the Switch. This title emphasizes exploration, allowing you to freely roam the map, capture Pokémon, and engage in strategic encounters.
Out Now Pokemon Legends: Arceus for Switch
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Pokémon Scarlet & Violet (2022)
Launching the ninth generation, Pokémon Scarlet & Violet introduce an open-world experience where you can explore at your own pace. The completed DLC, The Hidden Treasure of Area Zero, adds even more content, making it a great time to dive into these games.
Pokémon Scarlet & Violet - Nintendo Switch
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Detective Pikachu Returns (2023)
Following the success of the first game and movie, Detective Pikachu Returns continues the mystery-solving adventure on the Switch. Help Detective Pikachu find Tim's missing father through new puzzles and investigations.
Detective Pikachu Returns - Nintendo Switch
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Available Pokémon Games With Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack
For those with a Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership, there are additional Pokémon titles to enjoy. Here are the five Pokémon games you can play:
- Pokémon Trading Card Game
- Pokémon Snap
- Pokémon Puzzle League
- Pokémon Stadium
- Pokémon Stadium 2
Pokemon: All Mainline Games
Here are all the mainline Pokémon games, covering nine generations 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
After a year without a new Pokémon game, Pokémon Day 2024 brought exciting news about upcoming releases. The most significant announcement was a new Pokémon Legends game set to launch in 2025. Although details are scarce, it's likely that Pokémon Legends Z-A will be available on both the Switch and the newly announced Switch 2.
A Nintendo Direct is scheduled for April 2, expected to reveal more about the Switch 2 release date and new game announcements. Stay tuned for the full list of upcoming Switch games, including confirmed titles and our predictions for the Switch 2.
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