Every Pokémon Game on the Nintendo Switch in 2025

Pokémon: A Comprehensive Guide to Nintendo Switch Games

Pokémon, a globally recognized media franchise, has been a Nintendo mainstay since its Game Boy debut. The series boasts hundreds of captivating creatures, collectible both in-game and as trading cards, with each generation introducing exciting new additions. Every Nintendo console has featured numerous Pokémon titles, and the Nintendo Switch is no exception. With the Nintendo Switch 2's announcement confirming backward compatibility, existing Switch Pokémon games are guaranteed to work on the newer system. This guide details every Pokémon game released on the Nintendo Switch, along with information about upcoming Switch 2 releases.

How Many Pokémon Games Are on Nintendo Switch?

A total of 12 Pokémon games have been released for the Nintendo Switch. This includes core series entries from generations 8 and 9, plus various spin-offs. For this list, dual-version mainline games are counted as single releases. Nintendo Switch Online offerings are excluded, but details on those are provided below.

Note: 2024 marked a break in new Pokémon game releases. The Pokémon Company instead launched Pokémon TCG Pocket, a hugely successful free app version of the Pokémon trading card game. While not on the Switch, it's worth noting for Pokémon enthusiasts.

Which Pokémon Game Should You Play in 2024?

For Switch players 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 open-world exploration, enhanced encounter control, and polished handheld gameplay.

All Nintendo Switch Pokémon Games (Release Order)

• Pokkén Tournament DX (2017): A deluxe Switch version of the Wii U title, featuring new characters and enhanced visuals. This 3-on-3 fighting game offers engaging local and online multiplayer.

• Pokémon Quest (2018): A free-to-play game where Pokémon are adorable cube creatures. Simple combat involves sending Pokémon on expeditions and equipping abilities.

• Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! & Let's Go, Eevee! (2018): Remakes of Pokémon Yellow, marking the mainline series' home console debut. Set in the Kanto region, featuring all 151 original Pokémon and enhanced accessibility.

• Pokémon Sword & Shield (2019): Introducing open-world Wild Areas for free exploration and wild Pokémon battles. Gyms return, and the eighth generation of Pokémon debuts with 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 you manage a café for Pokémon.

• New Pokémon Snap (2021): The long-awaited sequel, featuring on-rails photography of Pokémon in various biomes.

• Pokémon Unite (2021): Pokémon's first MOBA entry, featuring 5-on-5 online battles.

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

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

• Pokémon Scarlet & Violet (2022): The latest mainline entries, launching Generation 9 with an open world and extensive exploration.

• Detective Pikachu Returns (2023): A sequel to the original, featuring puzzle-solving and investigation.

Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack Pokémon Games

The Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscription 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 release, Pokémon Day 2024 announced a new Pokémon Legends game for 2025. Further details are awaited, but it's likely to be released on both the Switch and Switch 2. A Nintendo Direct scheduled for April 2nd may provide more information.