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 plethora of new discoveries. Every Nintendo console has featured numerous Pokémon titles, and the Nintendo Switch is no exception.

With Nintendo's official Switch 2 announcement confirming backward compatibility, you can confidently purchase existing Switch Pokémon games, knowing they'll be playable on the new system. Below, we've compiled every Pokémon game released on the Nintendo Switch, along with information on upcoming Switch 2 releases.

Total Nintendo Switch Pokémon Games: 12

A total of twelve Pokémon games have graced the Nintendo Switch. This encompasses mainline entries from the 8th and 9th generations, plus numerous 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 hiatus for new Pokémon game releases, the first in over a year (and two years since the last mainline title). The Pokémon Company instead launched Pokémon TCG Pocket, a free-to-play mobile card game that's achieved significant popularity. While not a Switch title, it's highly recommended for Pokémon enthusiasts.

Recommended Pokémon Game for 2024: Pokémon Legends: Arceus

For Switch players in 2024, Pokémon Legends: Arceus is the top recommendation. While it deviates from classic Pokémon gameplay, it offers a refreshing experience. Legends: Arceus introduces action and RPG elements, open-world exploration, enhanced encounter control, and polished handheld gameplay.

All Nintendo Switch Pokémon Games (Release Order):

Pokkén Tournament DX (2017)

A deluxe Nintendo Switch port of the Wii U's Pokkén Tournament, featuring added 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 title transforming Pokémon into cube-like forms. Its simple combat system 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 series' first mainline console entries since the Wii U. Set in the Kanto region, all 151 original Pokémon appear, and accessibility features make it welcoming to both new and veteran players.

Pokémon Sword & Shield (2019)

The first installment featuring open-world aspects ("Wild Areas") allowing free exploration and wild Pokémon battles. Gyms return, and the eighth generation of Pokémon is introduced, including Dynamax and Gigantamax forms.

Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX (2020)

A remake of the 2005 titles, Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Red Rescue Team & Blue Rescue Team. Gameplay involves completing dungeon jobs and discovering new Pokémon.

Pokémon Café ReMix (2020)

A free-to-play puzzle game where players manage a café and serve Pokémon.

New Pokémon Snap (2021)

The long-awaited sequel to Pokémon Snap, featuring on-rails camera gameplay and diverse biomes to explore.

Pokémon Unite (2021)

Pokémon's foray into the MOBA genre, featuring team-based online battles.

Pokémon Brilliant Diamond & Shining Pearl (2021)

Remakes of the 2006 Nintendo DS titles, featuring a chibi art style.

Pokémon Legends: Arceus (2022)

A critically acclaimed title set in the past, emphasizing exploration and strategic Pokémon capture.

Pokémon Scarlet & Violet (2022)

The latest mainline entries, initiating Generation 9 with an open world and the now-completed "The Hidden Treasure of Area Zero" DLC.

Detective Pikachu Returns (2023)

A sequel to the original Detective Pikachu game, featuring puzzle-solving and investigation gameplay.

Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack Pokémon Games:

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

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

All Mainline Pokémon Games:

A complete list of all mainline Pokémon games across nine generations is available. (Images provided in original input omitted for brevity)

Upcoming Pokémon Games on Nintendo Switch:

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