Pokémon: A Comprehensive Guide to Nintendo Switch Titles

Pokémon, a globally renowned 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 a wealth of new discoveries. Every Nintendo console has featured numerous Pokémon games, and the Nintendo Switch is no exception. With the Nintendo Switch 2's announcement confirming backward compatibility, existing Switch Pokémon games are a safe bet for future enjoyment. This article details every Pokémon game released on the Nintendo Switch, and what we know about upcoming releases on the Switch 2.

How Many Pokémon Games Are on Nintendo Switch?

A total of twelve Pokémon games have been released for the Nintendo Switch. This includes core series entries from the 8th and 9th generations, along with 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 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 mobile app version of the Pokémon trading card game, which has achieved significant popularity. While not on the Switch, it's worth noting for Pokémon enthusiasts.

Recommended Pokémon Game for 2024: Pokémon Legends: Arceus

For Switch players seeking a new Pokémon experience in 2024, I recommend Pokémon Legends: Arceus. While it deviates from the classic Pokémon formula, it offers a refreshing take on the series. Legends: Arceus incorporates action and RPG elements, providing open areas to explore, greater encounter control, and polished handheld gameplay.

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. This 3-on-3 fighting game offers engaging local and online multiplayer.

• Pokémon Quest (2018): A free-to-play game featuring chibi-style Pokémon in a simple, fun combat system. Players send Pokémon on expeditions and equip abilities.

• 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.

• Pokémon Sword & Shield (2019): Introducing Wild Areas for open-world exploration and the return of Gyms. Features Dynamax and Gigantamax Pokémon forms.

• Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX (2020): A remake of the 2005 titles, featuring dungeon exploration and job completion.

• Pokémon Café ReMix (2020): A free-to-play puzzle game where players manage a Pokémon café.

• New Pokémon Snap (2021): A sequel to the original Pokémon Snap, featuring on-rails photography gameplay.

• Pokémon Unite (2021): Pokémon's first MOBA entry, featuring 5v5 online battles.

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

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

• Pokémon Scarlet & Violet (2022): The latest mainline entries, introducing Generation 9 and a fully open world.

• Detective Pikachu Returns (2023): A sequel to the original Detective Pikachu game, 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

This section displays all mainline Pokémon games across nine generations.

Upcoming Pokémon Games on Nintendo Switch

Following a year without a new Pokémon game, Pokémon Day 2024 revealed a new Pokémon Legends game slated for 2025. Further details are pending, but it's anticipated to launch on both the Switch and Switch 2. A Nintendo Direct scheduled for April 2nd may provide more information regarding the Switch 2 release date and new games.