Pokémon, a global media powerhouse and Nintendo mainstay since the Game Boy era, boasts a vast universe of captivating creatures. From in-game adventures to collectible trading cards, each generation expands this beloved franchise, offering countless creatures to discover. Every Nintendo console has seen its share of Pokémon games, and the Nintendo Switch is no exception. With Nintendo's confirmation of backwards compatibility for the upcoming Switch 2, you can confidently purchase any existing Switch Pokémon game, knowing it will work on the new console.
Below, we've compiled every Pokémon game released on the Nintendo Switch, along with information on upcoming titles for the Switch 2.
How Many Pokémon Games Are on Nintendo Switch?
A total of 12 Pokémon games have graced the Nintendo Switch. This includes core series entries from generations 8 and 9, plus numerous spin-offs. For this list, dual-version mainline games are counted as single releases. Pokémon games available through Nintendo Switch Online are not included (see that list below).
Note: 2024 marked a hiatus for new Pokémon game releases—over a year since the last release, and two years since the last mainline title. Instead, The Pokémon Company launched *Pokémon TCG Pocket*, a free mobile card game app that has become incredibly popular. While not on Switch, it's worth checking out for Pokémon fans.
Which Pokémon Game Should You Play in 2024?
For a Switch Pokémon experience in 2024, I recommend Pokémon Legends: Arceus. While it deviates from classic Pokémon gameplay, it offers a refreshing take. Legends: Arceus introduces action-RPG elements, open exploration, greater control over encounters, and polished gameplay for a handheld experience.
All Pokémon Games on Nintendo Switch (Release Order)
Pokkén Tournament DX (2017)
Initially released for Wii U in 2016, *Pokkén Tournament DX* arrived on Switch a year later, boasting new characters and enhanced visuals. This three-on-three battle system is thrilling for both local and online multiplayer.
Pokémon Quest (2018)
In *Pokémon Quest*, your favorite Pokémon are adorable, cube-shaped characters. This free-to-play title features straightforward combat where you send Pokémon on expeditions, equipping them with abilities to tackle various encounters.
Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! & Let's Go, Eevee! (2018)
Remakes of the cherished 1998 *Pokémon Yellow*, *Let's Go, Pikachu!* and *Let's Go, Eevee!* marked the mainline series' home console debut. Set in the Kanto region, all 151 original Pokémon appear, showcasing variations from previous games. Accessibility features make these remakes ideal for both newcomers and veterans.
Pokémon Sword & Shield (2019)
*Pokémon Sword & Shield* introduced open-world elements called Wild Areas, allowing free exploration and wild Pokémon battles. Gyms returned, and the eighth generation of Pokémon debuted, featuring Dynamax and Gigantamax forms.
Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX (2020)
A remake of the 2005 titles, *Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX* is the first Pokémon spin-off remake, developed by Spike Chunsoft. Gameplay involves completing dungeon jobs and discovering new Pokémon.
Pokémon Café ReMix (2020)
Similar to puzzle games like *Disney Tsum Tsum*, *Pokémon Café ReMix* is a free-to-play title where you connect Pokémon to solve puzzles and manage your café.
New Pokémon Snap (2021)
Over 20 years in the making, *New Pokémon Snap* finally arrived on Switch. Developed by Bandai Namco, players use an on-rails camera to photograph Pokémon in various biomes, unlocking new courses through quality photography.
Pokémon Unite (2021)
Pokémon's foray into the MOBA genre, *Pokémon Unite*, is a free-to-play title featuring five-on-five battles with a diverse roster of Pokémon.
Pokémon Brilliant Diamond & Shining Pearl (2021)
Remakes of the 2006 Nintendo DS titles, *Pokémon Brilliant Diamond & Shining Pearl* feature a new chibi art style while staying true to the original games.
Pokémon Legends: Arceus (2022)
Often lauded as one of the best Switch Pokémon games, *Pokémon Legends: Arceus* is set in the past, in the Hisui region. It emphasizes exploration and strategic Pokémon encounters.
Pokémon Scarlet & Violet (2022)
Generation 9's flagship titles, *Pokémon Scarlet & Violet*, offer an open world for free exploration. The *Hidden Treasure of Area Zero* DLC is now complete.
Detective Pikachu Returns (2023)
The sequel to *Detective Pikachu* features new puzzles and investigations, perfect for fans of both Pokémon and mystery games.
Pokémon Games Available with Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack
Nintendo Switch Online's Expansion Pack adds these Pokémon titles:
- Pokémon Trading Card Game
- Pokémon Snap
- Pokémon Puzzle League
- Pokémon Stadium
- Pokémon Stadium 2
All Mainline Pokémon Games
[Image gallery of mainline Pokémon games]
Upcoming Pokémon Games on Nintendo Switch
Following a year without a new Pokémon game, Pokémon Day 2024 announced a new *Pokémon Legends* title for 2025. Further details are awaited, but it's likely to launch on both Switch and Switch 2. A Nintendo Direct on April 2nd may reveal more information.
