Pokémon, often recognized as one of the world's most valuable media franchises, has been a beloved part of Nintendo's lineup since its inception on the Game Boy. This iconic series features hundreds of enchanting creatures that players can capture in-game or collect as trading cards, with each new generation introducing even more to explore. Every Nintendo console, including the Nintendo Switch, has been home to a variety of Pokémon games, ensuring fans always have something new to dive into.
With the official announcement of the Nintendo Switch 2 and its confirmed backwards compatibility, you can confidently purchase any existing Pokémon games on the Switch, knowing they'll seamlessly transition to the new system. Below, we've detailed all the Pokémon games available on the Nintendo Switch and provided insights into upcoming titles expected on the Switch 2.
How Many Pokémon Games Are There on Nintendo Switch?
To date, **12 Pokémon games have been released for the Nintendo Switch**. This collection spans mainline entries from the 8th and 9th Pokémon generations, alongside a variety of spinoffs. For clarity, we consider mainline games with two versions as a single release. Note that this list does not include Pokémon games accessible through Nintendo Switch Online, but you can find those listed separately below.
It's worth mentioning that 2024 saw no new Pokémon game releases, marking a full year without a new title and two years since the last mainline entry. However, The Pokémon Company did launch Pokémon TCG Pocket, a highly successful free app for Pokémon cards, though it's not available on the Switch and thus not included in our list. If you're a fan, it's definitely worth exploring.
What Pokémon Game Should You Get in 2024?
For those pondering which Pokémon game to pick up on the Switch in 2024, I highly recommend Pokémon Legends: Arceus. While it may not offer the classic Pokémon experience that the older games do, Legends: Arceus brings a fresh take to the series with enhanced action and RPG elements. It features expansive open areas to explore, greater control over Pokémon encounters, and a polished experience perfect for handheld play.
Nintendo Switch Pokémon Legends: Arceus
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All Pokémon Games on the Nintendo Switch (in Release Order)
Pokkén Tournament DX (2017)
Originally launched on the Wii U in 2016, Pokkén Tournament received a deluxe upgrade for the Nintendo Switch in 2017, featuring new characters and enhanced visuals to leverage the Switch's superior hardware. This game offers an engaging three-on-three battle system that's perfect for both local and online multiplayer.
Pokkén Tournament DX - Nintendo Switch
18See it at Best Buy
Pokémon Quest (2018)
Pokémon Quest transforms your favorite Pokémon into adorable cube forms. This free-to-play Switch title features a straightforward combat system where you dispatch Pokémon on expeditions. Customize your Pokémon with different abilities to tackle various challenges.
Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! & Let's Go, Eevee! (2018)
These games are remakes of the iconic 1998 Pokémon Yellow, marking the first time mainline Pokémon games were released on a home console since none were available on the Wii U. Set in the Kanto region, they feature all 151 original Pokémon with variations from past mainline games. With enhanced accessibility features, these remakes serve as an excellent entry point for both new and seasoned players on the Nintendo Switch.
Pokémon: Let's Go, Eevee! - Switch
30$59.99 save 13%$51.99 at Walmart
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' first open-world elements with the Wild Areas, allowing for free exploration and encounters with wild Pokémon. The games also brought back Gyms for the first time since X & Y and introduced the eighth generation of Pokémon, featuring 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)
A remake of the 2005 titles Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Red Rescue Team & Blue Rescue Team, this game marks the first Pokémon spinoff to receive a remake. Developed by Spike Chunsoft, it involves completing missions in various dungeons and unlocking new Pokémon along the way.
Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX - Nintendo Switch
8See it at Amazon
Pokémon Café ReMix (2020)
In this puzzle game, similar to Disney Tsum Tsum, you connect Pokémon to solve puzzles. Pokémon Café ReMix lets you and Eevee run a café, serving Pokémon customers with food and drinks. This charming, free-to-play game is available on the Nintendo eShop.
New Pokémon Snap (2021)
After over two decades, New Pokémon Snap brought a sequel to the beloved original on the Nintendo Switch. Developed by Bandai Namco, you travel through diverse biomes to photograph wild Pokémon. Capture quality photos to unlock new courses, offering a wealth of content to explore.
New Pokémon Snap - Nintendo Switch
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Pokémon Unite (2021)
Pokémon's debut in the MOBA genre, Pokémon Unite, is a free-to-play game where you control a team of five Pokémon in online battles against other players. With a variety of Pokémon to choose from, you can tailor your team to your strategy. The game has also made its mark in esports, hosting multiple championships.
Pokémon Brilliant Diamond & Shining Pearl (2021)
These remakes of the 2006 Pokémon Diamond & Pearl games, part of the fourth generation, offer a wide array of Pokémon to battle and discover. The remakes adopt a new chibi art style, staying true to the originals while adding a fresh touch.
Pokémon Brilliant Diamond & Pokémon Shining Pearl Double Pack - Nintendo Switch
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Pokémon Legends: Arceus (2022)
Often hailed as one of the best Pokémon games on the Switch, Pokémon Legends: Arceus is set in the ancient Hisui region. Emphasizing exploration, you can freely roam the map to capture Pokémon, explore diverse environments, and engage in strategic encounters.
Out Now Pokemon Legends: Arceus for Switch
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Pokémon Scarlet & Violet (2022)
The latest mainline entries, Pokémon Scarlet & Violet, mark the beginning of Generation 9 with a new approach to gameplay and world design. These games feature an open world for you to explore freely. The completed DLC, The Hidden Treasure of Area Zero, makes now an ideal time to experience Scarlet & Violet.
Pokémon Scarlet & Violet - Nintendo Switch
23See it at Amazon
Detective Pikachu Returns (2023)
Following the success of the first game and movie, Detective Pikachu Returns continues the adventure on the Nintendo Switch. With Tim's father missing, it's up to Detective Pikachu to solve the mystery. The sequel introduces new puzzles and investigations, making it a must-play for fans of Pokémon and mystery games alike.
Detective Pikachu Returns - Nintendo Switch
17See it at Amazon
Available Pokémon Games With Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack
Subscribers to Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack can enjoy additional Pokémon titles beyond the main Switch library. Here are the five Pokémon games accessible with this membership:
- Pokémon Trading Card Game
- Pokémon Snap
- Pokémon Puzzle League
- Pokémon Stadium
- Pokémon Stadium 2
Pokemon: All Mainline Games
For a comprehensive look at Pokémon's history, here's a list of 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 future releases. The highlight was the announcement of a new Pokémon Legends game set to launch in 2025. While details are scarce, it's speculated that Pokémon Legends Z-A will be available on both the current Switch and the upcoming Switch 2.
A Nintendo Direct scheduled for April 2 is expected to reveal more about the Switch 2's release date and new game titles. For now, check out our full list of upcoming Switch games for confirmed titles and predictions for what might be coming to the Switch 2.
