Pokémon, one of the world's most valuable media franchises, has been a beloved part of Nintendo's lineup since its debut on the Game Boy. With hundreds of fascinating creatures to catch and collect, each new generation of Pokémon games introduces even more to explore. Every Nintendo console has seen its share of Pokémon titles, and the Nintendo Switch is no exception.
With the recent announcement of the Nintendo Switch 2 and its confirmed backwards compatibility, fans can rest assured that their current Pokémon games will seamlessly transition to the new console. Here, we provide a comprehensive list of all Pokémon games available on the Nintendo Switch, along with insights into upcoming titles expected for the Switch 2.
How Many Pokémon Games Are There on Nintendo Switch?
There are a total of **12 Pokémon games** released for the Nintendo Switch. This count encompasses mainline entries for the 8th and 9th generations as well as a variety of spinoffs. For clarity, we treat mainline games with two versions as a single release and exclude games available through Nintendo Switch Online, which are listed separately below.
Note: 2024 saw no new Pokémon game releases, marking a full year without a new title and two years since the last mainline entry. Instead, The Pokémon Company released Pokémon TCG Pocket, a free app featuring Pokémon cards that has gained significant popularity. Although not available on the Switch, it's a must-try for fans of the series.
What Pokémon Game Should You Get in 2024?
For those pondering which Pokémon game to dive into on the Switch in 2024, I highly recommend Pokémon Legends: Arceus. While it may not capture the traditional Pokémon experience, it offers a refreshing take with enhanced action and RPG elements. Explore vast open areas, take control of your encounters, and enjoy a polished handheld experience.
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 DX received a deluxe update for the Switch in 2017, featuring new characters and enhanced visuals. Enjoy thrilling three-on-three battles with friends, whether in person or online.
Pokkén Tournament DX - Nintendo Switch
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Pokémon Quest (2018)
In Pokémon Quest, your favorite Pokémon are transformed into adorable cubes. This free-to-play game offers a straightforward combat system where you send Pokémon on expeditions, equipping them with different abilities to tackle various challenges.
Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! & Let's Go, Eevee! (2018)
These titles are remakes of the iconic 1998 Pokémon Yellow, marking the first mainline Pokémon games on a home console. Set in the Kanto region, they feature all 151 original Pokémon with updated forms. Their accessibility makes them perfect for both newcomers and seasoned players.
Pokémon: Let's Go, Eevee! - Switch
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Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! - Switch
36$48.79 save 0%$48.79 at Walmart
Pokémon Sword & Shield (2019)
Pokémon Sword & Shield introduced open-world elements through the Wild Areas, allowing free exploration and wild Pokémon encounters. This eighth-generation title also brought back Gyms and introduced 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: Rescue Team DX is the first spinoff remake in the series. Developed by Spike Chunsoft, it involves completing jobs in dungeons and unlocking new Pokémon.
Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX - Nintendo Switch
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Pokémon Café ReMix (2020)
Similar to games like Disney Tsum Tsum, Pokémon Café ReMix is a puzzle game where you manage a café with Eevee, serving Pokémon customers. This free-to-play title is available on the Nintendo eShop.
New Pokémon Snap (2021)
After over two decades, New Pokémon Snap brought back the beloved photography concept to the Switch. Developed by Bandai Namco, players capture photos of Pokémon in various biomes, unlocking new courses and content.
New Pokémon Snap - Nintendo Switch
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Pokémon Unite (2021)
Pokémon's foray into the MOBA genre, Pokémon Unite, offers free-to-play, team-based battles online. With a wide selection of Pokémon, players can customize their teams for competitive play, which has even led to esports tournaments.
Pokémon Brilliant Diamond & Shining Pearl (2021)
These remakes of the 2006 Pokémon Diamond & Pearl feature a new chibi art style that pays homage to the originals while offering a fresh experience. Explore the fourth generation and discover a variety of Pokémon.
Pokémon Brilliant Diamond & Pokémon Shining Pearl Double Pack - Nintendo Switch
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Pokémon Legends: Arceus (2022)
Set in the ancient Hisui region, Pokémon Legends: Arceus emphasizes exploration and strategic encounters. Widely regarded as one of the best Pokémon games on the Switch, it offers a unique experience with its open-world approach.
Out Now Pokemon Legends: Arceus for Switch
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Pokémon Scarlet & Violet (2022)
Launching the ninth generation, Pokémon Scarlet & Violet offer a fully open world for players to explore. The completed DLC, The Hidden Treasure of Area Zero, enhances the experience, making it an ideal time to dive in.
Pokémon Scarlet & Violet - Nintendo Switch
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Detective Pikachu Returns (2023)
Following the success of the original game and movie, Detective Pikachu Returns sees Tim and Pikachu solving mysteries to find Tim's missing father. Engage in new puzzles and investigations, perfect for fans of Pokémon and mystery games.
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 access additional Pokémon titles. Here are the five games included:
- Pokémon Trading Card Game
- Pokémon Snap
- Pokémon Puzzle League
- Pokémon Stadium
- Pokémon Stadium 2
Pokemon: All Mainline Games
Explore all mainline Pokémon games, covering nine generations of RPGs and monster-catching adventures. See All!
Upcoming Pokémon Games on Nintendo Switch
Following a year without new releases, Pokémon Day 2024 brought exciting news. A new Pokémon Legends game is set to launch in 2025, tentatively titled Pokémon Legends Z-A, expected to be available on both the Switch and the upcoming Switch 2.
A Nintendo Direct is scheduled for April 2, which may provide more details on the Switch 2 release date and new games. For a complete list of upcoming Switch titles and predictions for the Switch 2, see our comprehensive guide.
