Every Pokémon Game on the Nintendo Switch in 2025

Pokémon: A Comprehensive Guide to Nintendo Switch Games

Pokémon, a global media powerhouse, has been a Nintendo mainstay since its Game Boy debut. The franchise boasts hundreds of captivating creatures, collectible in-game or as trading cards, with each generation expanding this vibrant universe. Every Nintendo console has hosted numerous Pokémon titles, and the Nintendo Switch is no exception. With the Nintendo Switch 2's confirmed backward compatibility, existing Switch Pokémon games are future-proofed. This guide details every Pokémon game released on the Nintendo Switch and previews upcoming Switch 2 releases.

How Many Pokémon Games Are on Nintendo Switch?

A total of twelve Pokémon games have launched on the Nintendo Switch. This includes core series entries from generations eight and nine, plus numerous spin-offs. For clarity, 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 Pokémon Company instead released Pokémon TCG Pocket, a hugely popular free mobile card game app (not included here as it's not a Switch title).

Best Pokémon Switch Game for 2024?

For a fresh Pokémon experience in 2024, Pokémon Legends: Arceus is recommended. While it deviates from classic Pokémon gameplay, it introduces action-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 Switch port of the Wii U fighting game, featuring added characters and enhanced visuals. Its 3-on-3 battle system is ideal for both local and online multiplayer.

• Pokémon Quest (2018): A free-to-play game transforming Pokémon into cute cube creatures. Simple combat involves sending Pokémon on expeditions, equipping them with various abilities.

• Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! & Let's Go, Eevee! (2018): Remakes of Pokémon Yellow, marking the franchise's first mainline console entries. Set in Kanto, all 151 original Pokémon appear, with updated forms. High accessibility makes these ideal for newcomers and veterans alike.

• Pokémon Sword & Shield (2019): Introducing Wild Areas for open-world exploration and battles. Gyms return, and the eighth generation of Pokémon debuts, featuring Dynamax and Gigantamax forms.

• Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX (2020): A remake of Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Red Rescue Team & Blue Rescue Team. The first Pokémon spin-off remake, featuring dungeon exploration and job completion.

• Pokémon Café ReMix (2020): A free-to-play puzzle game where players manage a café, serving Pokémon. Gameplay is similar to titles like Disney Tsum Tsum.

• New Pokémon Snap (2021): The long-awaited sequel to Pokémon Snap, featuring on-rails photography in various biomes. Unlock new areas by taking high-quality photos.

• Pokémon Unite (2021): Pokémon's foray into the MOBA genre. A free-to-play 5v5 online battle arena.

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

• Pokémon Legends: Arceus (2022): A critically acclaimed title set in the ancient Hisui region, emphasizing open-world exploration and strategic Pokémon encounters.

• Pokémon Scarlet & Violet (2022): The latest mainline entries, launching Generation 9 with an open world and expansive gameplay.

• Detective Pikachu Returns (2023): A sequel to the original Detective Pikachu, featuring puzzle-solving and investigation gameplay.

Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack Pokémon Games

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

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

All Mainline Pokémon Games

Image collage of mainline Pokémon game box art

Upcoming Pokémon Games on Nintendo Switch

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