Pokémon Games on Nintendo Switch: 2025 Preview

Often cited as one of the world's most valuable media franchises, Pokémon is a household name synonymous with Nintendo since its debut on the Game Boy. The beloved series features hundreds of captivating creatures to catch and collect, with each new generation introducing a plethora of new discoveries. Every Nintendo console has been home to numerous Pokémon games, and the Nintendo Switch is no exception.

With the recent announcement of the Nintendo Switch 2 and its confirmed backward compatibility, you can confidently purchase existing Pokémon games on the Switch, knowing they will seamlessly transition to the new system. Below, we've compiled a comprehensive list of all Pokémon games released on the Nintendo Switch, along with details on upcoming titles expected on the Switch 2.

How Many Pokémon Games Are There on Nintendo Switch?

In total, 12 Pokémon games have been released for the Nintendo Switch. This count includes mainline titles from the 8th and 9th Pokémon generations, as well as various spinoffs. For clarity, mainline entries with two versions are considered a single release. Note that games available through Nintendo Switch Online are not included in this count but are listed separately below.

It's worth noting that 2024 was a gap year for Pokémon, with no new game released, marking over a year since the last title and two years since the most recent mainline release. Instead, The Pokémon Company launched Pokémon TCG Pocket, a free mobile app that has gained significant popularity. While not available on the Switch, it's a must-try for Pokémon enthusiasts.

What Pokémon Game Should You Get in 2024?

If you're looking to dive into a Pokémon game on the Switch in 2024, I highly recommend Pokémon Legends: Arceus. While it may not evoke the nostalgia of the classic Pokémon games, it offers a refreshing take with enhanced action and RPG elements. The open-world exploration, dynamic encounters, and polished gameplay make it an excellent choice for a unique Pokémon 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 received a deluxe upgrade for the Nintendo Switch in 2017, featuring new characters and enhanced visuals to leverage the Switch's improved hardware. The engaging three-on-three battle system is perfect for both local and online multiplayer.

Pokkén Tournament DX - Nintendo Switch

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Pokémon Quest (2018)

Transforming your favorite Pokémon into adorable cube forms, Pokémon Quest is a free-to-play title on the Switch. It boasts a straightforward combat system where you dispatch Pokémon on expeditions, equipping them with various abilities to tackle diverse 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 new forms from previous generations. With enhanced accessibility, these games are an excellent introduction to the series on the Switch for both newcomers and seasoned fans.

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)

Introducing elements of an open world, Pokémon Sword & Shield featured the Wild Areas for free exploration and battles. The return of Gyms and the introduction of the eighth generation, including Dynamax and Gigantamax forms, added depth to the gameplay experience.

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 marked the first Pokémon spinoff to receive a remake. Developed by Spike Chunsoft, it involves completing jobs in various dungeons and unlocking new Pokémon.

Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX - Nintendo Switch

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Pokémon Café ReMix (2020)

In Pokémon Café ReMix, you and Eevee manage a café, serving Pokémon customers through puzzle-based gameplay similar to Disney Tsum Tsum. This free-to-play title on the Nintendo eShop offers a charming and engaging experience.

New Pokémon Snap (2021)

More than 20 years after the original, New Pokémon Snap finally arrived on the Switch. Developed by Bandai Namco, players traverse diverse biomes to capture photos of Pokémon in their natural habitats. With unlockable courses and extensive content, every session promises new discoveries.

New Pokémon Snap - Nintendo Switch

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Pokémon Unite (2021)

Marking Pokémon's entry into the MOBA genre, Pokémon Unite is a free-to-play game where you control a team of five Pokémon in competitive online battles. With a wide selection of Pokémon and active esports tournaments, it offers a dynamic multiplayer experience.

Pokémon Brilliant Diamond & Shining Pearl (2021)

Remakes of the 2006 titles Pokémon Diamond & Pearl, these games feature the fourth generation of Pokémon in a new chibi art style. Faithful to the originals yet fresh, they offer a wide variety of Pokémon to battle and discover.

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 is celebrated as one of the best Pokémon games on the Switch. With a focus on exploration, players can roam freely to capture Pokémon and explore diverse environments, making strategic decisions to avoid or engage in battles.

Out Now Pokemon Legends: Arceus for Switch

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Pokémon Scarlet & Violet (2022)

Launching the ninth generation, Pokémon Scarlet & Violet introduced an expansive open world, allowing players to explore freely. The completed DLC pass, The Hidden Treasure of Area Zero, enhances the gameplay, making it an ideal time to experience these titles.

Pokémon Scarlet & Violet - Nintendo Switch

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Detective Pikachu Returns (2023)

Following the success of the game and movie, Detective Pikachu Returns continues the mystery-solving adventure. As Tim searches for his missing father, you'll solve puzzles and investigate scenes alongside Detective Pikachu, making it a perfect blend of Pokémon and mystery gameplay.

Detective Pikachu Returns - Nintendo Switch

17See it at Amazon

Available Pokémon Games With Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack

The Nintendo Switch Online subscription service offers additional Pokémon titles. Here are the five Pokémon games accessible with a Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership:

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

Pokemon: All Mainline Games

Explore the full range of mainline Pokémon games, spanning nine generations of RPGs and monster-catching adventures. Here are some of the iconic titles:

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 rare year without a new Pokémon game, Pokémon Day 2024 brought exciting news about upcoming releases. The highlight was the announcement of a new Pokémon Legends game set to launch in 2025. While details are scarce, it's anticipated that Pokémon Legends Z-A will be available on both the Nintendo Switch and the newly announced Switch 2.

A Nintendo Direct scheduled for April 2 is expected to reveal more about the Switch 2's release date and new games. For now, check out our full list of upcoming Switch games to see what's confirmed for the Nintendo handheld and our predictions for titles coming to the Switch 2.