Pokémon, a globally recognized media franchise, has been a cornerstone of Nintendo's offerings since its inception on the Game Boy. The franchise boasts hundreds of unique creatures, available for capture in games or as trading cards, with each new generation introducing even more to explore. Nintendo's consoles have consistently featured Pokémon games, and the Nintendo Switch is no exception.
With the recent announcement of the Nintendo Switch 2 and its confirmed backwards compatibility, you can confidently purchase Pokémon games for the current Switch, knowing they will be compatible with the new system. Here, we provide a comprehensive list of all Pokémon games released on the Nintendo Switch, along with details on upcoming titles for the Switch 2.
How Many Pokémon Games Are There on Nintendo Switch?
There are 12 Pokémon games available on the Nintendo Switch, encompassing mainline entries from the 8th and 9th generations, as well as various spinoffs. For clarity, we've considered mainline games with multiple versions as a single release. Note that games accessible through Nintendo Switch Online are not included in this count, but you can find them listed below.
Note: 2024 saw no new Pokémon game releases, marking a significant break since the last title in 2022. However, The Pokémon Company released Pokémon TCG Pocket, a free app featuring Pokémon cards, which has gained significant popularity. Though not available on Switch, it's a must-try for fans.
What Pokémon Game Should You Get in 2024?
For those looking to dive into a Pokémon game on the Switch in 2024, Pokémon Legends: Arceus stands out as a top choice. While it diverges from the traditional Pokémon formula, it offers a fresh take with action and RPG elements, expansive open areas, and enhanced control over encounters.
### Nintendo Switch Pokémon Legends: Arceus
14See it at Amazon### 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 was enhanced for the Switch in 2017, with added characters and improved visuals. Its three-on-three battle system is perfect for multiplayer fun, both locally and online.
### Pokkén Tournament DX - Nintendo Switch
18See it at Best Buy#### Pokémon Quest (2018)
Pokémon Quest transforms your favorite Pokémon into adorable cubes. This free-to-play game features a straightforward combat system and expedition-based gameplay, allowing you to equip your Pokémon with various abilities to tackle different challenges.
Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! & Let's Go, Eevee! (2018)
These titles are remakes of the classic Pokémon Yellow from 1998, marking the first mainline Pokémon games on a home console. Set in the Kanto region, they feature all 151 original Pokémon with updated forms. Designed with accessibility in mind, they're perfect for both new players and long-time 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)
Pokémon Sword & Shield introduced elements of an open world with the Wild Areas, allowing free exploration and battles with wild Pokémon. These games also marked the return of Gyms and introduced the 8th generation of Pokémon, featuring Dynamax and Gigantamax forms.
### Pokémon Sword - Nintendo Switch
32See it at Amazon
### Pokémon Shield - Nintendo Switch
16See it at Amazon#### Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX (2020)
A remake of the 2005 titles, Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX is the first spinoff to be remade. Developed by Spike Chunsoft, it involves completing jobs in dungeons and unlocking new Pokémon.
### Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX - Nintendo Switch
8See it at Amazon#### Pokémon Café ReMix (2020)
In Pokémon Café ReMix, you and Eevee manage a café, serving Pokémon in a puzzle-based game similar to Disney Tsum Tsum. This charming, free-to-play title is available on the Nintendo eShop.
New Pokémon Snap (2021)
After over two decades, New Pokémon Snap brings back the beloved photography concept, allowing you to capture Pokémon in various biomes. Developed by Bandai Namco, the game offers extensive content through unlocking new courses.
### New Pokémon Snap - Nintendo Switch
8See it at Amazon#### Pokémon Unite (2021)
Pokémon's foray into the MOBA genre, Pokémon Unite is a free-to-play game where you command a team of five Pokémon in online battles. It has garnered attention in esports, with multiple championships held for the game.
Pokémon Brilliant Diamond & Shining Pearl (2021)
Remakes of the 2006 titles, Pokémon Brilliant Diamond & Shining Pearl bring back the fourth generation of Pokémon with a chibi art style that honors the originals while adding a fresh look.
### Pokémon Brilliant Diamond & Pokémon Shining Pearl Double Pack - Nintendo Switch
18See it at Amazon#### Pokémon Legends: Arceus (2022)
Set in the past in the Hisui region, Pokémon Legends: Arceus is celebrated for its focus on exploration and open-world gameplay. You can freely roam to capture Pokémon and explore diverse environments.
### Out Now Pokemon Legends: Arceus for Switch
26See it at Amazon#### Pokémon Scarlet & Violet (2022)
Launching Generation 9, Pokémon Scarlet & Violet offer an open-world experience with the freedom to explore. The completed DLC, The Hidden Treasure of Area Zero, makes it an ideal time to explore these latest mainline entries.
### Pokémon Scarlet & Violet - Nintendo Switch
23See it at Amazon#### Detective Pikachu Returns (2023)
Following the success of the original game and movie, Detective Pikachu Returns continues the mystery-solving adventure. Help Detective Pikachu find Tim's missing father through puzzles and investigations.
### 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. Here are the five Pokémon games available:
- Pokémon Trading Card Game
- Pokémon Snap
- Pokémon Puzzle League
- Pokémon Stadium
- Pokémon Stadium 2
Pokemon: All Mainline Games
Here's a glimpse at all the mainline Pokémon games across nine generations, showcasing the evolution of the RPG and monster-catching genre. See All
A Nintendo Direct scheduled for April 2 may provide further insights into the Switch 2 release date and new game announcements. For now, check out the full list of upcoming Switch games to stay informed about confirmed releases and predictions for the Switch 2.
