Every Pokémon Game on the Nintendo Switch in 2025

Pokémon: A Comprehensive Guide to Nintendo Switch Games (and Beyond)

Pokémon, a global media powerhouse, has been a Nintendo mainstay since the Game Boy. The franchise boasts hundreds of captivating creatures, collectible both in-game and as trading cards, with each generation expanding this vibrant roster. Every Nintendo console has seen its share of Pokémon titles, and the Nintendo Switch is no exception.

With Nintendo's official Switch 2 announcement confirming backward compatibility, you can confidently purchase any existing Switch Pokémon game, knowing it will be playable on the new console. Below, we detail every Pokémon game released on the Nintendo Switch and what we know about upcoming Switch 2 releases.

The Nintendo Switch Pokémon Lineup: A Total of 12 Games

A total of twelve Pokémon games have graced the Nintendo Switch. This includes core series entries from generations eight and nine, alongside numerous spin-offs. For clarity, this list counts dual-version mainline releases as single entries. Nintendo Switch Online offerings are excluded, but details on those are provided later.

Note: 2024 marked a hiatus for new Pokémon game releases, the longest gap since the last mainline title. The Pokémon Company instead launched Pokémon TCG Pocket, a free mobile app version of the trading card game, which has been immensely popular. While not on the Switch, TCG Pocket is a worthwhile addition for Pokémon enthusiasts.

Best Pokémon Switch Game for 2024?

Seeking a Switch Pokémon game in 2024? I recommend Pokémon Legends: Arceus. While it deviates from the classic Pokémon formula, that's where the older generation games shine. Legends: Arceus introduces action and RPG elements, offering fresh 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 title, featuring new characters and enhanced visuals. Its three-on-three battle system is perfect for both local and online multiplayer.

• Pokémon Quest (2018): A free-to-play title transforming Pokémon into adorable cube creatures. Simple yet engaging combat involves sending Pokémon on expeditions and equipping them with various abilities.

• Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! & Let's Go, Eevee! (2018): Remakes of Pokémon Yellow (1998), marking the mainline series' debut on a home console. Set in the Kanto region, featuring all 151 original Pokémon and enhanced accessibility.

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

• Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX (2020): A remake of the 2005 titles, featuring dungeon exploration and team-building.

• Pokémon Café ReMix (2020): A free-to-play puzzle game where you manage a café for Pokémon.

• New Pokémon Snap (2021): The long-awaited sequel, featuring on-rails photography of Pokémon in diverse environments.

• Pokémon Unite (2021): Pokémon's foray into the MOBA genre, offering online team battles.

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

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

• Pokémon Scarlet & Violet (2022): The latest mainline entries, introducing Generation 9 and a vast open world.

• Detective Pikachu Returns (2023): A sequel to the popular mystery game, featuring new puzzles and investigations.

Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack Pokémon Games

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

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

All Mainline Pokémon Games (Across All Platforms)

[Images of all mainline Pokémon game boxes - Red, Green, Blue, Yellow, Gold, Silver, Crystal, Ruby, Sapphire, FireRed]

Upcoming Pokémon Games on Nintendo Switch

Following a year without a new Pokémon game, Pokémon Day 2024 revealed exciting news. A new Pokémon Legends game is slated for 2025. Further details are awaited, but it's highly anticipated for both the Switch and Switch 2. A Nintendo Direct scheduled for April 2nd may provide further information on the Switch 2 release date and new game announcements.