Pokémon, one of the world's most iconic media franchises, has been a beloved part of Nintendo's lineup since the Game Boy era. With its vast array of creatures to catch and collect, each new generation introduces a plethora of new Pokémon to discover. Nintendo's consoles have consistently featured Pokémon games, and the Nintendo Switch is no different.
With the announcement of the Nintendo Switch 2 and its confirmed backwards compatibility, you can confidently purchase Pokémon games for the Switch, knowing they will be compatible with the new system. Here, we've gathered a comprehensive list of all Pokémon games released for the Nintendo Switch, along with details on upcoming titles for the Switch 2.
How Many Pokémon Games Are There on Nintendo Switch?
There are a total of 12 Pokémon games available on the Nintendo Switch. This includes mainline entries from the 8th and 9th generations, as well as various spinoffs. For clarity, mainline games with multiple versions are counted as a single release. Note that Pokémon 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 skip year for new Pokémon game releases, marking over a year since the last new title and two years since the last mainline game. During this period, The Pokémon Company launched Pokémon TCG Pocket, a successful free app version of the trading card game, which isn't available on the Switch but is a must-try for fans.
What Pokémon Game Should You Get in 2024?
For those looking to pick up a Pokémon game in 2024, I highly recommend Pokémon Legends: Arceus. While it diverges from the traditional Pokémon formula, it brings a fresh approach with more action-oriented RPG elements, expansive open areas, and refined handheld gameplay.
### Nintendo Switch Pokémon Legends: Arceus
14See it at Amazon### All Pokémon Games on the Nintendo Switch (in Release Order)
Pokkén Tournament DX (2017)
Originally released on the Wii U in 2016, Pokkén Tournament DX was revamped for the Switch with added characters and enhanced visuals. This engaging 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 Pokémon into adorable cube forms in this free-to-play adventure. Its straightforward combat system sends your Pokémon on expeditions, where you can equip them with various abilities to tackle diverse challenges.
Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! & Let's Go, Eevee! (2018)
These remakes of the classic Pokémon Yellow from 1998 were the first mainline Pokémon games to launch on a home console. Set in the Kanto region, they feature all 151 original Pokémon with additional forms. Their accessible design makes them ideal for both new players 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)
Pokémon Sword & Shield introduced the series' first semi-open world elements with the Wild Areas, allowing for free exploration and wild Pokémon encounters. The return of gyms and the introduction of the eighth generation's Dynamax and Gigantamax features added new depth to the gameplay.
### 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 offers a fresh take on the dungeon-crawling genre. Developed by Spike Chunsoft, players complete jobs in various dungeons while unlocking new Pokémon.
### Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX - Nintendo Switch
8See it at Amazon#### Pokémon Café ReMix (2020)
Pokémon Café ReMix is a delightful puzzle game where you manage a café with Eevee, serving Pokémon customers. This free-to-play title is available on the Nintendo eShop and offers charming gameplay similar to other popular puzzle games.
New Pokémon Snap (2021)
After over two decades, New Pokémon Snap brought back the beloved photography adventure. Developed by Bandai Namco, players explore diverse biomes to capture stunning photos of Pokémon in their natural habitats. With plenty of content to unlock, each session promises new discoveries.
### New Pokémon Snap - Nintendo Switch
8See it at Amazon#### Pokémon Unite (2021)
Pokémon Unite marks the franchise's first foray into the MOBA genre. This free-to-play game allows players to control teams of five Pokémon in competitive online battles, with a wide selection of characters to customize your strategy. It has gained popularity in esports, with numerous tournaments and championships.
Pokémon Brilliant Diamond & Shining Pearl (2021)
Remakes of the 2006 Nintendo DS titles, Pokémon Brilliant Diamond & Shining Pearl bring the fourth generation of Pokémon to the Switch with a charming chibi art style. These games stay true to the originals while offering a fresh look and feel.
### Pokémon Brilliant Diamond & Pokémon Shining Pearl Double Pack - Nintendo Switch
18See it at Amazon#### Pokémon Legends: Arceus (2022)
Praised as one of the best Pokémon games on the Switch, Pokémon Legends: Arceus is set in the historical Hisui region. Its focus on exploration allows players to roam freely, capturing Pokémon and discovering new environments, making it a standout title in the series.
### Out Now Pokemon Legends: Arceus for Switch
26See it at Amazon#### Pokémon Scarlet & Violet (2022)
Launching the ninth generation, Pokémon Scarlet & Violet introduce a fully open-world experience. The recently completed DLC, The Hidden Treasure of Area Zero, adds to the adventure, making it an excellent time to explore these latest titles.
### Pokémon Scarlet & Violet - Nintendo Switch
23See it at Amazon#### Detective Pikachu Returns (2023)
Following the success of the game and movie, Detective Pikachu Returns continues the mystery-solving adventures of Tim and Detective Pikachu. With new puzzles and investigations, this sequel is perfect for fans of both 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 have access to additional Pokémon titles. Here are the five games available:
- Pokémon Trading Card Game
- Pokémon Snap
- Pokémon Puzzle League
- Pokémon Stadium
- Pokémon Stadium 2
Pokemon: All Mainline Games
Here's a comprehensive look at all mainline Pokémon games across nine generations, showcasing the evolution of RPGs and monster-catching adventures. See All!
A Nintendo Direct is scheduled for April 2, which may provide more details on the Switch 2's release date and additional game announcements. For now, check out the full list of upcoming Switch games, which includes confirmed titles and our predictions for the Switch 2.