Pokémon Games for Nintendo Switch in 2025

Pokémon, one of the world's most valuable media franchises, has been a cornerstone of Nintendo's offerings since its debut on the Game Boy. The series has captivated fans with its ever-growing roster of creatures to catch and collect, spanning from in-game adventures to trading cards. Each new generation introduces even more Pokémon to discover, and every Nintendo console, including the Nintendo Switch, has been home to a variety of Pokémon games.

With the announcement of the Nintendo Switch 2 and its confirmed backward compatibility, you can rest assured that your existing Pokémon games on the Switch will seamlessly transition to the new system. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of all Pokémon games released on the Nintendo Switch, as well as insights into the upcoming Pokémon titles expected on 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 count includes the mainline entries from the 8th and 9th generations of Pokémon, as well as several engaging spinoffs. For clarity, we treat mainline games with two versions as one release and do not include games accessible via Nintendo Switch Online.

It's worth noting that 2024 saw no new Pokémon game releases, marking a rare skip year for the franchise. Instead, The Pokémon Company launched Pokémon TCG Pocket, a popular free app for Pokémon card enthusiasts, though it's not available on the Switch.

What Pokémon Game Should You Get in 2024?

For those looking to dive into a Pokémon game on the Switch in 2024, I highly recommend **Pokémon Legends: Arceus**. While it diverges from the traditional Pokémon formula, it offers a refreshing blend of action and RPG elements. With open-world exploration, more control over encounters, and a polished handheld experience, Legends: Arceus stands out as a must-play.

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 DX was enhanced for the Switch in 2017 with new characters and improved graphics. This three-on-three battle system offers thrilling multiplayer action, perfect for both local and online play.

Pokkén Tournament DX - Nintendo Switch

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Pokémon Quest (2018)

Pokémon Quest transforms your favorite Pokémon into adorable cube forms. This free-to-play game features a simple yet engaging combat system, where you can send your Pokémon on expeditions and equip them with various abilities to tackle different challenges.

Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! & Let's Go, Eevee! (2018)

These remakes of the iconic 1998 Pokémon Yellow bring the Kanto region to life on the Switch. Featuring all 151 original Pokémon with new forms, these games mark the first mainline Pokémon titles on a home console. They're designed to be accessible for both newcomers and seasoned players.

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 encounters with wild Pokémon. These games also reintroduced Gyms and launched the eighth generation of Pokémon, featuring Dynamax and Gigantamax forms.

Pokémon Sword - Nintendo Switch

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Pokémon Shield - Nintendo Switch

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Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX (2020)

This remake of the 2005 Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Red Rescue Team & Blue Rescue Team offers a fresh take on the dungeon-crawling genre. Developed by Spike Chunsoft, it features job-based gameplay and the unlocking of 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 through engaging puzzle gameplay. This free-to-play title offers a charming experience, reminiscent of other popular puzzle games.

New Pokémon Snap (2021)

More than 20 years after the original, New Pokémon Snap brings back the beloved photo-taking adventure. Traverse various biomes and capture stunning images of wild Pokémon, unlocking new courses and discovering hidden secrets.

New Pokémon Snap - Nintendo Switch

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Pokémon Unite (2021)

Pokémon's first foray into the MOBA genre, Pokémon Unite, offers free-to-play team battles with a diverse roster of Pokémon. It has gained popularity in the esports scene, with multiple championships held worldwide.

Pokémon Brilliant Diamond & Shining Pearl (2021)

Remakes of the 2006 Pokémon Diamond & Pearl, Brilliant Diamond & Shining Pearl feature the fourth generation of Pokémon in a new chibi art style. These games stay true to the originals while offering a fresh visual experience.

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 emphasizes exploration and strategic Pokémon encounters. This highly praised game allows you to freely roam the map, capturing Pokémon and uncovering the region's mysteries.

Out Now Pokemon Legends: Arceus for Switch

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Pokémon Scarlet & Violet (2022)

Launching Generation 9, Pokémon Scarlet & Violet introduce a fully open world for players to explore. With the completion of the DLC pass, The Hidden Treasure of Area Zero, now is an excellent time to delve into these innovative games.

Pokémon Scarlet & Violet - Nintendo Switch

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Detective Pikachu Returns (2023)

Following the success of the movie and the first game, Detective Pikachu Returns continues the mystery-solving adventures. Join Detective Pikachu in solving the case of Tim's missing father through engaging puzzles and investigations.

Detective Pikachu Returns - Nintendo Switch

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Available Pokémon Games With Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack

Subscribers to Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack can access additional Pokémon titles. Here are the five Pokémon games available with this membership:

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

Pokemon: All Mainline Games

Explore the complete collection of mainline Pokémon games, covering nine generations of RPGs and monster-catching adventures.

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Upcoming Pokémon Games on Nintendo Switch

After a year without a new Pokémon game release, Pokémon Day 2024 brought exciting news about future titles. The most significant announcement was the upcoming **Pokémon Legends Z-A**, set to launch in 2025. While details are sparse, it's expected to be available on both the current Switch and the newly announced Switch 2.

A Nintendo Direct is scheduled for April 2, which may provide more information on the Switch 2 release date and new game announcements. For now, keep an eye on the full list of upcoming Switch games for confirmed releases and predictions about what might be coming to the Switch 2.