Every Pokémon Game on the Nintendo Switch in 2025

Pokémon, often hailed as one of the world's most valuable media franchises, has been a beloved staple of Nintendo since its debut on the Game Boy. This iconic series boasts hundreds of fascinating creatures that players can catch in-game or collect 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 announcement of the Nintendo Switch 2 and its confirmed backwards compatibility, you can confidently invest in any current Pokémon titles on the Switch, knowing they'll seamlessly transition to the new system. Below, we've compiled a comprehensive list of every Pokémon game released on the Nintendo Switch, along with details on upcoming releases for 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 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 entry. Note that we've excluded Pokémon titles available through Nintendo Switch Online, but you can find that list below.

It's worth mentioning that 2024 marked a rare skip year for Pokémon, with no new game releases since the last mainline title two years ago. Instead, The Pokémon Company launched Pokémon TCG Pocket, a free mobile app featuring Pokémon trading cards that has gained significant popularity. Although not available on the Switch, TCG Pocket is a must-try for Pokémon enthusiasts.

What Pokémon Game Should You Get in 2024?

For those wondering which Pokémon game to pick up in 2024, I highly recommend Pokémon Legends: Arceus. While it may not evoke the nostalgia of the classic Pokémon games, it brings a fresh perspective to the series with enhanced action and RPG elements. Players can explore open areas, have more control over encounters, and enjoy a polished experience tailored for the Switch.

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 was upgraded to a deluxe version for the Nintendo Switch in 2017. This edition boasts new characters and enhanced visuals, making full use of the Switch's capabilities. The three-on-three battle system is incredibly engaging, whether playing locally or online.

Pokkén Tournament DX - Nintendo Switch

18 See it at Best Buy

Pokémon Quest (2018)

Pokémon Quest transforms your favorite Pokémon into adorable cube forms. This free-to-play title features a straightforward yet enjoyable combat system where you send your Pokémon on expeditions. Equip them with different abilities to tackle various challenges.

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

These games are remakes of the iconic 1998 Pokémon Yellow. Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee! marked the first mainline Pokémon titles on a home console, set in the Kanto region with all 151 original Pokémon. These remakes are highly accessible, making them an excellent entry point for both new and veteran 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 open-world elements through the Wild Areas, allowing free exploration and wild Pokémon battles. It also marked the return of Gyms since X & Y and introduced 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)

A remake of the 2005 titles, Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Red Rescue Team & Blue Rescue Team, this game offers the first-ever Pokémon spinoff remake. Developed by Spike Chunsoft, it involves completing missions in various dungeons and unlocking new Pokémon.

Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX - Nintendo Switch

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Pokémon Café ReMix (2020)

Similar to puzzle games like Disney Tsum Tsum, Pokémon Café ReMix has you and Eevee managing a café, serving Pokémon customers. This charming, free-to-play title is available via the Nintendo eShop.

New Pokémon Snap (2021)

After over 20 years, New Pokémon Snap finally arrived on the Switch, developed by Bandai Namco. Players traverse various biomes, capturing photos of Pokémon in their natural habitats. Unlock new courses by taking great photos, offering plenty of content to explore.

New Pokémon Snap - Nintendo Switch

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Pokémon Unite (2021)

As Pokémon's first foray 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 variety of Pokémon to choose from, it's perfect for tailoring your team to your strategy. The game has even been featured in esports tournaments.

Pokémon Brilliant Diamond & Shining Pearl (2021)

Remakes of the 2006 Pokémon Diamond & Pearl, these games feature the fourth generation of Pokémon with a new chibi art style that honors the originals while offering a fresh look. Set in the Sinnoh region, they offer a wide array of Pokémon to battle and discover.

Pokémon Brilliant Diamond & Pokémon Shining Pearl Double Pack - Nintendo Switch

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Pokémon Legends: Arceus (2022)

Often regarded as one of the best Pokémon games on the Switch, Pokémon Legends: Arceus is set in the past in the Hisui region. Focused on exploration, you can freely roam the map, capturing Pokémon and discovering new environments. The strategic aspect of avoiding battles adds depth to the gameplay.

Out Now Pokémon Legends: Arceus for Switch

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Pokémon Scarlet & Violet (2022)

The latest mainline entries, Pokémon Scarlet & Violet, kickstarted the ninth generation with a fully open world. Explore at your leisure, and don't miss out on the completed DLC, The Hidden Treasure of Area Zero, which enhances the experience.

Pokémon Scarlet & Violet - Nintendo Switch

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Detective Pikachu Returns (2023)

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

Detective Pikachu Returns - Nintendo Switch

17 See it at Amazon

Available Pokémon Games With Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack

The Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscription offers additional Pokémon titles to further enrich your gaming experience. Here are the five Pokémon games accessible with this membership:

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

Pokemon: All Mainline Games

Here are all the mainline Pokémon games, covering nine generations of RPGs and monster-catching adventures. See All!

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Upcoming Pokémon Games on Nintendo Switch

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

A Nintendo Direct is scheduled for April 2, expected to provide more information on the Switch 2's release date and new game announcements. For now, check out the full list of upcoming Switch games to see what's confirmed and our predictions for titles launching on the Switch 2.