Pokémon Nintendo Switch Titles Unveiled for 2025

Pokémon: A Comprehensive Guide to Nintendo Switch Titles

Pokémon, a globally recognized media powerhouse, has been a Nintendo mainstay since its Game Boy debut. The franchise boasts hundreds of captivating creatures, collectible in-game and as trading cards, with each generation expanding this diverse roster. Every Nintendo console has featured numerous Pokémon games, and the Nintendo Switch is no exception. With Nintendo's confirmed Switch 2 backward compatibility, existing Switch Pokémon games will seamlessly transition to the new system. This guide details every Pokémon game released on the Nintendo Switch, along with insights into upcoming Switch 2 titles.

Total Nintendo Switch Pokémon Games:

A total of twelve Pokémon games have launched on the Nintendo Switch. This includes core series entries from generations eight and nine, plus various spin-offs. For clarity, dual-version mainline releases are counted as single entries. Nintendo Switch Online offerings are excluded from this list (see below for details).

Note: 2024 marked a hiatus for new Pokémon game releases. The Pokémon Company instead released the successful Pokémon TCG Pocket mobile app, a free digital Pokémon card game. While not a Switch title, it's a worthwhile addition for Pokémon enthusiasts.

Recommended Pokémon Game for 2024:

For Switch players in 2024, Pokémon Legends: Arceus is highly recommended. While diverging from classic Pokémon gameplay, it delivers a refreshing experience. Legends: Arceus integrates action and RPG elements, featuring explorable open areas, enhanced encounter control, and refined handheld gameplay.

All Nintendo Switch Pokémon Games (Release Order):

1. Pokkén Tournament DX (2017): A deluxe Switch port of the Wii U title, featuring enhanced visuals and added characters. This 3-on-3 fighting game offers engaging local and online multiplayer.

2. Pokémon Quest (2018): A free-to-play game where Pokémon are adorable cube creatures. Simple combat involves sending Pokémon on expeditions and equipping abilities.

3. Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! & Let's Go, Eevee! (2018): Remakes of Pokémon Yellow (1998), marking the franchise's home console debut. Set in Kanto, featuring all 151 original Pokémon with updated forms. Highly accessible for newcomers and veterans alike.

4. Pokémon Sword & Shield (2019): The first series entry with open-world elements ("Wild Areas"). Features Gym battles and introduces the eighth generation of Pokémon, including Dynamax and Gigantamax forms.

5. Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX (2020): A remake of the 2005 titles, featuring dungeon exploration, job completion, and Pokémon recruitment.

6. Pokémon Café ReMix (2020): A free-to-play puzzle game where players manage a café, serving Pokémon customers.

7. New Pokémon Snap (2021): The long-awaited sequel to the original Pokémon Snap, offering on-rails photography gameplay across diverse biomes.

8. Pokémon Unite (2021): Pokémon's foray into the MOBA genre, a free-to-play 5v5 online battle arena.

9. Pokémon Brilliant Diamond & Shining Pearl (2021): Remakes of the 2006 Nintendo DS titles, featuring a charming chibi art style.

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

11. Pokémon Scarlet & Violet (2022): The ninth generation's mainline entries, featuring a vast open world and new gameplay mechanics.

12. Detective Pikachu Returns (2023): A sequel to the original Detective Pikachu game, offering puzzle-solving and investigation gameplay.

Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack Pokémon Games:

The Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscription provides access to additional Pokémon titles:

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

All Mainline Pokémon Games:

Image collage of mainline Pokémon game box art

Upcoming Pokémon Games on Nintendo Switch:

Following a year without new releases, Pokémon Day 2024 announced a new Pokémon Legends game for 2025. Further details are pending, but a Switch 2 release is highly likely. The April 2nd Nintendo Direct is anticipated to reveal more information regarding the Switch 2 launch and upcoming games.