Every Pokémon Game on the Nintendo Switch in 2025

Pokémon, often cited as one of the world's most valuable media franchises, has become a household name since its inception on the Game Boy. This beloved series boasts hundreds of fascinating creatures to 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 official announcement of the Nintendo Switch 2 confirming backward compatibility, you can confidently purchase existing Pokémon games for the Switch, knowing they will be compatible with the new system. Below, we've compiled a comprehensive list of all Pokémon games released on the Nintendo Switch, along with information on upcoming titles expected on 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 includes mainline games from the 8th and 9th generations, as well as numerous spinoffs. For this list, we've counted mainline entries with two versions as a single release. Note that we do not include Pokémon games available through Nintendo Switch Online, but you can find that list below.

It's worth noting that 2024 was a skip year for Pokémon, marking over a year since the last release (and two years since the last mainline title). Instead, The Pokémon Company launched Pokémon TCG Pocket, a free app version of the Pokémon card game that has been a massive hit. Although not available on the Switch, it's definitely worth checking out for Pokémon enthusiasts.

What Pokémon Game Should You Get in 2024?

If you're looking for a Pokémon game to play on the Switch in 2024, I recommend Pokémon Legends: Arceus. While it may not evoke the classic Pokémon feel, it's perfect for those who enjoy a more action-packed RPG experience. Legends: Arceus offers open-world exploration, enhanced control over Pokémon encounters, and a polished handheld experience.

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 received a deluxe update for the Nintendo Switch in 2017, featuring new characters and improved visuals to leverage the Switch's capabilities. This three-on-three battle system is perfect for both in-person and online play with friends.

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 on the Switch features a simple yet engaging combat system where you send your Pokémon on expeditions. Customize their abilities to tackle various encounters.

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

Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and Pokémon: Let's Go, Eevee! are remakes of the iconic 1998 Pokémon Yellow. These were the first mainline Pokémon games on a home console, bringing the Kanto region and all 151 original Pokémon to the Switch with enhanced accessibility features, making them a great entry point for both newcomers and veterans.

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 to aspects of open-world gameplay with the Wild Areas, allowing free exploration and encounters with wild Pokémon. This installment also brought back Gyms, introduced the eighth generation of Pokémon, and featured 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 was the first Pokémon spinoff to receive a remake. Developed by Spike Chunsoft, it involves completing jobs in dungeons and unlocking new Pokémon.

Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX - Nintendo Switch

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Pokémon Café ReMix (2020)

Pokémon Café ReMix offers puzzle gameplay similar to Disney Tsum Tsum, where you connect Pokémon to solve puzzles. In this charming free-to-play game, you and Eevee run a café, serving Pokémon customers.

New Pokémon Snap (2021)

After over 20 years, New Pokémon Snap brought a sequel to the original Pokémon Snap to the Switch. Developed by Bandai Namco, you explore various biomes with an on-rails camera to capture photos of Pokémon in their natural habitats. Unlock new courses by taking quality pictures, offering a wealth of content to discover.

New Pokémon Snap - Nintendo Switch

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Pokémon Unite (2021)

Pokémon Unite marked the franchise's first foray into the MOBA genre. This free-to-play game lets you control a team of five Pokémon in competitive online battles. With a variety of Pokémon to choose from, you can tailor your team to your strategy. Pokémon Unite has also been featured in esports tournaments.

Pokémon Brilliant Diamond & Shining Pearl (2021)

Pokémon Brilliant Diamond & Pokémon Shining Pearl are remakes of the 2006 Nintendo DS titles Pokémon Diamond & Pearl. These fourth-generation games feature a wide array of Pokémon to battle and discover, presented in a new chibi art style that remains faithful to the originals while feeling fresh.

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

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Pokémon Legends: Arceus (2022)

Often hailed as one of the best Pokémon games on the Switch, Pokémon Legends: Arceus is set in the ancient Hisui region. This title emphasizes exploration, allowing you to roam freely, capture Pokémon, and explore diverse environments. Pokémon roam the map, requiring strategic approaches to avoid or engage in battles.

Out Now Pokemon Legends: Arceus for Switch

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Pokémon Scarlet & Violet (2022)

Pokémon Scarlet & Violet launched the ninth generation of Pokémon games, introducing a new open-world approach to gameplay and world design. The completed DLC pass, The Hidden Treasure of Area Zero, makes it an ideal time to explore Scarlet & Violet.

Pokémon Scarlet & Violet - Nintendo Switch

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Detective Pikachu Returns (2023)

Following the success of the first game and movie, Detective Pikachu Returns continues the adventure on the Switch. With Tim's father missing, Detective Pikachu must solve the mystery. This sequel introduces new puzzles and investigations, making it a must-play for fans of Pokémon and mystery games.

Detective Pikachu Returns - Nintendo Switch

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Available Pokémon Games With Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack

The Nintendo Switch Online subscription service offers additional Pokémon titles for those looking to expand their library. Here are the five Pokémon games available with a Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack 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, spanning nine generations of RPGs and monster catching. See All!

Upcoming Pokémon Games on Nintendo Switch

After a rare year without a new Pokémon game, Pokémon Day 2024 brought exciting news about upcoming releases. The most significant announcement was the arrival of a new Pokémon Legends game in 2025. Although no further details have been released, 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 release date and new games. For now, check out the full list of upcoming Switch games for confirmed titles and our predictions for what might be released on the Switch 2.