Often cited as one of the world's most valuable media franchises, Pokémon has become a household name, synonymous with Nintendo ever since its debut on the Game Boy. This cherished series features hundreds of unique creatures that fans can catch in-game or collect as trading cards, with each new generation introducing even more to explore. Every Nintendo console has seen its share of Pokémon titles, and the Nintendo Switch is no exception.

With Nintendo's official announcement of the Switch 2 and its confirmed backwards compatibility, you can confidently purchase existing Pokémon games for the Switch, knowing they will seamlessly transition to the new system. Below, we've put together a comprehensive list of all the Pokémon games released on the Nintendo Switch, along with details on upcoming titles for the Switch 2.

How Many Pokémon Games Are There on Nintendo Switch?

In total, there are **12 Pokémon games available on the Nintendo Switch**. This collection includes mainline entries from the 8th and 9th generations, as well as a variety of engaging spinoffs. For clarity, we've considered mainline games with two versions as one release and have excluded titles available through Nintendo Switch Online, which you can find listed below.

Note: 2024 marked a unique year for Pokémon, as it was the first time in over a year without a new release (and two years since the last mainline title). Instead, The Pokémon Company launched Pokémon TCG Pocket, a free mobile app that has quickly gained popularity. Although it's not available on the Switch, it's certainly worth checking out for Pokémon enthusiasts.

What Pokémon Game Should You Get in 2024?

If you're looking to dive into a Pokémon game on the Switch in 2024, I recommend Pokémon Legends: Arceus. While it may not evoke the nostalgia of the classic games, it brings a fresh take to the series with enhanced action and RPG elements. Explore open areas, enjoy more control over Pokémon encounters, and experience a polished handheld adventure.

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 revamped for the Switch in 2017, featuring new characters and enhanced visuals. This three-on-three battle system offers a thrilling experience for both local and online multiplayer.

Pokkén Tournament DX - Nintendo Switch

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Pokémon Quest (2018)

Pokémon Quest transforms your favorite Pokémon into adorable cubes. This free-to-play game on the Switch features a simple yet fun combat system where you send your Pokémon on expeditions, equipped with various abilities to tackle different challenges.

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

These titles are remakes of the iconic 1998 Pokémon Yellow, marking the first mainline Pokémon games on a home console. Set in the Kanto region, they feature all 151 original Pokémon with enhanced accessibility, 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 elements of an open world through the Wild Areas, where players can freely explore and battle wild Pokémon. The games also brought back Gyms and introduced the 8th generation of Pokémon, including 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: Rescue Team DX is the first spinoff to receive a remake. Developed by Spike Chunsoft, the game involves completing jobs in various 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 service game, you and Eevee run a café, serving Pokémon customers. It's free-to-play via the Nintendo eShop.

New Pokémon Snap (2021)

After over 20 years, New Pokémon Snap brings the sequel to the original Pokémon Snap to the Switch. Developed by Bandai Namco, you explore various biomes with an on-rails camera, capturing photos of wild Pokémon. High-quality photos unlock new courses, providing extensive content to explore.

New Pokémon Snap - Nintendo Switch

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Pokémon Unite (2021)

Pokémon's first foray into the MOBA genre, Pokémon Unite is a free-to-play game where you command a team of five Pokémon in online battles. With a diverse roster of Pokémon, you can tailor your team to your strategy. The game has also been featured in esports tournaments.

Pokémon Brilliant Diamond & Shining Pearl (2021)

These remakes of the 2006 Nintendo DS titles, Pokémon Diamond & Pearl, introduce the 4th generation of Pokémon to the Switch with a new chibi art style. They remain faithful to the originals while offering a fresh look.

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 past in the Hisui region. With a focus on exploration, you can freely roam the map to catch Pokémon and explore different environments. Strategic gameplay is essential as Pokémon roam freely.

Out Now Pokemon Legends: Arceus for Switch

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Pokémon Scarlet & Violet (2022)

Launching Generation 9, Pokémon Scarlet & Violet introduce an open world where you can freely explore. The completed DLC pass, The Hidden Treasure of Area Zero, makes this an ideal time to dive into these latest mainline titles.

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 mystery-solving adventures. Help Detective Pikachu find Tim's missing father through new puzzles and investigations. A must-play for fans of Pokémon and mystery games.

Detective Pikachu Returns - Nintendo Switch

17See it at Amazon

Available Pokémon Games With Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack

The Nintendo Switch Online subscription service offers additional Pokémon titles for those seeking more after exploring the Switch 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's a look at all the mainline Pokémon games, spanning nine generations of RPGs and monster-catching adventures. See All!

Upcoming Pokémon Games on Nintendo Switch

After an unusual 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. 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 about the Switch 2 release date and new games. For now, check out the full list of upcoming Switch games to see what's confirmed for the Nintendo handheld and our predictions for the Switch 2.