Every Pokémon Game on the Nintendo Switch in 2025

Pokémon, a global media powerhouse and Nintendo mainstay since the Game Boy era, boasts hundreds of captivating creatures—available in-game or as collectible cards—with each generation expanding this vibrant universe. Every Nintendo console has seen its share of Pokémon adventures, and the Nintendo Switch is no exception. With Nintendo's confirmation of backwards compatibility for the upcoming Switch 2, you can confidently purchase any existing Switch Pokémon game, knowing it'll seamlessly transition to the new console.

Below, we've compiled every Pokémon game released on the Nintendo Switch, along with details on upcoming titles for the Switch 2.

How Many Pokémon Games Are on Nintendo Switch?

A total of 12 Pokémon games have graced the Nintendo Switch. This includes mainline entries from generations 8 and 9, plus a variety of spin-offs. For this list, dual-version mainline games are counted as single releases. Nintendo Switch Online Pokémon titles are excluded (see separate list below).

Note: 2024 marked a break in new Pokémon game releases—over a year since the last release and two years since the last mainline title. The Pokémon Company instead launched Pokémon TCG Pocket, a free-to-play mobile card game that's become incredibly popular. While not on Switch, it's a worthwhile exploration for Pokémon enthusiasts.

Which Pokémon Game Should You Play in 2024?

For a Switch Pokémon experience in 2024, I recommend Pokémon Legends: Arceus. While it deviates from classic Pokémon gameplay, offering a fresh perspective, it introduces action-RPG elements, open-world exploration, enhanced encounter control, and polished visuals.

All Pokémon Games on Nintendo Switch (Release Order)

Pokkén Tournament DX (2017)

Originally a Wii U title (2016), Pokkén Tournament DX enhanced the experience for the Switch, adding characters and improved visuals. Its three-on-three battle system is perfect for both local and online multiplayer.

Pokémon Quest (2018)

Pokémon Quest transforms beloved Pokémon into charming cube creatures. This free-to-play game features simple yet fun combat, sending Pokémon on expeditions and equipping them with various abilities.

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

Remakes of the classic Pokémon Yellow (1998), these titles marked the mainline series' home console debut. Set in the Kanto region, all 151 original Pokémon appear, along with variations from later games. Their accessibility features make them ideal for both newcomers and veteran players.

Pokémon Sword & Shield (2019)

Sword & Shield introduced open-world elements ("Wild Areas") for free exploration and wild Pokémon battles, while also reviving the Gym challenge. This generation also brought Dynamax and Gigantamax Pokémon forms.

Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX (2020)

A remake of the 2005 titles, this is the first Pokémon spin-off remake. Gameplay involves completing dungeon jobs and recruiting new Pokémon.

Pokémon Café ReMix (2020)

A puzzle game similar to Disney Tsum Tsum, where you connect Pokémon to solve puzzles. Players manage a café, serving Pokémon customers.

New Pokémon Snap (2021)

The long-awaited sequel to the original Pokémon Snap. Players explore various biomes, using an on-rails camera to photograph Pokémon.

Pokémon Unite (2021)

Pokémon's foray into the MOBA genre. Players control teams of Pokémon in online battles.

Pokémon Brilliant Diamond & Shining Pearl (2021)

Remakes of the Nintendo DS titles Diamond & Pearl (2006), featuring a new chibi art style.

Pokémon Legends: Arceus (2022)

Set in the past Hisui region, this title emphasizes exploration and open-world gameplay.

Pokémon Scarlet & Violet (2022)

The latest mainline entries, launching Generation 9 with an open-world design.

Detective Pikachu Returns (2023)

The sequel to the original Detective Pikachu, featuring puzzle-solving and investigation gameplay.

Available Pokémon Games with Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack

The Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscription unlocks additional Pokémon titles:

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

Pokémon: All Mainline Games

[Image gallery of mainline Pokémon games]

Upcoming Pokémon Games on Nintendo Switch

Following a year without a new Pokémon release, Pokémon Day 2024 announced a new Pokémon Legends game for 2025. Further details are pending, but a Switch 2 release is likely.

An upcoming Nintendo Direct (April 2nd) may reveal more information about the Switch 2 and new game releases.