Pokémon Games Scheduled for Nintendo Switch in 2025

Often hailed as one of the world's most valuable media franchises, Pokémon has become synonymous with Nintendo since its debut on the Game Boy. The series boasts a vast array of creatures that fans can catch in games or collect as trading cards, with each new generation introducing even more to explore. Every Nintendo console has been graced with Pokémon titles, and the Nintendo Switch continues this tradition.

With the official announcement of the Nintendo Switch 2 and its confirmed backwards compatibility, you can confidently purchase any existing Pokémon games for the Switch, knowing they'll seamlessly transition to the new system. Below, we've put together a comprehensive list of all the Pokémon games released for the Nintendo Switch, along with details on upcoming titles expected 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 encompasses mainline entries from the 8th and 9th Pokémon generations, as well as a variety of spinoffs. For clarity, we've considered mainline games with dual versions as a single entry. Note that this list does not include Pokémon games available through Nintendo Switch Online, which you can find detailed below.

Note: 2024 marked a rare year without a new Pokémon game release, making it over a year since the last new title (and two years since the last mainline game). Instead, The Pokémon Company launched Pokémon TCG Pocket, a highly successful free app for Pokémon card enthusiasts. It's not available on the Switch, so it doesn't appear on our list, but it's definitely worth exploring for fans.

What Pokémon Game Should You Get in 2024?

If you're looking for a recommendation for 2024, consider Pokémon Legends: Arceus. While it may not offer the traditional Pokémon experience, it brings a fresh take with more action and RPG elements. Explore vast open areas, enjoy more control over encounters, and experience the polished gameplay designed specifically for the handheld.

Nintendo Switch Pokémon Legends: Arceus

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All Pokémon Games on the Nintendo Switch (in Release Order)

Pokkén Tournament DX (2017)

Originally released for the Wii U in 2016, Pokkén Tournament was revamped into a deluxe version for the Nintendo Switch in 2017. With new characters and enhanced visuals, this three-on-three battle system is perfect for both local and online multiplayer.

Pokkén Tournament DX - Nintendo Switch

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Pokémon Quest (2018)

Pokémon Quest transforms your beloved Pokémon into adorable cube forms. This free-to-play title features a straightforward combat system and sends your Pokémon on expeditions. Equip them with different abilities to tackle various challenges.

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 classic Pokémon Yellow from 1998. These were the first mainline Pokémon games to hit a home console, featuring all 151 original Pokémon in the Kanto region. With enhanced accessibility, these titles served as an excellent introduction for new players and a nostalgic journey for 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 and Pokémon Shield introduced semi-open world elements through the Wild Areas, allowing free movement and wild Pokémon encounters. These games also brought back traditional Gym battles 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 and Blue Rescue Team, this game marks the first Pokémon spinoff to be remade. Developed by Spike Chunsoft, it features dungeon exploration and job completion to unlock new Pokémon.

Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX - Nintendo Switch

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Pokémon Café ReMix (2020)

Pokémon Café ReMix is a puzzle game akin to Disney Tsum Tsum, where you connect Pokémon to solve puzzles. As the café owner alongside Eevee, you serve Pokémon customers in this charming, free-to-play title available on the Nintendo eShop.

New Pokémon Snap (2021)

After more than two decades, New Pokémon Snap brings the beloved photography game to the Switch. Developed by Bandai Namco, you explore different biomes, capturing images of Pokémon in their natural habitats. Good photography unlocks new courses, providing extensive content to discover.

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 wide selection of Pokémon, you can tailor your team to suit your strategy. The game has gained popularity in esports, with multiple championships held worldwide.

Pokémon Brilliant Diamond & Shining Pearl (2021)

Remakes of the 2006 titles Pokémon Diamond and Pearl, these games represent the fourth generation of Pokémon. With a new chibi art style that pays homage to the originals while feeling fresh, these titles offer a rich variety 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 cited as one of the best Pokémon games on the Switch, Pokémon Legends: Arceus takes place in the ancient Hisui region. Focused on exploration, you can roam freely, capturing Pokémon and exploring diverse environments. Strategic gameplay is key as you navigate the map to avoid or engage in battles.

Out Now Pokemon Legends: Arceus for Switch

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Pokémon Scarlet & Violet (2022)

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

Pokémon Scarlet & Violet - Nintendo Switch

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Detective Pikachu Returns (2023)

Following the success of the game and movie, Detective Pikachu Returns continues the mystery-solving adventures. Tim's father is missing, and it's up to Detective Pikachu to crack the case. Featuring new puzzles and investigations, this title is a must-play for fans of both Pokémon and mystery genres.

Detective Pikachu Returns - Nintendo Switch

17See it at Amazon

Available Pokémon Games With Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack

Subscribers to Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack can enjoy additional Pokémon titles beyond the Switch library. Here are the five Pokémon games available:

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

Pokemon: All Mainline Games

For those interested in the entire Pokémon saga, here's a gallery showcasing all the mainline Pokémon games, spanning nine generations of RPGs and monster-catching adventures.

Upcoming Pokémon Games on Nintendo Switch

A Nintendo Direct scheduled for April 2 is likely to provide more information about the Switch 2 release date and new games. For now, check out our full list of upcoming Switch games to see what's confirmed and our predictions for what might come to the Switch 2.