Often celebrated as one of the world's most valuable media franchises, Pokémon has become synonymous with Nintendo since its debut on the Game Boy. This cherished series features hundreds of captivating creatures that players 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 different.

With the official announcement of the Nintendo Switch 2 and its confirmed backwards compatibility, you can rest assured that your existing Pokémon games on the Switch will seamlessly transition to the new system. Below, we've put together a comprehensive list of all Pokémon games released on 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 graced the Nintendo Switch. This number encompasses both the mainline entries from the 8th and 9th generations, as well as a variety of spinoffs. For the purposes of this list, we consider mainline entries with two versions as a single release. Note that we exclude Pokémon games available through Nintendo Switch Online; however, you can find a list of those below.

Note: 2024 marked a skip year for Pokémon, with no new releases since the last mainline title two years ago. Instead, The Pokémon Company released Pokémon TCG Pocket, a free app featuring Pokémon cards that has garnered significant attention. Although not available on the Switch, it's a must-try for Pokémon enthusiasts.

What Pokémon Game Should You Get in 2024?

For those pondering which Pokémon game to pick up on the Switch in 2024, I highly recommend Pokémon Legends: Arceus. While it may not evoke the nostalgic feel of the original games, it brings a fresh perspective to the series with its action-packed RPG elements, expansive open areas, and enhanced encounter mechanics.

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 with new characters and enhanced graphics to leverage the console's superior hardware. Its three-on-three battle system is a delight 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 cube forms. This free-to-play title offers a straightforward combat system where you dispatch Pokémon on expeditions, equipping 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 iconic 1998 Pokémon Yellow. These games marked the first mainline Pokémon titles on a home console, set in the Kanto region and featuring all 151 original Pokémon. Their accessibility makes them an excellent entry point for both new and veteran players.

Pokémon: Let's Go, Eevee! - Switch

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Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! - Switch

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Pokémon Sword & Shield (2019)

Pokémon Sword & Shield introduced semi-open world elements with the Wild Areas, allowing for free exploration and encounters with wild Pokémon. It also brought back Gyms 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 & Blue Rescue Team, this game was the first Pokémon spinoff to be remade. 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. In this charming service game, you and Eevee run a café, serving Pokémon with food and drinks. It's free-to-play and available on the Nintendo eShop.

New Pokémon Snap (2021)

After over 20 years, New Pokémon Snap arrived on the Switch as a sequel to the original. Developed by Bandai Namco, players traverse different biomes and take photos of Pokémon in the wild. Unlocking new courses and discovering content keeps each session engaging.

New Pokémon Snap - Nintendo Switch

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Pokémon Unite (2021)

Pokémon Unite marked the franchise's foray into the MOBA genre. This free-to-play game allows players to control a team of five Pokémon in competitive online battles. It has since been featured in various esports tournaments.

Pokémon Brilliant Diamond & Shining Pearl (2021)

Remakes of the 2006 Nintendo DS titles, Pokémon Brilliant Diamond & Pokémon Shining Pearl revisit the fourth generation of Pokémon. These games feature a new chibi art style that pays homage 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)

Widely acclaimed as one of the best Pokémon games on the Switch, Pokémon Legends: Arceus is set in the past in the Hisui region. Its focus on exploration allows players to freely roam and capture Pokémon, emphasizing strategy in encounters.

Out Now Pokemon Legends: Arceus for Switch

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Pokémon Scarlet & Violet (2022)

As the latest mainline entries, Pokémon Scarlet & Violet introduced the ninth generation with a fully open world. The completed DLC, The Hidden Treasure of Area Zero, makes now an excellent time to explore these titles.

Pokémon Scarlet & Violet - Nintendo Switch

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Detective Pikachu Returns (2023)

Following the success of the original game and movie, Detective Pikachu Returns continues the adventure on the Switch. As Detective Pikachu, players solve puzzles and investigate mysteries to find Tim's missing father, making it a great pick for fans of both Pokémon and mystery games.

Detective Pikachu Returns - Nintendo Switch

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Available Pokémon Games With Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack

For those subscribed to the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack service, additional Pokémon titles are available. Here are the five Pokémon games you can enjoy with your 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, covering nine generations of RPGs and monster catching. See All!

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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 a new Pokémon Legends game set to launch in 2025. Although no further details have been disclosed, 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, which may provide more information on the Switch 2 release date and new games. For now, check out the full list of upcoming Switch games for everything we know is coming to the Nintendo handheld, along with our predictions for what games might launch on the Switch 2.