Pokémon Games Scheduled for Nintendo Switch in 2025

Often cited as one of the world's most valuable media franchises, Pokémon has become a household name, synonymous with Nintendo since its inception on the Game Boy. This beloved series offers hundreds of enchanting creatures to catch in-game or collect as trading cards, with each new generation expanding the universe even further. Pokémon games have graced every Nintendo console, and the Nintendo Switch is no exception.

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 curated a comprehensive list of all Pokémon games released on the Nintendo Switch, alongside details on upcoming titles slated 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 count includes mainline entries from the 8th and 9th generations, as well as a variety of spinoffs. For clarity, mainline games with two versions are considered a single release. Note that this list does not include Pokémon titles available through Nintendo Switch Online, which you can explore separately.

It's worth mentioning that 2024 saw no new Pokémon game releases, marking a significant pause since the last mainline title two years ago. However, The Pokémon Company did launch Pokémon TCG Pocket, a free mobile app featuring Pokémon cards that has gained substantial popularity. While not available on the Switch, it's a must-try for fans of the franchise.

What Pokémon Game Should You Get in 2024?

If you're considering which Pokémon game to pick up on the Switch in 2024, I highly recommend Pokémon Legends: Arceus. While it diverges from the traditional Pokémon experience, it introduces fresh action and RPG elements, featuring open-world exploration, dynamic 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 for the Wii U in 2016, Pokkén Tournament received a deluxe upgrade for the Switch in 2017, featuring new characters and enhanced visuals. This engaging three-on-three battle system is perfect for both local and online multiplayer.

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Pokémon Quest (2018)

Transforming your favorite Pokémon into adorable cube forms, Pokémon Quest offers a free-to-play experience with a simple yet enjoyable combat system. Send your Pokémon on expeditions and equip them with different abilities to tackle various 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 and introduce user-friendly accessibility options, making them an excellent entry point for both new and returning players.

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Pokémon Sword & Shield (2019)

The first Pokémon games to incorporate open-world elements, Sword & Shield introduced the Wild Areas for free exploration and wild Pokémon encounters. Returning gyms and the introduction of the eighth generation, complete with Dynamax and Gigantamax forms, enriched the gameplay experience.

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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 is the first spinoff remake in the series. Developed by Spike Chunsoft, it involves completing dungeon-based jobs and unlocking new Pokémon along the way.

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Pokémon Café ReMix (2020)

This charming puzzle game, similar to Disney Tsum Tsum, tasks you with running a café alongside Eevee. Connect Pokémon to solve puzzles and serve your customers in this delightful free-to-play title available on the Nintendo eShop.

New Pokémon Snap (2021)

After over two decades, New Pokémon Snap brings back the beloved photography mechanic, allowing you to capture Pokémon in various biomes. Developed by Bandai Namco, this sequel offers a wealth of content to unlock and explore, making each session a new adventure.

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Pokémon Unite (2021)

Pokémon's foray into the MOBA genre, Pokémon Unite is a free-to-play game where you control a team of five Pokémon in competitive online battles. With a diverse selection of Pokémon and a strong esports presence, it's a thrilling addition to the franchise.

Pokémon Brilliant Diamond & Shining Pearl (2021)

Remakes of the 2006 Pokémon Diamond & Pearl, these games bring the fourth generation to the Switch with a fresh yet faithful chibi art style. Explore a vast array of Pokémon in the Sinnoh region, making it an essential experience for fans.

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Pokémon Legends: Arceus (2022)

Often hailed as one of the best Pokémon games on the Switch, Pokémon Legends: Arceus transports you to the ancient Hisui region. Focus on exploration and strategic encounters as you capture Pokémon roaming freely across the map.

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Pokémon Scarlet & Violet (2022)

Launching Generation 9, Pokémon Scarlet & Violet introduce an expansive open world ripe for exploration. With the completion of the DLC pass, The Hidden Treasure of Area Zero, now is an ideal time to dive into these latest mainline titles.

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Detective Pikachu Returns (2023)

Following the success of the game and movie, Detective Pikachu Returns continues the mystery-solving adventure. Join Detective Pikachu to unravel the disappearance of Tim's father, engaging in new puzzles and investigations.

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Available Pokémon Games With Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack

Subscribers to the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack can access additional Pokémon titles beyond the Switch's library. Here are the five Pokémon games included:

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

Pokemon: All Mainline Games

Explore all the mainline Pokémon games, spanning nine generations of RPGs and monster-catching adventures. See All!

Upcoming Pokémon Games on Nintendo Switch

Following a rare year without a new Pokémon game, Pokémon Day 2024 brought exciting news about upcoming releases. The highlight was the announcement of a new Pokémon Legends game set to launch in 2025. While details are scarce, it's likely that Pokémon Legends Z-A will be available on both the current Switch and the upcoming Switch 2.

A Nintendo Direct scheduled for April 2 is expected to shed more light on the Switch 2's release date and new game announcements. For now, check out the full list of upcoming Switch games to stay updated on confirmed titles and our predictions for what might come to the Switch 2.