Pokémon Games Scheduled for Nintendo Switch in 2025

Pokémon, a globally renowned media franchise and a cornerstone of Nintendo's offerings, has captivated audiences since its inception on the Game Boy. With hundreds of unique creatures to catch and collect, each new generation of Pokémon introduces fans to a fresh array of characters and adventures. Nintendo's commitment to the franchise is evident across all its consoles, with the Nintendo Switch being no exception. This platform hosts a robust lineup of Pokémon titles, catering to both new and veteran players alike.

The recent announcement of the Nintendo Switch 2 and its promise of backwards compatibility is great news for Pokémon enthusiasts. It ensures that your current Switch Pokémon games will seamlessly transition to the new console. In this comprehensive guide, we've curated a list of all Pokémon games available on the Nintendo Switch, along with details on anticipated releases for the Switch 2.

How Many Pokémon Games Are There on Nintendo Switch?

The Nintendo Switch boasts an impressive collection of **12 Pokémon games**, encompassing both the 8th and 9th generations of mainline titles and a variety of engaging spinoffs. For clarity, we've treated mainline entries with two versions as a single release. Note that this list excludes Pokémon games accessible through Nintendo Switch Online, but we've included a separate section for those titles below.

It's worth mentioning that 2024 was a rare year without a new Pokémon game release, marking over a year since the last addition and two years since the most recent mainline title. However, The Pokémon Company did launch Pokémon TCG Pocket, a highly successful free app for trading card enthusiasts, which, though not on the Switch, is certainly noteworthy for fans.

What Pokémon Game Should You Get in 2024?

For those looking to dive into a Pokémon game on the Switch in 2024, I highly recommend Pokémon Legends: Arceus. While it deviates from the traditional Pokémon formula, it offers a refreshing take with its action-RPG elements, expansive open areas, and enhanced player control over encounters. It's a polished experience perfect for handheld gaming.

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 enhanced for the Switch in 2017 with new characters and improved visuals. This three-on-three battle game offers exciting multiplayer action both locally and online.

Pokkén Tournament DX - Nintendo Switch

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Pokémon Quest (2018)

In Pokémon Quest, your beloved Pokémon characters are transformed into adorable cubes. This free-to-play game on the Switch features a straightforward combat system and allows you to send your Pokémon on expeditions, equipping them with different abilities to tackle various challenges.

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

These games are remakes of the iconic 1998 Pokémon Yellow, marking the first mainline Pokémon titles on a home console. Set in the Kanto region, they feature all 151 original Pokémon with updated forms. These titles are designed to be accessible, making them an excellent entry point for both new and returning 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 the series' first foray into open-world elements with the Wild Areas, allowing players to freely explore and engage with wild Pokémon. The return of Gyms, along with the introduction of the 8th generation and new Pokémon forms like Dynamax and Gigantamax, added depth to the gameplay experience.

Pokémon Sword - Nintendo Switch

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Pokémon Shield - Nintendo Switch

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Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX (2020)

This game is a remake of the 2005 titles Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Red Rescue Team & Blue Rescue Team, marking the first remake in the Pokémon spinoff series. Developed by Spike Chunsoft, it involves completing missions 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-based gameplay similar to games like Disney Tsum Tsum. In this charming free-to-play title, you manage a café alongside Eevee, serving Pokémon customers with food and drinks.

New Pokémon Snap (2021)

Over two decades after the original, New Pokémon Snap brings back the beloved photography-based gameplay to the Switch. Developed by Bandai Namco, players traverse various biomes, capturing images of Pokémon in their natural habitats. High-quality photos unlock new courses, ensuring a wealth of content to explore.

New Pokémon Snap - Nintendo Switch

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Pokémon Unite (2021)

Pokémon's debut in 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 roster of Pokémon, you can tailor your team to suit different strategies. The game has also made waves in the esports scene, hosting several championships.

Pokémon Brilliant Diamond & Shining Pearl (2021)

These remakes of the 2006 Nintendo DS titles, Pokémon Diamond & Pearl, bring the fourth generation to the Switch with a charming chibi art style. They stay true to the originals while offering a fresh look and experience.

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 ancient Hisui region. It emphasizes exploration and strategic gameplay, allowing players to freely roam and capture Pokémon in a beautifully rendered open world.

Out Now Pokemon Legends: Arceus for Switch

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Pokémon Scarlet & Violet (2022)

Launching Generation 9, Pokémon Scarlet & Violet introduce an expansive open-world environment, offering unparalleled freedom to explore. With the completion of the DLC pass, The Hidden Treasure of Area Zero, it's an ideal time to experience these latest mainline titles.

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 of Detective Pikachu and Tim, who are on a mission to find Tim's missing father. This sequel introduces new puzzles and investigative elements, appealing to 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

Subscribers to the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack can enjoy additional Pokémon titles, expanding their gaming library. Here are the five Pokémon games accessible with this service:

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

Pokemon: All Mainline Games

For a complete overview, here is a list of all mainline Pokémon games across nine generations, showcasing the rich history of RPGs and monster-catching adventures:

Pokemon Red Version - Nintendo

Pokemon Green Version - Game Freak

Pokemon Blue Version - Nintendo

Pokemon Yellow: Special Pikachu Edition - Nintendo

Pokemon Gold Version - Nintendo

Pokemon Silver Version - Nintendo

Pokemon Crystal Version - Nintendo

Pokemon Ruby Version - Game Freak

Pokemon Sapphire Version - Game Freak

Pokemon FireRed Version - Game Freak

Upcoming Pokémon Games on Nintendo Switch

Following a year without a new Pokémon game, Pokémon Day 2024 brought exciting news for fans. The most significant announcement was the upcoming release of a new Pokémon Legends game in 2025. While details are scarce, Pokémon Legends Z-A is expected to launch on both the current Switch and the forthcoming Switch 2.

A Nintendo Direct scheduled for April 2 is anticipated to reveal more about the Switch 2's release date and new game titles. For now, stay tuned for the full list of upcoming Switch games, including confirmed releases and our predictions for what might come to the Switch 2.