Every Pokémon Game On Nintendo Switch: A Complete Guide

Hey Pokémon trainers! Ready to catch 'em all (or at least, play 'em all) on your Nintendo Switch? This guide is your ultimate resource for everything Pokémon on the Switch. We're talking main series games, spin-offs, and everything in between. Whether you're a seasoned veteran or a fresh-faced trainer just starting your journey, this is your one-stop shop for all things Pokémon on the go. So, grab your Poké Balls, charge up your Switch, and let's dive into the amazing world of Pokémon!

The Main Series Pokémon Games on Switch: Gotta Catch 'Em All, Again!

Let's kick things off with the big ones: the main series games. These are the core Pokémon experiences, the ones that define the franchise and keep us coming back for more. On the Nintendo Switch, you have a fantastic selection that spans different generations and offers something for everyone. From exploring brand new regions to revisiting classic adventures with a fresh coat of paint, the main series games are the heart of the Pokémon experience.

Pokémon Sword and Shield: A New Generation

Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield, released in 2019, brought the series to the Switch in a big way. Set in the Galar region, inspired by Great Britain, these games introduced a whole new generation of Pokémon, along with some exciting new gameplay features. The Wild Area, a vast open space filled with Pokémon to catch and explore, was a game-changer. It allowed for free-roaming exploration and even featured Max Raid Battles, where you team up with friends to take on giant Dynamax Pokémon. The story follows your journey to become the Champion of the Galar region, battling Gym Leaders and rivals along the way. While some fans were disappointed with the National Dex (the availability of all Pokémon), Sword and Shield still delivered a fun and engaging Pokémon adventure with new Pokémon like Grookey, Scorbunny, and Sobble.

Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl: Back to Sinnoh

If you're a fan of the older games, Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl are a must-play. These are faithful remakes of the original Pokémon Diamond and Pearl games, originally released on the Nintendo DS. They take you back to the Sinnoh region, a region known for its diverse environments and rich lore. While they stick closely to the original gameplay, these remakes boast updated graphics and some quality-of-life improvements. You can relive the classic adventure of catching Pokémon, battling Gym Leaders, and ultimately challenging the Elite Four, and exploring the Underground! The remakes sparked a lot of conversation, with some criticizing the art style, but the core experience remains true to the originals, offering a nostalgic trip for longtime fans and a great introduction to the Sinnoh region for new players.

Pokémon Legends: Arceus: A Bold New Direction

Pokémon Legends: Arceus is arguably the most ambitious and innovative Pokémon game on the Switch. This game takes a very different approach to the series, offering a more open-world experience and a focus on exploration and discovery. Set in the Hisui region (which would later become the Sinnoh region), you're tasked with researching and cataloging Pokémon, encountering wild Pokémon in a more dynamic way, and battling in a faster-paced system. The gameplay loop centers on completing research tasks, catching Pokémon, and filling out the Pokédex. Pokémon Legends: Arceus was a breath of fresh air for the series and demonstrated that Pokémon is more than capable of changing with the times. It's a game that dared to experiment, and the result is a unique and engaging experience that stands out from the rest.

Pokémon Scarlet and Pokémon Violet: The Latest Adventures

And finally, we have Pokémon Scarlet and Pokémon Violet, the latest entries in the main series. Set in the Paldea region, inspired by Spain and Portugal, these games offer a truly open-world experience, allowing you to explore the vast landscapes and towns in any order you choose. You can also customize your character's appearance, choose from three distinct storylines, and team up with friends to explore and battle together. The new Terastallizing mechanic is a unique battle addition. The games were met with some criticism regarding performance and technical issues at launch, but they still deliver a compelling and exciting Pokémon adventure. With new Pokémon like Sprigatito, Fuecoco, and Quaxly, and a focus on open-world exploration, Scarlet and Violet represent the future of the main series.

Spin-Off Pokémon Games on Switch: Diversify Your Training!

Okay, now that we've covered the main series, let's look at the spin-off games. These offer different gameplay experiences, from puzzle games to action RPGs, and provide some variety for your Pokémon cravings.

Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee!: A Return to Kanto

Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee! are remakes of the original Pokémon Yellow games, reimagined for the Switch. These games are designed to be accessible and friendly to new players, with simple controls and a focus on capturing Pokémon in a manner similar to Pokémon GO. You can travel through the Kanto region, battle familiar Gym Leaders, and collect all 151 original Pokémon. The game's charm, ease of access, and focus on catching make it an enjoyable experience for trainers of all levels, and it's a great entry point to the series for beginners.

Pokémon Café Mix/Pokémon Café ReMix: Casual Puzzle Fun

If you're looking for something more casual, Pokémon Café Mix (later updated and renamed Pokémon Café ReMix) is a fun puzzle game. You run a café where you serve adorable Pokémon customers. The gameplay involves matching puzzle pieces to complete orders and earn rewards. It's a charming and relaxing experience, perfect for short bursts of gameplay. This game really leans into the cuteness of the Pokémon world and it is a fun experience to have.

Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX: Dungeon Crawling with Pokémon

Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX is a remake of the original Pokémon Mystery Dungeon game, offering a dungeon-crawling experience with a unique twist. You play as a human who has been transformed into a Pokémon, and you team up with other Pokémon to form a rescue team. The gameplay involves exploring procedurally generated dungeons, battling enemies, and completing missions. If you like dungeon crawlers and Pokémon, this is a must-try!

Pokémon Unite: Team-Based Battles

Pokémon Unite is a free-to-play, team-based battle arena (MOBA) game where you control Pokémon and battle other teams in a strategic environment. The game has a lot of depth, from leveling up your Pokémon to using different items and abilities. With its fast-paced action and competitive gameplay, Pokémon Unite is a fun way to battle with others. This game is still constantly being updated, and there's always something new to try!

Other Pokémon Experiences on Switch: Expanding the World

Beyond the main series and spin-offs, the Switch offers a few other ways to experience the Pokémon world.

Pokémon HOME: Transferring Your Pokémon

Pokémon HOME is a cloud service that allows you to store your Pokémon from various games, including the Switch titles. You can transfer Pokémon between compatible games, trade with other players, and manage your massive collection. It's an essential tool for any serious Pokémon trainer who wants to keep all their Pokémon in one place.

Pokémon GO: The AR Experience

While not directly on the Switch, Pokémon GO is a mobile game that can be enjoyed with your Switch. You can connect your Pokémon GO account to Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and Eevee! and Pokémon HOME to transfer Pokémon and enhance your experience. Although not a native Switch game, Pokémon GO has a strong community and offers an AR experience. The game has continued to evolve and is an amazing way to experience Pokémon.

Tips for Choosing Your Pokémon Adventure

So, which Pokémon game on Switch is right for you? It depends on your preferences:

• For Classic Pokémon: Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl, and Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and Eevee! offer a nostalgic experience. You can enjoy the charm of the original games with updated graphics and features.
• For a New Generation: Pokémon Sword and Shield provide a great introduction to the Switch era of Pokémon with a new region, Pokémon, and features.
• For a Unique Experience: Pokémon Legends: Arceus takes the series in a bold new direction with open-world exploration and action-based gameplay.
• For the Latest Experience: Pokémon Scarlet and Violet are the latest main series games, offering open-world exploration and a new generation of Pokémon.
• For Casual Fun: Pokémon Café ReMix provides a fun and relaxing puzzle experience.
• For Team-Based Action: Pokémon Unite offers a competitive, fast-paced battle arena experience.

Conclusion: The Pokémon World on Switch is Thriving

There you have it, folks! The ultimate guide to all the Pokémon games on the Nintendo Switch. Whether you're after a nostalgic trip, a brand new adventure, or a unique spin-off experience, the Switch has something for every Pokémon trainer. With a diverse library of games, the joy of catching and battling Pokémon is available in various forms, making it easy to enjoy the Pokémon world on the go or from the comfort of your couch. So, grab your Switch, and get ready to embark on your Pokémon journey! Happy training! And remember... gotta catch 'em all! (or at least, play 'em all!)