What Pokemon Games Can You Play on Switch: A Journey Through the Digital Grasslands

What Pokemon Games Can You Play on Switch: A Journey Through the Digital Grasslands

The Nintendo Switch has become a haven for Pokemon enthusiasts, offering a variety of games that cater to both nostalgic fans and new players alike. From the classic turn-based battles to innovative open-world explorations, the Switch library is rich with Pokemon adventures. Let’s delve into the diverse world of Pokemon games available on this versatile console.

1. Pokemon Sword and Shield

  • Release Date: November 15, 2019
  • Developer: Game Freak
  • Publisher: Nintendo, The Pokemon Company
  • Overview: Set in the Galar region, inspired by the United Kingdom, these games introduced the Dynamax and Gigantamax mechanics, allowing Pokemon to grow to enormous sizes during battles. The Wild Area, a vast open-world section, was a significant addition, offering players a more immersive experience.

2. Pokemon: Let’s Go, Pikachu! and Let’s Go, Eevee!

  • Release Date: November 16, 2018
  • Developer: Game Freak
  • Publisher: Nintendo, The Pokemon Company
  • Overview: These games are remakes of the classic Pokemon Yellow, tailored for a younger audience and those new to the series. They incorporate mechanics from Pokemon GO, such as catching Pokemon by throwing Poke Balls with motion controls, making them accessible and engaging.

3. Pokemon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl

  • Release Date: November 19, 2021
  • Developer: ILCA
  • Publisher: Nintendo, The Pokemon Company
  • Overview: Faithful remakes of the 2006 Nintendo DS games, these titles bring the Sinnoh region to life with updated graphics and quality-of-life improvements. The Underground has been revamped into the Grand Underground, offering new exploration opportunities.

4. Pokemon Legends: Arceus

  • Release Date: January 28, 2022
  • Developer: Game Freak
  • Publisher: Nintendo, The Pokemon Company
  • Overview: A bold departure from traditional Pokemon games, this title is set in the Hisui region, the ancient Sinnoh. It features open-world exploration, real-time Pokemon catching, and a focus on completing the first-ever Pokedex. The game’s innovative mechanics have been praised for refreshing the series.

5. Pokemon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX

  • Release Date: March 6, 2020
  • Developer: Spike Chunsoft
  • Publisher: Nintendo, The Pokemon Company
  • Overview: A remake of the 2005 Game Boy Advance and Nintendo DS games, this title allows players to take on the role of a Pokemon and explore randomly generated dungeons. The game’s narrative and strategic gameplay have been well-received by fans of the spin-off series.

6. New Pokemon Snap

  • Release Date: April 30, 2021
  • Developer: Bandai Namco Studios
  • Publisher: Nintendo, The Pokemon Company
  • Overview: A sequel to the 1999 Nintendo 64 game, New Pokemon Snap takes players on an on-rails photography adventure through the Lental region. The game emphasizes observation and photography skills, offering a relaxing and visually stunning experience.

7. Pokemon Unite

  • Release Date: July 21, 2021
  • Developer: TiMi Studio Group
  • Publisher: The Pokemon Company
  • Overview: A free-to-play multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) game, Pokemon Unite pits teams of five players against each other in strategic battles. The game has been praised for its accessibility and the unique way it integrates Pokemon abilities into the MOBA genre.

8. Pokemon Cafe ReMix

  • Release Date: June 24, 2020 (as Pokemon Cafe Mix), rebranded on August 25, 2021
  • Developer: Genius Sonority
  • Publisher: The Pokemon Company
  • Overview: A puzzle game where players manage a cafe staffed by Pokemon. The game involves solving puzzles to prepare dishes and attract new Pokemon customers. Its charming art style and relaxing gameplay make it a delightful addition to the Pokemon universe.

9. Pokemon Quest

  • Release Date: May 30, 2018 (Switch), June 27, 2018 (Mobile)
  • Developer: Game Freak
  • Publisher: The Pokemon Company
  • Overview: A free-to-play action-adventure game with a blocky, voxel art style. Players explore Tumblecube Island, battling wild Pokemon and recruiting them to their team. The game’s simplicity and unique aesthetic have garnered a dedicated fanbase.

10. Pokemon Home

  • Release Date: February 12, 2020
  • Developer: Nintendo
  • Publisher: The Pokemon Company
  • Overview: While not a traditional game, Pokemon Home is a cloud-based service that allows players to store and trade Pokemon across various games and platforms. It serves as a central hub for managing one’s Pokemon collection, enhancing the connectivity between different titles.

11. Pokemon Scarlet and Violet

  • Release Date: November 18, 2022
  • Developer: Game Freak
  • Publisher: Nintendo, The Pokemon Company
  • Overview: The latest mainline entries in the series, these games are set in the Paldea region and feature an open-world format, allowing players to explore the region freely. The introduction of the Terastal phenomenon, which changes a Pokemon’s type and appearance, adds a new layer of strategy to battles.

12. Pokemon Trading Card Game Live

  • Release Date: June 8, 2023
  • Developer: Dire Wolf Digital
  • Publisher: The Pokemon Company
  • Overview: A digital adaptation of the popular Pokemon Trading Card Game, this title allows players to build decks, battle opponents, and participate in tournaments online. The game’s accessibility and faithful recreation of the physical card game experience have made it a hit among fans.

13. Pokemon Sleep

  • Release Date: TBA
  • Developer: Select Button
  • Publisher: The Pokemon Company
  • Overview: An upcoming mobile game that integrates with a sleep-tracking device, Pokemon Sleep aims to turn sleep into entertainment. Players can collect Pokemon based on their sleep patterns, encouraging healthy sleep habits in a fun and engaging way.

14. Pokemon Go Integration

  • Overview: While not a standalone game on the Switch, Pokemon Go has integration features with certain Switch titles, such as Pokemon: Let’s Go, Pikachu! and Let’s Go, Eevee!. Players can transfer Pokemon from the mobile game to the Switch, enhancing the connectivity between the two platforms.

15. Future Prospects

  • Overview: The Pokemon Company has a history of continuously expanding its game library. With the success of recent titles and the ongoing development of new projects, the future looks bright for Pokemon fans on the Switch. Rumors and teasers suggest that more innovative and exciting Pokemon games are on the horizon.

Q: Can I transfer Pokemon from older games to the Switch? A: Yes, through Pokemon Home, you can transfer Pokemon from older games like Pokemon Bank (3DS) to the Switch titles that support it.

Q: Are there any free-to-play Pokemon games on the Switch? A: Yes, Pokemon Quest, Pokemon Cafe ReMix, and Pokemon Unite are free-to-play games available on the Switch.

Q: What is the difference between Pokemon Sword and Shield and Pokemon Legends: Arceus? A: Pokemon Sword and Shield follow the traditional turn-based RPG format with gym battles, while Pokemon Legends: Arceus offers an open-world experience with real-time catching and a focus on exploration and completing the Pokedex.

Q: Can I play Pokemon Go on the Switch? A: No, Pokemon Go is a mobile game, but it has integration features with certain Switch titles like Pokemon: Let’s Go, Pikachu! and Let’s Go, Eevee!.

Q: What is the latest Pokemon game on the Switch? A: As of now, the latest mainline Pokemon games on the Switch are Pokemon Scarlet and Violet, released in November 2022.

The Nintendo Switch continues to be a vibrant platform for Pokemon games, offering a wide range of experiences that cater to different playstyles and preferences. Whether you’re a seasoned trainer or a newcomer to the series, there’s a Pokemon game on the Switch waiting to capture your heart.