If you’re a fan of Pokemon games and own a Nintendo Switch, you’re in luck. There are several Pokemon games available on the Nintendo Switch, each with its own unique features and gameplay. But with so many options, it can be challenging to determine which one is the best for you.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the best Pokemon Switch games currently available. We’ll provide an overview of each game, highlighting its strengths and weaknesses, and help you decide which one is worth your time and money. Whether you’re a long-time fan of the series or a newcomer, we’ve got you covered.
From the classic series to the latest releases, we’ll rank each game based on its quality, gameplay, and features. We’ll also take into account the game’s storyline, graphics, and overall replay value. So if you’re looking for the best Pokemon game to play on your Nintendo Switch, keep reading to find out which one comes out on top.
The Best Pokemon Games on the Nintendo Switch
In case you just want to know which games are available – here is a ranking of Pokémon games available on the Nintendo Switch by popularity:
- Pokémon Sword and Shield – As the latest main series Pokémon games on the Switch, Sword and Shield have sold over 23 million units worldwide, making them some of the best-selling Pokémon games of all time [Source: Statista]
- Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl – The remakes of Diamond and Pearl have sold over 14 million copies globally since their November 2021 launch [Source: Nintendo]
- Pokémon Legends: Arceus – This open-world Pokémon game set in the Hisui region launched in January 2022 to strong sales of over 12 million units [Source: Nintendo]
- Pokémon Let’s Go, Pikachu! and Let’s Go, Eevee! – The Kanto remakes that introduced Pokémon Go features have sold over 14 million copies [Source: Nintendo]
- Pokémon Unite – The free-to-play MOBA spin-off has been downloaded over 80 million times on the Switch and mobile [Source: TheGamer]
- Pokkén Tournament DX – The fighting game spin-off has sold over 3 million copies worldwide [Source: Nintendo]
- Pokémon Quest – The free-to-play, block-based spin-off remains popular among Switch owners [Source: TouchArcade]
This takes into account global sales data and download numbers to determine the most popular Pokémon games currently available on Nintendo Switch.
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The World of Pokemon
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If you’re a fan of Nintendo Switch games, you’ve probably heard of the Pokemon franchise. Pokemon, also known as Pocket Monsters, is a popular video game series developed by Game Freak. The franchise has been around since the mid-90s and has since expanded to include a trading card game, an anime series, and various merchandise.
The premise of the game is simple: you play as a trainer who catches and trains various creatures called Pokemon. Each Pokemon has unique abilities and can evolve into more powerful forms. You can battle other trainers and their Pokemon to earn badges and become the champion of the region.
The Pokemon franchise has become a cultural phenomenon, with fans of all ages and backgrounds. The franchise has even spawned a live-action movie, Detective Pikachu, which was released in 2019.
The franchise has also seen a lot of success on the Nintendo Switch. There are currently several Pokemon games available on the console, including Pokemon Sword and Shield, Pokemon Let’s Go Pikachu and Eevee, and Pokemon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of the franchise or new to the world of Pokemon, there’s a game on the Nintendo Switch for you. With its engaging gameplay, unique creatures, and expansive world, the Pokemon franchise is sure to be a hit with gamers of all ages and skill levels.
Pokemon on Nintendo Switch
The Nintendo Switch is a versatile piece of hardware that allows you to play games both at home and on the go. Since its release in 2017, the Switch has become one of the most popular home consoles, thanks to its unique design and impressive library of games.
One of the most popular franchises on the Switch is Pokemon. There are several Pokemon games available on the system, each with its own unique features and gameplay mechanics. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the series or a newcomer, there’s a Pokemon game on the Switch that’s perfect for you.
One of the most popular Pokemon games on the Switch is Pokemon: Let’s Go, Pikachu! and Let’s Go, Eevee!. These games are remakes of the classic Pokemon Yellow game from the Game Boy era. They feature updated graphics, new gameplay mechanics, and a more streamlined approach to catching Pokemon. They’re a great starting point for newcomers to the series, as they’re easy to pick up and play.
Another popular Pokemon game on the Switch is Pokemon Sword and Shield. These games are the first mainline Pokemon games to be released on the Switch, and they feature a brand new region to explore, new Pokemon to catch, and a host of new features and gameplay mechanics. They’re a great choice for longtime fans of the series who are looking for a fresh experience.
If you’re looking for a more unique Pokemon experience, you might want to check out Pokemon Quest. This game features blocky, Minecraft-like graphics and a more action-oriented gameplay style. It’s a great choice for players who are looking for something a little different from the traditional Pokemon formula.
Overall, there are plenty of great Pokemon games to choose from on the Nintendo Switch. Whether you’re looking for a classic experience or something new and different, there’s a game on the Switch that’s perfect for you.
Mainline Pokemon Games on Switch
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If you are a fan of the mainline Pokemon games, then you are in luck because there are several options available on the Nintendo Switch. These games are the core Pokemon games that have been released on handheld consoles like the Game Boy and 3DS in the past.
The first mainline Pokemon games to arrive on the Nintendo Switch were Pokemon Let’s Go Eevee & Let’s Go Pikachu. These games are remakes of the iconic Kanto region and take elements from the ever-popular Pokemon Go. They are great for newcomers to the series or for those who want a more casual experience.
If you are looking for a more traditional Pokemon experience, then you should check out Pokemon Sword & Shield. These games were the first entirely new entries to be released on the Nintendo Switch and introduced new Pokemon to the series. The games have exclusive Pokemon, so you will need to trade with other players to catch them all.
For those who want to relive the past, Pokemon Brilliant Diamond & Shining Pearl are faithful remakes of the original Diamond and Pearl games. These games feature updated graphics and gameplay mechanics, but still retain the charm of the original games.
No matter which mainline Pokemon game you choose to play on the Nintendo Switch, you can expect to find new Pokemon to catch and train, as well as classic gameplay mechanics that have made the series so popular.
Remakes and Reimagined Titles
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If you’re a fan of the classic Pokémon games, you’ll be pleased to know that some of the most iconic titles have been remade for the Nintendo Switch. One of the most popular remakes is Pokémon: Let’s Go, Pikachu! and Let’s Go, Eevee!. These games are based on the original Pokémon Yellow game, with updated graphics and gameplay mechanics.
Another great remake is Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl, which are remakes of the classic Pokémon Diamond and Pearl games that were originally released on the Nintendo DS. These games have been updated with new graphics, improved gameplay mechanics, and new features that make them even more enjoyable to play.
If you’re looking for something completely new, you might want to check out Pokémon Legends: Arceus. This game is set in the Sinnoh region, but it takes place in the distant past, long before the events of the original Pokémon games. The game features an open-world environment, which allows you to explore the region and catch Pokémon in a whole new way.
For those who are looking for a fan-made game, Pokémon Scarlet & Violet is a great choice. This game is a reimagining of the classic Pokémon games, with new characters, new regions, and new Pokémon to catch. The game is set in the Kanto region and features a brand new story that will keep you engaged from start to finish.
Overall, the Nintendo Switch has a great selection of remakes and reimagined titles that are sure to please any fan of the Pokémon franchise. Whether you’re looking for a classic game with updated graphics or a completely new experience, there’s something for everyone on the Nintendo Switch.
Spin-Off Pokemon Games on Switch
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If you’re looking for a break from the traditional Pokemon games, the Nintendo Switch offers a variety of spin-off games to choose from. Here are some of the best spin-off Pokemon games available on the Switch:
Pokken Tournament DX
Pokken Tournament DX is a fighting game that combines elements of Pokemon with traditional fighting games. The game features a roster of over 20 playable Pokemon, each with their own unique moves and abilities. You can play solo or with friends in local or online multiplayer modes. The game also includes a story mode, where you can battle your way through various leagues and tournaments.
New Pokemon Snap
New Pokemon Snap is a photography game where you explore various islands and take pictures of Pokemon in their natural habitats. The game features over 200 Pokemon to photograph, and you can use various items to interact with them and get the perfect shot. You can also share your photos with other players online.
Pokemon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX
Pokemon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX is a dungeon-crawling RPG where you play as a Pokemon and explore randomly generated dungeons. The game features turn-based combat and a story mode where you team up with other Pokemon to rescue those in need. The game also includes various side quests and post-game content to keep you busy.
Pokemon Quest
Pokemon Quest is a free-to-play action RPG where you explore Tumblecube Island and battle wild Pokemon. The game features a unique art style and simplified controls, making it accessible to players of all ages. You can also collect and train various Pokemon to build the ultimate team.
Pokemon Cafe Mix
Pokemon Cafe Mix is a puzzle game where you run your own Pokemon-themed cafe. The game features various puzzles where you have to match Pokemon icons to complete orders. As you progress, you can hire more Pokemon to work at your cafe and unlock new recipes and decorations.
Pokemon Go
Pokemon Go is a mobile game where you explore the real world and catch Pokemon using your phone’s GPS. The game features various events and updates to keep things fresh, and you can team up with other players to battle in gyms and raids. The game also includes various social features, such as trading and gifting Pokemon with friends.
Detective Pikachu
Detective Pikachu is an adventure game where you play as a human detective and team up with a talking Pikachu to solve various mysteries. The game features a charming story and puzzle-solving gameplay, and the voice acting is top-notch.
Pokemon Unite
Pokemon Unite is a MOBA (multiplayer online battle arena) game where you team up with other players to battle in 5v5 matches. The game features various Pokemon with unique moves and abilities, and you can level up and evolve your Pokemon as you play. The game also includes various modes and events to keep things interesting.
Gameplay Elements and Features
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One of the most exciting aspects of the best Pokémon games for Nintendo Switch is the variety of gameplay elements and features they offer. From battling and catching Pokémon to exploring the open world and completing puzzles, there’s something for everyone.
One of the most significant gameplay elements in Pokémon games is the XP system. By battling and defeating wild Pokémon and trainers, your Pokémon gain experience points that allow them to level up and become stronger. This is essential for progressing through the game and defeating tougher opponents.
The open world and wild area in the latest Pokémon games, such as Pokémon Sword and Shield, allow you to explore vast landscapes and encounter a wide variety of wild Pokémon. This adds a sense of adventure and exploration to the game, making it feel like a true action-adventure game.
In addition to battling wild Pokémon, you can also challenge gym leaders and legendary Pokémon. These battles are often more challenging and require you to use strategy and skill to emerge victorious.
Completing puzzles and filling up your Pokédex are also important aspects of Pokémon games. Puzzles often require you to use your Pokémon’s unique abilities to solve them, while completing your Pokédex by catching as many Pokémon as possible is a rewarding and satisfying experience.
The photographer feature in Pokémon Snap allows you to take pictures of wild Pokémon in their natural habitats, adding a fun and interactive way to engage with the game.
Overall, the best Pokémon games for Nintendo Switch offer a wide variety of gameplay elements and features that make them engaging and entertaining for players of all ages and skill levels.
Pokemon and Gaming Culture
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Pokemon has been a beloved franchise since its inception in 1996. The franchise has taken the gaming world by storm with its unique concept of catching, training, and battling creatures known as Pokemon. The franchise has expanded to include anime, trading cards, and mobile games, but its roots lie in gaming.
Gaming culture has evolved over the years, and Pokemon has been at the forefront of that evolution. The franchise has introduced new concepts such as DLC and microtransactions, which have become standard in modern gaming. Pokemon has also adapted to the mobile gaming market with games such as Pokemon GO, which took the world by storm in 2016.
Ranking the best Pokemon games on Nintendo Switch is no easy feat, as gamers have their favorites based on nostalgia, gameplay, and story. The franchise has a loyal fanbase, and Team Rocket, the franchise’s iconic villains, have become a staple in gaming culture.
The popularity of Pokemon has transcended gaming and has become a cultural phenomenon. The franchise has inspired countless memes, fan art, and cosplay. The anime has been running for over two decades and has introduced new generations to the world of Pokemon.
In conclusion, Pokemon has left an indelible mark on gaming culture. The franchise has evolved with the times and has introduced new concepts to the gaming world. The loyal fanbase has kept the franchise alive, and the nostalgia associated with the franchise has made it a cultural phenomenon.
The Future of Pokemon on Switch
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As a Pokemon fan, you’re probably wondering what the future holds for the popular franchise on the Nintendo Switch. Well, we have some good news for you! The Pokemon Company has already confirmed that they’re working on the next generation of Pokemon games, which will be part of the highly anticipated Gen 9.
While we don’t know much about Gen 9 yet, we can expect the same level of innovation and adventure that we’ve come to love from the series. The Pokemon Company has always been great at keeping things fresh and exciting, and we’re sure that they won’t disappoint with Gen 9.
In addition to Gen 9, there are also rumors about two new Pokemon games in development: Pokemon Scarlet and Pokemon Violet. While there’s no official confirmation yet, these games are said to take place in the Kanto region, which is sure to delight fans of the original games.
Of course, we can’t forget about the Galar region, which was introduced in Pokemon Sword and Shield. While these games have been out for a while now, they continue to be popular among fans and have received high scores on Metacritic. We can only hope that the Pokemon Company will continue to explore this region in future games.
Finally, let’s not forget about Pokemon Quest, the free-to-play game that takes place on Tumblecube Island. While this game may not be as popular as some of the others, it’s still a fun and unique way to experience the world of Pokemon.
In conclusion, the future of Pokemon on Switch looks bright and exciting. With Gen 9 on the horizon, as well as rumors of new games set in the Kanto region, there’s plenty for fans to look forward to. And with the continued success of Pokemon Sword and Shield, we’re sure that the Pokemon Company will continue to innovate and delight fans for years to come.
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Philip is a life long gamer and enthusiast.
He first started gaming in the 80’s on an Atari 2600 and has never looked back. He has owned just about every major console since then.
His passion for retro gaming and emulation sprung from trying to recapture the excitement of playing light gun games like Time Crisis and Point Blank in the arcades by emulating them on a PC and has grown from there into a love of emulation and Retro Gaming.