Every Pokémon Game On Nintendo Switch: A Complete Guide
Hey there, Pokémon trainers! Ready to dive into the world of Pokémon on your Nintendo Switch? Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting your journey, the Nintendo Switch offers a fantastic array of Pokémon adventures. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every Pokémon game available on the Switch, giving you the lowdown on what makes each one special. So, grab your Poké Balls and let's get started!
Main Series Pokémon Games
The main series Pokémon games are the core of the Pokémon universe, offering expansive worlds, engaging stories, and, of course, tons of Pokémon to catch. These are the big hitters that every fan should experience.
Pokémon Sword and Shield
Pokémon Sword and Shield kicked off the eighth generation of Pokémon and introduced us to the Galar region, inspired by the United Kingdom. These games brought a fresh, modern feel to the series with stunning visuals and dynamic gameplay. One of the most significant additions was the Wild Area, a vast, open-world environment where you can encounter Pokémon in real-time and participate in Max Raid Battles with other players. The stories in Sword and Shield are engaging, focusing on the Champion Cup and a mysterious energy crisis threatening the region. You'll meet memorable characters like Leon, the undefeated Champion, and battle against the sinister Macro Cosmos organization. What makes Pokémon Sword and Shield stand out is their blend of tradition and innovation, offering both familiar gameplay mechanics and exciting new features that keep the experience fresh. The post-game content is also substantial, with quests and challenges that extend your adventure long after you've become the Champion. Plus, the ability to transfer Pokémon from previous games via Pokémon Home means you can bring your favorites along for the ride. Whether you're exploring the sprawling Wild Area or competing in intense Gym battles, Pokémon Sword and Shield provide hours of captivating gameplay. For anyone looking to jump into the modern era of Pokémon, these games are an excellent starting point. The unique Dynamax and Gigantamax phenomena add a new layer of strategy to battles, allowing Pokémon to grow to enormous sizes and unleash powerful moves. This feature is especially prominent in Max Raid Battles, where you team up with other players to take down Dynamaxed Pokémon in cooperative encounters. Pokémon Sword and Shield truly capture the essence of what makes the Pokémon series so beloved while pushing the boundaries of what a Pokémon game can be. So, get ready to explore Galar, catch 'em all, and become the Champion!
Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee!
Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee! are delightful remakes of the original Pokémon Yellow, designed to bring a new generation of trainers into the fold. These games are set in the Kanto region, offering a nostalgic trip for longtime fans while providing a simplified, accessible experience for newcomers. What sets these games apart is their integration with Pokémon GO, allowing you to transfer Pokémon caught in the mobile game to your Switch. This creates a seamless connection between the two platforms and adds a fun, social element to the gameplay. The catching mechanic has been revamped, drawing inspiration from Pokémon GO's intuitive controls. Instead of battling wild Pokémon, you simply throw Poké Balls using motion controls or the Joy-Con stick. This makes catching Pokémon quick and easy, perfect for younger players or those who prefer a more relaxed experience. Pokémon: Let's Go also features a cooperative mode, where a second player can join in at any time, making it a fantastic choice for family gaming. You'll journey through familiar locations like Pewter City, Cerulean City, and Lavender Town, encountering iconic characters like Brock, Misty, and Team Rocket. The story remains faithful to the original, with a few modern twists and updates. The vibrant graphics and charming art style bring the Kanto region to life in a whole new way, making it a visual treat for fans of all ages. Whether you're reliving your childhood memories or discovering the magic of Pokémon for the first time, Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee! offer a heartwarming and engaging adventure. These games are perfect for anyone looking for a fun, accessible entry point into the Pokémon world, blending nostalgia with modern gameplay elements to create a truly memorable experience.
Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl
Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl are faithful remakes of the classic Nintendo DS games, Pokémon Diamond and Pearl. These games transport you to the Sinnoh region, a land of myths, legends, and, of course, plenty of Pokémon to discover. The remakes stay true to the original games' storyline, allowing players to relive the adventure with updated graphics and modern features. You'll explore the vast landscapes of Sinnoh, from the snowy peaks of Mount Coronet to the lush forests and serene lakes. Along the way, you'll encounter the legendary Pokémon Dialga and Palkia, who hold the power to control time and space. One of the standout features of Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl is their faithful recreation of the original games' environments and characters. The towns, routes, and Pokémon Centers have been meticulously recreated, capturing the nostalgic charm of the Nintendo DS era. However, the games also include several quality-of-life improvements, such as updated battle mechanics and a streamlined user interface, making the overall experience more enjoyable. The underground area, known as the Grand Underground, has been expanded, offering new activities such as digging for fossils and creating your own secret base. This adds a new layer of exploration and customization to the gameplay. Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl also feature online connectivity, allowing you to trade and battle with other players around the world. This enhances the social aspect of the games and provides endless opportunities for competition and collaboration. Whether you're a longtime fan of the Pokémon series or a newcomer looking to experience a classic adventure, these remakes offer a delightful and engaging journey through the Sinnoh region. The faithful recreation of the original games, combined with modern enhancements, makes Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl a must-have for any Pokémon fan on the Nintendo Switch. So, grab your Nintendo Switch and get ready to embark on an unforgettable Pokémon adventure!
Pokémon Legends: Arceus
Pokémon Legends: Arceus is a groundbreaking entry in the Pokémon series, offering a fresh take on the classic formula. Set in the Hisui region (which would later become the Sinnoh region), this game blends action and exploration with traditional Pokémon gameplay. You're tasked with creating the region's first Pokédex, venturing into vast, open areas to study and catch Pokémon in their natural habitats. Unlike previous games, Pokémon Legends: Arceus features a more dynamic battle system, where you can seamlessly engage Pokémon in battles within the open world. You can also sneak up on Pokémon and catch them without battling, adding a stealth element to the gameplay. The story revolves around uncovering the mysteries of the legendary Pokémon Arceus and the space-time rift that has appeared in the sky above Mount Coronet. As you progress through the game, you'll encounter various factions and characters, each with their own agendas and motivations. The crafting system allows you to create essential items like Poké Balls and potions, adding a survival element to the game. Pokémon Legends: Arceus offers a unique and immersive experience, blurring the lines between traditional Pokémon gameplay and open-world action-adventure. The stunning visuals and dynamic environments make exploring the Hisui region a joy, and the innovative gameplay mechanics keep you engaged from start to finish. Whether you're a longtime Pokémon fan or a newcomer looking for a fresh experience, Pokémon Legends: Arceus is a must-play title on the Nintendo Switch. The game's emphasis on exploration, discovery, and interaction with Pokémon in their natural habitats sets it apart from previous entries in the series, making it a truly unforgettable adventure. So, get ready to explore the Hisui region, unravel the mysteries of Arceus, and create the first Pokédex in this groundbreaking Pokémon game!
Spin-Off Pokémon Games
While the main series titles offer the traditional Pokémon experience, the spin-off games provide unique and varied gameplay, exploring different genres and concepts within the Pokémon universe.
New Pokémon Snap
New Pokémon Snap is a charming and relaxing photography game that takes you on a safari adventure through the Lental region. Your mission is to document Pokémon in their natural habitats, capturing stunning photographs of them interacting with their environment. The game features a variety of lush and vibrant locations, from tropical beaches to dense forests and underwater caves. As you progress, you'll unlock new courses and encounter a diverse range of Pokémon, each with their own unique behaviors and interactions. The gameplay revolves around taking the best possible photos of Pokémon, earning points based on factors such as pose, size, and composition. You can use items like Fluffruit and Illumina Orbs to attract Pokémon and trigger special reactions, allowing you to capture even more impressive shots. New Pokémon Snap is not just about taking pretty pictures; it's also about learning about the Pokémon and their ecosystems. As you research and document their behaviors, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for the natural world. The game's relaxed pace and beautiful visuals make it a perfect escape from the stresses of everyday life. Whether you're a seasoned photographer or just looking for a relaxing gaming experience, New Pokémon Snap is a must-have title on the Nintendo Switch. The game's charming characters, diverse environments, and engaging gameplay make it a truly unforgettable adventure. So, grab your camera and get ready to explore the Lental region, capturing stunning photos of Pokémon in their natural habitats!
Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX
Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX is a remake of the classic Pokémon Mystery Dungeon games, bringing the beloved roguelike adventure to the Nintendo Switch. In this game, you wake up as a Pokémon and join a rescue team to help other Pokémon in need. The story begins with you choosing your Pokémon partner and embarking on a series of missions to explore dungeons, battle enemies, and rescue stranded Pokémon. The dungeons are procedurally generated, meaning each playthrough is unique, with different layouts, enemies, and items. As you explore, you'll encounter various challenges, such as traps, puzzles, and powerful bosses. The combat system is turn-based, requiring strategic thinking and careful planning. You'll need to manage your Pokémon's health, hunger, and abilities to survive the dungeons. Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX features a heartwarming story about friendship, courage, and helping others. As you complete missions and rescue Pokémon, you'll build strong bonds with your teammates and discover the true meaning of heroism. The game's charming visuals and engaging gameplay make it a perfect choice for Pokémon fans of all ages. Whether you're a seasoned roguelike player or new to the genre, Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX offers a challenging and rewarding experience. The game's endless replayability and heartwarming story make it a must-have title on the Nintendo Switch. So, get ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure, explore dungeons, rescue Pokémon, and become a legendary rescue team!
Pokkén Tournament DX
Pokkén Tournament DX brings the excitement of Pokémon battles to the fighting game genre. This game combines the iconic Pokémon characters with fast-paced, strategic combat, offering a unique and engaging experience. You'll take control of your favorite Pokémon and battle against other players in 3D arenas, using a variety of attacks and special moves to defeat your opponents. The game features a diverse roster of Pokémon, each with their own unique fighting style and abilities. From the powerful Charizard to the agile Pikachu, there's a Pokémon for every playstyle. The combat system is easy to learn but difficult to master, requiring precise timing, strategic thinking, and quick reflexes. You'll need to manage your Pokémon's health, gauge your opponent's attacks, and unleash powerful Synergy Bursts to gain the upper hand. Pokkén Tournament DX also features a variety of single-player and multiplayer modes, including a story mode, online battles, and local multiplayer. You can compete against other players from around the world or challenge your friends in head-to-head battles. The game's stunning visuals and dynamic arenas make each battle a visual spectacle. Whether you're a fighting game enthusiast or a Pokémon fan, Pokkén Tournament DX offers a thrilling and engaging experience. The game's fast-paced combat, diverse roster of Pokémon, and variety of game modes make it a must-have title on the Nintendo Switch. So, get ready to unleash your inner Pokémon trainer and battle your way to the top in Pokkén Tournament DX!
Other Notable Pokémon Games
Pokémon UNITE
Pokémon UNITE is a free-to-play multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) game that brings Pokémon battles to a whole new level. In this game, two teams of five players compete to score points by defeating wild Pokémon and opposing players. You'll control a Pokémon and work together with your teammates to capture objectives, level up your Pokémon, and ultimately destroy the opposing team's base. The game features a diverse roster of Pokémon, each with their own unique abilities and playstyles. As you level up, you'll unlock new moves and abilities, allowing you to customize your Pokémon to fit your playstyle. Pokémon UNITE requires teamwork, strategy, and communication to succeed. You'll need to coordinate with your teammates to capture objectives, defend your base, and defeat the opposing team. The game's fast-paced gameplay and strategic depth make it a challenging and rewarding experience. Pokémon UNITE is free to play, making it accessible to everyone. However, the game also offers optional in-app purchases for cosmetic items and other enhancements. Whether you're a MOBA veteran or new to the genre, Pokémon UNITE offers a fun and engaging Pokémon experience. The game's diverse roster of Pokémon, strategic gameplay, and free-to-play model make it a must-try title on the Nintendo Switch. So, gather your friends, choose your Pokémon, and get ready to battle in Pokémon UNITE!
Conclusion
So there you have it, trainers! Every Pokémon game currently available on the Nintendo Switch. From the sprawling adventures of Pokémon Sword and Shield to the nostalgic charm of Pokémon: Let's Go, there's a Pokémon game for everyone on the Switch. Whether you're a seasoned veteran or a newcomer to the series, now is the perfect time to dive in and experience the magic of Pokémon on Nintendo's hybrid console. Happy gaming, and may your journey be filled with amazing Pokémon!