The Nintendo Switch offers plenty of Pokémon games for both new players and longtime fans. With several titles released since the console’s launch in 2017, trainers have many options to choose from when looking for their next adventure. Each game brings something different to the table, from traditional turn-based battles to open-world exploration.
The best Pokémon games on Switch combine fun gameplay with the joy of collecting and training these beloved creatures. Some games stick to the classic formula that fans have enjoyed for decades, while others try new ideas that change how we play. Whether you want to relive childhood memories or experience something fresh, there’s likely a Pokémon game on Switch that matches what you’re looking for.
1. Pokémon Legends: Arceus
Pokémon Legends: Arceus broke new ground for the franchise when it launched on Nintendo Switch. Many fans consider it the best Pokémon game in 15 years, bringing fresh ideas to a series that had grown predictable.
The game takes players to the ancient Hisui region, before it became known as Sinnoh. This historical setting allows for a unique story where Pokémon are still mysterious and sometimes feared by humans.
Unlike traditional Pokémon games, Legends: Arceus features open areas where wild Pokémon roam freely. Players can catch them without battling by sneaking up and throwing Poké Balls directly. This simple change makes exploring much more exciting.
The battle system got updates too. Pokémon can use moves in different styles – Strong Style for more power but less speed, or Agile Style for multiple turns but less damage. These options add strategy to fights.
Collecting Pokémon feels more meaningful as players must complete research tasks for each species. You might need to see a Pokémon use certain moves, catch different sizes, or defeat them in specific ways.
Many fans feel the game brought new life to the franchise when they were close to giving up on it. Its focus on exploration over gym battles was refreshing.
The game also introduced useful items like the link cable, which lets players evolve trade-evolution Pokémon without trading – solving a long-standing frustration for solo players.
Visually, while not the most technically impressive Switch game, its art style creates beautiful landscapes from snowy mountains to volcanic areas. The music complements each region perfectly with traditional Japanese instruments.
According to player feedback, Legends: Arceus is the best-received Pokémon game since the series came to Switch, among both critics and fans. Some even call it a masterpiece.
The game’s story, while simple, feels more personal and engaging than other recent Pokémon adventures. Characters show genuine growth, and the plot takes some surprising turns.
For anyone who felt the Pokémon formula had grown stale, Legends: Arceus offers a revitalized experience that honors the series’ roots while boldly stepping in new directions.
2. Pokémon Sword and Shield
Pokémon Sword and Shield marked a significant step forward for the franchise on Nintendo Switch. These games brought the series to a home console with style, introducing the Wild Area where Pokémon roam freely in an open environment.
Many fans consider Sword and Shield to be among the best Pokémon games on the Switch. They strike a nice balance between traditional gameplay and new features that keep things fresh.
The Galar region, inspired by the United Kingdom, offers beautiful landscapes and interesting towns to explore. The gym battles are more exciting than ever, taking place in massive stadiums with cheering crowds.
One of the biggest additions was Dynamaxing, which lets your Pokémon grow gigantic during battles. This mechanic adds a new layer of strategy to fights, especially in the impressive gym battles.
Some critics initially complained about the limited Pokédex, but the DLC expansions (Isle of Armor and Crown Tundra) added many more Pokémon and new areas to explore. These expansions greatly improved the overall experience.
According to reviews, Sword and Shield streamlined some tedious traditions without losing the charm that makes Pokémon special. The games removed annoying elements like HMs while keeping the core catching and battling intact.
The games also introduced Raids, where players can team up to battle powerful Dynamax Pokémon. This cooperative feature added a fun multiplayer element to the series.
Character customization options are plentiful, letting players create a trainer that feels unique. The camping feature allows players to bond with their Pokémon by playing together and cooking curry.
Despite some technical limitations, the games run well on the Switch. The art style is colorful and appealing, bringing the world of Pokémon to life.
Some fans even argue that Sword and Shield are top tier Pokémon games when compared to other Switch offerings like Legends Arceus or Scarlet and Violet, which had their own issues at launch.
The competitive scene thrived with Sword and Shield, thanks to quality-of-life improvements that made building battle-ready teams easier than ever before.
3. Pokémon Let’s Go Pikachu
Pokémon Let’s Go Pikachu offers a fresh take on the classic Kanto adventure. Released in 2018, this game brings players back to the original 151 Pokémon while adding modern features and graphics.
The visuals stand out immediately. Let’s Go Pikachu has some of the best graphics among Switch Pokémon games, showing Kanto in vibrant, colorful detail. The game also includes Mega Evolutions and Alolan forms, adding variety to the familiar region.
Catching Pokémon works differently than in traditional games. Players use a gentle throwing motion with either Joy-Con controllers or the Poké Ball Plus accessory. This mechanic mimics Pokémon GO, making the game more accessible to new players.
Your partner Pikachu sits on your shoulder throughout your journey. You can interact with, pet, and dress up your partner, building a bond that feels meaningful as you progress through the game.
The traditional gym battles remain intact. Players still collect eight badges before challenging the Elite Four, following the storyline Pokémon fans know from Red and Blue versions.
Let’s Go Pikachu removes random encounters, allowing players to see Pokémon roaming in the overworld. This change helps streamline the experience and makes exploration more engaging.
Co-op play is a welcome addition. A friend can join your adventure with a second Joy-Con, helping in battles and catching Pokémon. This feature makes it perfect for introducing someone new to the series.
Critics and fans have praised the game for its delightful return to Kanto with improved mechanics. Some players consider it the best Switch Pokémon game that uses the traditional formula.
While hardcore fans might miss the depth of other entries, Let’s Go Pikachu succeeds at blending nostalgia with accessibility. The simplified battle system and catching mechanics make it easy to pick up and enjoy. The game strikes a good balance between old and new. It respects the original games while adding enough fresh elements to feel like more than just a remake.
4. Pokémon Let’s Go Eevee
Pokémon Let’s Go Eevee brings players back to the Kanto region with fresh graphics and updated gameplay. This Switch title pairs with Let’s Go Pikachu as a remake of the original Pokémon Yellow but with modern touches. Players get to travel with Eevee as their partner instead of Pikachu.
The game features impressive graphics that show off the Kanto region beautifully. Many fans consider it one of the most visually appealing Pokémon games on the Switch. The bright colors and smooth animations make exploring familiar locations feel new again.
Catching Pokémon works differently in Let’s Go Eevee. Players use a gentle throwing motion with the Joy-Con controller or the optional Poké Ball Plus accessory. This motion control system makes catching feel more interactive than the traditional button-pressing method.
The game includes both Alolan forms and Mega Evolutions from later generations. These additions give players more options while battling and collecting. They also add variety to the classic 151 Pokémon lineup.
Let’s Go Eevee simplifies some aspects of traditional Pokémon games. Wild Pokémon appear on the map rather than as random encounters. This change lets players choose which Pokémon to engage with instead of being surprised.
Despite some initial concerns from hardcore fans, Let’s Go Eevee has earned praise for its quality. Some players even consider it surprisingly solid compared to other Switch Pokémon titles. The mix of nostalgia and new features creates a balanced experience.
The partner Eevee sits on the player’s shoulder and can learn special moves. These partner-exclusive moves give players advantages throughout their journey. Eevee’s customization options also let players bond with their partner through different outfits and hairstyles.
Reviews highlight the game as a delightful return to Kanto. The simplified mechanics make it accessible for newcomers while still engaging for longtime fans. The co-op feature also allows a friend to join the adventure with a second Joy-Con.
Though aimed at a broader audience than traditional Pokémon games, Let’s Go Eevee offers enough challenge and content to keep players interested. The post-game includes master trainers who specialize in specific Pokémon, adding an extra layer of challenge.
5. Pokémon Scarlet
Pokémon Scarlet arrived on the Nintendo Switch in November 2022, bringing an open-world approach to the Pokémon franchise. The game takes place in the Paldea region, which draws inspiration from the Iberian Peninsula.
Players can explore Paldea freely without strict routes, a big change from earlier games. You can tackle gym leaders in any order you want, which adds a fresh feeling of freedom to the Pokémon formula.
Your companion Koraidon (in Scarlet) or Miraidon (in Violet) serves as your rideable Pokémon. These legendary creatures help you climb mountains, swim across waters, and glide through the air.
The Terastal phenomenon is a standout new battle mechanic. It allows Pokémon to transform into crystal-like versions of themselves and sometimes change their type during battles.
The game includes three separate storylines you can pursue at your own pace. The traditional gym challenge is joined by a quest to defeat giant Titan Pokémon and another to take down bases of the troublemaking Team Star.
While many fans enjoyed Scarlet and Violet, the games faced criticism for technical issues at launch. Frame rate drops and visual glitches were common complaints from players.
Game Freak has improved performance through several updates since release. The Teal Mask and Indigo Disk DLC expansions added new areas, Pokémon, and storylines that built on the base game.
The Pokémon designs in Scarlet are some of the most creative in recent generations. Fan favorites include Ceruledge, Armarouge, and the adorable starter Pokémon: Sprigatito, Fuecoco, and Quaxly.
Multiplayer features let you explore Paldea with friends, have picnics together, and participate in Tera Raid Battles. These cooperative experiences make the game more social than previous entries.
Despite technical shortcomings, some players consider Scarlet one of the best Switch Pokémon games, particularly for its free-roaming exploration and fresh approach to the traditional formula.
6. Pokémon Violet
Pokémon Violet arrived as part of the ninth generation of Pokémon games, paired with its counterpart Scarlet. These games introduced players to the Paldea region, a vast open world that changed how trainers experience Pokémon adventures.
The game lets players explore freely without following a set path. This freedom marks a big shift from older Pokémon titles. You can tackle gym leaders in any order you choose, making each playthrough feel unique.
One of Violet’s standout features is Miraidon, the legendary Pokémon that serves as your transportation. Unlike past games where riding Pokémon had limited functions, Miraidon can transform to travel across land, water, and air.
The game introduces Terastallizing, a new battle mechanic that can change a Pokémon’s type mid-battle. This adds fresh strategy to fights and gives old Pokémon new uses.
Violet’s story splits into three main paths plus a final section. This structure gives players more agency in how they progress through the narrative.
Despite its creative strengths, Violet faced criticism for technical issues at launch. Frame rate drops and visual glitches dampened the experience for many players. Some fans consider it one of the best-designed but worst-performing Pokémon games.
The DLC expansions, particularly The Indigo Disk, added substantial content that improved the base game. New areas, Pokémon, and story elements gave players reasons to return to Paldea. Many consider the DLC to be stronger than previous Switch Pokémon expansions.
Multiplayer features allow up to four friends to explore Paldea together. This social aspect brings a new dimension to Pokémon that wasn’t possible in earlier titles.
The crafting system for TMs gives players more control over their team’s movesets. By gathering materials throughout Paldea, you can create the exact moves you need.
7. Pokémon Brilliant Diamond
Pokémon Brilliant Diamond for Nintendo Switch brings back the beloved Sinnoh region with updated graphics. The game stays true to the original Diamond version from 2006 but adds modern features that enhance gameplay.
Players embark on a journey through Sinnoh to collect all eight gym badges. The goal is to become the Pokémon League Champion while building a strong team of Pokémon.
The remake uses a unique chibi art style for the overworld. Characters appear with small bodies and large heads, creating a cute look that some fans love. Battle scenes switch to more realistic proportions.
The Grand Underground is a standout feature in Brilliant Diamond. This expanded area lets players dig for fossils and find rare Pokémon not available in the main game areas.
The Super Contest Show replaces the original Contest system. It offers a fun break from battling where Pokémon can show off their style and moves in a different way.
Some fans consider Brilliant Diamond their favorite Pokémon game on the Switch. They appreciate how it keeps the classic gameplay while making small improvements to the formula.
The game is especially good for newcomers. Players who never experienced the original Diamond version will find a complete adventure with modern convenience features.
The Exp. Share system is always on in this version. This means all Pokémon in your party gain experience points after battles, making training easier than in the original games.
The story follows the classic Pokémon formula with an evil team (Team Galactic) trying to reshape the world. Players must stop their plans while continuing their own journey to become champion.
Despite its charm, Brilliant Diamond has some flaws. The game shows a split in quality between different aspects of its design. Some elements feel modern while others seem stuck in the past.
The soundtrack features beautiful remixes of the original Diamond music. These updated tunes bring nostalgia while sounding fresh for new players.
8. Pokémon Shining Pearl
Pokémon Shining Pearl brings back the beloved Sinnoh region adventure for Nintendo Switch players. This remake stays true to the original 2006 Pearl version while adding modern graphics and quality-of-life improvements. Players can explore familiar towns and routes with a fresh chibi art style that gives the game a unique charm.
The game follows your journey to become a Pokémon Champion while stopping the evil Team Galactic. You’ll travel across Sinnoh, collect gym badges, and eventually challenge the Elite Four. The storyline remains faithful to the original, which many fans appreciate.
One of the best features in Shining Pearl is the Grand Underground. This expanded area lets you hunt for rare Pokémon and collect valuable items. You can even build secret bases and play with friends online.
The battle system uses the classic turn-based format that Pokémon fans love. Each Pokémon can learn different moves and strategies, giving players lots of options for building their teams. The contests return too, offering a fun break from regular battles.
Shining Pearl includes some welcome improvements over the original game. The HM system has been revamped to be less frustrating, and following Pokémon can now walk behind you in the overworld. These small changes make the game more enjoyable without changing what fans loved about Pearl.
The music has been beautifully remastered while keeping the memorable tunes intact. From the champion battle theme to route background music, everything sounds fresh yet familiar.
Some players find the experience nostalgic, as it closely follows the original game’s structure. The remake doesn’t add many new Pokémon or features beyond the original Sinnoh Pokédex, which might disappoint those looking for more innovation.
For many Switch owners, Shining Pearl strikes a good balance between honoring the original games and making necessary modernizations. It’s a solid choice for anyone who missed the original Pearl or wants to revisit the Sinnoh region with updated visuals and gameplay.
Many fans consider these remakes among their favorite Pokémon titles on the Switch, even with newer entries available. The classic gameplay loop and charming presentation make it an enjoyable experience for both newcomers and longtime Pokémon trainers.
9. Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX
Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX is a charming remake of the original Red and Blue Rescue Team games. Released in 2020 for the Nintendo Switch, this title stands out with its beautiful watercolor art style.
Unlike traditional Pokémon games, players actually become a Pokémon rather than catching them. The game determines which Pokémon you’ll be through a personality quiz, adding a fun personal touch to the adventure.
The core gameplay revolves around forming a rescue team with other Pokémon. Players explore mysterious, changing dungeons where the layout shifts every time you enter. This randomized element keeps the exploration fresh and exciting.
Combat works differently too. The game uses turn-based movement in a grid system where strategic positioning matters. Each step or action counts as a turn, creating a more thoughtful pace than mainline Pokémon games.
Rescue Team DX improves on the originals with several quality-of-life updates. Auto-mode makes navigation easier, and the ability to have up to three Pokémon in your team during dungeons helps with tougher challenges.
The story follows your character as they mysteriously transform into a Pokémon and work to uncover why natural disasters are happening across the land. It’s surprisingly emotional for a Pokémon spin-off, dealing with themes of friendship and sacrifice.
Many players consider it one of the best Pokémon experiences on Switch, especially compared to some mainline entries. The game remains faithful to the original while adding just enough new content.
Recruiting Pokémon works by defeating them in dungeons. With over 400 Pokémon available to add to your team, there’s plenty of variety to build your perfect rescue squad.
The game adds Mega Evolutions that weren’t in the original, giving powerful temporary boosts to certain Pokémon. This modern touch helps balance some of the more challenging late-game dungeons.
For fans seeking something different from the usual Pokémon formula, Rescue Team DX offers a refreshing change of pace with its dungeon-crawling adventure and unique perspective of seeing the world through a Pokémon’s eyes.
10. Pokémon Café ReMix
Pokémon Café ReMix is a cute puzzle game where players run a café for Pokémon customers. It’s a free-to-play game available on both Switch and mobile devices. The game was originally called Pokémon Café Mix but was later revamped and renamed.
In this colorful game, players solve puzzles by linking similar Pokémon icons together. The goal is to complete various recipes requested by Pokémon visitors. When you finish orders successfully, Pokémon might join your staff and help in the café.
The Switch version plays well, though some players prefer the mobile version for its portability. The touch controls feel natural for this type of puzzle game, making it easy to pick up and play.
What makes Café ReMix stand out is its charming art style. The Pokémon are drawn in a simplistic, cute style that gives the game a friendly atmosphere. Each character has unique expressions that add personality to the café experience.
The game features timers typical of free-to-play games. These limit how much you can play in one sitting unless you spend real money. For many players, this makes it a good game for killing time in short bursts rather than marathon sessions.
Pokémon Café ReMix isn’t a complex game, but it doesn’t try to be. It offers sugary sweet puzzle gameplay that’s relaxing and satisfying. The simple mechanics make it accessible to Pokémon fans of all ages.
The 2021 remake added new Pokémon, puzzles, and features to freshen up the experience. These additions gave players who enjoyed the original version reasons to return to their virtual café.
While not as deep as mainline Pokémon games, Café ReMix fills a nice niche in the Switch library. It provides a casual alternative for Pokémon fans looking for something different from the usual catching and battling.
Gameplay Mechanics of Pokémon Titles
Pokémon games on Switch offer different gameplay styles while maintaining core elements that fans love. Each title brings unique mechanics that shape how players experience the Pokémon world.
Evolving Gameplay Features
Nintendo Switch Pokémon games have introduced major gameplay changes over the years. Legends Arceus brought an open-world format with real-time catching mechanics. Players can sneak up on Pokémon, throw balls without battling, and dodge attacks themselves – a big shift from traditional gameplay.
The Let’s Go series simplified catching with a mobile-inspired throwing motion using Joy-Cons. These games removed wild battles in favor of Pokémon GO-style encounters.
Sword and Shield introduced Dynamaxing, allowing Pokémon to grow giant during battles. They also added the Wild Area, an open zone with free camera control where Pokémon roam visibly.
Scarlet and Violet expanded on the open-world concept with three separate storylines players can tackle in any order. The Terastal phenomenon lets Pokémon change their type during battle, adding strategic depth.
Multiplayer and Social Interaction
Switch Pokémon games have expanded social features significantly. Sword and Shield’s Max Raid Battles let four players team up against giant Dynamax Pokémon. These cooperative challenges reward rare items and Pokémon with unique abilities.
The Y-Comm system enables trading and battling globally with just a few button presses. Players can join others’ camps to interact with Pokémon and cook curry together.
Scarlet and Violet improved multiplayer with up to four-player exploration in the same world. Friends can travel together, battle wild Pokémon, and participate in Tera Raid Battles as a team.
Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX offers co-op missions where friends help each other explore randomly generated dungeons and rescue lost Pokémon. This adds replay value through shared adventures.
Trading remains central to the Pokémon experience, with version exclusives encouraging players to connect and share Pokémon to complete their Pokédex.
Visuals and Graphics Quality
The Nintendo Switch has brought Pokémon games to life with varying visual styles and graphical quality. Each title offers its own approach to presenting the beloved monster-catching franchise.
Art Style and Animation
Pokémon Let’s Go Pikachu and Eevee stand out with what many fans consider the most beautiful graphics in the Switch lineup. These games feature vibrant colors and solid visual performance with minimal bugs.
The character models move smoothly through the world, and the Pokémon themselves display personality through their animations. The environments shine with details like rustling grass and reflective water surfaces.
Sword and Shield took a different approach with a more stylized look. The Wild Area introduced expansive 3D landscapes, though some textures lacked detail up close.
Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl embraced a chibi art style that divided fans. The top-down perspective pays homage to the original games while adding modern lighting effects.
Graphics Enhancement Over Generations
The evolution of Pokémon graphics on Switch shows substantial improvement compared to previous handheld systems. The jump from 3DS to Switch allowed for higher resolution textures and more complex models.
Legends Arceus pushed the series forward with its open-world approach, though it sacrificed some visual fidelity for larger environments. The game focused on creating atmospheric landscapes rather than technical showcase.
Weather effects and day/night cycles add immersion across most Switch titles. Battle animations have become more dynamic, with signature moves receiving special treatment.
Despite technical limitations, each game brings its own charm through art direction choices rather than pure graphical power. The series continues to balance nostalgic design elements with modern visual techniques that appeal to both new and returning players.
Frequently Asked Questions
Pokemon games on the Switch offer different experiences for various types of players. The Nintendo Switch has become home to several Pokemon titles since its release, each with unique features and gameplay elements.
Which Pokemon game on the Switch is considered the best for newcomers to the series?
Pokemon Let’s Go Pikachu and Let’s Go Eevee are excellent starting points for newcomers. These games simplify many traditional Pokemon mechanics while still providing an engaging experience.
They feature familiar Pokemon from the Kanto region and have a catching system inspired by Pokemon GO. This makes them more accessible than other titles.
The simplified battle system and guided storytelling help new players learn core Pokemon concepts without feeling overwhelmed.
What are the most recent Pokemon releases on the Nintendo Switch as of 2026?
The most recent main Pokemon games include Pokemon Scarlet and Violet, along with their DLC expansions. These games introduced the open-world Paldea region.
Pokemon Legends: Arceus remains a popular recent release that took the series in a different direction with its historical setting and action-oriented gameplay.
The Nintendo Switch has hosted several Pokemon titles over the years, with regular releases keeping the franchise fresh.
Can you list the Pokemon Switch titles in order of their release dates?
Pokemon Let’s Go Pikachu and Let’s Go Eevee – November 2018
Pokemon Sword and Shield – November 2019
Pokemon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX – March 2020
New Pokemon Snap – April 2021
Pokemon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl – November 2021
Pokemon Legends: Arceus – January 2022
Pokemon Scarlet and Violet – November 2022
Each release has added something unique to the Pokemon experience on Switch.
What are the top-rated Pokemon games available on the Switch according to gaming communities?
Pokemon Legends: Arceus consistently ranks at the top of many player lists. Many fans consider it the best Pokemon game ever made, praising its fresh approach to gameplay.
Sword and Shield also receive high marks, with community ratings around 8/10. Players appreciate the Wild Area and expansion content.
Let’s Go Pikachu and Eevee generally score around 7/10 from players who enjoy their nostalgic elements and simplified mechanics.
Are there any upcoming Pokemon titles announced for the Switch that fans are excited about?
The Pokemon Company has been quiet about major new Switch releases following their last major title. Official announcements are typically made during Pokemon Direct presentations or Nintendo Direct events.
Fans are speculating about potential remakes or new spin-off titles, as the Pokemon franchise typically releases games on a regular schedule.
With the Nintendo Switch’s lifecycle advancing, some anticipate announcements about Pokemon’s future on Nintendo’s next console generation as well.
What are the community’s favorite Pokemon games on the Switch based on player rankings?
Pokemon Legends: Arceus stands out as a community favorite, with many players rating it 8/10 or higher. Its innovative gameplay and story are frequently praised.
Sword and Shield have developed a strong following, with ratings around 8.5/10 from many players who appreciate the expansions and raid battles.
Pokemon Scarlet and Violet, despite technical issues at launch, have been praised for their open-world design and multiplayer features, showing the franchise’s continued evolution on the Switch.
