All Pokémon Games Available on the Nintendo Switch in 2025

Pokémon remains a powerhouse in the media world, maintaining its status as one of the most cherished and successful franchises ever since it first appeared on the Game Boy. This beloved series invites players into a vibrant world filled with countless fascinating creatures to discover, either by capturing them in video games or collecting their trading cards. With each new console from Nintendo, a host of Pokémon titles continues to emerge, ensuring that fans always have something new to experience, and the Nintendo Switch lineup is no different.

With the exciting news from Nintendo about the Switch 2’s backward compatibility, this future release holds great promise. This means that any existing Pokémon games you own or plan to purchase for the Nintendo Switch now will seamlessly make the transition to the upcoming console. So, if you’re considering adding to your Pokémon game collection, now is a fantastic opportunity. Let’s walk through the list of all Pokémon titles available on the Nintendo Switch, along with a peek into what’s in store for the Switch 2.

On this Pokémon Day, we’re curating some top deals and restocks for you to dive into! Now, let’s toggle through the journey of Pokémon games on the Nintendo Switch.

In total, there are 12 Pokémon games that have debuted on the Nintendo Switch. This collection includes the critically acclaimed mainline titles for the 8th and 9th generations, alongside an assortment of spin-offs. While we’ve listed mainline games with two versions as one release for simplicity, our guide doesn’t encompass the Pokémon games accessible via Nintendo Switch Online. You can find that specific list further below.

It’s worth mentioning that 2024 was something of a gap year regarding new Pokémon game releases, with no fresh mainline entries launched over that stretch of time. Instead, The Pokémon Company surprised everyone by rolling out Pokémon TCG Pocket, a free app mirroring the Pokémon card game, which has taken off in popularity.

Wondering what Pokémon game is worth grabbing in 2025? My personal suggestion would be Pokémon Legends: Arceus. It’s not exactly the nostalgic trip back to the series’ early days – that’s best left to older-generation games. However, Arceus breathes new life into the Pokémon universe with its engaging action and RPG elements. It features sprawling open areas for exploration, more strategic encounters, and polished gameplay optimized for handheld play. Plus, with upcoming Presidents’ Day sales, it’s the perfect time to get your hands on newly discounted Switch titles.

Let’s move onto the treasure trove of all Pokémon titles that have made it to the Nintendo Switch, listed in release order.

Starting with Pokkén Tournament DX (2017), initially released for the Wii U in 2016, Nintendo and Bandai Namco joined forces again to enhance the game for Switch with new characters and upgraded visuals, creating a terrific 3-on-3 battle experience for friends both locally and online.

Then there’s Pokémon Quest (2018), where your favorite Pokémon take on a charming cuboid form in this free-to-play game. Its engaging combat system sends Pokémon on expeditions, with customization options for abilities to suit various encounters.

Pokémon: Let’s Go, Pikachu! & Let’s Go, Eevee! (2018) brought back the original 151 Pokémon in a nostalgic revisitation of Pokémon Yellow, fully revamped for a home console setting, featuring the Kanto region with a fresh twist, complete with accessibility tweaks appealing to series newcomers and veterans alike.

Next is Pokémon Sword & Shield (2019), marking a leap towards open-world play with its Wild Areas where free movement and wild Pokémon battles occur. The game also reintroduced gyms and unveiled new Dynamax and Gigantamax forms, enriching the Pokémon universe further.

Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX (2020) is a remake of the beloved 2005 titles Red Rescue Team & Blue Rescue Team, presenting revamped graphics and gameplay that retain the essence of their originals while offering fresh content.

That same year, Pokémon Café ReMix delivered a delightful free-to-play puzzle experience, with the player and Eevee running a café and serving Pokémon clients through fun logic-based challenges.

In 2021, after a 20-year wait, New Pokémon Snap made its thrilling return, inviting players to discover and photograph Pokémon in various natural settings, with a plethora of new and hidden curiosities to unearth in every gameplay session.

Pokémon Unite, a unique MOBA venture, allowed players to command teams and compete online, breathed life into competitive play within the Pokémon world, featuring in numerous esports tournaments globally.

The remakes Pokémon Brilliant Diamond & Shining Pearl (2021) revisited the adored fourth generation, translating iconic moments onto the Switch with a fresh art style.

In 2022, Pokémon Legends: Arceus elevated the gaming experience by placing emphasis on exploration in the ancient Hisui region, demanding effective strategy with Pokémon free-roaming the terrain.

Completing the list of mainline games, Pokémon Scarlet & Violet (2022) jumpstarted Generation 9, embracing a whole new approach with an open world ripe for exploration post-DLC storytelling.

Most recently, Detective Pikachu Returns (2023) graced fans with its sequel, weaving gameplay puzzle mechanics with the intrigue of solving familial mysteries. It’s a gem for any Pokémon and mystery enthusiast.

Now, suppose you’ve ventured through most or all available Pokémon titles on the Switch. In that case, the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack unlocks even more gaming potential, giving access to nostalgic classics like Pokémon Trading Card Game, Pokémon Snap, and the revered Pokémon Stadium titles.

Looking beyond, Pokémon Day 2025 unveiled some exciting upcoming games. Among them, Pokémon Legends: Z-A, set against the backdrop of Lumiose City in the Kalos region, is stirring anticipation with its teased gameplay elements and new evolutions. We’re also set to receive Pokémon Champions, a battle game evoking Pokémon Showdown, which will be available on mobile and Switch later on.

While we wait for more news, such as the impending Nintendo Direct scheduled for April 2, why not check out the complete lineup of Switch games anticipated this year? Don’t miss out – fascinating times await all Pokémon fans with every new release.

If you’re in search of more insights into Nintendo Switch gaming, be sure to browse our other guides. Meanwhile, happy gaming and may your adventures in the Pokémon world be ever-thrilling!