Pokémon Games On Switch: A Complete List
Hey Pokémon fans! Are you wondering what Pokémon adventures you can dive into on your Nintendo Switch? Well, you've come to the right place! Let's break down all the amazing Pokémon games currently available on this versatile console. From epic open-world adventures to nostalgic remakes, there's something for every trainer out there. 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 classic gameplay with exciting new features. These are the games that advance the overall narrative and introduce new generations of Pokémon. These titles deliver the definitive Pokémon experience, capturing the hearts of both long-time fans and newcomers alike. Whether you're battling gym leaders, thwarting evil teams, or exploring vast new regions, these games provide endless hours of entertainment and adventure. Let's take a closer look at the main series games you can play on your Nintendo Switch.
Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield
Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield marked the eighth generation of Pokémon games, introducing the Galar region, inspired by Great Britain. These games brought a fresh, modern feel to the Pokémon world with enhanced graphics, dynamic weather, and the introduction of the Wild Area – a vast, open environment where players can encounter a variety of Pokémon. The Galar region is full of rolling hills, bustling cities, serene countryside, and the majestic, snow-covered Crown Tundra. The Wild Area is particularly significant, as it features dynamic weather conditions that affect the types of Pokémon you can find. This adds an element of surprise and encourages players to explore different areas at different times.
One of the standout features of Sword and Shield is the Dynamax and Gigantamax phenomenon. Dynamaxing increases a Pokémon's size and power during battles, while Gigantamaxing changes a Pokémon's appearance entirely and grants it unique G-Max moves. These transformations add a strategic layer to battles, making them more exciting and visually impressive. The story revolves around thwarting a mysterious energy crisis threatening the Galar region, as well as uncovering the legends of the Hero Duo who once saved the region. You'll meet interesting characters, such as the champion Leon, his younger brother Hop, and the enigmatic Chairman Rose, who has a hidden agenda. These interactions add depth to the narrative and keep you invested in the story.
The online features in Sword and Shield allow you to connect with other players around the world for Max Raid Battles in the Wild Area. In these battles, you team up with other trainers to take on powerful Dynamax Pokémon, offering valuable rewards and a sense of community. Sword and Shield were generally well-received, praised for their improvements to graphics and gameplay. However, they also faced some criticism for certain design choices and the removal of some Pokémon from the game. Despite these criticisms, Sword and Shield remain popular choices for Pokémon fans on the Nintendo Switch.
Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Pokémon Shining Pearl
Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Pokémon Shining Pearl are faithful remakes of the fourth-generation games, Pokémon Diamond and Pokémon Pearl, originally released on the Nintendo DS. These remakes bring the beloved Sinnoh region to the Nintendo Switch with updated graphics and modern features while staying true to the original gameplay. The Sinnoh region, with its rich mythology and diverse landscapes, is a treat for both returning players and newcomers. From the snowy peaks of Mt. Coronet to the serene shores of Lake Verity, every location is filled with charm and secrets.
These remakes feature updated character models and environments, giving the Sinnoh region a fresh, vibrant look. The gameplay mechanics remain largely unchanged, offering a nostalgic experience for those who grew up with the originals. One of the notable enhancements is the improved user interface, which makes navigation and menu management more intuitive. The Grand Underground, a vast underground network beneath Sinnoh, has been expanded with new areas and activities, such as digging for fossils and creating secret bases. This adds a new layer of exploration and customization to the game.
Like the originals, Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl feature legendary Pokémon such as Dialga (in Brilliant Diamond) and Palkia (in Shining Pearl), who play crucial roles in the story. The narrative revolves around Team Galactic's plan to create a new world, and it's up to you to stop them. The remakes include online features that allow you to trade and battle with other players around the world. You can also participate in contests in the Contest Hall, showcasing your Pokémon's talents. While Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl were criticized by some for sticking too closely to the originals, they were praised for preserving the charm and nostalgia of the Diamond and Pearl games. They offer a delightful way to revisit the Sinnoh region or experience it for the first time on the Nintendo Switch.
Pokémon Legends: Arceus
Pokémon Legends: Arceus is a bold departure from the traditional Pokémon formula, offering an open-world action RPG experience set in the ancient Hisui region, which would eventually become the Sinnoh region. This game blends exploration, crafting, and real-time action, creating a unique and immersive Pokémon adventure. The Hisui region is a vast and untamed wilderness, filled with diverse ecosystems and ancient mysteries. As you explore, you'll encounter wild Pokémon roaming freely in their natural habitats. The landscape is dynamic, with changing weather and day-night cycles that affect the types of Pokémon you can find.
In Arceus, you play as a member of the Galaxy Expedition Team, tasked with studying and documenting the Pokémon of the Hisui region. Unlike traditional Pokémon games, you can directly interact with Pokémon in the environment, catching them in real-time without entering a turn-based battle. You can also craft items, gather resources, and complete various research tasks to fill out the Pokédex. Battling in Legends: Arceus is also different from the main series games. While turn-based battles are still present, they are more dynamic and action-oriented. Pokémon can use Agile Style or Strong Style moves, adding a strategic layer to combat.
The story revolves around uncovering the mystery of the mythical Pokémon Arceus and quelling the disturbances caused by Noble Pokémon, who have been frenzied by a mysterious force. The narrative is rich with lore and delves into the history of the Pokémon world, offering a fresh perspective on familiar characters and locations. Legends: Arceus received widespread praise for its innovative gameplay, immersive world, and engaging story. It represents a significant evolution in the Pokémon series, offering a refreshing and exciting experience for both long-time fans and newcomers. If you're looking for a Pokémon game that breaks the mold, Pokémon Legends: Arceus is definitely worth checking out.
Spin-Off Pokémon Games
Spin-off Pokémon games offer unique experiences outside the main series, exploring different genres and gameplay styles. These games often introduce new mechanics, characters, and stories that complement the broader Pokémon universe. Whether you're solving mysteries, battling in a fighting game, or managing a Pokémon camp, spin-off games provide diverse and engaging ways to enjoy the world of Pokémon. Let's take a look at some of the exciting spin-off titles available on the Nintendo Switch.
New Pokémon Snap
New Pokémon Snap is a charming and relaxing photography game that takes you on a safari adventure in the Lental region. As a Pokémon photographer, your mission is to capture the best snapshots of wild Pokémon in their natural habitats. The Lental region is a diverse archipelago with lush jungles, vibrant coral reefs, and serene beaches. Each island is teeming with unique Pokémon and hidden secrets. As you progress, you'll unlock new courses and research opportunities.
In New Pokémon Snap, you ride in the NEO-ONE, an autonomous vehicle that follows a set path through each course. Your job is to observe and photograph the Pokémon you encounter, using items like fluffruit and Illumina orbs to trigger special interactions. The better your photos, the higher your score. The game encourages you to experiment with different angles, compositions, and timing to capture the perfect shot. You can also edit your photos with stickers, frames, and filters to create your own unique masterpieces.
New Pokémon Snap features a wide variety of Pokémon, from familiar faces to rare and elusive species. The game's story involves uncovering the mystery of the Illumina phenomenon, which causes Pokémon to glow with a special energy. The game's online features allow you to share your photos with other players and compete for the highest scores. The game is praised for its beautiful graphics, relaxing gameplay, and charming atmosphere. If you're a fan of photography or simply enjoy observing Pokémon in their natural habitats, New Pokémon Snap is a delightful and captivating experience.
Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX
Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX is a remake of the original Pokémon Mystery Dungeon games, Blue Rescue Team and Red Rescue Team, released on the Game Boy Advance and Nintendo DS. In this game, you play as a human who has been transformed into a Pokémon and must form a rescue team to help other Pokémon in need. The game features a charming story, strategic gameplay, and a vast world to explore.
In Rescue Team DX, you start by answering a personality quiz that determines which Pokémon you will become. You can choose from a variety of Pokémon, each with its own unique abilities and strengths. Your mission is to explore randomly generated dungeons, battle enemies, and rescue stranded Pokémon. Dungeons are filled with traps, treasures, and challenging enemies. You'll need to use strategy and teamwork to overcome the obstacles and reach the end of each dungeon.
The game features a heartwarming story about friendship, courage, and the importance of helping others. As you complete rescue missions, you'll meet a cast of memorable characters and uncover the secrets of the Pokémon world. The game's online features allow you to connect with other players and trade items. Rescue Team DX is praised for its charming graphics, engaging gameplay, and heartwarming story. If you're looking for a Pokémon game with a unique twist, Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX is a wonderful choice.
Pokémon Unite
Pokémon Unite is a free-to-play, multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) game where players compete in teams of five to score points and defeat opponents. This game brings a competitive edge to the Pokémon world, combining strategic gameplay with fast-paced action. Pokémon Unite features a variety of Pokémon, each with its own unique abilities and roles. You can choose from attackers, defenders, supporters, and all-rounders, and customize your Pokémon with held items and battle items to enhance their performance. The goal is to work with your team to capture objectives, defeat wild Pokémon, and score points in the opposing team's goal zones.
Matches take place on various maps, each with its own layout and challenges. Communication and coordination are key to success, as you'll need to strategize with your team to outmaneuver your opponents. As you battle, your Pokémon will level up and learn new moves, becoming more powerful and versatile. Pokémon Unite is constantly updated with new Pokémon, maps, and features, keeping the gameplay fresh and exciting. The game also features a ranked mode, where you can compete against other players to climb the leaderboards. Pokémon Unite is praised for its accessible gameplay, competitive depth, and constant updates. If you're looking for a Pokémon game that offers fast-paced, strategic battles, Pokémon Unite is a great option.
Conclusion
The Nintendo Switch offers a diverse range of Pokémon games, catering to different tastes and preferences. Whether you're a fan of the main series adventures, spin-off titles, or competitive battles, there's something for everyone. So, grab your Nintendo Switch, choose your favorite Pokémon game, and embark on an unforgettable adventure!