Ranking Every Pokemon Game On Nintendo Switch
Hey Pokemon trainers! Let's dive into the wild world of Pokemon games available on the Nintendo Switch. With a bunch of different adventures to choose from, figuring out which game to play can be a real head-scratcher. So, I'm here to help! We're going to rank all the Pokemon games on the Switch, from the absolute best to the ones that might leave you wanting a little more. Get ready to explore the best Pokemon games on Nintendo Switch, we are talking about main series titles, remakes, and spin-offs. This ranking is all about giving you the lowdown, so you can make the best choice on where to spend your time. I'll break down the story, gameplay, and overall experience of each game to help you decide which one's the perfect fit for you. So, are you ready to become a Pokemon master? Let's get started!
The Top Tier: Crown Jewels of Pokemon
Pokemon Legends: Arceus
Alright, guys, let's kick things off with a game that shook up the formula and changed the game forever: Pokemon Legends: Arceus. This title dared to be different, and the result? A truly amazing and refreshing experience that's easily among the best Pokemon games on the Nintendo Switch. Unlike the traditional turn-based battles, Pokemon Legends: Arceus introduces a semi-open world where you can freely explore the Hisui region (which would become Sinnoh in future games). Think of it as a huge, beautiful wilderness teeming with Pokemon just waiting to be caught. The gameplay focuses on catching Pokemon, completing research tasks, and building a comprehensive Pokedex. You're not just battling; you're observing, studying, and understanding these incredible creatures. The story takes place in the ancient past, offering a fresh perspective on the Pokemon world. The graphics are stunning, with vast landscapes to explore and beautiful environments. Pokemon Legends: Arceus encourages exploration, with hidden areas, rare Pokemon, and side quests to discover. The catching mechanics are super engaging, giving you a sense of agency as you sneak through the tall grass, throw your Pokeballs, and try to catch 'em all without getting spotted. The gameplay loop is incredibly addictive, keeping you engaged as you explore, catch, and level up your Pokemon team. The sense of adventure and discovery is unparalleled. Combat is dynamic, with fast-paced action and strategic choices. This is a game where you can throw a Pokeball, then seamlessly jump into battle, making it feel more alive and immersive than ever before. If you're looking for a bold, innovative Pokemon experience, Pokemon Legends: Arceus is an absolute must-play, placing it firmly at the top of the best Pokemon games on Nintendo Switch.
Pokemon Sword and Shield
Next up, we've got Pokemon Sword and Shield, the first mainline Pokemon games to grace the Nintendo Switch. While not revolutionary like Legends: Arceus, Pokemon Sword and Shield brought the classic Pokemon formula to a new generation of players, and they did a pretty good job. The Galar region is inspired by the UK and is packed with vibrant cities, rolling hills, and a diverse range of Pokemon to discover. The graphics are a significant step up from previous games, with detailed environments and a fresh art style. The gameplay remains familiar, with turn-based battles, gym challenges, and a captivating story. Pokemon Sword and Shield introduces new features like the Wild Area, a vast open space where you can encounter Pokemon in real-time, and Dynamax, which allows your Pokemon to grow to gigantic sizes during battles. The story is a bit more streamlined compared to previous games, focusing on your journey to become the Pokemon League Champion. The overall experience is polished and enjoyable, especially for newcomers to the series. The introduction of the Wild Area was a bold move that injected a breath of fresh air into the formula. Gigantamaxing adds an exciting layer of strategy and spectacle to battles. These titles also introduced the competitive scene to the forefront, with a variety of online battling features and options. While some players may miss the depth of older titles, Pokemon Sword and Shield still offer a solid, engaging Pokemon adventure, making them a great choice for both veteran trainers and new players alike. If you want to experience a classic Pokemon journey with modern enhancements, then Pokemon Sword and Shield are definitely worth checking out.
Solid Choices: Good Games, Good Times
Pokemon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl
Now, let's talk about Pokemon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl, the faithful remakes of the beloved Pokemon Diamond and Pearl games. These titles bring the classic Sinnoh region back to life with updated graphics, improved gameplay, and all the nostalgia you can handle. They stick pretty closely to the original formula, which is a great thing for fans who grew up with the original games. The graphics have been given a significant upgrade, with a charming art style and detailed environments. The gameplay is faithful to the original, with turn-based battles, gym challenges, and a captivating story. Pokemon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl also introduce new features such as the Grand Underground, where you can discover hidden treasures and Pokemon. These remakes do an excellent job of capturing the charm and magic of the original games. Exploring the Sinnoh region again is a true joy, especially with the updated visuals and quality-of-life improvements. The gameplay is polished, and the story remains as engaging as ever. They also retained all the classic features, which is a huge win for long-time fans. The updated graphics give the games a fresh coat of paint and will satisfy those looking for a modern take on a classic Pokemon adventure. If you're a fan of the original Diamond and Pearl games or looking for a faithful, charming Pokemon experience, Pokemon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl are a must-play. They're a solid addition to the Pokemon Switch library and a great way to revisit the Sinnoh region.
The Middle Ground: Worth a Play, With Some Caveats
Pokemon Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee!
Next on the list are Pokemon Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee!, which are remakes of the original Pokemon Yellow, but with a few twists. They were made for a broader audience, with a more accessible experience that is still enjoyable. The art style is adorable and visually appealing, with a vibrant and colorful world that is a pleasure to explore. The gameplay is simplified, with catching mechanics inspired by Pokemon Go and simplified battles. The story is a reimagining of the original Pokemon Yellow, with a focus on nostalgia and the joy of catching Pokemon. These games offer a charming experience that is perfect for both newcomers and veteran trainers looking for a more relaxed Pokemon adventure. The gameplay is streamlined, making them ideal for casual players or those looking for a less complex experience. The visual style is fantastic, with vibrant environments and charming character designs. The games' focus on nostalgia makes them a joy for fans of the original Pokemon Red, Blue, and Yellow. However, the simplified gameplay might not appeal to all players. The lack of depth in battles and the simplified catching mechanics may feel too basic for those looking for a challenging experience. If you're looking for a casual and charming Pokemon experience, or a nostalgic trip, then Pokemon Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee! are a solid choice, but if you want more complex battles and challenging gameplay, you might want to consider other titles on the Switch. They're still a great way to enjoy a simplified Pokemon experience.
Bringing up the Rear: Not the Best, but Still Pokemon
Pokemon Unite
Finally, we've got Pokemon Unite, a free-to-play MOBA (Multiplayer Online Battle Arena) that features your favorite Pokemon. Now, this one's a bit of a departure from the traditional Pokemon formula. In Pokemon Unite, you team up with other players in 5v5 battles, where you control your chosen Pokemon and battle to score points by capturing objectives. It's a fun and competitive experience, but it might not be what you're looking for if you're expecting a traditional Pokemon RPG. The gameplay is fast-paced and action-packed, with strategic choices and teamwork essential to victory. The graphics are bright and colorful, with a unique art style. However, the game has its drawbacks, including its free-to-play model, which includes microtransactions that can impact the gameplay. The MOBA genre might not be for everyone. The lack of a strong single-player campaign and the focus on online multiplayer make it a very different experience than the other games on this list. While Pokemon Unite is an enjoyable game, it might not be everyone's cup of tea. If you're a fan of MOBA games and enjoy Pokemon, you should check it out, but if you're looking for a traditional Pokemon adventure, you might want to look elsewhere. It's still a fun and competitive experience, but it's important to know what you're getting into.
Conclusion: So, Which Pokemon Game Should You Choose?
So, there you have it, a complete ranking of all the Pokemon games on the Nintendo Switch, from the amazing Pokemon Legends: Arceus down to Pokemon Unite. The best game for you will depend on your personal preferences. If you're looking for a bold, innovative experience, Pokemon Legends: Arceus is a must-play. If you want a classic Pokemon adventure with modern enhancements, Pokemon Sword and Shield are a great choice. If you're looking for a faithful remake of a classic game, Pokemon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl are a great option. And if you're looking for a casual and charming experience, Pokemon Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee! are perfect. Whether you're a new player or a long-time fan, there's a Pokemon game on the Nintendo Switch for you. So, what are you waiting for? Go out there and start your Pokemon adventure!