The Nintendo Switch, a powerful and popular console, offers a wide selection of unique games, including the beloved Pokémon series. With a range of options available, choosing the best Pokémon game on the Switch can be challenging. In this blog post, we will help you navigate through the various releases and highlight some of the standout titles, whether they are remasters, new storylines, or additions to the core series. Let’s delve into the world of Pokémon on the Nintendo Switch and discover where to begin your adventure.
We are big fans of Pokémon and own a Nintendo Switch. That’s why we decided to create a list of the top 5 Pokémon games for the Switch. We carefully reviewed all the games, including one-on-one battles and exciting RPGs, to bring you the very best options. The great news is that all the Pokémon games we selected are currently available, so you can start playing right away. Let’s explore these amazing Pokémon adventures for the Nintendo Switch.
Top 5 Nintendo Switch Pokemon Games: (2023’s Best Picks)
1. Pokémon Legends Arceus
PROS
- Unique and accessible mechanics
- Stunning and detailed map
- Vibrant and Pokémon-filled environments
CONS
- A slightly predictable storyline
KEY FEATURES
- Vast open world in Pokémon franchise
- Switch between first and third-person views
- Explore the Hisui Region in Pokémon universe
- The immersive historical Japanese setting
Pokémon: Legends Arceus has been a huge success since its release in January 2022. It quickly became one of the most popular Pokémon games, selling over 13 million copies in just eight months. Players have been captivated by its open-world adventure set in the Hisui region, inspired by Japan’s Hokkaido island. This unique game takes you back in time to the early Japanese colonization era, offering a fresh and immersive experience.
The game’s vast and visually stunning map encourages exploration, with surprises and new Pokémon to discover at every corner. One of the exciting aspects is the ability to throw objects during battles or to catch Pokémon, adding a fun twist to the gameplay. Additionally, the option to switch between third and first-person perspectives brings a new way of experiencing the Pokémon world. With its engaging story and captivating gameplay, Pokémon: Legends Arceus has truly impressed both fans and critics alike.
2. Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX.
PROS
- Stunning art
- Upgraded AI
- Abundant missions
CONS
- Not for stat-averse players
KEY FEATURES
- Remake of 2005’s Pokémon Mystery Dungeon
- ‘Roguelike’ gameplay
- Stunning storybook-like art
- Choose from 16 Pokémon
The original Pokémon Mystery Dungeon Rescue Team game faced criticism upon its release in 2005, with fans citing issues such as poor AI and a disjointed storyline. However, the Nintendo Switch version of the game has undergone significant improvements. Set in dungeons and featuring a protagonist who transforms into a Pokémon during sleep, players must complete mission-based jobs to earn Rescue Points. The remake boasts upgraded AI, making the gameplay experience more enjoyable, especially when partnered with Pokémon. The art and design of the game are also highly praised, with attention to detail and a charming hand-drawn style reminiscent of a storybook.
In summary, the Nintendo Switch remake of Pokémon Mystery Dungeon Rescue Team addresses the shortcomings of the original game. With improved AI, engaging mission-based gameplay, and visually stunning artwork, the remake offers an enhanced experience for players.
3. Pokemon Violet
PROS
- Brilliant open world
- Diverse storylines
- Stunning graphics
CONS
- Long load times in certain missions.
KEY FEATURES
- New mainline game
- Multiple storylines
- Open world gameplay
- Choose Sprigatito, Fuecoco, or Quaxly as your starter
Pokémon Violet, released in November 2022, introduces an open-world experience set in the Paldea Region. With no borders between map sections, players can choose their own path. The game offers familiar Pokémon gameplay with a variety of catchable Pokémon and engaging storylines. However, long loading times can be a downside. Overall, it appeals to both new and old Pokémon fans.
4. Pokemon Shining Pearl
PROS
- Exclusive Pokémon
- Game improvements
- Fantastic graphics
CONS
- Challenging for older fans.
KEY FEATURES
- Exclusive Pokémon: Zapdos, Moltres, Articuno, Lugia
- Shining Pearl: Legendary Palkia
- Improved original storyline
- Set in Sinnoh Region
Pokémon Shining Pearl, released alongside Pokémon Brilliant Diamond, is an open-world game set in the Sinnoh region. The game features Palkia as the legendary Pokémon and includes exclusive Pokémon like Zapdos, Moltres, Articuno, and Lugia. Additionally, players can find unique items, such as the Armor Fossil, in the grand underground. Both Shining Pearl and Brilliant Diamond are significant improvements over the original 2006 release, offering exciting choices for Pokémon fans.
5. Pokkén Tournament DX
PROS
- Pokémon battles
- Engaging gameplay phases
- Stunning textured graphics
CONS
- More characters desired
KEY FEATURES
- Tekken-inspired Pokémon battles
- 23 characters to choose from
- 2 unique fighting phases
- DLC options for more content
Pokkén Tournament DX is a unique crossover game combining the Pokémon and Tekken franchises. Developed by Bandai Namco Studios, it offers a fighting experience featuring Pokémon characters. With two gameplay modes, field and duel phases, players can freely move and engage in Tekken-style battles.
The game features 23 playable characters, including popular Pokémon like Charizard, Blastoise, and Weavile. While some may wish for a larger character roster, the visually impressive and detailed designs of the available fighters make up for it. Pokkén Tournament DX provides a fun and casual option for Pokémon fans seeking a different gaming experience.
Best Pokemon Games For Switch: Buying Guide:
If you’re looking to embark on a Pokémon adventure on your Nintendo Switch, you’re in for a treat. With a diverse selection of Pokémon games available, choosing the right one can be daunting. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve curated a list of the top 5 Pokémon games for the Nintendo Switch.
From open-world experiences to exciting battles and charming remakes, there’s something for every Pokémon enthusiast. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the franchise, our guide will steer you in the right direction to start your Pokémon journey on the Switch. There are many emulators that support the Nintendo games such as Yuzu, Ryujinx and others.
Conclusion:
The Nintendo Switch offers an incredible lineup of Pokémon games that cater to different preferences and play styles. From the immersive open-world adventure of Pokémon: Legends Arceus to the charming nostalgia of Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX, each game brings its own unique flair to the Pokémon universe.
Whether you’re captivated by the stunning graphics, engaging storylines, or the thrill of Pokémon battles, there’s a game that will satisfy your Pokémon cravings on the Nintendo Switch. We hope our guide has helped you discover the best Pokémon games for your gaming library and that you’re ready to dive into the enchanting world of Pokémon on your Nintendo Switch.
Final Words:
Pokemon Switch offers a thrilling gaming experience on the Nintendo Switch platform. With a variety of Pokemon games available, including titles specifically designed for the Switch, such as Pokemon Sword and Pokemon Shield, players can embark on captivating adventures, capture a wide range of Pokemon, and engage in exciting battles. The Nintendo Switch Pokemon games provide immersive gameplay, stunning visuals, and the opportunity to explore new regions filled with unique Pokemon species, making them a must-have for all Pokemon enthusiasts.
Please note that information may change over time, so it’s advisable to check official sources and the Nintendo website for the most up-to-date details on Pokémon games for the Nintendo Switch.
FAQs
Absolutely! The Nintendo Switch offers a wide selection of Pokémon games that you can enjoy on the console.
While not all Pokémon games are available on the Nintendo Switch, there is a great variety to choose from, including mainline entries, remakes, and spin-off titles.
Some popular Pokémon games on the Nintendo include Pokémon: Legends Arceus, Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX, Pokémon Violet, Pokémon Shining Pearl, and Pokkén Tournament DX.
Yes! The Pokémon games on the Nintendo Switch cater to players of all skill levels, including beginners. They provide accessible gameplay mechanics and engaging stories that can be enjoyed by newcomers to the franchise.
Yes, you can play Pokémon games on the Nintendo Switch Lite. The Switch Lite is a dedicated handheld console that is compatible with all Nintendo Switch games, including Pokémon titles.
Yes, you can transfer Pokémon between compatible Pokémon games on the Nintendo Switch using features like Pokémon Home or in-game trading systems.
Yes, many Pokémon games offer multiplayer options, allowing you to battle and trade Pokémon with friends locally or online.
Yes, you can play Pokémon games on the Nintendo Switch without a Nintendo Switch Online subscription. However, a subscription may be required for certain online multiplayer features in some games.
Currently, the Nintendo Switch does not support backward compatibility with older Pokémon games. However, some classic Pokémon titles are available through the Nintendo eShop as re-releases or Virtual Console games.
While I don’t have access to real-time information, it’s always worth keeping an eye out for announcements from Nintendo and The Pokémon Company for any upcoming Pokémon games on the Nintendo Switch. They regularly release new titles and expansions to the franchise.
Related
FAQs
The 5 Best Pokémon Games for Nintendo Switch (Updated 2023)? ›
Pokemon Scarlet and Pokemon Violet are set receive major expansions in 2023, as part of their new storyline, titled: The Hidden Treasure of Area Zero.
Which Pokemon game to get 2023? ›Pokemon Scarlet and Pokemon Violet are set receive major expansions in 2023, as part of their new storyline, titled: The Hidden Treasure of Area Zero.
What switch Pokemon game is 2023? ›Scarlet & Violet DLC Means Other 2023 Pokémon Games Are Unlikely. With both of Scarlet and Violet's DLCs planned for 2023 releases, the franchise is unlikely to release another game within the year.
What is the new Pokemon game 2024? ›| Pokémon Aura & Azur | |
|---|---|
| Platform(s) | 3DS |
| Genre(s) | RPG |
| Series | Pokemon |
| Release Date(s) | 20th November 2024 |
Pokémon developers Game Freak and Publisher Private Division announce a new Action-Adventure IP codenamed "Project Bloom" Currently in the early stages of development and is targeting a release between April 2025 - March 2026!
Is Pokémon ending in 2023? ›After 25 years, Ash's story has finally come to an end as the final episode of the original Pokémon anime aired in Japan on March 24, 2023. The series will continue with a new anime, Pokémon Horizons: The Series, but the conclusion of Ash and Pikachu's journey truly marks the end of an era.
What is the next big Pokemon game? ›Pokémon Horizons will debut on TV Tokyo in Japan from April 14th, 2023, so we'll find out more about this relatively soon.
Is Switch getting old Pokemon games? ›No, you cannot play original Pokemon games on the Nintendo Switch. These games were not released for the Switch and are not compatible with the console. However, there are other options available for playing these classic Pokemon games, such as using emulation software or playing remastered versions on other platforms.
What is the last Pokemon game for Switch? ›The most recently released core series game, Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, was released on November 18, 2022, for the Nintendo Switch.
Will there be a Pokemon Scarlet Switch? ›The Nintendo Switch – OLED Model: Pokémon Scarlet & Violet Edition system features special illustrations of the Legendary Pokémon appearing in the Pokémon Scarlet and Pokémon Violet games, Koraidon and Miraidon, as well as the partner Pokémon Sprigatito, Fuecoco, and Quaxly.
What will Gen 9 of Pokémon be? ›
Gen 9 is the first generation to have Pokémon with the Bug / Dark, Grass / Fire and Electric / Fighting type combinations. The Paradox Pokémon were first introduced in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet and, as their name suggests, these Pokemon are out of place in the present-day Pokémon world.
Is Pokémon coming back in 2023? ›Pokemon Legends or Pokemon Black and White Remakes in 2023 and Beyond. Despite Pokemon Legends: Arceus having only been released in 2022 and with Pokemon Scarlet and Violet so soon after, it's unlikely that 2023 will see a new Pokemon Legends game in Gen 9.
Will there be a Gen 9 Pokemon game? ›The ninth generation (Japanese: 第九世代 ninth generation) of Pokémon games is the ninth installment of the Pokémon video game series. The ninth generation began with Pokémon Scarlet and Violet on November 18, 2022 and continued with The Hidden Treasure of Area Zero DLC packs.
What will Pokémon 1000 be? ›To answer the question that's likely popped into your head, Pokemon No. 1,000 is Gholdengo. This Steel/Ghost type is the evolved form of Gimmighoul, which transforms if leveled up after you collect 999 Gimmighoul Coins.
What will be the newest Pokemon game? ›DLC is relatively new to core Pokemon games, but its role in Pokemon Sword and Shield shows fans what to expect this year for Pokemon Scarlet and Violet. Basically, the entire year following Pokemon Sword and Shield was dedicated to its DLC, and fans can expect the same out of Pokemon Scarlet and Violet in 2023.
What is the next Pokémon card 2023? ›Scarlet & Violet Series – March 31, 2023
The Pokemon Trading Card game is being taken into a new era with the Scarlet & Violet base set, releasing later this month. And unlike the Sword & Shield Base Set, Scarlet & Violet has many beautiful cards for players to chase after.
After 26 years of being a part of the Pokemon franchise, Ash Ketchum is finally hanging up his hat. The final episode of the Pokemon anime, titled 'The Rainbow and the Pokemon Master,' aired on March 24, 2023, in Japan. Fans have been eagerly awaiting the finale to see how Ash's story will come to an end.
Is Ash still 10? ›This age has been confirmed in almost every iteration of the Pokémon anime, and no matter which series he's in, Ash is always 10 years old.
Is Pokémon getting rid of Ash? ›Pokémon will end Ash's story with 11 episodes that will air in Japan beginning on January 13, 2023. And these episodes will mark the end of Pokémon Ultimate Journeys: The Series. According to a releaseOpens in new tab, they will also “provide a glimpse of what the future may hold for the world's strongest Trainer.
What's better Pokemon Scarlet or Violet? ›Those who buy Pokemon Scarlet will get Koraidon, whereas those who buy Pokemon Violet will get Miraidon. These are the same Pokemon that can be seen on each game's box art and are essentially what will act as your main mode of transportation throughout the game.
What are the big 3 Pokémon? ›
Pokemon Big 3 Charizard, Blastoise,Venusaur.
Will Scarlet and Violet have a DLC? ›Yep! The Pokémon Company has confirmed that "These expansions bring with them over 230 familiar Pokémon that had not appeared in Pokémon Scarlet or Pokémon Violet."
Will Pokémon Emerald come to switch? ›Along with the Game Boy, Nintendo has also left out all the Game Boy Advance Pokemon games. Players are not able to revisit Pokemon Ruby, Sapphire, FireRed, LeafGreen, or Emerald on the Nintendo Switch. While some of these games also got released on the Nintendo 3DS Virtual Console, that service has been discontinued.
Is Pokémon 25 years old? ›The first generation began in Japan with the release of Pocket Monsters Red and Green on February 27, 1996.
Will Pokemon Red come to switch? ›Many fans were expecting Pokemon Red + Blue Switch versions to be announced during Pokemon Presents 2023. However, despite hype building and rumors spreading, there were no classic games revealed during the 30-minute presentation. Pokemon Red and Blue Nintendo Switch versions were no-shows.
Which is better sword or shield? ›So what do you choose? In short, it depends on what you want from the game. Both Pokemon Sword and Shield will provide you with the same experience as the same features have been added in the game. Your choice on what to choose will weigh on the version-exclusive Pokemon and the Gigantamax Raids you wish to play.
What is the last Pokémon ever? ›The first Pokémon, Bulbasaur, is number 001 and the last, Mew, is number 151. Alternate forms that result in type changes are included for convenience. Mega evolutions and regional forms are included on the pages for the generation in which they were introduced.
What is the best Pokemon game to start with? ›FireRed & LeafGreen Are The Best Pokémon Games To Start With
Although players will find more streamlined mechanics in later entries, FireRed and LeafGreen convey the charm of the original 151 monsters while being much smoother to play than the original Red and Blue.
It doesn't matter what erosion they have, both Scarlet and Purple can play together. When they start to join your game, their names will appear in the right column, once everyone is in you can start the session. You need to remember that once you start the session, no other players will be able to join.
Is Switch OLED more powerful? ›
Performance and power both remain the same on both the standard Switch and the OLED Switch; neither RAM, battery life, or processor were improved from one model to the next.
Will Gen 9 have the 1000th Pokémon? ›Now Pokémon Scarlet and Violet are combining these two aspects in the ninth generation of the ongoing RPG franchise. As reported by IGN, the 1000th Pokémon in the franchise is Gholdengo, who is the evolution of Scarlet and Violet's ghostly Gimmighoul.
Will there be a Gen 10? ›At the same time, Pokemon Scarlet and Violet kick off Gen 9 which could also include Pokemon Black and White Remakes, new experimental games, a new Legends game, and more. Eventually, however, Gen 9 will come to an end and Gen 10 will rear its head.
Why is Ash leaving Pokémon? ›Ash Ketchum is finally leaving the Pokémon anime. Having accomplished his goal of becoming a Pokémon Master—and becoming the WORLD champion—Ash is ready to say goodbye to his journey and the audience that has watched him travel the Pokémon world with Pikachu since 1997 (Japan) and 1998 (North America).
How old is Ash Ketchum? ›Ash Ketchum of the Pokémon anime is canonically 10 years old. That's as true back in the first episodes in Kanto as it is in Ash's final Aim to Be a Master miniseries episodes.
Are Pokémon cards ending? ›To devote resources to the Pokémon Trading Card Game Live, card set development for the Pokémon TCG Online will end on March 1, 2023.
What is Gen 8? ›The eighth generation (Generation VIII) of the Pokémon franchise features 96 fictional species of creatures introduced to the core video game series, including 89 in the 2019 Nintendo Switch games Pokémon Sword and Shield as of version 1.3.0 and 7 further species introduced in the 2022 Nintendo Switch game Pokémon ...
Is Pokémon Gen 8 over? ›The eighth generation began with Pokémon Sword and Shield and then continued with the Pokémon Sword and Shield Expansion Pass DLC packs, followed by Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl, and concluded with Pokémon Legends: Arceus.
Will Pokémon Gen 9 get an anime? ›Conversation. According to TPCi's PR, Pokémon Ultimate Journeys will have 54 episodes. That means there are still 16 episodes of this season to be aired in Japan. If this is accurate, this means that the Gen 9 anime may be potentially delayed until around Feb 2023.
What is the 666th Pokémon? ›Vivillon - #666 - Serebii.net Pokédex.
What is the 999th Pokémon? ›
Bellsprout - #069 - Serebii.net Pokédex.
Who is the newest Pokémon? ›Pokémon Scarlet and Pokémon Violet are slated for release on Friday, 18 November 2022.
Is there a Pokemon day? ›'Gotta Catch Em' All' on National Pokemon Day, celebrated annually on February 27.
What is the newest Pokémon card? ›- Scarlet & Violet Series June 09, 2023. Scarlet & Violet—Paldea Evolved.
- Scarlet & Violet Series March 31, 2023. Scarlet & Violet.
- Sword & Shield Series January 20, 2023. Crown Zenith.
- Sword & Shield Series November 11, 2022. ...
- Sword & Shield Series September 09, 2022. ...
- Sword & Shield Series July 01, 2022.
We've put together the best ones to consider investing in 2023. From Ash's Pikachu to First Edition Charizard, these are the rarest and most sought-after Pokémon cards of all time.
Is Pokémon bringing back ex? ›The Pokémon Trading Card Game is reintroducing the original EX format, and its effect on the card game will be huge. The Scarlet and Violet base set will start in March 2023, with the Sword and Shield set ending with the recently-released Crown Zenith expansion.
What is the best Pokémon card in the world 2023? ›- Scarlet & Violet Base Set.
- Crown Zenith – High-Class set.
- Silver Tempest – Last Sword & Shield Set.
- Astral Radiance/Brilliant Stars/Lost Origin.
- Shining Fates/Hidden Fates – Previous High-Class packs.
- Fusion Strike/Evolving Skies/Chilling Reign – high-value chase cards.
Pokémon GO's “A Mystic Hero” event takes place from Thursday, April 13, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. to Monday, April 17, 2023, at 8:00 p.m. local time, featuring Team Mystic leader Blanche conducting Special Research on her signature Pokémon Lapras and evolution in Pokémon GO.
Will Pokémon replace Ash? ›It was recently announced that Ash Ketchum and his loyal Pikachu will soon be leaving the long-running Pokemon anime series, making way for two new protagonists known as Liko and Roy.
Is Ash and Pikachu leaving Pokémon? ›
Pokémon will end Ash's story with 11 episodes that will air in Japan beginning on January 13, 2023. And these episodes will mark the end of Pokémon Ultimate Journeys: The Series. According to a releaseOpens in new tab, they will also “provide a glimpse of what the future may hold for the world's strongest Trainer.
What is the 3 rarest Pokemon? ›Uxie, Mesprit and Azelf are the Lake Guardians of the Sinnoh and, despite being the only legendary Pokémon to appear in the wild outside of events and Daily Adventure Incense, they're three of the rarest Pokémon in the game.
What is the #1 rarest Pokemon in Pokemon Go? ›Azelf, Mesprit, and Uxie are the rarest Pokemon in Pokemon Go because they're region exclusive. The three Legendary Pokemon spawn in the wild but only in the following regions: Azelf – North America, South America, and Greenland.
What is no 1 Pokémon card? ›When it comes to rare Pokémon cards, there are very few cards rarer than this. No. 1 Trainer is a holographic promotional card awarded to finalists in the Secret Super Battle tournament held in Tokyo, Japan in 1999.
What is the best pack to pull Charizard? ›Best Pokemon Booster Packs for Pulling Charizards
Not many sets have multiple Charizard cards, but did you know XY Flashfire has a whopping 7! If you want the thrill of opening packs, good growth potential, and above average chances of pulling a Charizard, XY Flashfire booster packs are the ones for you!
The longest Pokémon game to date is the 2006 release, Diamond and Pearl, for the Nintendo DS. It clocks in at 40.5 hours, with 93 hours required to beat the main game plus extras, and 260 hours to complete. The Switch remakes are shorter, coming in at 26.5 hours.
What is the next legendary raid in Pokémon GO April 2023? ›...
| 5-Star Raids | |
|---|---|
| April 17th, 2023 - May 2nd, 2023 | Tapu Bulu |
| May 2nd, 2023 - May 9th, 2023 | Genesect (Shock Drive) |
| May 9th, 2023 - May 24th, 2023 | Tapu Fini |
| May 24th, 2023 - June 1st, 2023 | Regigigas |
While Scarlet's Area Zero grabs creatures from the past, Violet takes creatures of the future. As someone with a complete Pokedex (acquired by trading with players who own the other version) and over 100 hours in the game, I can confidently say that Scarlet is superior in practically every regard.