Nintendo Switch, a powerful and popular console, offers a wide range of exclusive games, including the beloved Pokémon series. With so many options available, choosing the best Pokemon game on Switch can be a challenge. In this blog post, we'll help you navigate through the different releases and highlight some of the standout titles, whether they be remasters, new stories, or additions to the main series. Let's dive into the world of Pokémon on Nintendo Switch and find out where to start your adventure.
We are huge Pokemon fans and own a Nintendo Switch. That's why we decided to make a list of the 5 best Pokémon games for Switch. We carefully analyze all games, including single player battles and exciting RPGs, to offer you the best options. The good news is that all of the Pokémon games we've selected are available now, so you can start playing right away. Let's explore these incredible Pokémon adventures for Nintendo Switch.
Choice of editors
- platforms: nintendoClutch
- Assessment:9:30/10
The 5 Best Nintendo Switch Pokémon Games: (Top Picks of 2023)
1. Pokémon Lendas Arceus
BENEFITS
- Exclusive and affordable mechanics
- An impressive and detailed map
- An animated environment filled with Pokémon
CONTRA
- A somewhat predictable witness
MAIN FEATURES
- A huge open world in the Pokémon franchise
- Switch between first and third person view
- Explore the Hisui region of the Pokémon universe
- Immersive historical Japanese environment
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 were captivated by the open-world adventure set in the Hisui region, inspired by the Japanese island of Hokkaido. This unique game takes you back in time to the era of early Japanese colonization, offering a fresh and immersive experience.
The game's huge, visually stunning map encourages exploration, with surprises and new Pokémon to discover around every corner. One of the exciting aspects is the ability to throw items during battles or catch Pokemon, adding a fun touch to the gameplay. Additionally, the option to switch between third- and first-person perspectives brings a new way to experience the world of Pokémon. With its immersive story and captivating gameplay, Pokémon: Legends Arceus has really impressed fans and critics alike.
2. Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX.
BENEFITS
- impressive art
- updated AI
- rich missions
CONTRA
- Not for stat-averse players
MAIN FEATURES
- Remake Pokémon Mystery Dungeon iz 2005
- 'Roguelike' gameplay
- Awesome storybook 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 story. However, the Nintendo Switch version of the game saw significant improvements. Set in dungeons and featuring a protagonist who transforms into a Pokémon during sleep, players must complete quest-based tasks to earn save points. The remake has improved artificial intelligence, which makes the gaming experience more enjoyable, especially when partnered with Pokémon. The game's art and design are also highly praised, with attention to detail and a charming hand-drawn style reminiscent of a storybook.
In short, a Nintendo Switch remakePokémon Mystery DungeonRescue Team addresses the shortcomings of the original game. With enhanced artificial intelligence, engaging mission-based gameplay, and visually stunning artwork, the remake offers an enhanced experience for players.
3. Pokemon Violet
BENEFITS
- bright open world
- several stories
- awesome graphics
CONTRA
- Long load times on certain missions.
MAIN FEATURES
- new main game
- multiple stories
- open world game
- Choose Sprigatito, Fuecoco or Quaxly as a starter
Released in November 2022, Pokémon Violet is an open-world experience set in the Paldea region. With no borders between parts of the map, players can choose their own path. The game offers the familiar Pokemon gameplay with various Pokemon to catch and interesting storylines. However, long load times can be a downside. In short, it appeals to new and old Pokemon fans alike.
4. Shiny Pearl Pokémon
BENEFITS
- Pokemon Exclusive
- Game improvements
- fantastic graphics
CONTRA
- Challenging for older fans.
MAIN FEATURES
- Exclusive Pokémon: Zapdos, Moltres, Articuno, Lugia
- Bright Pearl: Legendary Palkia
- Improved original story
- Located in the Sinnoh region
Pokémon Shining Pearl, released alongside Pokémon Brilliant Diamond, is an open-world game set in the Sinnoh region. The game introduces Palki as a Legendary Pokémon and includes exclusive Pokémon such as Zapdos, Moltres, Articuno, and Lugia. Additionally, players can find unique items such as Fossil Armor in a large dungeon. Both Shining Pearl and Brilliant Diamond are significant improvements over the original 2006 release, offering exciting options for Pokémon fans.
5. Pokkén tournir DX
BENEFITS
- pokemon battles
- Interesting game levels
- Stunning textured graphics
CONTRA
- Preferably more characters
MAIN FEATURES
- Tekken-inspired Pokémon battles
- 23 characters to choose from
- 2 unique combat stages
- DLC options for more content
Pokkén Tournament DX is a unique crossover game that combines the Pokémon and Tekken franchises. Developed by Bandai Namco Studios, it offers a fighting experience with Pokémon characters. With two game modes, Field Phase and Duel, players can move freely and engage in Tekken-style battles.
The game features 23 playable characters, including popular Pokémon such as Charizard, Blastoise, and Weavile. While some might wish for a larger character roster, the visually stunning and detailed designs of available fighters make up for it. Pokkén Tournament DX offers a fun, casual option for Pokémon fans looking for 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 the variety of Pokémon games available, choosing the right one can be daunting. To help you make an informed decision, we've compiled a list of the 5 best Pokemon games for Nintendo Switch.
From open-world experiences to thrilling battles and enchanting remakes, there's something for every Pokémon enthusiast. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the franchise, our guide will point you in the right direction to start your Pokémon journey on Switch. There are many emulators that support Nintendo games such asYuzu,Ryujinxand others.
Conclusion:
The Nintendo Switch offers an incredible variety of Pokémon games that cater to different preferences and playstyles. From the immersive open-world adventure of Pokémon: Legends Arceus to the enchanting nostalgia of Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX, each game brings its own unique twist to the Pokémon universe.
Whether you're mesmerized by stunning graphics, immersive stories, or the excitement of Pokémon battles, there's a game to satisfy your Pokémon cravings on Nintendo Switch. We hope that our guide has helped you discover the best Pokémon games for your game library and that you are ready to dive into the enchanting world of Pokémon on your Nintendo Switch.
Final words:
Pokemon Switch offers an exciting gaming experience on the Nintendo Switch platform. With a variety of Pokémon games available, including titles specially designed for Switch such as Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield, players can embark on incredible adventures, catch a wide variety of Pokémon and participate in exciting battles. Nintendo Switch Pokémon games offer immersive gameplay, stunning visuals, and the chance to explore new regions filled with unique species of Pokémon, making them a must-have for all Pokémon enthusiasts.
Please note that information may change over time, so it is advisable to check official sources and Nintendo's website for the latest details on Pokémon games for Nintendo Switch.
Common questions
Absolutely! The Nintendo Switch offers a wide variety of Pokémon games that you can enjoy on the console.
While not all Pokémon games are available on Nintendo Switch, there is a wide variety to choose from, including mainstream entries, remakes, and spin-off titles.
Some popular Pokémon games on Nintendo include Pokémon: Legends Arceus, Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX, Pokémon Violet, Pokémon Shining Pearl, and Pokkén Tournament DX.
What! Pokémon games on Nintendo Switch cater to players of all skill levels, including beginners. They provide accessible gameplay mechanics and engaging stories that newcomers to the franchise can enjoy.
Yes, you can play Pokemon on Nintendo Switch Lite. Switch Lite is a dedicated portable console compatible with allNintendo Switch igre, including Pokémon titles.
Yes, you can transfer Pokémon between compatible Pokémon games on Nintendo Switch using features such as 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 on Nintendo Switch without a Nintendo Switch Online membership. However, a subscription may be required for certain online multiplayer features in some games.
Currently, the Nintendo Switch does not support compatibility with older Pokémon games. However, some classic Pokémon titles are available on 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 about upcoming Pokémon games on the Nintendo Switch. They regularly release new titles and franchise expansions.
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FAQs
5 best pokemon games for nintendo switch (updated 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 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 next Pokemon game 2024? ›...
| Pokémon Aura & Azur | |
|---|---|
| Platform(s) | 3DS |
| Genre(s) | RPG |
| Series | Pokemon |
| Release Date(s) | 20th November 2024 |
Private Division says that Project Bloom is slated to release “during Take Two's Fiscal Year 2026.” That means the game will come out sometime between April 1, 2025, and March 31, 2026.
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 Pokemon game to play 2023? ›- GR Originals.
- Pokemon Scarlet and Violet.
- Pokemon GO.
- Pokemon Unite.
- Pokemon Masters.
- Pokemon.
- Pokemon.
- Pokemon TCG.
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.
Will Pokémon continue in 2023? ›On December 16, 2022, The Pokémon Company announced that a new series of the Pokémon anime would air in Japan on April 14, 2023, following the conclusion of a special series that serves as an epilogue to Pokémon Ultimate Journeys, set to conclude the story of Ash Ketchum, the protagonist of the anime series since its ...
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.
Will Gen 9 have all Pokémon? ›Scarlet & Violet Pokedex
Like every mainline Pokemon title, Gen 9 will include a full Pokedex with a number of new additions for trainers to complete.
Is Pokémon cards coming to an end? ›
To devote resources to the Pokémon Trading Card Game Live, card set development for the Pokémon TCG Online will end on March 1, 2023.
Will there be a Gen 9 Pokémon 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 Gen 9 of Pokémon be? ›The first-generation IX Pokémon, Sprigatito, Fuecoco, and Quaxly, were announced on 27 February 2022 in the Pokémon Presents that also announced Pokémon Scarlet and Violet.
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.
Pokémon Horizons will debut on TV Tokyo in Japan from April 14th, 2023, so we'll find out more about this relatively soon.
Will Pokémon Sage ever be completed? ›Sage is a self contained experience. It can be fully completed without any external interaction with other games, events or services.
Is Ash getting retired? ›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.
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.
Who is replacing Ash Ketchum? ›Instead of Ash, whose journey is wrapping up soon in “Pokémon Ultimate Journeys: The Series,” the new show stars dual protagonists Liko and Roy, who will uncover the mysteries of the Pokémon world.
Is Ash leaving the anime? ›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).
Did Ash leave Pikachu? ›In the present, Ash finally stops running. Misty and Brock both catch up to him, asking why he's leaving Pikachu. Ash stands his ground, stating that Pikachu will be much happier with its own kind in the forest rather than traveling with him and decided that his decision is final.
What is the longest Nintendo Switch Pokémon game? ›- Length of story: 35 hours.
- Time to 100% completion: more than 230 hours.
The first generation began in Japan with the release of Pocket Monsters Red and Green on February 27, 1996.
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.
Will Gen 9 have the 1000th Pokemon? ›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.
What type is Koraidon? ›Is there a Pokemon day? ›
'Gotta Catch Em' All' on National Pokemon Day, celebrated annually on February 27.
Will Pokémon cards be worth more in 10 years? ›True collectibles are guaranteed to increase in value
Pokémon cards are collectibles, and many sets went out of print years ago. The inherently limited supply of each card type means that as time goes on and cards become more difficult to obtain, the value will steadily increase.
The most expensive Pokémon card is the Pikachu Illustrator which sold for $5.275 million in July 2021.
Will Pokémon Gen 9 be on switch? ›The next generation of Pokémon games have just been announced and will be making their way to Nintendo Switch on November 18, 2022. Revealed during "Pokémon Presents" on Pokémon Day (February 27), "Pokémon Scarlet" and "Pokémon Violet" will feature three new Gen 9 starter Pokémon and a new region.
Is Pokémon Gen 8 over? ›...
Generation VIII.
| Debut | EN | November 15, 2019 |
|---|---|---|
| End | JA | November 18, 2022 (1099 days) |
Gen 9 also came with the now iconic box Legendaries, Koraidon and Miraidon, as well as other Legendary critters in the form of the Quartet of Ruin. These Pokemon are deeply connected to the lore and history of Paldea, and players can only unlock them toward the end of the game.
What is the 666th Pokémon? ›Vivillon - #666 - Serebii.net Pokédex.
What is the 999th Pokémon? ›Bellsprout - #069 - Serebii.net Pokédex.
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.
Is Gen 9 going to be like Arceus? ›
Pokemon Legends: Arceus is not a gen nine Pokemon game
Though it features the same core mechanics of catching, collecting, and battling Pokemon, the game arguably stands as a spin-off unto itself.
While Pokemon's ninth generation lacks Fossil Pokemon, it does have another set of special creatures that serve similar functions. The latest Pokemon generation has fully arrived after being tested in the distant past of Pokemon Legends: Arceus.
What is the original 151 Pokémon set 2023? ›Pokemon Trading Card Game (TCG) reveals its latest new and upcoming expansion, Pokemon Card 151, which features the original 151 Pokemon hailing from Kanto. This set is expected to be released on June 16, 2023.
What is Pokémon 151? ›The first Pokémon, Bulbasaur, is number 001 and the last, Mew, is number 151.
What is the rarest Pokemon card? ›The Blastoise Commissioned Presentation Galaxy Star Hologram card is the rarest Pokémon card in existence. Only two of these cards were ever made, created by Wizards of the Coast in order to obtain the contract to produce Pokémon cards for The Pokémon Company.
Is it worth buying a switch in 2023? ›The world has opened up again in 2023, too, and if we're heading out and travelling once more, the Nintendo Switch is realistically our only option for great gaming on the go (unless you want to fork out even more on a Steam Deck). The Switch Lite really comes into its own in this instance.
What Pokemon game is April 2023? ›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.
Is Pokémon arceus better than Scarlet and Violet? ›“Pokémon Legends Arceus arguably has [a] better way for terrain traversal than Pokémon Scarlet/Violet. Unlike Miraidon/Koraidon, Braviary's range gives more freedom and exploration compared to SV's very short range & cagey gliding.
Is Let's go Eevee or Pikachu better? ›In the new Pokémon game, Eevee is more powerful than your typical Fox Pokémon. Like Pikachu, its IVs will be maxed out to give you an edge in battle. However, Eevee learns more moves than its counterpart. Here are the moves that Eevee can learn to help you on your journey.
What year will Nintendo Switch end? ›At least for 2023.
How long will Switch survive? ›
The switch should last until at least 2026 when games stop getting released. A successor to the Switch should be released in late 2023 to early 2024.
How many years will a Switch get you? ›The Glock switches have actually been illegal since 1986. And those who are found in possession of them can receive 10 years in federal prison.
What is the longest Pokemon game? ›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.
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."
What is the next legendary raid in Pokemon 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 |
The best Pokemon Go Arceus counters are Terrakion, Keldeo, Mega Blaziken, Lucario, Mega Alakazam & Conkeldurr.
Why is violet more popular than scarlet? ›Unlike Scarlet, Violet emphasizes a more futuristic theme that can be found in nearly every aspect of the game. Not only are the game's exclusive Pokémon a bit more sci-fi in their design than their Scarlet counterparts, but even that version's Legendary vehicle feels like something straight out of Tron.
Can you catch all 151 Pokémon in let's go Eevee? ›Pokemon Let's Go Pikachu and Eevee offers a total of 153 Pokemon to catch across Kanto and veteran Pokemon players will be glad to note Nintendo's brilliant nod to the original games.
Which Pokémon Go is the best? ›| Rank | Pokémon | Best vs. |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mewtwo | Pretty much everything except dark and steel-types |
| 2 | Kartana | Water, ground and rock |
| 3 | Reshiram | Grass, ice, bug and steel |
| 4 | Terrakion | Normal, ice, rock, dark and steel |