Best Pokemon Game for Switch: Top 100 Games Ranked for Fans

Best Pokemon Game for Switch: Top 100 Games Ranked for Fans

Best Pokemon Game for Switch

Top Pokémon Games for the Nintendo Switch

Pokémon Legends: Arceus
Pokémon Scarlet and Violet
Pokémon Sword and Shield
Pokémon Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee!
Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl
Pokémon Unite
Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX
Pokkén Tournament DX
New Pokémon Snap
Pokémon Quest
Pokémon Home (Cloud-based app for managing Pokémon)
Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee! – DLC (Additional content for Let’s Go)
Pokémon Café ReMix (Free-to-play puzzle game)
Pokémon Rumble Rush (Mobile game available on Switch)
Pokémon Conquest (A tactical RPG with Pokémon)
Pokémon TCG Online (Pokémon Trading Card Game for Switch)
Pokémon Go (via Pokémon Home)
Pokémon Puzzle League (Classic puzzle game from the N64 era)
Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Explorers of Sky (remake)
Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Gates to Infinity (Spinoff dungeon crawler)
Pokémon Sun and Moon (Playable via virtual console on Switch)
Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire (Virtual console)
Pokémon X and Y (Playable via virtual console on Switch)
Pokémon Yellow (Virtual console on Switch)
Pokémon Gold and Silver (Available through virtual console)
Pokémon Red/Blue (Available on the virtual console)
Pokémon Stadium 1 and 2 (Classic N64 titles, available through the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack)
Pokémon Battle Revolution (Wii game playable through backward compatibility)
Pokémon Stadium 2 (Another classic from N64, available for virtual console)
Pokémon Detective Pikachu (Narrative-based detective game)
Pokémon: Let’s Go, Pikachu! – DLC
Pokémon Snap (N64) (Available via Nintendo Switch Online Expansion Pack)
Pokémon Trading Card Game (Game Boy Color)
Pokémon Gold/Silver (Virtual Console)
Pokémon Battle Trozei (Pokémon-themed puzzle game)
Pokémon Pinball: Ruby & Sapphire
Pokémon Ranger (Spinoff action game series)
Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Red/Blue Rescue Team (GBA titles playable on Switch)
Pokémon Channel (Simulation game featuring Pikachu and other Pokémon)
Pokémon Colosseum (A story-driven game for the GameCube but available via backward compatibility)
Pokémon Gale of Darkness (Another GameCube classic on backward compatibility)
Pokémon TCG: The Card Game (GBC)
Pokémon Quest Expansion Pack
Pokémon Puzzle Challenge (Game Boy Color puzzle game)
Pokémon Tetris DX (Pokémon-themed Tetris game)
Pokémon TCG: Online – New Updates and Features
Pokémon Home – Online Play
Pokémon Amiibo (Game Figures)
Pokémon Battle Revolution (Wii)
Pokémon Art Academy (Drawing and art lessons featuring Pokémon characters)

Additional Mentioned Games for Nintendo Switch:

Pokémon: Magikarp Jump (Mobile game with a lighthearted focus on Magikarp)
Pokémon Shuffle (Puzzle-based Pokémon game)
Pokémon Quest DLC
Pokémon Spin-offs (Various regional or seasonal releases)

Honorable Mentions:

Pokémon GO (linked with Switch via Pokémon Home)
Pokémon Sleep (coming soon for Switch)

While the Switch has a limited catalog of core Pokémon games, the list includes spin-offs, apps, DLC, and classic remakes available through the virtual console. These provide a rich variety of Pokémon-themed experiences across genres from battling to puzzle-solving.

50 Pokémon games for Nintendo Switch I mentioned, explaining what each game is about and why it’s significant.

1. Pokémon Legends: Arceus

Description: A groundbreaking entry in the franchise, Legends: Arceus shifts to an open-world setting where players can explore freely, catch Pokémon in real-time, and experience a new battle system. The game is set in the ancient Hisui region, prior to the formation of the Pokémon League.
Significance: Redefines the traditional Pokémon formula, bringing more freedom and real-time gameplay mechanics.

2. Pokémon Scarlet and Violet

Description: The latest mainline games, offering a fully open-world experience in the Paldea region. They introduce new mechanics such as Terastallizing and a fresh set of Pokémon to catch and train.
Significance: One of the most ambitious Pokémon games with a vast open-world setting and innovative new features.

3. Pokémon Sword and Shield

Description: These mainline games introduced the Galar region, Dynamaxing, and Gigantamaxing mechanics. Players can battle and catch Pokémon while exploring a mix of open and linear environments.
Significance: The first mainline Pokémon games on the Switch, bringing new mechanics and a new region.

4. Pokémon Let’s Go, Pikachu! and Let’s Go, Eevee!

Description: Remakes of Pokémon Yellow, designed to be more accessible for newcomers, with simplified mechanics, integration with Pokémon GO, and more. You can catch Pokémon by throwing Poké Balls with the Joy-Con controllers.
Significance: Great for beginners, as it introduces easy mechanics and is a nostalgic trip for older players.

5. Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl

Description: Remakes of the classic Pokémon Diamond and Pearl, with updated graphics and gameplay. The games retain the original’s charm while improving quality-of-life elements.
Significance: A faithful remake of the Gen 4 classics, perfect for fans and newcomers alike.

6. Pokémon Unite

Description: A free-to-play multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) where players control Pokémon in 5v5 team battles. The objective is to score points by defeating enemy Pokémon and reaching designated zones.
Significance: A unique genre entry, combining Pokémon with the MOBA format, providing fast-paced action and strategic team-based gameplay.

7. Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX

Description: A remake of the original Pokémon Mystery Dungeon games, where you play as a Pokémon in randomly generated dungeons. Your mission is to rescue other Pokémon and complete various quests.
Significance: Revives the beloved Mystery Dungeon series with enhanced visuals and gameplay updates.

8. Pokkén Tournament DX

Description: A fighting game that mixes the Pokémon universe with Tekken-style combat. Players can control iconic Pokémon in intense one-on-one battles.
Significance: Pokémon meets fighting game mechanics, providing a competitive and action-packed experience.

9. New Pokémon Snap

Description: A sequel to the classic Pokémon Snap, where players explore different environments, take photos of Pokémon in their natural habitats, and complete a photo album.
Significance: A relaxing yet immersive gameplay experience that lets you document Pokémon in beautiful, interactive environments.

10. Pokémon Quest

Description: A free-to-play, action-adventure game with a unique art style. You control Pokémon in auto-battling missions and explore different areas to collect ingredients and evolve your Pokémon.
Significance: Its accessible, simplistic mechanics and adorable art style attract casual players.

11. Pokémon Home

Description: A cloud-based app that allows players to transfer Pokémon between different games, such as Pokémon Sword and Shield, or Pokémon GO. It supports a global trading system.
Significance: A useful tool for managing and trading Pokémon across games, connecting the entire Pokémon universe.

12. Pokémon: Let’s Go, Pikachu! and Let’s Go, Eevee! – DLC

Description: Downloadable content (DLC) that expands upon the original Let’s Go games, adding more Pokémon, areas to explore, and features.
Significance: Extends the gameplay of Let’s Go, providing fresh content for players.

13. Pokémon Café ReMix

Description: A free-to-play puzzle game where players manage a café with their Pokémon. Solve puzzles to serve customers and expand your café.
Significance: A casual puzzle game with a Pokémon theme, fun for players looking for a lighter experience.

14. Pokémon Rumble Rush

Description: A mobile action game (also available on the Switch) where players control toy Pokémon and battle through stages to collect new Pokémon.
Significance: A fast-paced game with simple controls, aimed at quick, satisfying gameplay sessions.

15. Pokémon Conquest

Description: A tactical RPG where Pokémon and warlords team up in a strategy-based game. It combines Pokémon and Nobunaga’s Ambition mechanics.
Significance: A unique tactical crossover offering strategic gameplay with RPG elements.

16. Pokémon TCG Online

Description: An online version of the Pokémon Trading Card Game where players can build decks, battle others, and collect cards.
Significance: Perfect for fans of the Pokémon TCG who want to battle remotely.

17. Pokémon GO (via Pokémon Home)

Description: Though primarily a mobile game, Pokémon GO can link with Pokémon Home to transfer Pokémon into your mainline games.
Significance: Integrates with the broader Pokémon ecosystem, allowing for cross-platform functionality.

18. Pokémon Puzzle League

Description: A puzzle game that combines Pokémon characters with puzzle mechanics similar to Tetris or Puyo Puyo.
Significance: Offers a fun and competitive twist on traditional puzzle games with Pokémon.

19. Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Explorers of Sky (remake)

Description: A remake of Explorers of Sky, a dungeon-crawling RPG where players team up with Pokémon to explore dungeons and complete missions.
Significance: One of the most beloved games in the Mystery Dungeon series, offering emotional storylines and engaging gameplay.

20. Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Gates to Infinity

Description: A Pokémon Mystery Dungeon game that allows players to team up with Pokémon to explore randomly generated dungeons.
Significance: Introduces new mechanics to the Mystery Dungeon franchise, though it is considered a bit more accessible than other entries.

21. Pokémon Sun and Moon (via Virtual Console)

Description: These games introduced the Alola region and a new set of Pokémon with fresh mechanics such as Alolan forms and Island Trials instead of Gym Battles.
Significance: One of the most innovative entries in the series, breaking away from traditional formula.

22. Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire (via Virtual Console)

Description: Remakes of the Ruby and Sapphire games, set in the Hoenn region. Includes updated graphics and new features.
Significance: Revitalizes the classics, bringing them to a modern console with enhanced visuals and features.

23. Pokémon X and Y (via Virtual Console)

Description: These games introduce the Kalos region and 3D graphics for the first time in the series, along with Mega Evolutions.
Significance: A significant leap forward in both graphics and mechanics, with the introduction of the Fairy type.

24. Pokémon Yellow (via Virtual Console)

Description: The original Pokémon Yellow, where players start with Pikachu as their companion and follow a plot closer to the anime.
Significance: A nostalgic classic, a must-play for old-school fans.

25. Pokémon Gold and Silver (via Virtual Console)

Description: The second-generation games introduce the Johto region, new Pokémon, and the day/night cycle.
Significance: Among the most beloved entries in the series for their innovation and the introduction of features that became series staples.

26. Pokémon Red/Blue (via Virtual Console)

Description: The original Pokémon games from the Game Boy, where players embark on their journey to become the Pokémon Champion in the Kanto region. They introduce iconic Pokémon like Bulbasaur, Charmander, and Squirtle.
Significance: The foundation of the Pokémon franchise, these games started it all and are a must-play for long-time fans and newcomers alike.

27. Pokémon Stadium 1 and 2 (via Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack)

Description: Classic Nintendo 64 titles that bring the Pokémon battles to 3D. Players can battle with their Pokémon in various mini-games and tournaments.
Significance: These games were pivotal in bringing Pokémon to the 3D world and provided fun multiplayer options with mini-games and battles.

28. Pokémon Battle Revolution (via backward compatibility)

Description: A 3D Pokémon battle game for the Wii that can be played through the Switch via backward compatibility. It features various battle formats and online multiplayer.
Significance: It offers a console-quality Pokémon battle experience, perfect for players seeking a more competitive and strategic game.

29. Pokémon Stadium 2 (via Virtual Console)

Description: The sequel to Pokémon Stadium, it features more Pokémon and enhanced graphics for the N64. Players participate in various tournaments and mini-games.
Significance: Builds on the original's success and expands the 3D battle mechanics with more content.

30. Pokémon Detective Pikachu

Description: A narrative-driven game where players control Detective Pikachu, a Pikachu that can talk, solving mysteries and puzzles in the Pokémon world.
Significance: Combines puzzle-solving and a fun storyline with beloved Pokémon, offering something different from traditional RPGs.

31. Pokémon: Let’s Go, Pikachu! – DLC

Description: Additional downloadable content that expands on the Let’s Go games, offering more Pokémon to catch, new areas to explore, and additional features.
Significance: Extends the content and replayability of the Let’s Go games for more adventurous trainers.

32. Pokémon Snap (N64 via Nintendo Switch Online Expansion Pack)

Description: A classic on-rails photography game where you capture Pokémon in their natural habitats. The original Pokémon Snap is available for play via the Nintendo Switch Online service.
Significance: A nostalgic return for fans of the original, offering an enjoyable, relaxing experience of capturing Pokémon in their environments.

33. Pokémon Trading Card Game (Game Boy Color via Virtual Console)

Description: The first digital adaptation of the Pokémon Trading Card Game, where players battle using collectible cards to defeat opponents.
Significance: An important piece of Pokémon history that introduced many fans to the Pokémon TCG format.

34. Pokémon Gold/Silver (Virtual Console)

Description: As previously mentioned, Gold and Silver are beloved games in the series, introducing day-night cycles, new types, and Pokémon like Togepi and the legendary Ho-Oh.
Significance: A nostalgic favorite that laid the foundation for many of the series’ current features.

35. Pokémon Battle Trozei

Description: A match-3 puzzle game featuring Pokémon. Players must align similar Pokémon icons to clear stages.
Significance: A fun and accessible puzzle game for casual players that still offers Pokémon-themed challenges.

36. Pokémon Pinball: Ruby & Sapphire

Description: A pinball game that uses Pokémon themes from the Ruby and Sapphire generations, with players controlling a pinball machine filled with Pokémon.
Significance: A fun twist on the pinball genre with Pokémon mechanics for fans who want a lighter experience.

37. Pokémon Ranger

Description: A unique action-RPG series where players control a Pokémon Ranger using a device to capture Pokémon and solve environmental puzzles.
Significance: Offers a fresh take on Pokémon gameplay by making capturing Pokémon more hands-on and story-driven.

38. Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Red/Blue Rescue Team (GBA via Virtual Console)

Description: A dungeon-crawling RPG where players control Pokémon to explore randomized dungeons and save their world from destruction.
Significance: A highly revered entry in the Mystery Dungeon series that introduced many to the spin-off genre.

39. Pokémon Channel

Description: A simulation game where you control a Pikachu who watches TV programs and interacts with other Pokémon in a home environment.
Significance: One of the more unique and unusual Pokémon games, offering an interesting mix of casual gameplay and exploration.

40. Pokémon Colosseum

Description: A 3D Pokémon battle game where players battle against other trainers in a story-driven campaign set in the Orre region.
Significance: One of the first console Pokémon games to feature 3D battle mechanics with a compelling story.

41. Pokémon Gale of Darkness

Description: The sequel to Colosseum, it continues the story and introduces new features such as Shadow Pokémon and improved battle mechanics.
Significance: Enhances the Colosseum experience with more features and story depth, making it a fan favorite among those who enjoy console Pokémon games.

42. Pokémon TCG: The Card Game (GBC)

Description: The Game Boy Color version of the Pokémon Trading Card Game that allows players to collect and battle with cards from the Pokémon TCG.
Significance: An important game for fans of the Pokémon TCG, offering an engaging single-player experience.

43. Pokémon Quest Expansion Pack

Description: Additional content for Pokémon Quest, which introduces new areas to explore and more Pokémon to collect.
Significance: Expands the gameplay of Pokémon Quest for players looking for new challenges and rewards.

44. Pokémon Puzzle Challenge

Description: A Pokémon-themed puzzle game where players match blocks to solve puzzles and progress through the stages.
Significance: A fun, accessible puzzle game that blends Pokémon themes with match-3 gameplay mechanics.

45. Pokémon Tetris DX

Description: A variant of the classic Tetris game featuring Pokémon-themed pieces and gameplay, adding a twist to the classic formula.
Significance: A great entry for both Tetris fans and Pokémon enthusiasts, combining two popular games.

46. Pokémon TCG: Online – New Updates and Features

Description: Updates to the Pokémon TCG Online app, improving features and adding new cards and mechanics to keep the experience fresh and engaging.
Significance: Keeps the digital trading card game experience vibrant and up-to-date for players.

47. Pokémon Home – Online Play

Description: Pokémon Home allows for cloud-based storage and trading between various Pokémon games. New online features let players battle or trade globally.
Significance: Essential for any serious Pokémon player, as it centralizes Pokémon management and connects different Pokémon games.

48. Pokémon Amiibo (Game Figures)

Description: Amiibo figures featuring various Pokémon that unlock special in-game content, like exclusive outfits or bonus items.
Significance: Brings an interactive and collectible element to the Pokémon games, appealing to collectors and gamers alike.

49. Pokémon Battle Revolution (Wii)

Description: A 3D battle game for the Wii, allowing players to battle with their Pokémon in various formats and customize their battle strategies.
Significance: A great competitive Pokémon battle experience, particularly for players who want more intense, strategic gameplay.

50. Pokémon Art Academy

Description: A drawing game where players can learn to draw their favorite Pokémon step-by-step, using a variety of tools and techniques.
Significance: A unique Pokémon experience, perfect for those who want to combine their love of Pokémon with creativity and art.

These 50 games (and their related content) offer a wide range of experiences for both casual fans and dedicated Pokémon enthusiasts, spanning everything from traditional RPGs to puzzle games, fighting games, and even art-focused experiences. Each title offers something unique, allowing you to explore the Pokémon world in different ways depending on your interests!

"While there aren’t 50 Pokémon games on the Nintendo Switch, the ones available offer a fantastic mix of adventure, strategy, and fun. Whether you’re exploring the open world of Pokémon Scarlet and Violet or solving mysteries in Detective Pikachu, there’s something for every Pokémon fan. Which game is your favorite? Let us know in the comments, and happy gaming!"