All Nintendo Switch Pokémon Games In Order
Hey there, Pokémon Trainers! Ready to dive into the world of Pokémon on the Nintendo Switch? Let's explore every Pokémon adventure available on this awesome console, all in order of release. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting your journey, this guide will help you keep track of all the amazing games you can play. Let's get started!
1. Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee! (November 2018)
Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee! marked the beginning of the Pokémon journey on the Nintendo Switch. Released in November 2018, these games are essentially a reimagining of the classic Pokémon Yellow version, but with a twist. Instead of the traditional catching mechanics, they incorporated elements from Pokémon GO, making it easier and more intuitive to catch Pokémon in the wild. You could even use the Poké Ball Plus accessory to simulate throwing a Poké Ball, adding a new layer of immersion to the gameplay. These titles are fantastic entry points for newcomers and offer a nostalgic trip for longtime fans. The vibrant graphics, simplified mechanics, and adorable partner Pokémon make it a delightful experience.
One of the standout features of Pokémon: Let's Go is the cooperative gameplay. You can team up with a friend or family member to explore the Kanto region together, making battles and exploration even more fun. Imagine going on a Pokémon adventure with your sibling or best friend right by your side! The bond you form with your partner Pokémon, whether it's Pikachu or Eevee, is also a highlight. You can dress them up, pet them, and even ride on them as you traverse the world. This personal connection adds a heartwarming touch to the overall experience. Plus, the integration with Pokémon GO allows you to transfer Pokémon you've caught in the mobile game to your Let's Go adventure, further bridging the gap between the two worlds. So, if you're looking for a charming and accessible Pokémon game on the Switch, Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee! are excellent choices.
2. Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield (November 2019)
Next up, we have Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield, which were released in November 2019. These games introduced us to the Galar region, a land inspired by the United Kingdom. Pokémon Sword and Shield brought with them a host of new features, including the vast Wild Area, where you can freely explore and encounter various Pokémon depending on the weather and location. The Wild Area is a game-changer, offering a seamless open-world experience that was previously unseen in the main series Pokémon games. Max Raid Battles are another exciting addition, allowing you to team up with other players to take on Dynamax Pokémon, which are giant-sized versions of regular Pokémon. These battles require strategy and teamwork, making them a thrilling challenge.
The story in Pokémon Sword and Shield revolves around a mysterious energy phenomenon causing Pokémon to Dynamax. As the protagonist, you embark on a journey to uncover the truth behind this phenomenon and become the Champion of the Galar region. Along the way, you'll encounter a colorful cast of characters, including your rival Hop, the Gym Leaders, and the enigmatic Chairman Rose. The Gym Challenges in Galar are more elaborate than ever, turning them into stadium-like events with cheering crowds. This adds a sense of grandeur and excitement to each battle. The introduction of Dynamaxing and Gigantamaxing adds a new layer of strategy to battles, as you can temporarily super-size your Pokémon to gain an edge. The unique designs of the Gigantamax forms are also a treat to behold. So, if you're looking for a more traditional Pokémon adventure with modern twists, Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield are definitely worth checking out.
3. Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX (March 2020)
In March 2020, Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX arrived on the Nintendo Switch, offering a delightful departure from the main series gameplay. This game is a remake of the original Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Blue Rescue Team and Red Rescue Team games, which were released on the Game Boy Advance and Nintendo DS. In Rescue Team DX, 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, lovable characters, and a unique roguelike gameplay loop.
The core gameplay of Pokémon Mystery Dungeon involves exploring randomly generated dungeons, battling enemy Pokémon, and collecting items. Each dungeon presents a new challenge, with different layouts, enemies, and obstacles. You'll need to strategically navigate these dungeons, using your Pokémon's moves and abilities to overcome the challenges. One of the highlights of Rescue Team DX is the heartwarming story. You'll encounter a variety of Pokémon, each with their own personalities and stories. As you help them, you'll build bonds and form friendships that will stay with you long after you finish the game. The game also features a beautiful watercolor art style, which gives it a unique and charming look. The updated visuals and animations bring the Pokémon world to life in a whole new way. So, if you're looking for a Pokémon game with a focus on story, exploration, and a bit of challenge, Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX is a great choice.
4. New Pokémon Snap (April 2021)
New Pokémon Snap, released in April 2021, is a long-awaited sequel to the beloved Nintendo 64 game, Pokémon Snap. This game takes you to the Lental region, a diverse and vibrant ecosystem where you'll embark on a photographic expedition to capture the perfect shots of Pokémon in their natural habitats. New Pokémon Snap is a relaxing and immersive experience that allows you to appreciate the beauty of the Pokémon world from a new perspective.
In New Pokémon Snap, you ride in the NEO-ONE, an auto-driving vehicle, and travel through various environments, such as jungles, beaches, and underwater caves. Your goal is to take photos of Pokémon as they interact with their surroundings. You can use items like Fluffruit to lure Pokémon closer or play a melody to trigger special reactions. The better your photos, the higher the score you'll receive from Professor Mirror, who is evaluating your research. One of the highlights of New Pokémon Snap is the incredible detail in the Pokémon animations and environments. You'll see Pokémon interacting with each other, playing, and even sleeping. The game truly captures the essence of the Pokémon world and brings it to life in stunning detail. The game also features a photo editing mode, where you can customize your photos with stickers, filters, and frames. This allows you to express your creativity and share your favorite moments with other players online. So, if you're a fan of photography, nature, or just want to experience the Pokémon world in a unique way, New Pokémon Snap is definitely worth a shot.
5. Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl (November 2021)
Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl, released in November 2021, are faithful remakes of the classic Pokémon Diamond and Pearl versions, which were originally released on the Nintendo DS. These games take you back to the Sinnoh region, a land rich in mythology and natural beauty. Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl retain the core gameplay and story of the originals while updating the graphics and adding some quality-of-life improvements.
In Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl, you embark on a journey to become the Champion of the Sinnoh region, battling Gym Leaders, catching Pokémon, and uncovering the mysteries of the legendary Pokémon Dialga and Palkia. The games feature a faithful recreation of the Sinnoh region, with its iconic locations, such as Twinleaf Town, Jubilife City, and Mount Coronet. One of the highlights of Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl is the return of the Underground, a vast network of tunnels where you can dig for fossils and create your own Secret Base. The Underground has been expanded with new features, such as Pokémon Hideaways, where you can encounter Pokémon that don't appear in the overworld. The games also feature updated graphics, with 3D models and environments that bring the Sinnoh region to life in a new way. While the art style has been a topic of debate among fans, the games still offer a charming and nostalgic experience. So, if you're a fan of the original Diamond and Pearl games or just want to experience a classic Pokémon adventure, Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl are definitely worth revisiting.
6. Pokémon Legends: Arceus (January 2022)
Pokémon Legends: Arceus, released in January 2022, is a groundbreaking entry in the Pokémon series that takes you to the Hisui region, which would later become known as Sinnoh. This game introduces a new open-world gameplay style, allowing you to freely explore vast landscapes, encounter Pokémon in the wild, and conduct research as a member of the Galaxy Expedition Team. Pokémon Legends: Arceus is a bold departure from the traditional Pokémon formula, offering a fresh and immersive experience.
In Pokémon Legends: Arceus, you're tasked with completing the first-ever Pokédex for the Hisui region. You'll need to venture into diverse environments, observe Pokémon behavior, and battle them to gather data. The catching mechanics have been revamped, allowing you to catch Pokémon in the overworld without initiating a battle. You can also craft items, such as Poké Balls and potions, using resources you gather in the wild. One of the highlights of Pokémon Legends: Arceus is the sense of discovery and exploration. The Hisui region is filled with secrets and mysteries, and it's up to you to uncover them. You'll encounter new Pokémon forms, learn about the history of the region, and unravel the mysteries surrounding the legendary Pokémon Arceus. The game also features a dynamic weather system and day-night cycle, which affect the types of Pokémon you'll encounter. So, if you're looking for a Pokémon game that breaks the mold and offers a new level of freedom and exploration, Pokémon Legends: Arceus is a must-play.
7. Pokémon Scarlet and Violet (November 2022)
Lastly, we have Pokémon Scarlet and Pokémon Violet, released in November 2022. These games introduce us to the Paldea region, inspired by the Iberian Peninsula. Pokémon Scarlet and Violet take the open-world concept even further, allowing you to explore the region seamlessly with no loading screens between towns and routes. These games also introduce new features like Terastallizing, which crystallizes Pokémon to boost their types, and cooperative multiplayer, letting you explore with friends.
In Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, you'll attend Naranja Academy (in Scarlet) or Uva Academy (in Violet) and embark on a Treasure Hunt, completing three main storylines. You'll battle Gym Leaders in Victory Road, take on Titan Pokémon in Path of Legends, and investigate Team Star in Starfall Street. The Terastallizing mechanic adds a new layer of strategy to battles, as you can change your Pokémon's type to gain an advantage. The open-world design allows you to explore the Paldea region at your own pace, discovering new Pokémon, locations, and secrets along the way. The cooperative multiplayer feature lets you team up with friends to explore the region, battle Pokémon, and complete challenges together. So, if you're looking for a Pokémon game with a vast open world, new battle mechanics, and cooperative multiplayer, Pokémon Scarlet and Pokémon Violet are definitely worth exploring.
So there you have it, guys! All the Pokémon games currently available on the Nintendo Switch, in order of release. Each game offers a unique experience, whether it's a nostalgic trip, a new adventure, or a fresh take on the Pokémon formula. Happy gaming, and may your Pokémon journey be filled with fun and excitement!