Pokemon Games On Nintendo Switch: A Complete Guide
Hey there, Pokémon Trainers! Wondering what Pokémon games you can dive into on your Nintendo Switch? You've come to the right place. The Nintendo Switch has become a fantastic hub for Pokémon fans, offering a mix of classic-style adventures and innovative new experiences. Let's break down all the amazing Pokémon titles you can get your hands on for this versatile console.
Main Series Pokémon Games on Nintendo Switch
The main series Pokémon games are the core of the Pokémon universe, offering expansive regions to explore, hundreds of Pokémon to catch, and engaging stories to follow. These games typically introduce new mechanics and Pokémon, making them a must-play for any serious Pokémon fan. Let's dive into the main series titles available on the Nintendo Switch.
Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee!
Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee! were among the first Pokémon games to grace the Nintendo Switch. These titles are essentially remakes of the original Pokémon Yellow version, but with a modern twist. Aimed at both newcomers and veteran players, they offer a simplified catching mechanic inspired by Pokémon GO, making it easier for new players to jump in while still providing enough depth to keep long-time fans engaged. You start your journey with either Pikachu or Eevee as your partner, and they follow you around on your adventure, adding a cute and immersive element to the gameplay. The vibrant graphics and charming animations bring the Kanto region to life like never before.
One of the standout features of Pokémon: Let's Go is the integration with Pokémon GO. Players can transfer Pokémon caught in Pokémon GO to these games, which adds a unique dimension for mobile players. The cooperative gameplay also allows two players to explore the Kanto region together on one console, making it a great option for family fun. While these games might not offer the same level of challenge as some of the other main series titles, they are perfect for introducing new players to the franchise and provide a nostalgic trip for older fans. The intuitive controls and engaging gameplay make Pokémon: Let's Go a delightful experience for all ages.
Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield
Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield marked the first brand-new generation of Pokémon games on the Nintendo Switch. Set in the Galar region, which is inspired by the United Kingdom, these games introduce a host of new Pokémon, characters, and gameplay mechanics. The Galar region is vast and diverse, featuring sprawling cities, serene countryside, and rugged wilderness areas, each teeming with unique Pokémon to discover. One of the most significant additions in Sword and Shield is the introduction of the Wild Area, an open-world environment where players can encounter Pokémon in real-time and participate in Max Raid Battles with other players online.
The Dynamax and Gigantamax phenomena are central to the battles in Sword and Shield, allowing Pokémon to grow to enormous sizes and gain powerful new abilities. These battles are visually stunning and add a new layer of strategy to the traditional Pokémon combat. The storyline in Sword and Shield is engaging, with compelling characters and a captivating mystery to unravel. The games also feature a strong emphasis on customization, allowing players to personalize their trainer's appearance with a wide range of clothing and accessories. Whether you're exploring the Wild Area, battling in Gym challenges, or uncovering the secrets of the Dynamax phenomenon, Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield offer a rich and immersive Pokémon experience.
Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Pokémon Shining Pearl
Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Pokémon Shining Pearl are faithful remakes of the Nintendo DS classics, Pokémon Diamond and Pokémon Pearl. These games take players back to the Sinnoh region, a land rich in mythology and natural beauty. The remakes stay true to the original games' storyline, characters, and gameplay mechanics while updating the graphics and adding modern features to enhance the overall experience. The Sinnoh region is home to a diverse range of Pokémon, from the adorable Piplup, Turtwig, and Chimchar to the legendary Dialga and Palkia. Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Pokémon Shining Pearl offer a nostalgic trip for fans of the original games while introducing a new generation of players to the wonders of the Sinnoh region.
One of the key features of these remakes is the updated graphics, which bring the Sinnoh region to life with vibrant colors and detailed environments. The gameplay remains true to the original, with turn-based battles, exploration, and Pokémon catching forming the core of the experience. The Grand Underground is a new addition that allows players to explore an expansive underground network, where they can dig for fossils, build secret bases, and encounter rare Pokémon. The games also feature online connectivity, allowing players to battle and trade Pokémon with friends around the world. If you're a fan of the original Diamond and Pearl games or looking for a classic Pokémon experience on the Nintendo Switch, Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Pokémon Shining Pearl are excellent choices.
Pokémon Legends: Arceus
Pokémon Legends: Arceus is a groundbreaking entry in the Pokémon series, offering a fresh and innovative take on the traditional Pokémon formula. Set in the Hisui region, which would eventually become the Sinnoh region, this game takes place in a bygone era when humans and Pokémon lived in separate worlds. As a member of the Galaxy Expedition Team, your mission is to explore the Hisui region, study Pokémon behavior, and complete the first-ever Pokédex. The gameplay in Arceus is significantly different from previous Pokémon games, with a greater emphasis on exploration, crafting, and real-time action.
In Pokémon Legends: Arceus, you can move freely through the open-world environments, observing Pokémon in their natural habitats and engaging in battles seamlessly. The catching mechanics have also been revamped, allowing you to catch Pokémon without initiating a battle in some cases. The crafting system enables you to create essential items such as Poké Balls, potions, and tools, adding a new layer of depth to the gameplay. The storyline in Arceus is compelling, delving into the mythology of the Pokémon world and exploring the relationship between humans and Pokémon. The game also features stunning visuals and immersive environments, making the Hisui region a joy to explore. If you're looking for a unique and innovative Pokémon experience, Pokémon Legends: Arceus is a must-play.
Spin-Off Pokémon Games on Nintendo Switch
Beyond the main series titles, the Nintendo Switch also offers a variety of spin-off Pokémon games that provide unique and different experiences. These games explore different genres and gameplay mechanics, offering something for every type of player.
New Pokémon Snap
New Pokémon Snap is a long-awaited sequel to the Nintendo 64 classic, Pokémon Snap. In this game, you take on the role of a Pokémon photographer, traveling to various islands in the Lental region to capture stunning photos of Pokémon in their natural habitats. The game features a diverse range of environments, from lush jungles and serene beaches to underwater caves and volcanic landscapes. Each area is teeming with Pokémon, and your goal is to capture the perfect shot of each one.
As you progress through the game, you'll unlock new areas and tools that allow you to interact with Pokémon in different ways. You can throw fluffruit to attract Pokémon, play music to make them dance, and use Illumina orbs to trigger special reactions. The photos you take are scored based on various factors, such as the Pokémon's pose, size, and direction. You can also edit your photos using a variety of filters and stickers before sharing them online with other players. If you enjoy photography, exploration, and Pokémon, New Pokémon Snap is a delightful and relaxing experience.
Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX
Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX is a remake of the original Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Blue Rescue Team and Red Rescue Team games. In this game, 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 gameplay revolves around exploring randomly generated dungeons, battling enemy Pokémon, and completing rescue missions.
As you progress through the game, you'll recruit new Pokémon to your rescue team, each with their own unique abilities and strengths. The dungeons are filled with traps, puzzles, and challenging battles, requiring you to use strategy and teamwork to succeed. The storyline is heartwarming and engaging, with memorable characters and a compelling mystery to unravel. The game also features a charming art style and a catchy soundtrack that will appeal to fans of the original games. If you enjoy roguelike games, dungeon crawling, and Pokémon, Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX is a must-play.
Pokémon Unite
Pokémon Unite is a free-to-play multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) game developed by The Pokémon Company and TiMi Studio Group. In this game, two teams of five players compete against each other in real-time battles, with the goal of scoring more points than the opposing team. The game features a roster of popular Pokémon, each with their own unique abilities and playstyles.
During matches, players earn experience points by defeating wild Pokémon and enemy players, which allows them to level up and evolve their Pokémon. The battles are fast-paced and strategic, requiring players to coordinate with their teammates and make quick decisions. The game also features a variety of customization options, allowing players to personalize their Pokémon's appearance with different outfits and accessories. If you enjoy MOBA games, competitive gameplay, and Pokémon, Pokémon Unite is a fun and addictive experience.
Other Pokémon Games and Apps on Nintendo Switch
In addition to the main series and spin-off titles, there are also a few other Pokémon games and apps available on the Nintendo Switch that offer unique and different experiences.
Pokémon Café ReMix
Pokémon Café ReMix is a free-to-start puzzle game where you run a café for Pokémon. You solve puzzles by linking together Pokémon icons to prepare drinks and dishes for your customers. As you play, you can recruit new Pokémon to your staff, each with their own unique skills and abilities. The game also features a charming art style and a relaxing soundtrack, making it a perfect way to unwind after a long day. It’s a delightful and casual experience that’s easy to pick up and play, offering a sweet treat for Pokémon fans of all ages.
Pokémon HOME
Pokémon HOME is a cloud-based service that allows you to store and manage your Pokémon collection from various Pokémon games. With Pokémon HOME, you can transfer Pokémon from Pokémon GO, Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu!, Pokémon: Let's Go, Eevee!, Pokémon Sword, Pokémon Shield, Pokémon Brilliant Diamond, Pokémon Shining Pearl, and Pokémon Legends: Arceus to a central location. The service also allows you to trade Pokémon with other players around the world and complete challenges to earn rewards. Pokémon HOME is an essential tool for any serious Pokémon collector, providing a convenient and secure way to manage your Pokémon across multiple games.
Conclusion
The Nintendo Switch offers a diverse and exciting range of Pokémon games that cater to all types of players. Whether you're a long-time fan of the series or new to the world of Pokémon, there's something for everyone on this versatile console. From the classic adventures of Pokémon: Let's Go and Pokémon Sword and Shield to the innovative gameplay of Pokémon Legends: Arceus and the unique spin-off titles like New Pokémon Snap and Pokémon Unite, the Nintendo Switch is a Pokémon paradise. So grab your Poké Ball, charge up your Switch, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable Pokémon adventure!