As a lifelong Pokemon trainer and connoisseur of all things Pikachu, I’ve had the pleasure (and occasional frustration) of playing every mainline Pokemon game since the Gameboy days. And let me tell you, the Switch has been a golden era for us trainers!
The Pokémon series has proven its longevity by continuously adapting to suit each new group of trainers aiming to collect them all.
Regardless if you’re opting for a refreshed version of a game initially released on an outdated system, or a brand-new adventure, the Nintendo Switch Lite and OLED models offer a wealth of gaming options for players to enjoy.
If you’re not keen on waiting for the arrival of Switch 2, here’s all the information available on every Pokémon game released for Switch so far!
Read on.
12. Pokémon Quest
Though the distinctive, chunky style of Pokémon Quest’s animation is appealing, the gameplay isn’t as engaging as one might expect. It tends to feel more like a tedious grind, where you often need to sacrifice Pokémon to earn experience and evolve them – something we aren’t comfortable with doing!
Similar to social media platforms, it’s incredibly hard to resist yet not always entertaining. The microtransactions can be alluring in an unhealthy way since progress can feel slow when assembling the perfect team. However, its charm is undeniable. If you’re seeking a strategically engaging game that might consume your time, you could certainly find one with a less appealing design than Pokémon Quest.
Download Pokémon Quest free on Nintendo eShop.
11. Pokémon Café ReMix
This game, unlike those focusing on Pokémon training and battles, is primarily a charming, family-oriented puzzle game. Known as Pokémon Café ReMix, it’s a delightful choice for all ages to pick up at any time. The environment takes place in a café, where diverse Pokémon collaborate in a series of mini-games, such as preparing drinks.
The drawbacks include the use of micro-transactions and the touch-screen-only format, but the beautiful art design and engaging puzzles make it quite enjoyable and satisfying!
Download Pokémon Café ReMix free on Nintendo eShop
10. Detective Pikachu Returns
An unexpected sequel to an unforeseen 2016 Nintendo 3DS game features a crime-solving, coffee-loving, verbose Pikachu that astonishingly received live-action movie adaptation rather than any other Pokémon franchise. For a second time, Pikachu and Tim Goodman team up as detectives in the city of Ryme – this time tackling the case of Harry Goodman, Tim’s father and Detective Pikachu’s missing partner.
In the final months of 2023, Detective Pikachu Returns garnered a mix of opinions upon release. While some admirers and critics alike applauded its distinctive detective mechanics and found its whimsicality endearing, others criticized it for being overly simple and lacking depth.
Reckon you’re a Pokémon master? Pit your wits against our Pokémon quiz below!
9. Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX
Similar to Pokémon Quest, what’s most captivating about this 2020 launch is its unique visual design. Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX is essentially a modernized version of the Nintendo DS games, Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Blue Rescue Team and Red Rescue Team. This game combines elements from both the popular Pokémon series and the roguelike Mystery Dungeon franchise.
As a fan, I must admit that the painterly aesthetic truly captivates me. However, when it comes to gameplay, I find it quite repetitive and the dungeons seem to lack the creativity that I experienced back in the 2005 original. It’s not that there isn’t enjoyment to be found here, but I can’t help but feel that I’m not getting much more than what I did over a decade ago.
8. Pokémon Unite
The venture of Pokémon into the Multiplayer Online Battle Arena (MOBA) genre didn’t quite live up to the anticipation of Pokémon fans who are also DOTA or League of Legends players. One might describe it as a lighter version of MOBA games, following a similar structure as these well-known games but with less intensity. This could be because of the Pokémon theme, which is geared towards a younger audience.
However, it’s free-to-play, and not a bad way to spend a rainy afternoon.
Download Pokémon Unite free on Nintendo eShop
7. Pokken Tournament DX
In a straightforward and conversational style: This Wii U port is just as quirky and unique as it was back in 2015. Bandai Namco, appropriately, developed this fighting game. Instead of Paul Phoenix and Heihachi, you’ll find your favorite Pikachu and Charizard taking their places, with the game drawing heavily from Tekken.
Given the massive fanbase of Pokémon, it was inevitable that a fighting simulator game based on the franchise would eventually be launched, considering many fans might find turn-based combat less engaging over time. However, compared to games like Tekken, the novelty wears off relatively quickly.
6. Pokémon Scarlet and Violet
This particular event is still making headlines due to its recently released DLC expansion, and you can find our review of Pokémon Scarlet and Violet right here. Upon release, Pokémon Scarlet and Violet stirred up some debate, primarily due to its buggy gameplay and unimpressive visuals. However, it’s worth noting that previous Pokémon games ran smoothly, while Xenoblade Chronicles 3 demonstrates the aesthetic potential of open-world games on the Nintendo Switch.
The situation indicates that the developers have bitten off more than they can chew, with their projects being overly complex and insufficient time allocated for completion. However, the grandeur of the project should be acknowledged, and if one overlooks the technical glitches, there’s a touch of enchantment to be discovered within it.
5. Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl
This latest version of a ’00s DS game is believed to surpass the popularity of Mystery Dungeon, with the remake of 2006’s Diamond and Pearl being no exception. However, some might argue that this remake was overly loyal – lacking innovation – but we see it as a respectful tribute instead.
This game brings to mind the straightforward nature of early Pokémon games, and we’re hoping future editions will return to those uncomplicated roots. We’ve learned that ambition can sometimes be a double-edged sword, as seen in the launch of Scarlet and Violet.
4. Pokémon: Let’s Go, Pikachu! and Let’s Go, Eevee!
It’s clear that remakes can be profitable, but it feels like there are too many Pokémon remakes for the Switch. Fortunately, Let’s Go, Pikachu! and Let’s Go, Eevee! have held their ground quite well.
Most likely, this is due to the fact that the original game was introduced as far back as 1999 (specifically Pokémon Yellow). As such, the new update represents more of a different game altogether. Similar to how Yellow did in its time, it seamlessly blends the game’s world with the anime’s, creating a harmonious connection between the two.
3. New Pokémon Snap
For aspiring or even seasoned photographers (including those in the profession), this follow-up to the legendary 1999 rail-snapping game is a definite must-have. Similar to its original version, but now set within the Lental region and featuring newer generations of Pokémon waiting to be captured on camera.
Instead of engaging in combat with adorable critters, many of us find it much more pleasant to photograph them. With its stunning landscapes, diverse cast of creatures, and flexibility to observe them throughout various parts of the day, New Pokémon Snap offers an excellent choice for relaxing gaming sessions.
2. Pokémon Legends: Arceus
As a passionate cinephile, let me share my thoughts on “Acreus,” a film set in Japan’s Muromachi era, inspired by the island of Hokkaido, known as Hisui in this tale. This cinematic masterpiece was the refreshing breeze that the franchise craved for, much like Scarlet and Violet did not always find favor in the bold, Acreus proved that the saying “fortune favors the bold” truly applies to it.
Placed in a unique historical era with novel gameplay elements, the game might not claim the number one position due to its less-than-perfect visuals. Dive deeper into our Pokémon Legends: Arceus review for further insights!
1. Pokémon Sword and Shield
To start, it’s worth noting that the initial installment of the mainline series to appear on a home console, not a handheld device, turned out to be one of the franchise’s strongest entries, regardless of being on the Nintendo Switch. Previously time-consuming tasks were simplified for this version, and while removing some existing Pokémon stirred debate, both Sword and Shield received high praise from critics.
People in the UK may find the Galar region reminiscent of an island, and its steampunk atmosphere is particularly appealing to many. Launched in 2019, Pokémon Sword and Shield remains a favorite game even now.
But Pokémon Sword and Shield from Amazon
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2024-12-12 19:39