The Pokemon series has left its mark on nearly every Nintendo console, from the Game Boy to the 3DS, and the Nintendo Switch is no exception.
The system offers a wide variety of main series titles and spin-off games for you to enjoy, ensuring that you’ll always have plenty of Pokemon content to keep you entertained on the Switch.
However, given the wide range of options at your disposal, it can be challenging to determine which games are truly worth your time.
Whether you’re an experienced trainer or new to the world of Pokemon battles, choosing your next game can be a challenging decision.
It all comes down to whether you prefer the classic Pokemon adventure or something unique in the vast and captivating world of Pokemon.
Here Are Some Of The Best Games On Nintendo Switch
12. Pokemon Cafe ReMix
This game, originally known as Pokemon Cafe Mix on Nintendo Switch, lets you run a delightful cafe where you can serve delicious treats to adorable Pokemon.
You have the option to hire Pokemon to join you in the cafe once you’ve provided them with enough service.
Isn’t it adorable? If you happen to be fortunate, a Shiny Pokemon might just happen to stumble upon your cafe, providing you with even greater motivation to continue dishing out those delightful treats.
Regardless of your past experiences with customer service, Pokemon Cafe ReMix is a delightful puzzle game that you should definitely give a shot.
11. Detective Pikachu Returns
Detective Pikachu on Nintendo Switch gained a significant following on the 3DS, but its popularity skyrocketed with the release of the 2019 movie.
The beloved detective has arrived on the Nintendo Switch in 2023, ready to tackle a fresh case and unravel new mysteries in Detective Pikachu Returns.
Although Pikachu remains a charming and amusing character, the graphics and gameplay in this version fall short of the original.
Nevertheless, Detective Pikachu Returns remains an enjoyable experience, particularly if you’re seeking a relaxed and mellow adventure in the Pokemon universe that deviates from the typical mainline games.
10. Pokemon Quest
Step aside pixel sprites and 3D models — Pokemon have embraced a new cubed form. Explore Tumblecube Island in Pokemon Quest on Nintendo Switch, where your main objective is to search for valuable loot.
Return to your base camp to utilize your loot and prepare delectable dishes to entice fresh Pokemon for your expedition team. In addition, you have the option to decorate your base camp to add a personal touch.
It’s always enjoyable to have a bit of customization.
Adorable, enjoyable and fulfilling, Pokemon Quest is a relaxed game that you can revisit whenever you crave a dose of Pokemon in your life.
9. Pokemon Unite
Want to try a fresh approach to Pokemon battles? Pokemon Unite is here to provide you with all the coverage you need. In this game, you can enjoy playing with a team of five against another team of five.
The goal is to score the most points by defeating wild Pokemon, leveling up your own Pokemon, and taking down the Pokemon on the opposing team.
Collaboration is essential in this game, as you’ll need to work harmoniously with the other four players on your team, which is a unique feature in the Pokemon series.
Players have the option to enhance their Pokemon’s appearance with Holowear, which allows for a personalized touch to their gameplay.
8. Pokemon Brilliant Diamond & Shining Pearl
For fans of the Sinnoh region, the long-awaited remakes of the 2006 games Pokemon Diamond and Pearl have finally arrived on Nintendo Switch.
In Pokemon Brilliant Diamond & Shining Pearl, the original’s pixel art style has been replaced with 3D graphics, giving Dawn, Lucas, and other beloved Sinnoh characters a cute chibi makeover.
Although the core adventure remained intact, Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl also brought forth some fresh elements. One notable addition is the inclusion of areas within the Grand Underground where you have the opportunity to encounter a diverse range of Pokemon.
Nevertheless, considering the lingering presence of certain debatable decisions from the original games in the remakes, one cannot help but ponder why the Pokemon Company opted not to incorporate the enhancements introduced in Pokemon Platinum.
7. Pokemon Mystery Dungeon Rescue Team DX
If you happened to have missed the incredible Pokemon Mystery Dungeon Red Rescue Team and Blue Rescue Team on the Game Boy Advance and Nintendo DS during the early 2000s, fear not!
You now have the opportunity to embark on an exciting adventure with Pokemon Mystery Dungeon Rescue Team DX.
As a remake, it combines the best of both games, with a delightful high-definition, watercolour-like art style that captures the charm of the original. In the game, you have the opportunity to transform into a Pokemon and create your very own rescue team.
This transformation occurs after completing a fun quiz that determines which Pokemon best matches your unique personality.
Get ready for an exciting adventure! Just like its name implies, you’ll have the opportunity to delve into enigmatic dungeons that have the ability to transform with each new visit.
If you’re looking for a fresh take on Pokemon that offers a unique experience, Mystery Dungeon is the perfect choice.
6. Pokken Tournament DX
Pokken Tournament DX, the debut Pokemon game on the Nintendo Switch, draws inspiration from the Tekken series to create an exciting arcade-style fighting experience.
Even though it was originally a Wii U game, the Switch version introduced additional Pokemon that you could choose to battle with, such as Darkrai and Scizor.
The Switch version, however, didn’t bring many additional features.
It did offer slightly improved graphics and the convenience of playing the game anywhere without the burden of carrying the bulky Wii U gamepad.
5. Pokemon Let’s Go Eevee & Let’s Go Pikachu
Pokemon The arrival of Let’s Go Eevee & Let’s Go Pikachu on the Nintendo Switch marked a significant milestone for the Pokemon franchise.
These games, as remakes of the beloved Kanto region, cleverly incorporated elements from the immensely popular Pokemon Go, creating a delightful fusion of nostalgia and modern gameplay.
Based on your choice between Let’s Go Eevee or Let’s Go Pikachu, you’ll be able to embark on this adventure with a unique Eevee or Pikachu as your companion.
Additionally, you’ll have the opportunity to accessorize them with cute outfits. In these games, Pokemon can be found roaming around in the overworld, which was a first for the series when they were initially released.
Whether you’re a newcomer to Kanto or a seasoned visitor, the Let’s Go games offer a fantastic opportunity to explore the region.
4. New Pokemon Snap
New Pokemon Snap on Nintendo Switch, a sequel to the beloved 1999 game Pokemon Snap, captures the essence of the original with its familiar tones.
Discover the world of Pokemon by capturing them in their natural habitats, beyond the confines of tall grass. Take stunning photos of these fascinating creatures.
To make progress, it’s important to capture photos of various Pokemon behaviors instead of just any old photo. Experience a whole new perspective on Pokemon with the captivating world of New Pokemon Snap.
The game’s inherent charm is enough to entice players, but the added allure of capturing photos of legendary Pokemon, such as Mew, adds an extra layer of intrigue.
3. Pokemon Sword & Shield
Pokemon Sword & Shield welcomed us to Generation 8 and introduced us to the captivating region of Galar, drawing inspiration from the rich tapestry of Great Britain.
There were more than 80 new Pokemon to discover, such as the powerful Dragapult and the irresistibly cute Polteageist.
The games also introduced Max Raid battles, allowing players to join forces with others (or computer-controlled characters) to take down and capture Dynamaxed Pokemon in the expansive Wild Area.
Although the graphics didn’t quite reach the level of other first-party games on the Switch, Sword & Shield provided a delightful adventure in a fresh region, complete with thrilling multiplayer features.
2. Pokemon Scarlet & Violet
Pokemon Scarlet & Violet mark the series’ exciting venture into the open-world genre. Feel free to explore the region of Paldea at your own pace and embark on three unique storylines whenever you please.
There are numerous new and returning Pokemon waiting to be caught, providing ample incentive to thoroughly explore the region.
However, the games are affected by graphical limitations, which unfortunately result in bugs and glitches that detract from the overall experience.
Maybe Pokemon had lofty ambitions and a tight development schedule. Scarlet and Violet could have been the greatest Pokemon games to date if they had been more polished, but unfortunately, that’s not the case.
1. Pokemon Legends: Arceus
When Pokemon Legends: Arceus was released, it was clear that the Pokemon formula was ready for a refreshing change.
Fortunately, Legends: Arceus has certainly lived up to expectations and appears to have revolutionized the series.
You can freely roam through expansive landscapes and observe Pokemon in their native environments (and even evade their attacks if they happen to notice you).
Located in the Hisui region prior to its transformation into Sinnoh, this game transports you to the past through the intervention of the mythical Pokemon, Arceus.
Upon your arrival, all you have is your cozy pyjamas. What other fun activities are there besides trying to catch as many Pokemon as possible?
Legends: Arceus stands out from other Pokemon games in the series and for all the right reasons.
