Credit: SacredAlmighty
Gotta switch ‘em all!
It’s hard to believe that the Nintendo Switch is already six years old! In that short time, it has already seen more Pokémon games than some of its predecessors had in their entire lifetimes. With such a massive following, it’s not surprising that the recent release of Pokémon Scarlet and Violet has caused quite a stir. Some people even say the Switch might outpace other consoles like the 3DS. It’s exciting to see what’s next for this fantastic console!
11 Switch Pokemon Games Ranked
But with so many options available, the question arises: Which Pokemon games are worth your time? Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a newcomer to the battle scene, picking your next game can be tricky. That’s where this article of ours comes in handy.
11. Pokemon Quest
Pokémon Quest is an action-adventure game that can be free on iOS and Android devices. The game offers a unique Minecraft-inspired take on the Pokémon universe, featuring blocky versions of the beloved Kanto-region Pokémon. Although the game received negative feedback upon its release in 2018 due to its energy system and repetitive gameplay, critics commend the game for its accessibility, making it an easy pick-up-and-play option for casual gamers.
10. Pokemon Cafe ReMix
Regarding mobile gaming, Pokémon Café Mix is a step above Pokémon Quest. Although released in 2020, the game received mixed reviews due to its mediocre free-to-play puzzle game experience. Some players found the puzzles too easy, and others were disappointed with the game’s touchscreen controls, which require handheld mode. However, the game’s charming art and unintrusive microtransactions have kept it from obscurity.
9. Pokemon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX
As someone who grew up loving the Pokemon Mystery Dungeon series, I was thrilled to hear that a new title had been released for the Nintendo Switch. However, I was disappointed with the modernized remake. While the updated graphics and character roster are charming, it didn’t improve upon the original game significantly.
8. Pokemon UNITE
Pokémon Unite has been well-received for its gameplay, but some have criticized its use of microtransactions. While the game seamlessly integrates the Pokémon franchise into the MOBA genre, there is concern that the focus on monetization may not be in line with the kid-friendly nature of the game. However, with the potential for endless additions of new Pokémon, there is a promising future for the game’s longevity.
7. Pokken Tournament DX
Playing this game with friends in co-op mode can be a delightful experience. Whether you’re competing for bragging rights or engaging in online play, the game offers a decent roster of Pokemon with unique playstyles. Each specimen on the roster comes with special finisher moves and victory animations, making the experience even more thrilling.
The best part is that the controls are surprisingly easy to pick up, making it accessible to casual players. It’s a fun game with a high success rate that everyone can enjoy.
6. Pokemon Brilliant Diamond & Shining Pearl
Critics have generally received Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl positively, citing it as an ideal starting point for returning Pokémon players and an excellent choice for fans of the original DS games. However, some critics have noted that the remakes lack significant innovation and new features that could have elevated them to greater heights.
5. New Pokemon Snap
New Pokémon Snap is a beloved Nintendo 64 game that has returned on the Switch. In this game, players get to assume the role of a Pokémon photographer who travels to the Lental region to assist Professor Mirror with research. As players embark on photo expeditions, they experience an exciting on-rail adventure and capture stunning pictures of Pokémon in their natural habitats.
Players are evaluated based on the quality of their photos, which is determined by factors such as the target’s proximity or whether the Pokémon is facing the camera. Players can also use items to entice rarer Pokémon or improve their current situations, such as waking up a sleeping Pokémon.
New Pokémon Snap has received positive reviews, earning it a place among the best Pokémon Switch games. Critics have praised its immersive nature, and many have expressed appreciation for the added features and depth that enhance a decades-old formula.
4. Pokemon Sword & Shield
Sword and Shield is a captivating role-playing game that takes players on an exciting adventure through a world of magical creatures. With a setting inspired by the United Kingdom, this latest installment incorporates the best elements of past games while introducing innovative features and improvements.
Fans of the franchise will appreciate how the game manages to keep the essence of what makes Pokémon great while also introducing new and exciting gameplay mechanics. Critics have praised the game for its streamlined activities and the introduction of the Dynamax feature, which has reinvigorated battles. Overall, Sword and Shield perfectly balances keeping long-time fans happy while welcoming newcomers to the franchise.
3. Pokemon Scarlet & Violet
The Pokemon series has taken a step in a new direction with Scarlet & Violet, despite their struggles with buggy gameplay and performance limitations due to the Switch’s hardware. These titles offer an enjoyable open-world approach to gameplay, with three different Story Paths that can be completed in any order as players roam the Paldea Region with their trusted companions, Miraidon or Koraidon.
The multiplayer functions have also improved, allowing up to four friends to explore Paldea in real-time. Trainers can run, jump, swim, fly across the lands, collect rare Paldean Pokemon, and even explore the infamous Area Zero after completing the Story Paths. Scarlet & Violet may not be the best Pokemon Switch game, but it is a promising sign of where the mainline series could go and is an enjoyable experience to share with friends. Check out our Review of Pokemon Scarlet & Violet for a more detailed overview.
2. Pokemon: Let’s Go, Pikachu! & Let’s Go, Eevee!
The release of Pokemon Let’s Go Eevee & Let’s Go Pikachu on Nintendo Switch was a significant milestone for the franchise since it was the first time the mainline games were available on this platform. These games are remakes of the beloved Kanto region and incorporate popular elements from Pokemon Go, offering a unique experience.
Players can have a unique partner in their adventure, complete with customizable accessories, by choosing either Let’s Go Eevee or Let’s Go Pikachu. Moreover, the games feature Pokemon in the overworld for the first time in the series. Whether a seasoned veteran of Kanto or a newcomer to the region, the Let’s Go games provide an excellent opportunity to explore and enjoy the iconic setting.
1. Pokemon Legends: Arceus
Scarlet & Violet was one of many games to offer an open-world experience for players. Pokemon Legends: Arceus introduced a refreshing take on the franchise by transporting players back in time to an ancient version of the Sinnoh Region called Hisui. This unique setting allowed fans to explore and uncover the history of one of the most beloved regions in the franchise.
One of the most exciting changes in Legends: Arceus is how players catch Pokemon. By sneaking up on wild specimens, throwing Pokeballs, or engaging in battle, the experience has become much more enjoyable. Additionally, trainers can take damage and faint for the first time, adding an extra layer of excitement to exploration and battles.
Overall, Pokemon Legends: Arceus is a fantastic game that offers something genuinely unique, and until the possibility of another Legends game arises, there’s nothing quite like it. It’s no wonder it’s considered the best Pokemon game for the Switch.
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