Top Pokémon Games On Nintendo Switch: A Detailed Guide
Hey Pokémon fans! If you're diving into the world of Nintendo Switch and wondering which Pokémon games are worth your time, you've come to the right place. The Nintendo Switch has become a fantastic hub for Pokémon adventures, offering everything from classic remakes to innovative new experiences. Let’s explore the best Pokémon games on Nintendo Switch, giving you a comprehensive guide to make the most of your gaming experience.
Pokémon Sword and Shield
Pokémon Sword and Shield marked the beginning of the eighth generation of Pokémon and introduced players to the vibrant Galar region. This region is heavily inspired by the United Kingdom, featuring sprawling landscapes, industrial cities, and charming countryside. One of the standout features of Pokémon Sword and Shield is the introduction of the Wild Area, a vast, open-world zone where players can encounter a variety of Pokémon that change with the weather and time of day. This area brought a new level of exploration and excitement to the Pokémon series, making each playthrough feel unique.
Gameplay and Features:
One of the key mechanics introduced in Pokémon Sword and Shield is Dynamaxing and Gigantamaxing. Dynamaxing allows Pokémon to grow to an enormous size during battles, significantly boosting their power. Gigantamaxing takes this a step further by also changing the Pokémon’s appearance. These features add a strategic layer to battles, making them more dynamic and visually impressive. Raids, where players team up to battle Dynamaxed Pokémon, are also a major part of the game, fostering a sense of community and cooperation.
The storyline of Pokémon Sword and Shield revolves around the player becoming the Champion of the Galar region. Along the way, you’ll encounter rivals, gym leaders, and the mysterious threat of Eternatus. While the story may not be the most complex in the series, it provides a solid foundation for the gameplay and exploration. The characters, particularly your rivals and gym leaders, are memorable and add charm to the overall experience. The game’s post-game content includes the Crown Tundra and Isle of Armor expansions, which add new areas to explore, new Pokémon to catch, and further storylines to delve into. These expansions significantly extend the playtime and offer even more for players to enjoy.
Why it's a great choice:
Pokémon Sword and Shield are great choices because they blend traditional Pokémon gameplay with modern innovations. The Wild Area offers a taste of open-world exploration, while Dynamaxing and Gigantamaxing add a fresh dynamic to battles. The Galar region is beautifully designed, and the variety of Pokémon to catch keeps the game engaging. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the series, Pokémon Sword and Shield provide a memorable and enjoyable experience on the Nintendo Switch.
Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee!
Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee! are reimagined versions of the original Pokémon Yellow game, designed to introduce a new generation of players to the Kanto region. These games offer a simplified and more accessible experience, making them perfect for newcomers while still retaining the charm and nostalgia that fans love. The integration with Pokémon GO allows players to transfer Pokémon caught in the mobile game to Let's Go, bridging the gap between the mobile and console experiences.
Gameplay and Features:
One of the most notable features of Pokémon: Let's Go is the revamped catching mechanics. Instead of battling wild Pokémon, players use a throwing motion similar to Pokémon GO to catch Pokémon. This simplified approach makes catching Pokémon quick and easy, encouraging players to catch as many as possible. The games also introduce a partner Pokémon—Pikachu or Eevee—that accompanies the player on their journey, riding on their shoulder or head and interacting with the environment.
The storyline of Pokémon: Let's Go follows the same basic plot as Pokémon Yellow, with the player traveling through the Kanto region to defeat the Elite Four and become the Pokémon Champion. Along the way, you’ll battle familiar gym leaders, encounter Team Rocket, and discover the secrets of legendary Pokémon. The story is straightforward and easy to follow, making it ideal for younger players or those new to the series. The games also feature cooperative multiplayer, allowing two players to explore the Kanto region together, adding a fun social element to the gameplay.
Why it's a great choice:
Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee! are excellent choices for players looking for a nostalgic and accessible Pokémon experience. The simplified gameplay mechanics make it easy to pick up and play, while the integration with Pokémon GO adds a unique twist. The Kanto region is brought to life with vibrant graphics and charming animations, making it a joy to explore. Whether you’re reliving your childhood or discovering Pokémon for the first time, Let's Go offers a delightful and engaging adventure on the Nintendo Switch.
Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl
Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl are faithful remakes of the Nintendo DS classics, Pokémon Diamond and Pearl. These games bring the Sinnoh region to the Nintendo Switch with updated graphics and modern features while staying true to the original gameplay and story. For longtime fans, Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl offer a nostalgic trip down memory lane, while new players can experience the charm of the Sinnoh region for the first time.
Gameplay and Features:
Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl retain the traditional turn-based battle system that fans know and love. The games introduce updated graphics, bringing the Sinnoh region to life with vibrant colors and detailed environments. One of the new features is the Grand Underground, a vast underground area where players can dig for fossils, build secret bases, and encounter rare Pokémon. This adds a new layer of exploration and discovery to the game.
The storyline of Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl follows the player’s journey to become the Pokémon Champion of the Sinnoh region. Along the way, you’ll encounter Team Galactic, a villainous organization seeking to control the legendary Pokémon Dialga and Palkia. The story explores themes of creation and destruction, with the player playing a crucial role in saving the region from Team Galactic’s plans. The games also feature a variety of side quests and optional activities, providing plenty of content for players to enjoy beyond the main storyline.
Why it's a great choice:
Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl are great choices for players who appreciate classic Pokémon gameplay with a modern twist. The faithful recreation of the Sinnoh region will appeal to longtime fans, while the updated graphics and new features make it accessible to new players. The Grand Underground adds a new dimension to exploration, and the engaging storyline keeps players invested. Whether you’re revisiting Sinnoh or exploring it for the first time, Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl offer a satisfying and enjoyable Pokémon experience on the Nintendo Switch.
Pokémon Legends: Arceus
Pokémon Legends: Arceus is a groundbreaking entry in the Pokémon series, offering a fresh take on the traditional formula. Set in the ancient Hisui region (which would later become the Sinnoh region), Arceus combines open-world exploration with action-based gameplay, creating a unique and immersive experience. This game marks a significant departure from previous titles, emphasizing exploration, research, and Pokémon behavior.
Gameplay and Features:
One of the standout features of Pokémon Legends: Arceus is its open-world environment. Players can freely explore the Hisui region, encountering Pokémon in their natural habitats. Catching Pokémon is more dynamic, requiring players to sneak up on Pokémon and throw Poké Balls in real-time. Battles seamlessly transition from the overworld, with players able to move around during battles, adding a new layer of strategy. The game also introduces crafting, allowing players to create items such as Poké Balls and potions using resources gathered from the environment.
The storyline of Pokémon Legends: Arceus revolves around the player joining the Galaxy Expedition Team and tasked with creating the first-ever Pokédex. As you explore the Hisui region, you’ll encounter various tribes and factions, each with their own beliefs and customs. The story delves into the mythology of Pokémon, exploring the origins of Pokémon and the legendary Pokémon Arceus. The game also features a compelling narrative with engaging characters and unexpected twists.
Why it's a great choice:
Pokémon Legends: Arceus is a must-play for Pokémon fans looking for a fresh and innovative experience. The open-world exploration, action-based gameplay, and engaging storyline set it apart from previous titles. The Hisui region is beautifully designed, and the dynamic Pokémon encounters make each playthrough feel unique. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the series, Arceus offers a thrilling and immersive adventure on the Nintendo Switch.
New Pokémon Snap
New Pokémon Snap is a long-awaited sequel to the Nintendo 64 classic, bringing the joy of Pokémon photography to the Nintendo Switch. Set in the Lental region, New Pokémon Snap puts players in the role of a Pokémon photographer, tasked with capturing the best snapshots of Pokémon in their natural habitats. The game combines relaxing gameplay with stunning visuals, making it a delightful experience for Pokémon fans of all ages.
Gameplay and Features:
In New Pokémon Snap, players ride in an on-rails vehicle called the NEO-ONE, traveling through various environments in the Lental region. Your goal is to take photos of Pokémon, using items such as fruit and Illumina orbs to provoke reactions and capture unique poses. The photos are then graded based on factors such as pose, size, and composition. The game features a wide variety of Pokémon, each with their own behaviors and interactions, making each run feel fresh and exciting.
The storyline of New Pokémon Snap involves investigating the Illumina phenomenon, a mysterious energy that causes Pokémon to glow. As you explore the Lental region, you’ll uncover the secrets of the Illumina phenomenon and discover the connection between the Pokémon and the environment. The game also features a research lab where you can review your photos, complete research tasks, and learn more about the Pokémon of the Lental region.
Why it's a great choice:
New Pokémon Snap is a fantastic choice for players looking for a relaxing and visually stunning Pokémon experience. The on-rails gameplay is easy to pick up and play, while the variety of Pokémon and environments keeps the game engaging. The photo grading system adds a layer of depth, encouraging players to experiment with different techniques and capture the perfect shot. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the original or new to the series, New Pokémon Snap offers a charming and enjoyable adventure on the Nintendo Switch.
Conclusion
The Nintendo Switch offers a diverse range of Pokémon games, each with its own unique appeal. From the open-world exploration of Pokémon Legends: Arceus to the nostalgic charm of Pokémon: Let's Go, there’s something for every type of Pokémon fan. Whether you’re a seasoned trainer or new to the series, these games provide countless hours of fun and adventure. So grab your Nintendo Switch, choose your Pokémon, and embark on an unforgettable journey!