Ranking The Best & Worst Pokémon Games On Nintendo Switch!
Hey Pokémon trainers! Let's dive into the world of Nintendo Switch Pokémon games! The Switch has become a powerhouse for Pokémon adventures, bringing us a mix of classic remakes, fresh new experiences, and everything in between. But with so many games to choose from, how do you know which ones are worth your time (and your hard-earned PokéDollars)? Don’t worry, guys, I've got you covered. We're going to rank the Pokémon games available on the Nintendo Switch, from the absolute best to those that might leave you a little… underwhelmed. Get ready for a journey through the highs and lows of the Pokémon universe on the Switch. This list is based on a combination of factors, including gameplay, story, innovation, and overall enjoyment. So, grab your Poké Balls, and let's get started!
The Champions: Top-Tier Pokémon Adventures on Switch
Pokémon Legends: Arceus - A Breath of Fresh Air
Let's kick things off with a game that shook up the Pokémon formula, Pokémon Legends: Arceus. This game isn't just good; it's a genuine evolution for the series. Instead of the traditional turn-based battles and linear routes, Arceus throws you into a vast, open-world environment inspired by the Sinnoh region's ancient past. Think of it as a historical adventure, guys! You're tasked with researching Pokémon behavior, completing research tasks, and building the first Pokédex. The gameplay is where Arceus truly shines. Instead of the usual random encounters, Pokémon roam freely in the world, allowing you to sneak up on them, battle them directly, or even try to catch them by surprise. This changes everything, and it's a blast! The combat system blends action with turn-based elements, keeping you on your toes and making every encounter exciting. The story is engaging and provides a new perspective on the Pokémon world. The sense of exploration and discovery is unparalleled, making it a must-play for any Pokémon fan. The gameplay offers a fresh, dynamic experience that makes the familiar world of Pokémon feel new. Also, the world-building is fantastic, allowing players to feel fully immersed in the ancient Hisui region. Pokémon Legends: Arceus is a game that truly deserves the title of a champion.
Pokémon Sword and Shield - A Solid Entry
Next up, we have Pokémon Sword and Shield, which are a bit more traditional. These games brought the Pokémon series to the Nintendo Switch with a beautiful new region: the Galar region. The Galar region is heavily inspired by the United Kingdom, and the whole atmosphere is pretty cool. You'll explore vibrant towns, vast wilderness areas, and, of course, the iconic Pokémon Gyms. The Wild Area is a significant addition, allowing you to freely roam, battle Dynamax Pokémon, and team up with other players online. The gameplay has many familiar aspects such as catching, training, and battling your Pokémon. The gym battles are now more engaging than ever with their Dynamax feature, which lets your Pokémon grow to gigantic sizes. The story, while a bit predictable, is still enjoyable and filled with memorable characters. The graphics are a huge step up from previous games, and the soundtrack is absolutely amazing. While Pokémon Sword and Shield don't reinvent the wheel, they offer a polished and enjoyable Pokémon experience. The gameplay is great for both newcomers and veteran players.
The Contenders: Solid Pokémon Games That You'll Enjoy
Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl - A Nostalgic Journey
Okay, let's go back in time a bit, shall we? Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl are faithful remakes of the original Diamond and Pearl versions. They bring the classic Sinnoh region to life with updated visuals and a few quality-of-life improvements. The gameplay is very close to the originals, with a few modern touches. You'll recognize the familiar gameplay loop of catching, training, and battling Pokémon, but the graphics have received a major overhaul. The chibi art style might not be for everyone, but it certainly gives the game a unique charm. The story and characters are the same as the originals, but the updated visuals make it even more enjoyable. The battle system is very smooth and keeps the essence of the originals. The remakes include some welcome features like the Grand Underground, where you can explore various Pokémon habitats, and a more streamlined experience in general. Overall, Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl are great if you're looking for a dose of nostalgia. It's a fantastic trip down memory lane for long-time fans who want to revisit the Sinnoh region, but with a fresh coat of paint. This is also a perfect option for new players who want to experience the older games.
Pokémon Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee! - A Charming Adventure
Next up, we have the Pokémon Let's Go games. These are remakes of the original Pokémon Yellow game, designed to be more accessible for new players. The gameplay is simplified and features a unique catching mechanic that uses motion controls (similar to Pokémon GO). The games are incredibly charming, with a focus on capturing the spirit of the original games. The graphics are colorful and vibrant, and the Pokémon themselves are adorable. The story is familiar, but the simplified gameplay and easy controls make it a great introduction to the Pokémon world. If you want a more casual experience, the Let's Go games are great! The games' charming visuals and friendly gameplay make them great entries for younger players.
The Middle Ground: Games That Are Okay
Pokémon HOME
Pokémon HOME is a cloud-based service, so it is not a Pokémon game. It is designed to act as a storage facility for your Pokémon. You can transfer Pokémon between different games and trade with others. While it doesn't offer a traditional gameplay experience, it's essential for anyone serious about collecting and organizing their Pokémon. It is a good choice for those who are just starting out.
The Bottom of the Barrel: Pokémon Games That Miss the Mark
I am not going to include any games that are bad, but I hope you enjoy this ranking!