These are my top 5 Pokémon games on Nintendo Switch 2 — including a controversial entry, and one that you may have forgotten
Top 5 Pokémon Games on Nintendo Switch 2 – Ranked by a True Fan
I’ve been a Pokémon fanatic since Pokémon Black and White launched when I was 10, and since then I’ve made it my mission to play every mainline game and many spin-offs. After the Switch 2 brought a wave of Pokémon titles, I decided to rank the best Pokémon games you can play right now on Nintendo’s latest hybrid console.
From nostalgic remakes to groundbreaking open-world adventures, here are my top 5 picks—plus a few honorable mentions. Let’s dive in!
5. Pokémon Scarlet and Violet
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|  | *(Image credit: Nintendo / The Pokémon Company)* |
I know, I know—Scarlet and Violet had a rocky launch with performance issues. But the free Switch 2 upgrade changed everything, boosting resolution and smoothing out framerates. Now they feel so much better to play.
These games broke the mold with a non-linear story structure: collect gym badges, defeat Team Star, or hunt down Titan Pokémon. The open world was a big leap from Sword and Shield, even if it’s not perfect. I loved the ambition, the characters, and the iconic new Pokémon like Lechonk and Tatsugiri.
Verdict: Far from perfect, but ambitious and fun—especially if you love open-world exploration.
4. Pokémon Legends: Arceus
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|  | *(Image credit: Nintendo / The Pokémon Company / Game Freak)* |
Pokémon Legends: Arceus was a game-changer. It introduced vast open areas, rideable Pokémon, and a fresh mission-based structure focused on building the Hisui region’s Pokédex. The battle system got a twist with Agile and Strong attacks, and the ability to take damage from wild Pokémon made encounters more intense.
Catching Pokémon is surprisingly fun here—throwing Poké Balls from a distance at giant alpha Pokémon is incredibly satisfying. The game looks even better on Switch 2 thanks to the new Handheld Mode Boost.
Verdict: A bold, refreshing take on Pokémon that’s worth playing, especially with the visual upgrade.
3. Pokkén Tournament DX
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|  | *(Image credit: Nintendo / The Pokémon Company)* |
Pokkén Tournament DX is a hidden gem. Originally an arcade hit, this Pokémon fighting game blends 2D and 3D mechanics in a way that feels fresh and exciting. The character roster is stellar, featuring fan-favorites and niche picks alike.
The Practice mode is perfect for learning combos, and there’s even a story mode to progress through. With the Switch 2’s Handheld Mode Boost, it looks better than ever.
Verdict: One of the best Pokémon spin-offs—perfect for fighting game fans and Pokémon lovers alike.
2. Pokémon FireRed and LeafGreen
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|  | *(Image credit: Nintendo / The Pokémon Company / Game Freak)* |
These remakes of Pokémon Red and Blue are pure nostalgia gold. FireRed and LeafGreen deliver perfectly balanced gameplay, great pacing, and the original 151 Pokémon looking better than ever. Kanto feels alive, and the classic adventure is as engaging as it was back in the day.
The recent Switch and Switch 2 re-release even includes event tickets to catch legendary Pokémon like Deoxys, Ho-Oh, and Lugia. While online trading is missing, local play with friends is still a blast.
Verdict: A definitive Pokémon experience—especially if you’re a fan of the originals.
1. Pokémon Pokopia
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|  | *(Image credit: Nintendo / The Pokémon Company)* |
Is it too early to crown Pokémon Pokopia the best Pokémon game on Switch 2? Maybe—but I’m doing it anyway. This cozy, post-apocalyptic adventure has me hooked. Playing as Ditto, you can mimic other Pokémon’s abilities to rebuild a fractured world, craft habitats, and help your Pokémon friends.
The characters are full of personality, the crafting and building are genuinely fun, and the world is full of surprises. It’s the only real Pokémon exclusive on Switch 2, and it’s bursting with charm.
Verdict: A fresh, addictive take on Pokémon that’s hard to put down.
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