While you may not be aware, the Pokémon franchise has seen a resurgence in popularity in recent years, with a slew of enchanting releases on the Nintendo Switch. From the nostalgic charm of ‘Pokémon: Let’s Go, Eevee!’ to the immersive exploration of ‘New Pokémon Snap,’ there’s a Pokémon game to suit every taste. But the real question is, which of these titles should you prioritize in 2024? Plumb into our exhaustive ranking and review, and you’ll discover the must-play Pokémon experiences that will keep you entertained for hours on end.
New Pokemon Snap (Nintendo Switch) (European Version)
For fans of the classic Pokémon Snap game, the New Pokémon Snap for Nintendo Switch (European Version) is a must-have. Inspired by the beloved Nintendo 64 title, this all-new adventure allows you to explore uncharted islands, photograph lively wild Pokémon, and uncover the mystery of the Illumina Phenomenon. Toss Pokémon a tasty fluffruit to capture their attention and behaviors, then use the photos to fill out your very own Pokémon Photodex. With an impressive 4.8-star rating from over 3,800 customers, this game offers nostalgic gameplay, simplicity, and fun for the whole family. Whether you’re a longtime Pokémon enthusiast or new to the series, New Pokémon Snap is a delightful experience not to be missed on your Nintendo Switch.
Best For: Longtime Pokémon fans and newcomers alike seeking a nostalgic and family-friendly game on the Nintendo Switch.
Pros:
Captures the charm and simplicity of the classic Pokémon Snap game
Offers a relaxing and enjoyable gameplay experience for all ages
Allows players to uncover the mystery of the Illumina Phenomenon
Cons:
May not offer enough depth or challenge for hardcore Pokémon enthusiasts
Limited to the Pokémon species available in the game
Could be considered a bit repetitive or lacking in replayability for some players
The Galar region in Pokémon Shield on the Nintendo Switch offers an epic sense of adventure for aspiring Trainers. You’ll choose from three new partner Pokémon and encounter never-before-seen Pokémon as you unravel the mystery behind the Legendary Pokémon Zacian and Zamazenta. The game’s improved graphics and charming Britain-inspired settings bring the Galar region to life, with lush environments and unique architecture. Participate in thrilling Max Raid Battles, teaming up with other Trainers to take on Dynamax Pokémon. The game’s well-received overhaul, including the new Dynamax mechanic and the expansive Wild Area, makes Pokémon Shield a must-play for fans and newcomers alike. With an impressive 4.8-star rating and overwhelmingly positive reviews, it’s clear that Pokémon Shield delivers an exceptional Pokémon experience on the Nintendo Switch.
Best For: Pokémon fans and newcomers looking for an epic adventure in the Galar region on the Nintendo Switch.
Pros:
Engaging and improved gameplay with the new Dynamax feature
Expansive Wild Area and thrilling Max Raid Battles
Charming Britain-inspired settings and lush environments
Cons:
Some minor issues with tree textures reported by a few reviewers
Potential lack of innovation for long-time Pokémon fans
Limited post-game content compared to previous entries in the series
Pokémon: Let’s Go, Eevee! is an ideal choice for newcomers to the Pokémon franchise. With its intuitive and accessible gameplay, the game welcomes players of all ages and skill levels. The addition of motion controls enhances the immersion, allowing you to throw Poké Balls with a flick of your wrist and interact with your Eevee in delightful ways. The stunning graphics and vibrant environments breathe new life into the familiar landscapes of Kanto, making the journey a visually enthralling experience. The deep integration with Pokémon GO further expands the gameplay, enabling you to transfer Pokémon between the two games and set out on special Pokémon-catching adventures in the real world. With a customer review rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, Pokémon: Let’s Go, Eevee! is a must-play for those seeking an engaging and approachable Pokémon adventure on the Nintendo Switch.
Best For: Pokémon: Let’s Go, Eevee! is best for newcomers to the Pokémon franchise and players of all ages and skill levels seeking an intuitive and accessible Pokémon adventure on the Nintendo Switch.
Pros:
Intuitive and accessible gameplay
Immersive motion controls for throwing Poké Balls and interacting with Eevee
Deep integration with Pokémon GO, allowing for Pokémon transfers and real-world adventures
Cons:
May not offer the depth and complexity of mainline Pokémon RPGs for experienced fans
Limited roster of Pokémon compared to other Pokémon games
Potential lack of challenge for more experienced Pokémon players
Pokemon Shining Pearl – Nintendo Switch Shining Pearl Edition
Revisiting the beloved Sinnoh region, Pokémon Shining Pearl delivers a nostalgic adventure for long-time fans and newcomers alike. You’ll set off to become the Champion of the Pokémon League, exploring the revamped Grand Underground for valuable treasures and Pokémon Fossils. You can customize your style, choose a companion Pokémon to walk with, and even showcase your rhythm in Super Contest Shows. While the game maintains the charm of the original, some issues like long loading times and problems with the Shiny Charm and Poké-radar have been reported. Overall, Pokémon Shining Pearl offers a faithful and visually-improved reimagining of the Sinnoh region, perfect for both seasoned trainers and those venturing on their first Pokémon journey.
Best For: Fans of the original Pokémon Pearl version and newcomers to the Pokémon franchise looking for a nostalgic and visually-improved adventure in the Sinnoh region.
Pros:
Faithfully revisits the beloved Sinnoh region with improved graphics
Allows players to customize their style and choose a companion Pokémon
Offers a range of engaging features like the Grand Underground and Super Contest Shows
Cons:
Reports of issues with the Shiny Charm and Pokémon-radar features
Long loading times for certain aspects of the game
Some features may not be as well-implemented as desired by players
Pokemon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX (Nintendo Switch)
If you’re a fan of classic Pokémon adventures, then the beautifully reimagined Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX on the Nintendo Switch is often considered one of the best Pokémon games to play. This charming remake allows you to become one of 16 Pokémon starters and set out on a thrilling rescue mission. With over 386 Pokémon to meet and befriend, you’ll explore ever-changing Mystery Dungeons and complete quests alongside your handpicked rescue team. While the gameplay focuses less on attacks and arena orders compared to mainline Pokémon titles, the stellar storyline and fun, relaxed exploration more than make up for it. With 5-star reviews, positive comments, and an improved take on the original, Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX is a must-play for any Pokémon fan.
Best For: Fans of classic Pokémon adventures who enjoy relaxed exploration, befriending Pokémon, and engaging storylines.
Pros:
Beautifully reimagined with a charming watercolor art style
Opportunity to become one of 16 Pokémon starters and set out on a thrilling rescue mission
Engaging storyline and fun, relaxed exploration of ever-changing Mystery Dungeons
Cons:
Gameplay focuses less on attacks and arena orders compared to mainline Pokémon titles
Some changes and additions to the original game are not well-received by all players
May not appeal to those seeking a more traditional Pokémon combat experience
When choosing a Pokémon game, the platform it’s made for, the gameplay mechanics, the graphics and visuals, the narrative and exploration, and the multiplayer features are all important factors to ponder. The game’s compatibility with your preferred platform guarantees you can actually play it, while the gameplay mechanics determine how you’ll interact with the world. Additionally, the quality of the graphics, story, and multiplayer options can greatly impact your overall enjoyment of the game.
Platform Compatibility
Choosing the right Pokémon game often hinges on platform compatibility. The Nintendo Switch is the primary platform for modern Pokémon releases, hosting fan-favorites like New Pokémon Snap, Pokémon Shield, and Pokémon Shining Pearl. While some classic titles, such as New Pokémon Snap, may also be available on the Nintendo 64, this isn’t a universal feature. Newer Pokémon games tend to be exclusive to the Nintendo Switch, so verify that the game you’re interested in is compatible with your gaming platform.
Importantly, Pokémon games aren’t typically compatible with non-Nintendo consoles like PlayStation or Xbox. Before purchasing a Pokémon title, always double-check the platform requirements to avoid any compatibility issues. By understanding the platform compatibility of Pokémon games, you can confidently choose the right title that will run seamlessly on your preferred gaming system.
Gameplay Mechanics
Gameplay mechanics are a crucial consideration when selecting the best Pokémon games. Intuitive controls, like motion-based gameplay, can immerse players of all ages and skill levels. Seamless connectivity with Pokémon GO allows you to catch Pokémon in the real world and transfer them to your game. Accessible mechanics in titles like Let’s Go, Eevee! cater to newcomers while still offering depth for veterans. Streamlined features, such as automatic movement in Rescue Team DX, can also enhance your overall experience. Additionally, new mechanics, like walking with Pokémon, can provide an invigorating take on the classic Pokémon formula. When choosing the best Pokémon games, pay close attention to how the gameplay mechanics can shape your adventure, whether you’re a seasoned trainer or a newcomer to the series.
Graphics and Visuals
The visual splendor of Pokémon games can transport you to enchanting domains, where the creature designs and environments mesmerize the senses. The series has consistently showcased stunning graphics, evolving with each new generation. Modern entries like Pokémon Sword and Shield boast vibrant, detailed landscapes teeming with life. You’ll marvel at the crisp textures, vibrant colors, and fluid animations that bring the world to life. The Pokémon themselves are rendered with meticulous attention to their distinctive features, from the scaly hides of dragon-types to the sleek, aerodynamic forms of flying-types. Even the user interface and menus have received a visual overhaul, seamlessly blending form and function. Newer titles also offer an impressive scale, allowing you to explore expansive, open-world areas. Regardless of the specific game, the Pokémon franchise consistently delivers a visually enthralling experience that immerses you in its magical world.
Narrative and Exploration
Beyond the dazzling visuals, the narrative depth and sense of exploration in Pokémon games are equally enthralling. These immersive adventures don’t just task you with collecting cute creatures; they weave engaging stories that rivet your imagination. You’ll uncover the hidden histories of the Pokémon world, delving into the lore and uncovering the motivations of the various factions and characters you encounter.
The freedom to explore expansive, open-ended regions is a hallmark of the series. You’re not just restricted to a linear path; you can venture off the beaten track, discovering hidden caves, dense forests, and bustling cities. Each new area offers a sense of wonder and the promise of undiscovered Pokémon and treasures. As you progress, the narrative evolves, leading you deeper into the game’s world and challenging you to make pivotal decisions that impact the outcome.
Ultimately, the narrative and exploration elements in Pokémon games create a rich, absorbing experience that keeps you invested and enthusiastic to uncover more.
Multiplayer Features
Alongside the riveting narratives and boundless exploration, Pokémon games often boast an array of engaging multiplayer features that can profoundly shape your gaming experience. For instance, the Max Raid Battles in Pokémon Shield allow you to team up with friends to battle and catch powerful Dynamax Pokémon, fostering a collaborative and challenging adventure. Similarly, the online battle modes enable you to pit your Pokémon team against opponents from around the world, testing your strategic prowess. Beyond that, local multiplayer options, like the two-player simultaneous play in Pokémon: Let’s Go, Eevee!, let you enjoy the journey with family or friends on the same console. Pokémon games may also offer cooperative play, where you work together with others to accomplish shared goals, further enhancing the sense of community and camaraderie. However, keep in mind that many of these online multiplayer features require a Nintendo Switch Online subscription, so factor that into your purchasing decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Play Pokémon Games on My Smartphone?
You can play Pokémon games on your smartphone. Many classic Pokémon titles, as well as newer mobile-optimized games, are available on both iOS and Android devices. Just download the compatible apps and start your Pokémon adventure on the go!
How Often Do New Pokémon Games Release?
You can typically expect new Pokémon games to release every 2-3 years. Game Freak, the developer, often alternates between core series entries and spin-offs to keep the franchise feeling fresh. With the franchise’s popularity, you can count on regular new Pokémon experiences.
Do Pokémon Games Have Online Multiplayer?
Yes, many Pokémon games offer robust online multiplayer features. You can battle, trade, and even participate in tournaments with players from around the world through the games’ built-in online connectivity. The experience adds an exciting social dimension to your Pokémon adventures.
Can I Transfer Pokémon From Older Games to New Ones?
Yes, you can transfer Pokémon from older games to newer ones, but the process varies depending on the specific games and platforms involved. Check the compatibility and transfer options for each game to guarantee a smooth shift.
Are Pokémon Games Available on Other Platforms Besides Nintendo?
Did you know Pokémon games aren’t limited to Nintendo platforms? You can find them on mobile devices too! While the main series is exclusive to Nintendo, there are spin-offs available on other platforms, providing more opportunities to catch ’em all.
Conclusion
Venture on a journey through the enthralling world of Pokémon, where unforgettable adventures await. Whether you’re a seasoned trainer or a curious newcomer, these five remarkable games are the cream of the crop, offering a cornucopia of delights that will leave you spellbound. Immerse yourself in these unparalleled experiences and let the Pokémon fever take hold of your heart and soul.
