Connoisseurs of the ubiquitous Pokémon series are afforded a plethora of diverse games on Nintendo’s revolutionary Switch console. Perhaps more so than any preceding console, the Switch houses a library that offers an eclectic variety of different Pokémon genres and experiences.
These games, auspiciously designed to maximize the patented hybrid potential of the Switch, have produced novel concepts that entertain newcomers and long-term players alike. Since the inception of Nintendo’s flagship console, what have been the best Pokémon games released so far?
Pokemon: Let’s Go, Pikachu! and Pokemon: Let’s Go, Eevee!
Pokémon: Let’s Go, Pikachu! and Let’s Go, Eevee! Are mainline remakes that draw inspiration from series’ freshman release Pokémon Yellow. Released as the franchise’s debut on the Switch, the games were designed for and marketed toward a targeted demographic of newer and younger players. The result birthed a much more accessible and streamlined title when compared with traditional entries in the series.
Capitalizing off the colossal popularity of Pokémon Go, core gameplay homogenized signature Pokémon battles with a capture system reminiscent of the ubiquitous mobile app. The games also astutely employed the Switch’s Joy-Con technology by enabling trainers the opportunity to toss berries and Poké Balls while attempting to capture wild Pokémon. While slight criticism was levied around the game’s difficulty, the games are considered an overall fun, rewarding experience.
New Pokémon Snap
New Pokémon Snap is the long-anticipated sequel to the Nintendo 64 classic Pokémon Snap. Similar in temperament to its predecessor, gameplay primarily entails capturing photographs of Pokémon in their natural habitation. The game utilizes a rail mechanic in a safari-inspired excursion throughout different environments. During such excursions, players can interact with Pokémon to generate photogenic reactions for capture. Photos captured can be rated and even improved upon by the game’s guide.
Though gameplay may be considered quite niche, the game offers a respite from the repetition of battling and showcases the whimsical side of Pokémon. New Pokémon Snap is a brilliant journey in the more tranquil, naturalistic aspect of the series.
Pokemon Sword and Shield
Pokémon Sword and Shield were touted as the first original mainline titles upon release. Indicative of the processing capabilities afforded by the Switch, the games featured graphical fidelity, environments and animations previously unachieved before in a mainline title. An open-world section dubbed “The Wild Area” was introduced, exposing players to powerful, free-roaming Pokémon early within the journey. This component encouraged trainers to exercise caution and preparation before initiating encounters.
Raid battles provided a cooperative outlet for fellow players to tackle tougher battles together in exchange for rewards. Dynamaxing and Gigantamaxing, exclusive battle features of the games, enabled Pokémon to grow to enormous proportions, along with receiving a sizeable increase in capabilities.
Deviating from previous tradition, the games also received expansion packs that enhanced and introduced content. Although returning players were initially wary that some previously introduced Pokémon could not be discovered, the games proved to be a tremendous entry within the greater Pokémon series.
Pokemon Legends: Arceus
Pokémon Legends: Arceus offers a mainline experience radically distinctive in comparison with the rest of the series. The game takes place in an ancient region and is connected to previous releases Pokémon Diamond and Pearl. Comparable to games like Monster Hunter, players are free to traverse the area, encountering interactable Pokémon along the way.
Strategy and methodical approach are advised, as player avatars are now susceptible to danger from wild Pokémon. Certain wild species of Pokémon encountered are naturally larger and stronger than typical species. Such encounters are referred to as “Alpha” Pokémon and pose an extra challenge for players looking to add powerful members to their roster.
Area traversal is alleviated through the use of summonable, rideable Pokémon that enable actions such as flight, climbing or swimming. Perhaps due to its unique and novel concept, the game was received massively well. Many players reflect upon their enjoyment of wandering a vast space in a more heightened and consequential environment.
Ethan is a Magna Cum Laude graduate of Germanna Community College. A fighting game aficionado, Ethan has participated competitively in Super Smash Bros., Tekken, and Mortal Kombat tournaments. He is also a member of a local esports team.
