Pokemon Games On Nintendo Switch Online: Full List

Hey there, Pokemon Trainers! Wondering which Pokemon adventures you can dive into with your Nintendo Switch Online subscription? You've come to the right place. Let's break down all the Pokemon games on Nintendo Switch Online, giving you the lowdown on what's available and how to access them. Whether you're a seasoned veteran or a newcomer eager to catch 'em all, this guide will ensure you don't miss out on any of the action.

What is Nintendo Switch Online?

Before we get into the specific Pokemon titles, let’s quickly cover what Nintendo Switch Online (NSO) actually is. NSO is Nintendo's online subscription service required for playing most multiplayer games online on the Nintendo Switch. Think of it like PlayStation Plus or Xbox Live Gold, but with a unique Nintendo twist.

The standard Nintendo Switch Online membership gives you access to online play, cloud saves for compatible games, and a library of classic NES and Super NES games. The Expansion Pack tier, however, takes things up a notch, adding Nintendo 64, Game Boy Advance, and Sega Genesis games to the mix. Plus, subscribers often get access to exclusive in-game items and special offers.

For Pokemon fans, the Expansion Pack is where the real treasure lies. It unlocks access to classic Pokemon titles from the Game Boy era, allowing you to relive the magic of your childhood or experience these iconic games for the first time.

Why Subscribe to Nintendo Switch Online?

Subscribing to Nintendo Switch Online, especially the Expansion Pack, offers several key benefits for Pokemon enthusiasts. First and foremost, it's the most affordable way to legally play classic Pokemon games on your Nintendo Switch. Buying these games individually on older consoles can be quite expensive, so NSO provides a cost-effective alternative.

Secondly, the convenience of playing these games on your Switch is a huge draw. No need to dig out your old Game Boy or worry about batteries – simply launch the NSO app and start playing. The service also offers features like save states, allowing you to pick up right where you left off, and online multiplayer for select titles, letting you trade and battle with friends.

Additionally, the Expansion Pack includes a growing library of other classic games, making it a great value for anyone interested in retro gaming. From Super Mario 64 to The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Pokemon Games Available on Nintendo Switch Online

Alright, let's get to the good stuff: which Pokemon games can you actually play on Nintendo Switch Online? As of now, the selection is focused on the classic Game Boy titles, but these are some of the most beloved games in the series. Here’s a breakdown:

Pokemon Red Version, Pokemon Blue Version, and Pokemon Yellow Version

These are the games that started it all! Pokemon Red Version and Pokemon Blue Version were the original Pokemon games released in North America, and Pokemon Yellow Version followed as an enhanced version, featuring closer integration with the Pokemon anime. All three are available on Nintendo Switch Online.

In these games, you start your journey as a young trainer in the Kanto region. Your mission? To catch as many Pokemon as possible, defeat the eight gym leaders, and ultimately challenge the Elite Four to become the Pokemon League Champion. Along the way, you'll encounter Team Rocket, a criminal organization plotting to exploit Pokemon for their own gain.

Pokemon Yellow is particularly notable for its inclusion of Pikachu as a starter Pokemon who follows you around on the overworld, just like in the anime. This added a new layer of charm and personality to the game.

These games are essential for any Pokemon fan, offering a glimpse into the origins of the franchise and a chance to experience the classic gameplay that made Pokemon a global phenomenon. The limited color palette and simple graphics might seem dated by today's standards, but the core gameplay loop of catching, training, and battling Pokemon remains as addictive as ever.

Pokemon Trading Card Game

While not a traditional Pokemon RPG, the Pokemon Trading Card Game for Game Boy is a fantastic adaptation of the popular card game. Available on Nintendo Switch Online, it allows you to build decks, battle opponents, and collect virtual cards.

The game follows the story of a young boy who dreams of becoming the world's best Pokemon Trading Card Game player. You'll travel to different clubs, challenge various duelists, and earn medals to prove your skill. The gameplay is faithful to the real-life card game, with strategic deck-building and tactical card play.

One of the coolest features of the Pokemon Trading Card Game is the ability to unlock new booster packs and expand your card collection. You can also trade cards with other players using the Game Boy's link cable functionality, which is emulated on Nintendo Switch Online.

This game is a must-play for fans of the Pokemon Trading Card Game, offering a fun and engaging way to experience the card game in a virtual format. It's also a great introduction to the TCG for newcomers, with a helpful tutorial and a clear presentation of the rules.

Pokemon Stadium

Pokemon Stadium is also available on Nintendo Switch Online. You can battle using Pokemon you've trained in the Game Boy games, and it offers a nostalgic trip for long-time fans. The 3D battles were a big deal back in the day, and it's fun to see your Pokemon in a different light.

How to Access Pokemon Games on Nintendo Switch Online

Accessing these Pokemon games is super easy. First, you'll need a Nintendo Switch Online subscription, preferably the Expansion Pack. Here’s how to get started:

1. Subscribe to Nintendo Switch Online: If you haven't already, head to the Nintendo eShop on your Switch and purchase a Nintendo Switch Online membership. Remember, you'll need the Expansion Pack to access the Game Boy titles.
2. Download the Nintendo Switch Online App: Once you have a subscription, download the Nintendo Switch Online app from the eShop. This app is your gateway to the library of classic games.
3. Launch the App and Choose Your Game: Open the Nintendo Switch Online app and navigate to the Game Boy section. Here, you'll find Pokemon Red Version, Pokemon Blue Version, Pokemon Yellow Version, and the Pokemon Trading Card Game, ready to play.

Tips for Playing Pokemon Games on Nintendo Switch Online

To make the most of your Pokemon experience on Nintendo Switch Online, here are a few tips:

• Use Save States: Take advantage of the save state feature to save your progress at any time. This is especially useful for difficult battles or tricky situations.
• Experiment with Different Teams: Don't be afraid to try out different Pokemon and team compositions. Part of the fun of Pokemon is discovering new strategies and synergies.
• Play with Friends: If you have friends who also have Nintendo Switch Online, team up and trade Pokemon to complete your Pokedex.
• Consult Online Resources: If you get stuck, don't hesitate to consult online guides and walkthroughs. There are tons of resources available to help you on your Pokemon journey.

What’s Next for Pokemon on Nintendo Switch Online?

While the current selection of Pokemon games on Nintendo Switch Online is fantastic, many fans are hoping for more. What could be next for Pokemon on the service?

Potential Future Additions

• Pokemon Gold Version and Pokemon Silver Version: These classic Game Boy Color titles are highly requested by fans. They introduced a new region, Johto, as well as 100 new Pokemon to catch.
• Pokemon Crystal Version: An enhanced version of Gold and Silver, Pokemon Crystal added new features like animated Pokemon sprites and a more in-depth storyline.
• Pokemon Ruby Version and Pokemon Sapphire Version: These Game Boy Advance titles introduced the Hoenn region and a new generation of Pokemon. Their inclusion would be a major draw for many subscribers.

Fan Expectations

Pokemon fans are eagerly anticipating the addition of more Pokemon games to Nintendo Switch Online. The service provides a perfect platform for preserving and celebrating these classic titles, and there's a huge demand for more Pokemon content.

As Nintendo continues to expand the library of classic games on NSO, it's likely that we'll see more Pokemon titles added in the future. Keep an eye on Nintendo's announcements for updates and get ready to relive even more Pokemon adventures on your Nintendo Switch.

Conclusion

So there you have it, folks! A comprehensive look at all the Pokemon games currently available on Nintendo Switch Online. From the original adventures in Kanto to the strategic battles of the Trading Card Game, there's plenty to keep Pokemon fans entertained. With the potential for more Pokemon titles to be added in the future, now is a great time to subscribe to Nintendo Switch Online and embark on a nostalgic journey through the world of Pokemon. Happy gaming, and catch 'em all!