Best Pokemon Games For Nintendo Switch In 2021

Hey Pokemon fans, gather 'round! If you're rocking a Nintendo Switch and looking to dive into the world of Pokemon, you've come to the right place. 2021 was a massive year for Pokemon on the Switch, and we've got some absolute gems that you NEED to check out. Whether you're a seasoned trainer or just starting your journey, there's a Pokemon game out there for everyone. So, grab your Pokeballs, get your snacks ready, and let's explore the ultimate Pokemon Switch lineup for 2021!

Pokemon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl: A Nostalgic Blast from the Past

Alright guys, let's kick things off with a bang! If you were around during the Nintendo DS era, you're gonna love this one. Pokemon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl dropped in late 2021, and they're essentially remakes of the original Pokemon Diamond and Pearl games. These aren't just simple ports, though; they've been given a gorgeous visual overhaul with a charming chibi art style in the overworld and a more traditional anime look during battles. The core gameplay remains the same, which is fantastic because the Sinnoh region is brimming with iconic Pokemon and challenging gyms. You'll be exploring familiar towns, facing off against Team Galactic, and ultimately aiming to become the Pokemon League Champion. What's super cool is how they've brought back features like the Grand Underground, where you can dig for treasures and even set up your own Secret Base, which feels incredibly nostalgic. Plus, the quality-of-life improvements make the experience smoother than ever. You can even follow your favorite Pokemon around in the overworld, which is just adorable and adds a whole new layer of connection. The music has been beautifully remastered, pulling you right back into those classic Sinnoh vibes. For anyone who loved the original games, these remakes are a must-play. They capture the magic of the original while adding enough modern polish to feel fresh and exciting. It's like visiting an old friend, but they've gotten a fantastic makeover! The sheer amount of Pokemon available, the engaging story, and the familiar yet enhanced mechanics make Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl a top-tier choice for any Switch owner looking for that classic Pokemon adventure with a modern twist. Trust me, your inner child will thank you for picking these up. It’s the perfect way to experience the Sinnoh region all over again, or for the first time if you missed out back in the day. The attention to detail in bringing back the original charm while enhancing the graphics and gameplay is truly commendable, making it one of the standout Pokemon releases of 2021 for the Switch.

Pokemon Legends: Arceus: A Bold New Direction for the Franchise

Now, for something completely different and, honestly, revolutionary! Pokemon Legends: Arceus is the game that truly shook things up in early 2021. Forget everything you thought you knew about Pokemon games because this one throws the formula out the window and reinvents the wheel. Set in the ancient Sinnoh region, known as the Hisui region in this era, you're tasked with creating the very first Pokedex. This means catching Pokemon in a more dynamic, action-oriented way. You can sneak up on them, dodge their attacks, and even throw Poke Balls while moving. It's more like an action-RPG meets Pokemon, and it's incredibly addictive. The world is vast and open, encouraging exploration and discovery. You'll be venturing into different biomes, each teeming with wild Pokemon behaving in natural ways. Seeing Pokemon interact with their environment and each other is a game-changer. The story is also quite compelling, focusing on a mysterious rift between our world and the Pokemon world, and your role in understanding the legendary Pokemon Arceus. What makes this game stand out is the sheer freedom it offers. You can choose your path, tackle objectives in various orders, and truly immerse yourself in the world. The battles are also more strategic, with a new action-gauge system that allows for faster-paced combat. You can even have Pokemon follow you in the overworld, and the sense of adventure is palpable. It feels like a true exploration game where catching Pokemon is just one part of a larger, more engaging experience. The graphics, while not hyper-realistic, have a distinct art style that perfectly suits the ancient setting. Pokemon Legends: Arceus isn't just another Pokemon game; it's a glimpse into the future of the franchise, offering a fresh and exciting take that appeals to both long-time fans and newcomers. It’s the kind of game that makes you feel like a true explorer and researcher, constantly discovering new things and pushing the boundaries of what a Pokemon game can be. The emphasis on exploration, unique catching mechanics, and a rich story make it an unforgettable experience and a definite must-have for any Nintendo Switch owner looking for innovation within the Pokemon universe. This title represents a significant evolution for the series, pushing the boundaries of gameplay and narrative in ways fans have only dreamed of, making it a cornerstone of the 2021 Pokemon Switch releases.

Pokemon Sword and Shield: The Galar Adventure Continues

Even though Pokemon Sword and Shield originally launched in 2019, their journey on the Switch was far from over in 2021, especially with the release of their second major expansion, The Crown Tunder. If you haven't jumped into the Galar region yet, or if you're looking for more content after finishing the base game, 2021 was the perfect time to revisit or start your adventure. Galar is inspired by the United Kingdom, offering a diverse range of landscapes from lush forests and industrial cities to snowy mountains. The core mechanics, like Dynamaxing and Gigantamaxing, add an exciting strategic layer to battles, making them visually spectacular and more intense. The introduction of the Wild Area was a game-changer, providing a massive open zone where Pokemon roam freely, allowing for dynamic weather and encounters. This made exploration feel much more organic and exciting. The Crown Tunder expansion, released in late 2020, continued to offer new areas to explore, including the titular Crown Tunder, which is a sprawling tundra filled with legendary Pokemon from past generations. Plus, the new Galarian forms and regional variants kept the Pokedex fresh and exciting. The addition of Max Lair, where you can team up with other players online or locally to take on Dynamax legendary Pokemon, was a huge draw for those seeking co-op challenges. Pokemon Sword and Shield offer a polished and engaging Pokemon experience with a rich Pokedex, a vibrant world, and plenty of post-game content to keep you busy. The seamless integration of the expansions means that even in 2021, players were still discovering new secrets and challenges. The overall gameplay loop is incredibly satisfying, from catching new Pokemon to battling in gyms and taking on powerful opponents. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of the franchise, offering a complete and fulfilling Pokemon journey on the Nintendo Switch. If you're looking for a comprehensive Pokemon experience that builds upon the traditional formula with modern features and extensive post-launch content, Sword and Shield, especially with its expansions, remains a stellar choice for any Pokemon enthusiast in 2021. The Galar region offers a unique cultural backdrop that sets it apart from previous generations, making the adventure feel distinct and memorable. The constant updates and additions ensured that the player base remained engaged throughout the year, solidifying its place as a must-play title for Switch owners.

Pokemon Unite: A Free-to-Play MOBA Treat

Who says Pokemon games have to be turn-based RPGs? Pokemon Unite, which launched in 2021, proved everyone wrong by bringing Pokemon into the wildly popular Multiplayer Online Battle Arena (MOBA) genre. And the best part? It's free-to-play! This game pits two teams of five players against each other in strategic battles, where the goal is to score more points than the opposing team by defeating wild Pokemon and enemy players, and then depositing those points into the opponent's goal zones. It's fast-paced, requires teamwork and strategic thinking, and offers a completely different way to experience Pokemon battles. You can choose from a roster of iconic Pokemon, each with unique abilities and roles like Attacker, Defender, Speedster, All-Rounder, and Supporter. As you level up during a match, your Pokemon will learn new moves and eventually evolve, adding a satisfying progression to each game. The graphics are vibrant and cartoony, fitting the Pokemon aesthetic perfectly, and the animations are slick. What's really cool is how they've continuously added new Pokemon and maps post-launch, keeping the gameplay fresh and exciting. Pokemon Unite is perfect for those who want a quick, competitive Pokemon fix without committing to a long RPG. It’s a fantastic addition to the Switch library for anyone who enjoys MOBAs or just wants to try something new and engaging with their favorite Pokemon characters. The strategic depth, combined with the accessibility of a free-to-play model, makes it a highly addictive experience. You can squad up with friends and coordinate your strategies, making communication and teamwork key to victory. The constant stream of updates and events ensures there's always something new to discover, making it a game that can keep you hooked for hours on end. It's a brilliant way to bring the Pokemon universe into a new genre, offering a competitive and thrilling experience that stands out among the other Pokemon titles available on the Switch in 2021. This title truly broadened the appeal of Pokemon games to a wider audience, including those who might not typically play traditional RPGs.

Conclusion: Your Next Pokemon Adventure Awaits!

So there you have it, folks! 2021 was an incredible year for Pokemon on the Nintendo Switch, offering a diverse range of experiences for every type of trainer. Whether you craved the nostalgia of Pokemon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl, the innovative gameplay of Pokemon Legends: Arceus, the continued adventure in Pokemon Sword and Shield, or the fast-paced MOBA action of Pokemon Unite, there was truly something for everyone. Each of these titles brings something unique to the table, showcasing the versatility and enduring appeal of the Pokemon franchise. Don't miss out on these amazing Pokemon games! Pick your favorite, jump in, and start your next grand adventure. The Pokemon world is always expanding, and the Switch is the perfect console to explore it. Happy training, everyone!