Pokemon Games On Nintendo Switch Online: What To Know

Hey there, fellow Pokemon trainers! Are you wondering about diving into the world of Pokemon on your Nintendo Switch Online? You're in the right spot. Let's break down everything you need to know about playing Pokemon games on this platform.

What Pokemon Games are Available on Nintendo Switch Online?

Unfortunately, if you're hoping for the latest and greatest Pokemon Sword and Shield or Scarlet and Violet to be available directly through Nintendo Switch Online, you might be a tad disappointed. Nintendo Switch Online primarily focuses on bringing classic games from older consoles to your modern Switch.

Currently, through Nintendo Switch Online, you can access Pokemon games via the classic Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) and Game Boy titles. These are accessible through the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack which gives you access to a library of Nintendo 64, Game Boy Advance, and SEGA Genesis games as well.

Classic Pokemon Titles

The main Pokemon titles you can find are:

• Pokemon Red Version: One of the original games that started it all. Experience the Kanto region with classic 8-bit graphics.
• Pokemon Blue Version: Another gem from the first generation, offering a slightly different experience with minor differences in available Pokemon.
• Pokemon Yellow Version: An enhanced version of Red and Blue, featuring Pikachu as your constant companion and some elements from the anime series.
• Pokemon Trading Card Game: This is the Game Boy Color adaptation of the popular card game. Build decks, duel opponents, and collect virtual cards.

These games are available through the standard Nintendo Switch Online service, meaning you don't necessarily need the Expansion Pack to enjoy these retro adventures. How cool is that?

Why Aren't Newer Pokemon Games Available?

That's a valid question! Newer Pokemon games, like those from the Nintendo Switch generation, are sold individually. Nintendo tends to keep newer titles separate to encourage individual sales, which directly support game development and future projects. So, while you won't find Pokemon Legends: Arceus or Pokemon: Let's Go, Pikachu! on the service, purchasing them separately ensures you’re getting the full, modern Pokemon experience.

How to Access Pokemon Games on Nintendo Switch Online

Okay, so you're ready to jump in? Here’s how you can access those classic Pokemon games on your Nintendo Switch:

1. Subscribe to Nintendo Switch Online: First things first, you need to have an active Nintendo Switch Online subscription. You can choose between a standard membership or the Expansion Pack, depending on which games you're interested in.
2. Download the Necessary Apps: For NES and Game Boy games, you'll need to download the respective apps from the Nintendo eShop. These apps are free to download for subscribers.
3. Launch the App and Play: Once downloaded, launch the NES or Game Boy app and browse the available games. Find the Pokemon title you want to play, and start your adventure!

It's a pretty straightforward process, and once you’re set up, you can revisit these classic games whenever you want. Isn't that awesome?

Nintendo Switch Online Membership Options

Let's briefly touch on the membership options, so you know what you're signing up for:

• Standard Nintendo Switch Online: This gives you access to a library of classic NES and SNES games, online play for compatible games, cloud saves, and the Nintendo Switch Online app for voice chat.
• Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack: This includes everything from the standard membership, plus access to Nintendo 64, Game Boy Advance, and SEGA Genesis games, as well as DLC for select Nintendo Switch titles like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe.

If you're a big fan of retro games in general, the Expansion Pack can be worth the extra cost, but if you're mainly interested in the classic Pokemon titles, the standard membership should suffice.

Benefits of Playing Pokemon Games on Nintendo Switch Online

Why should you consider playing these classic Pokemon games on your Switch? Well, there are quite a few reasons!

• Nostalgia: For many of us, these games bring back a flood of memories from our childhoods. Reliving those early Pokemon adventures is a treat in itself.
• Accessibility: Instead of hunting down old consoles and cartridges, you can play these games on a modern system with ease. The convenience is a huge plus.
• Affordability: Subscribing to Nintendo Switch Online is generally more affordable than buying individual retro games, especially if you're interested in playing a variety of titles.
• New Ways to Play: The Nintendo Switch Online app often includes features like save states, allowing you to pick up right where you left off, and online multiplayer for select titles. This adds a fresh twist to classic games.

The Nostalgic Appeal

There's something special about revisiting the games that started it all. Pokemon Red, Blue, and Yellow are more than just games; they're cultural milestones. Experiencing the pixelated graphics, the simple yet engaging gameplay, and the thrill of discovering Pokemon for the first time (or again) is incredibly appealing.

The Convenience Factor

Let's face it: tracking down old consoles, ensuring they work, and finding the original game cartridges can be a hassle. With Nintendo Switch Online, you can access these games with a few taps on your Switch. It's a convenient and hassle-free way to enjoy retro gaming.

Tips for Enjoying Classic Pokemon Games on Nintendo Switch Online

To make the most of your retro Pokemon experience, here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Explore Different Versions: Each version of the classic Pokemon games has its own quirks and differences. Try playing Red, Blue, and Yellow to see which one you enjoy the most.
• Use Save States: Take advantage of the save state feature to save your progress at any point in the game. This can be a lifesaver if you're tackling a challenging area or want to experiment with different strategies.
• Connect with Friends: If the game supports online multiplayer, connect with friends and battle or trade Pokemon. It's a fun way to experience these games together.
• Read Online Guides: If you're stuck or want to learn more about the game mechanics, there are plenty of online guides and resources available. These can help you discover hidden secrets and strategies.

Making the Most of Your Gameplay

Remember, these classic games can be a bit different from modern Pokemon titles. The gameplay might feel slower, and the graphics are certainly less polished. But that's part of the charm! Embrace the retro feel, experiment with different Pokemon teams, and enjoy the simplicity of the early games.

Understanding the Game Mechanics

One thing to note is that some of the game mechanics in the original Pokemon games are a bit... quirky. For example, the Special stat was a combined Special Attack and Special Defense stat, and certain moves had unexpected effects. Don't be afraid to look up guides or ask for help if you're confused about something.

Future Possibilities for Pokemon Games on Nintendo Switch Online

So, what does the future hold for Pokemon games on Nintendo Switch Online? While we can't predict the future with certainty, there are a few possibilities to consider.

• More Game Boy Titles: Nintendo could add more Game Boy and Game Boy Color Pokemon games to the service, such as Pokemon Gold and Silver.
• Game Boy Advance Games: With the Expansion Pack now including Game Boy Advance games, there's a chance we could see titles like Pokemon Ruby, Sapphire, and Emerald added in the future.
• Surprises: Nintendo is known for surprising us with unexpected additions to the Nintendo Switch Online library, so anything is possible!

What We Hope to See

Many fans are hoping to see the Pokemon Gold and Silver games added to Nintendo Switch Online. These games introduced many beloved Pokemon and features and are considered classics by many. The addition of Game Boy Advance titles like Ruby and Sapphire would also be a welcome surprise.

Final Thoughts

While you might not find the newest Pokemon games on Nintendo Switch Online, the platform offers a fantastic way to revisit the classic titles that started it all. With a subscription, you can enjoy Pokemon Red, Blue, Yellow, and the Pokemon Trading Card Game, reliving the nostalgia and experiencing these games in a new way. So grab your Switch, subscribe to Nintendo Switch Online, and get ready to embark on a retro Pokemon adventure! Happy gaming, trainers!