New Pokémon On Nintendo Switch In 2022: What To Expect

Hey guys! Pokémon fans, assemble! If you're anything like me, you're always eager to dive into the next big adventure in the Pokémon world. And let's be real, the Nintendo Switch has become the ultimate platform for experiencing these games. So, what did 2022 bring us in terms of new Pokémon games on the Nintendo Switch? Let's break it down and get hyped together!

Pokémon Legends: Arceus – A Fresh Take on Adventure

Pokémon Legends: Arceus definitely stole the show in early 2022. This game wasn't just another entry in the series; it was a complete reimagining of what a Pokémon game could be. Set in the ancient Hisui region (which would eventually become Sinnoh), Arceus threw us into a vast, open world teeming with Pokémon.

Forget the traditional turn-based battles you were used to. In Legends: Arceus, you could sneak through tall grass, carefully aiming your Poké Balls to catch Pokémon without even battling. Of course, battles were still a part of the game, but they were more dynamic and integrated seamlessly into the exploration. The action battle system gave you more control over your character's movements and actions, which was an awesome change of pace.

Crafting, exploration, and research became core gameplay elements. You joined the Galaxy Expedition Team and were tasked with creating the first-ever Pokédex of the Hisui region. This meant venturing out into the wilderness, observing Pokémon behavior, gathering resources, and crafting essential items like Poké Balls and potions. It was super immersive and made you feel like a real pioneer.

The storyline itself was captivating, diving deep into the mythology of Pokémon and the mysteries surrounding the legendary Pokémon Arceus. The narrative explored themes of nature, humanity, and the delicate balance between them, making for a thought-provoking experience. Meeting and interacting with the Diamond and Pearl Clans, and understanding their historical context really added to the depth of the game.

Pokémon Legends: Arceus was a bold step forward for the Pokémon franchise, and it's safe to say that it was a major success. It proved that the series could evolve and innovate while still retaining the core elements we all love. If you haven't had a chance to play it yet, seriously, what are you waiting for? It's a must-have for any Pokémon fan on the Nintendo Switch. It introduced a breath of fresh air into the gameplay loop, offering an open-world experience that felt both familiar and innovative. The way you interacted with Pokémon, the crafting system, and the engaging storyline all contributed to making Arceus a standout title. For long-time fans, it was a welcome departure from the established formula, while for newcomers, it was an excellent entry point into the world of Pokémon.

Pokémon Scarlet and Violet – Gen 9 Arrives!

Later in 2022, we were treated to the arrival of Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, the ninth generation of Pokémon games. These titles took us to the Paldea region, inspired by the landscapes and culture of Spain and Portugal. And guess what? They took the open-world concept even further!

Paldea is a sprawling, seamless open world where you can explore at your own pace. No more rigid routes or forced encounters – you're free to roam wherever your heart desires. Whether you want to scale towering mountains, explore vast plains, or delve into mysterious caves, the entire region is yours to discover.

Scarlet and Violet also introduced a groundbreaking feature: cooperative multiplayer. You could team up with up to three friends and embark on adventures together, exploring the Paldea region, battling wild Pokémon, and taking on challenging Tera Raid Battles. Playing with friends added a whole new layer of fun and camaraderie to the Pokémon experience.

The story in Scarlet and Violet was split into three main paths: the traditional Gym Challenge, where you battle eight Gym Leaders to become a Champion; the Path of Legends, where you hunt down massive Titan Pokémon; and the Starfall Street storyline, where you confront a rebellious group of students. Each path offered unique challenges and rewards, adding variety and depth to the gameplay.

And of course, we can't forget the new Pokémon! Scarlet and Violet introduced a whole host of adorable and powerful creatures to catch and train, including the starters Sprigatito, Fuecoco, and Quaxly. The Paldea region was home to a diverse range of Pokémon, each with its own unique abilities and characteristics.

Pokémon Scarlet and Violet pushed the boundaries of what a Pokémon game could be, offering a truly open-world experience with seamless exploration, cooperative multiplayer, and a compelling storyline. While the games weren't without their technical hiccups, they were still a blast to play and a worthy addition to the Pokémon franchise. The introduction of cooperative play was a game-changer, allowing players to share the adventure with friends and tackle challenges together. The three distinct storylines provided a refreshing take on the traditional Pokémon formula, giving players more agency in shaping their own journey. And let's not forget the Terastallizing phenomenon, which added a strategic layer to battles by allowing Pokémon to change their types.

Other Pokémon Goodies in 2022

Aside from the main releases, 2022 also brought us some other cool Pokémon-related content on the Nintendo Switch. Things like updates to Pokémon UNITE, special events in Pokémon GO that linked up with the Switch games, and maybe even some smaller downloadable titles that kept us busy between the big releases. These smaller additions are always a nice way to stay engaged with the Pokémon universe and get our fix while waiting for the next major installment.

Final Thoughts: 2022 Was a Great Year for Pokémon on Switch!

Overall, 2022 was a fantastic year for Pokémon fans on the Nintendo Switch. We got Pokémon Legends: Arceus, which reinvented the series with its open-world exploration and action-based gameplay. We also got Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, which took the open-world concept even further and introduced cooperative multiplayer. Add in the smaller updates and events, and it's safe to say that we were spoiled for choice.

So, what's next for Pokémon on the Nintendo Switch? Only time will tell, but if 2022 is anything to go by, we can expect more exciting adventures, innovative gameplay, and plenty of new Pokémon to catch. Keep your eyes peeled for future announcements, and get ready to embark on your next Pokémon journey!

Whether you enjoyed the revolutionary gameplay of Pokémon Legends: Arceus or the expansive open world of Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, 2022 offered something for every Pokémon fan. The Nintendo Switch has solidified its place as the premier platform for experiencing the world of Pokémon, and the future looks brighter than ever. From exploring ancient Hisui to adventuring in the Paldea region, the possibilities seem endless. So grab your Poké Balls, gather your friends, and get ready for whatever surprises the Pokémon universe has in store for us next! The evolution of the Pokémon games on the Nintendo Switch is a testament to the franchise's ability to adapt and innovate, ensuring that it remains a beloved and relevant part of the gaming landscape for years to come. The new mechanics, storylines, and Pokémon introduced in 2022 have undoubtedly left a lasting impact on the series, shaping the direction of future installments and inspiring a new generation of trainers to embark on their own unforgettable adventures.