Can You Transfer Pokémon From 3DS to Switch? A Definitive Guide
Yes, you can transfer Pokémon from the 3DS to the Switch, but it requires the use of Pokémon Bank, Pokémon Transporter, and Pokémon HOME.
Introduction: Bridging the Generations
For years, Pokémon trainers have meticulously built their collections across various generations of handheld consoles. The transition from the Nintendo 3DS family to the Nintendo Switch raised a crucial question: Can You Transfer Pokemon From 3DS to Switch? Fortunately, while not a direct transfer, a pathway exists to bring your beloved creatures forward. This article will guide you through the process, outlining the requirements and steps involved in transferring your Pokémon from the 3DS to the Switch using Pokémon Bank, Pokémon Transporter, and Pokémon HOME.
The Key Players: Pokémon Bank, Transporter, and HOME
The transfer process isn’t a simple drag-and-drop. Instead, it relies on three key software components:
- Pokémon Bank: A paid Nintendo eShop service for the 3DS that acts as a cloud-based storage system for your Pokémon. You’ll need an active subscription (even though the eShop is closed, Pokémon Bank is currently free to use).
- Pokémon Transporter: A companion app to Pokémon Bank, specifically designed to move Pokémon from older Game Boy Advance and Nintendo DS Pokémon games into Pokémon Bank.
- Pokémon HOME: A cloud-based service available on the Nintendo Switch and mobile devices. It serves as the final destination for your Pokémon, allowing you to transfer them from Pokémon Bank and then into compatible Nintendo Switch games.
The Step-by-Step Transfer Process
Here’s a breakdown of how to move your Pokémon from your 3DS games to your Nintendo Switch:
- Prepare Your 3DS Games: Ensure your Pokémon are in the PC Boxes of the 3DS game you want to transfer from.
- Utilize Pokémon Transporter (If Applicable): If you’re transferring from Black, White, Black 2, or White 2, use Pokémon Transporter to send your Pokémon to Pokémon Bank. This involves inserting the appropriate game cartridge into your 3DS and following the on-screen instructions within the Pokémon Transporter app.
- Access Pokémon Bank: Open Pokémon Bank on your 3DS.
- Transfer Pokémon to Pokémon Bank: Deposit the Pokémon you want to transfer into Pokémon Bank.
- Download and Set up Pokémon HOME: Download Pokémon HOME on your Nintendo Switch. You’ll need a Nintendo Account.
- Link Pokémon HOME and Nintendo Account: Ensure your Pokémon HOME account is linked to the same Nintendo Account as your Nintendo Network ID (used on your 3DS).
- Transfer from Pokémon Bank to Pokémon HOME: In Pokémon HOME on the Switch, select “Transfer” from the main menu. You’ll then be guided through a process where Pokémon Bank generates a moving key. Enter this key into Pokémon HOME on the Switch. This will initiate the transfer of Pokémon from Pokémon Bank to Pokémon HOME.
- Move Pokémon to Compatible Switch Games: From Pokémon HOME, you can then move your Pokémon into compatible Nintendo Switch games like Pokémon Sword, Pokémon Shield, Pokémon Brilliant Diamond, Pokémon Shining Pearl, Pokémon Legends: Arceus, Pokémon Scarlet, and Pokémon Violet (subject to compatibility and game limitations).
Compatibility Considerations
Not all Pokémon can be transferred to every Switch game. Pokémon HOME indicates compatibility, and Pokémon not native to a specific game will not be transferable into that game. Furthermore, certain Pokémon may lose their original moves or abilities when transferred to a new game.
Common Mistakes and Troubleshooting
- Incorrect Nintendo Account: Ensure your Nintendo Account and Nintendo Network ID are correctly linked.
- Expired Pokémon Bank Subscription: While Pokémon Bank is currently free, you need to have downloaded it to your 3DS before the eShop closure and potentially had a subscription in the past.
- Full Pokémon Boxes: Pokémon Bank and Pokémon HOME have storage limitations. Ensure you have enough space before attempting to transfer.
- Connectivity Issues: A stable internet connection is crucial throughout the transfer process.
- Forgetting the Moving Key: The moving key is only valid for a short period. If it expires, generate a new one in Pokémon Bank.
Benefits of Transferring Your Pokémon
- Preserve Your Collection: Safeguard your hard-earned Pokémon and continue your journey with them on newer platforms.
- Unlock New Features: Some Switch games offer unique features and battles that your transferred Pokémon can participate in.
- Complete Your Pokédex: Fill your Pokédex in newer games using Pokémon you’ve trained for years.
- Relive Nostalgia: Reconnect with your favorite Pokémon from past generations and experience new adventures with them.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Pokémon Bank still available after the 3DS eShop closure?
Yes, Pokémon Bank is currently available for free download to all Nintendo 3DS systems that have accessed the eShop in the past and downloaded it. While you can no longer purchase a new subscription, previous subscribers can continue to use the service at no charge to transfer their Pokémon.
Do I need a Nintendo Switch Online subscription to use Pokémon HOME?
No, you do not need a Nintendo Switch Online subscription to use Pokémon HOME. However, a premium subscription unlocks additional features such as increased storage capacity.
Can I transfer Pokémon from emulators to Pokémon Bank or HOME?
No, the transfer process is designed to work only with legitimate Pokémon games on actual Nintendo 3DS hardware and Switch. Emulators are not supported.
What happens to the Pokémon’s data when I transfer it?
The Pokémon’s core data (species, level, moves, IVs, EVs, nature, ability) is generally preserved during the transfer. However, certain characteristics specific to older games (like contest ribbons from the Hoenn region) might not be transferred to newer games.
How much storage space does Pokémon HOME offer?
The free version of Pokémon HOME offers limited storage space. A premium subscription significantly expands storage capacity, allowing you to store thousands of Pokémon.
Can I transfer Pokémon back from Pokémon HOME to Pokémon Bank?
No, the transfer process is a one-way street. Once Pokémon are moved to Pokémon HOME, they cannot be sent back to Pokémon Bank.
What if my Pokémon has moves it can’t learn in the Switch game?
When transferring Pokémon to a Switch game, any incompatible moves will be forgotten. The Pokémon will learn new moves automatically, if possible, based on its level and the available movepool in the destination game.
Is there a limit to the number of Pokémon I can transfer at once?
Pokémon Bank can only hold a certain number of Pokémon at a time, so larger collections may require multiple transfers. Pokémon HOME has a transfer limit per day or session depending on your plan.
What happens if my 3DS breaks before I can transfer my Pokémon?
If your 3DS breaks, the Pokémon are essentially lost unless you had already backed them up to Pokémon Bank. This underscores the importance of backing up your Pokémon regularly.
Do I need to complete the main story in the 3DS game before transferring?
No, you do not need to complete the main story to transfer your Pokémon. However, some features and Pokémon might not be available until certain points in the game.
Are there any Pokémon that cannot be transferred at all?
Some event-exclusive Pokémon or glitched Pokémon might not be transferable due to checks implemented by Pokémon Bank and Pokémon HOME.
Can I transfer items along with my Pokémon?
No, held items cannot be transferred along with the Pokémon. They will be removed before the transfer occurs. Be sure to remove any valuable items before initiating the process.