The Grim Reality of Pokémon Transfers: Can You Ever Get Them Back?
The short, sharp answer is: no, you cannot untransfer a Pokémon. Once a Pokémon is transferred, whether to Professor Willow in Pokémon GO for candy or to Pokémon HOME for storage and use in other games, it’s gone. There’s no “undo” button, no “recycle bin” in the digital world of Pokémon. This permanence is a crucial aspect of the game mechanics and something every trainer needs to understand before making that fateful tap.
The Finality of the Transfer: Why It Matters
Understanding the implications of a transfer is vital. Think of it as permanently releasing a Pokémon into the wild. In Pokémon GO, you’re handing it over to Professor Willow for research, essentially trading it for candy used to power up and evolve other Pokémon. In Pokémon HOME, you’re depositing it into a storage system that may or may not be accessible by your current game.
The permanence of this action introduces a layer of strategic depth. Players must carefully consider which Pokémon they truly want to part with, weighing the immediate benefits (like candy or box space) against the potential future value of that Pokémon. This decision-making process, often overlooked, is a core element of the Pokémon experience.
FAQs: Everything You Need to Know About Pokémon Transfers
Here are 15 frequently asked questions (FAQs) to further clarify the intricacies of Pokémon transfers, ensuring you’re well-equipped to make informed decisions:
1. Can I recover a Pokémon transferred to Professor Willow in Pokémon GO?
Absolutely not. Once you transfer a Pokémon to Professor Willow, it is permanently gone. The transfer is irreversible. Double-check before you tap that “Transfer” button!
2. What happens when I transfer a Pokémon to Pokémon HOME?
When you transfer a Pokémon to Pokémon HOME, it’s stored in your digital boxes. You can then move these Pokémon to compatible Pokémon games like Pokémon Scarlet, Pokémon Violet, Pokémon Legends: Arceus, and others. Keep in mind that certain conditions may apply, such as needing to have the Pokémon registered in your Pokédex of the target game.
3. Are there any exceptions to the “no untransfer” rule?
There are no exceptions. Whether it’s a common Pidgey or a rare Shiny Pokémon, once it’s transferred, it’s gone for good. This underscores the importance of paying attention to what you’re doing.
4. Can I transfer Pokémon back from Pokémon HOME to Pokémon GO?
No, you cannot transfer Pokémon from Pokémon HOME back to Pokémon GO. Pokémon HOME functions as a central hub for storing and moving Pokémon between core series games, but the flow is generally one-way from Pokémon GO.
5. What Pokémon cannot be transferred to Pokémon HOME from Pokémon GO?
Several types of Pokémon cannot be transferred from Pokémon GO to Pokémon HOME, including:
- Spinda
- Favorited Pokémon
- Buddy Pokémon (while active)
- Pokémon defending Gyms
- Costumed Pokémon
- Shadow Pokémon
- Mega-Evolved Pokémon
6. Can I trade a Pokémon I received in a trade?
In Pokémon GO, you cannot trade a Pokémon that has already been traded once. Each Pokémon can only be traded once, making the initial trade a significant decision.
7. What happens if I accidentally transfer my best Pokémon?
Unfortunately, if you accidentally transfer your best Pokémon, there’s no way to get it back. This is a harsh lesson, but it highlights the need for careful attention and perhaps a little more caution before confirming the transfer.
8. Can I transfer Pokémon between different Pokémon GO accounts?
No, you cannot directly transfer Pokémon between different Pokémon GO accounts. Trading is the closest you can get, but as mentioned before, each Pokémon can only be traded once.
9. If Pokémon Bank shuts down, will I lose my Pokémon?
You will still be able to transfer Pokémon from Pokémon Bank to Pokémon HOME even after the paid service is discontinued, ensuring you don’t lose your precious collection.
10. Why can’t I transfer my Charizard?
There may be a temporary glitch preventing you from transferring certain species, like Charizard. If your Charizard was recently caught, this could be the reason. Try again later, and if the issue persists, consult the Pokémon GO support channels.
11. Can I transfer Pokémon that have been my buddy?
You can transfer a Pokémon that has been your buddy, but you must first remove it from its buddy status. Active Buddy Pokémon cannot be transferred.
12. Do I need two Nintendo Switch consoles to trade Pokémon?
Trading does require 2 consoles. However, Pokémon HOME does let you move Pokémon but not items between games. If you don’t mind doing up to 30 per trip, you can do it for free.
13. Will I lose hearts if I switch buddies?
No, the hearts do not disappear. However, the fractional portions of distance walked do get reset.
14. What are the benefits of transferring Pokémon in Pokémon GO?
Transferring Pokémon in Pokémon GO grants you candy, which is essential for evolving and powering up your Pokémon. It also frees up storage space, allowing you to catch more Pokémon.
15. Which Pokémon games are compatible with Pokémon HOME?
Pokémon Scarlet, Pokémon Violet, Pokémon Legends: Arceus, Pokémon Brilliant Diamond, Pokémon Shining Pearl, Pokémon Sword, and Pokémon Shield are mutually compatible with Pokémon HOME. You can deposit and withdraw Pokémon to and from each of these games.
A Word of Caution: Protecting Your Precious Pokémon
Given the irreversible nature of Pokémon transfers, here are some extra tips to help you avoid accidental losses:
- Double-Check: Always double-check the Pokémon you’re about to transfer. Make sure it’s not a favorite, a powerful battler, or a rare shiny.
- Lock Favorites: Utilize the “Favorite” feature in both Pokémon GO and Pokémon HOME to mark Pokémon you want to protect from accidental transfers.
- Mass Transfer Carefully: When performing mass transfers, take your time and carefully review the selection before confirming.
- Consider the Long Term: Think about the potential future value of a Pokémon before transferring it. What seems useless now might be valuable later.
- Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with game updates and known glitches that might affect transfers.
The Educational Value of Pokémon: More Than Just Catching Them All
The strategic decision-making involved in Pokémon, including the permanent consequences of transferring Pokémon, demonstrates the value of games in developing problem-solving skills and strategic thinking. The Pokémon franchise and other engaging games provide enriching experiences for players of all ages. The Games Learning Society explores these benefits in detail. You can find more information at GamesLearningSociety.org.
In conclusion, while the inability to untransfer a Pokémon may seem harsh, it’s a crucial element that adds depth and strategic thinking to the game. By understanding the rules and exercising caution, you can ensure that your Pokémon journey remains a rewarding one. Choose wisely, trainers!