Can I Transfer Pokémon from Black 2 to Pokémon HOME? A Comprehensive Guide
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
Yes, you absolutely can transfer Pokémon from Pokémon Black 2 to Pokémon HOME, but it’s not a direct process. It involves a necessary, multi-step journey through older Nintendo systems and cloud services. The path may seem a little convoluted, but if you’re looking to preserve your beloved Pokémon from the Nintendo DS era, it’s certainly worth the effort. This article will break down exactly how to move your Pokémon from the Unova region all the way to Pokémon HOME, as well as answer some of the most common questions surrounding this process.
The Journey: From Black 2 to HOME
The key to understanding this process lies in knowing the various storage and transfer services that Nintendo has provided over the years. Pokémon Black 2 was released for the Nintendo DS, while Pokémon HOME is a modern cloud service compatible with the Nintendo Switch and mobile devices. The bridge between these two vastly different platforms is Pokémon Bank, a 3DS application that is no longer available for purchase but can still be used by owners for free. Here’s the sequence you’ll need to follow:
-
Prepare Your Pokémon in Black 2: Ensure the Pokémon you wish to transfer are in the first box of your Pokémon Black 2 game. This is crucial because the Poké Transporter tool only accesses Pokémon in the first box.
-
Poké Transporter: You’ll need a Nintendo 3DS system and have access to the Poké Transporter application. This app is used to move Pokémon from Generation 5 games (Black, White, Black 2, and White 2) to Pokémon Bank. Both Poké Transporter and Pokémon Bank were previously purchased but can now be downloaded for free through the eShop due to its shutdown.
-
Pokémon Bank: Once your Pokémon are transferred via the Poké Transporter, they’ll arrive in a special transfer box within the Pokémon Bank. From here, you can move them to regular boxes within Pokémon Bank.
-
Pokémon HOME: Finally, you can move your Pokémon from Pokémon Bank to Pokémon HOME. This requires you to have the Pokémon HOME application on your Nintendo Switch or mobile device and to have linked the Nintendo Network ID used on your 3DS with the Nintendo Account used on your Switch/Mobile. In Pokémon Bank, select “Move Pokémon to Pokémon HOME”, choose the boxes you want to move, then follow the instructions to generate a moving key. Input this moving key into Pokémon HOME to initiate the transfer.
It’s important to note that this is a one-way trip. Once Pokémon are moved from Pokémon Black 2 to Pokémon Bank, and then to Pokémon HOME, they can’t be sent back.
Why This Multi-Step Process?
The complexity of the process exists because of the different technologies and consoles used over the years. Pokémon Black 2, a DS game, was developed before cloud storage was a mainstay in gaming. Pokémon Bank was designed as the first cloud storage for Pokémon, bridging the gap between the DS/3DS era and the Nintendo Switch. Pokémon HOME serves as the current, more versatile cloud storage system compatible with a broader range of Pokémon titles.
The multiple steps ensure that Pokémon from older generations can be brought forward while addressing compatibility issues. Despite being somewhat tedious, the process is essential for preserving your cherished Pokémon collections from older games.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions to help you better understand the Pokémon transfer process:
1. Can I directly transfer from my DS game to Pokémon HOME?
No, you cannot directly transfer Pokémon from DS games like Black 2 to Pokémon HOME. You must use Pokémon Bank and Poké Transporter on a Nintendo 3DS as an intermediary step.
2. Do I need a paid subscription for Pokémon Bank?
No, Pokémon Bank is now free to use. It’s no longer possible to purchase it from the eShop as the Nintendo 3DS eShop was shut down in March 2023, but the application remains fully functional for those who have it installed.
3. What do I need to have to start transferring?
You’ll need the following: A Nintendo 3DS system, a copy of Pokémon Black 2, the Poké Transporter and Pokémon Bank applications downloaded on your 3DS, a Nintendo Switch or Mobile device, Pokémon HOME application downloaded on your Nintendo Switch/Mobile device, and a working internet connection.
4. Is the Poké Transporter still available?
Yes, while you can’t purchase it anymore, if you had previously downloaded it on your 3DS, the Poké Transporter is still functional.
5. Can I transfer all my Pokémon from Black 2?
Yes, most Pokémon can be transferred. However, certain specific Pokémon, or those with special characteristics may not be able to be transferred at this time. This includes Pokemon like Spinda, or Pokémon that have been favorited, are currently your Buddy, or are defending gyms in Pokémon GO. Always check the specifics before attempting a transfer.
6. Can I transfer from other DS Pokémon games to HOME?
Yes, you can transfer Pokémon from all Generation 5 (Black, White, Black 2, and White 2) and also the virtual console Gen 1 and 2 games through the same method. You first need to transfer from the DS games to Pokémon Bank via Poké Transporter, and then from Pokémon Bank to Pokémon HOME.
7. Can I transfer items along with my Pokémon?
No, you cannot transfer items along with Pokémon when using Poké Transporter and Pokémon Bank. The items are left behind.
8. How long will Pokémon Bank be available?
Pokémon Bank services are currently still running, but there isn’t an exact date for when they will be discontinued. It is wise to transfer your Pokémon to Pokémon HOME as soon as possible to secure your collection.
9. Can I transfer Pokémon back from HOME to my DS game?
No, transfers are one-way only. Once Pokémon are moved to Pokémon HOME, they cannot be sent back to Pokémon Bank or any Nintendo DS games.
10. How do I link my 3DS and Switch accounts?
You need to link your Nintendo Network ID used on your 3DS with the Nintendo Account used on your Nintendo Switch/Mobile Device. This link is required for Pokémon HOME to recognize and access the data from Pokémon Bank. This is done in the user settings in your Nintendo Switch’s menus.
11. Can I move multiple Pokémon at once?
Yes, you can select entire boxes to transfer from Pokémon Bank to Pokémon HOME, making the process of moving a large amount of Pokémon more efficient.
12. What if I don’t have a 3DS?
If you do not have access to a 3DS, you may not be able to transfer pokemon from the DS and 3DS Era to Pokémon HOME. It is important to have access to all required hardware to make use of this transfer process.
13. Will Pokémon obey me in Pokémon HOME?
Pokémon HOME does not dictate obedience. Obedience is based on game progression in each main series game. As long as you meet the relevant criteria in your target game, all Pokémon will obey you.
14. What is the difference between Pokémon Bank and Pokémon HOME?
Pokémon Bank was designed primarily for transferring and storing Pokémon from the 3DS games, while Pokémon HOME is a more modern cloud service designed to bridge the Nintendo Switch and mobile games as well, in addition to the older 3DS games. Pokémon HOME is also intended to be a more long-term storage solution.
15. What happens to my Pokémon if Pokémon Bank is shut down?
If Pokémon Bank were ever to be shut down, your Pokémon stored within would likely be lost, which is why it’s important to transfer them to Pokémon HOME as soon as possible. Nintendo has stated that the service will remain operational even after the shut down of online services for 3DS games, but it is always best to err on the side of caution.
Conclusion
The transfer process from Pokémon Black 2 to Pokémon HOME might seem cumbersome, but it is the only way to bring your older generation Pokémon forward. By understanding the required steps and utilizing the Poké Transporter and Pokémon Bank, you can safeguard your precious collections and continue your Pokémon journey across different console generations. Don’t delay, start moving your Pokémon today!