Can Multiple Accounts on the Same Switch Use the Same Pokémon HOME? A Comprehensive Guide
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Yes, but with nuances. Multiple user accounts on the same Nintendo Switch can interact with the same Pokémon HOME account, but only in a specific, controlled way. Each Pokémon HOME account is directly linked to one Nintendo Account. However, that same Nintendo Account can be linked to both the Nintendo Switch version and the mobile version of Pokémon HOME, syncing data between them. Each Nintendo Switch user profile on your Switch can access their respective game saves through a single Pokémon HOME account.
This system is designed to facilitate moving Pokémon between different game saves on the same Switch, even if those saves belong to different user profiles. It also allows a single family Pokémon HOME account to receive Pokémon from multiple Pokémon GO accounts. However, each Pokémon GO account needs to be linked to a Nintendo Account first which is then linked to Pokémon HOME.
Ultimately, the aim is to make Pokémon management easier.
Understanding Pokémon HOME and its Limitations
Pokémon HOME serves as a cloud-based storage and management system for your Pokémon across various Nintendo Switch and mobile games. It acts as a central hub where you can deposit, organize, and trade Pokémon. It also provides a common space for your Pokémon from multiple games.
Key Features of Pokémon HOME
- Pokémon Storage: A place to store thousands of Pokémon from compatible games.
- Trading: Trade with friends or strangers via the GTS (Global Trade System), Wonder Box, or Room Trade.
- Compatibility: Works with various Pokémon games on Nintendo Switch and mobile.
- National Pokédex: Complete your Pokédex by transferring Pokémon and registering them.
- Mystery Gifts: Receive special Pokémon or items through Mystery Gifts.
The One-to-One Nintendo Account Rule
The core of the system’s design is the restriction of one Pokémon HOME account per Nintendo Account. This means you can’t directly merge or share a Pokémon HOME account between multiple Nintendo Accounts. If multiple people in your household want to use Pokémon HOME, each user must have their own Nintendo Account.
However, because the same Nintendo Account can be linked to a single Pokémon HOME account as well as multiple Pokémon GO accounts, the system will allow each family member to transfer Pokémon to a single Pokémon HOME account by linking a single Nintendo Account associated with Pokémon HOME to their Pokémon GO account.
How to Move Pokémon Between Saves on Different Switch Profiles
Despite the one-to-one restriction, Pokémon HOME provides a workaround for moving Pokémon between game saves belonging to different user profiles on the same Nintendo Switch. Here’s how to do it:
- Open Pokémon HOME with the Primary Profile: Launch Pokémon HOME on the Switch using the profile that is linked to the specific Nintendo Account associated with Pokémon HOME.
- Select the Game Save: On the screen where you select a game save, choose the profile’s icon that contains the Pokémon you want to move.
- Select the Second User: After selecting the profile’s icon, you’ll be prompted to select a user profile on the Nintendo Switch. Choose the user profile whose game save contains the Pokémon you want to move.
- Move Pokémon to the HOME Account: Move the desired Pokémon from the selected game save into the Pokémon HOME account.
- Save and Quit: Save your changes and exit Pokémon HOME.
- Repeat for the Other Profile: Repeat steps 1-5, selecting the other user’s profile, and moving Pokémon back and forth.
This allows you to effectively use Pokémon HOME as an intermediary to transfer Pokémon between different save files.
Overcoming Limitations and Best Practices
While the system is generally flexible, some limitations and best practices should be observed to avoid confusion or data loss:
- Premium Plan: Keep in mind that if you have a Premium Plan and wish to link it to a new Nintendo Account, it’s not possible. You would need to purchase another Premium Plan for that new account.
- Mobile Version: You may want to sync both your Nintendo Switch and mobile version of Pokémon HOME. To use a new Nintendo Account, you must link to a new Pokémon HOME account on a new device.
- Trading Etiquette: Remember that trading is a two-way street. Be fair and respectful when negotiating trades with others. This is vital, whether you trade online or with friends.
- Staying Informed: As games evolve and new features become available, stay up-to-date with the latest Pokémon HOME updates and compatibility information.
FAQs: Your Pokémon HOME Questions Answered
1. Can I link multiple Nintendo Accounts to one Pokémon HOME account?
No, each Pokémon HOME account can be linked to one Nintendo Account at a time.
2. Can I transfer Pokémon from multiple Pokémon GO accounts to a single Pokémon HOME account?
Yes. Multiple Pokémon GO accounts can transfer to a single Pokémon HOME account through linking all accounts to one Nintendo Account.
3. Can two accounts play the same game on Switch?
Yes, anyone that uses your primary Nintendo Switch console will be able to play games you’ve purchased with your Nintendo Account. However, only one console can be your primary console per Nintendo Account.
4. Why can’t I play a Switch game on a different account?
If the console is not the primary console for the Nintendo Account that originally purchased the game, games purchased with that account are not playable on the system.
5. Can I use Pokémon HOME to trade with myself?
Yes. Use the Pokémon HOME application to transfer Pokémon from one Switch game save to another. This is especially useful for evolving trade-exclusive Pokémon.
6. Do I need two Nintendo Accounts to trade Pokémon?
To transfer Pokémon between two saves belonging to the same Nintendo Account, you would need to make another account on one of the Switches, play Pokémon on that account until you can trade, and use that as a go-between for trading.
7. How do I transfer Pokémon HOME to two profiles?
Open Pokémon HOME on profile “A”, then on the screen to select a game save, click your A profile icon. This prompts you to select a user. Select user 2 (B) and B’s save. Move Pokémon from the save into (A) HOME account.
8. How many accounts can be linked to Pokémon HOME?
Only one Nintendo Account can be linked to a single Pokémon HOME account. However, this same Nintendo Account can also be linked to Pokémon GO.
9. How do I change my Pokémon HOME account on a Switch?
If you have purchased a Premium Plan or synced your mobile device version and Nintendo Switch version of Pokémon HOME, you will be unable to change the Nintendo Account linked to that Pokémon HOME account. To use a new Nintendo Account, you must link to a new Pokémon HOME account on a new device.
10. Can 2 users share a Nintendo Account?
As a rule, games store save data by user account. If you share your console with your family, create a user for each person. (Up to 8 users can be created.)
11. Can you transfer eggs to Pokémon HOME?
No, you are unable to move Pokémon eggs into Pokémon HOME.
12. Can you trade in Pokémon HOME without paying?
Yes, players with a free Pokémon HOME Basic Plan can use Pokémon HOME to move and trade Pokémon between compatible Pokémon games.
13. Will Haunter evolve through Pokémon HOME?
No, trades done by our own editors confirm that the trade evolution mechanic does not work in HOME.
14. What Pokémon can you not trade on HOME?
Mythical Pokémon like Mew, Celebi, Jirachi, Deoxys, Darkrai, Shaymin, Arceus, and Victini among others, generally cannot be traded via HOME’s GTS.
15. Is Pokémon HOME linked to Nintendo Account?
Yes, by linking the same Nintendo Account to both the Nintendo Switch version and mobile version of Pokémon HOME, you’ll be able to access the same Pokémon Boxes on both versions.
Conclusion: Maximizing Your Pokémon HOME Experience
Pokémon HOME is a powerful tool for any serious Pokémon trainer. By understanding how it interacts with Nintendo Accounts, user profiles, and the various compatible games, you can efficiently manage your collection and enjoy all the features this service has to offer. While there are limitations, the flexibility provided by the interlinking between accounts allows for a more seamless and enjoyable Pokémon experience across different platforms and profiles. For more insights into the educational aspects of gaming, check out the work of the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org.