Can Pokémon Be Traded Twice? 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.
No, Pokémon cannot be traded more than once in Pokémon GO. This is a fundamental rule of the game designed to prevent exploitation of the trade mechanics. Once a Pokémon has been traded, it becomes permanently bound to its new trainer and cannot be traded again to another player.
The Intricacies of Pokémon Trading
Trading Pokémon is a core social feature in Pokémon GO, allowing players to exchange creatures with friends and strengthen their collections. However, it comes with several restrictions and considerations that every trainer should know.
Why Can’t Pokémon Be Traded More Than Once?
The primary reason for this limitation is to prevent players from repeatedly trading Pokémon in an attempt to manipulate their stats. When you trade a Pokémon in Pokémon GO, its HP and CP (Combat Points) are re-rolled. Without the one-trade limit, players could potentially trade a Pokémon back and forth until they achieve desired stats, effectively bypassing the intended gameplay mechanics of catching and training.
Pokémon Trading in Other Games
It is important to note that the trading rules in Pokémon GO differ significantly from those in the main series Pokémon games on Nintendo consoles, such as Pokémon Brilliant Diamond or Pokémon Shining Pearl. In those games, you can trade a Pokémon multiple times without restriction. This difference stems from the distinct gameplay goals and architectures of the mobile and console titles.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Pokémon Trading
Here are 15 frequently asked questions to help you navigate the world of Pokémon trading with confidence:
1. What are the level requirements for trading in Pokémon GO?
You must be at Trainer Level 10 or higher to be eligible to trade Pokémon with other players.
2. Are there any Pokémon that cannot be traded at all?
Yes, certain Pokémon are restricted from trading. These include:
- Mythical Pokémon (e.g., Mew, Celebi, Darkrai, Deoxys, Diancie, Genesect)
- Pokémon that have already been traded
- Shadow Pokémon
- Eggs
- Current Buddies
- Pokémon currently defending a Gym
- Pokémon that are fainted or not at full health
- Pokémon obtained through hacking, botting, or spoofing
3. What is a Special Trade, and how does it differ from a regular trade?
Special Trades involve:
- Legendary Pokémon
- Shiny Pokémon
- Purified Pokémon
- Pokémon not registered in your Pokédex
You are limited to one Special Trade per day. These trades often require a significant amount of Stardust.
4. Can I trade the same Pokémon twice in Pokémon Brilliant Diamond or Shining Pearl?
Yes, you can trade any Pokémon as many times as you’d like in Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl. The trading restrictions in Pokémon GO do not apply to these main series games.
5. What happens to the IVs (Individual Values) of a Pokémon when it is traded?
The IVs of a Pokémon are randomized upon trading. This means that a Pokémon with perfect IVs (100%) will likely have different IVs after being traded. Never trade perfect IV Pokémon if you want to keep them with their original stats.
6. How does trading affect the CP (Combat Points) of a Pokémon?
The CP of a Pokémon can change upon trading. The exact change depends on the Trainer Levels of both players involved. Trading allows players to gain Pokémon at higher CP levels than they would normally be able to acquire.
7. Can I trade a Shiny Pokémon? What are the costs involved?
Yes, you can trade Shiny Pokémon. However, it can be expensive in terms of Stardust. The cost depends on your Friendship Level with the other trainer and whether they already have the Shiny Pokémon registered in their Pokédex. If one of you doesn’t have the shiny form, it can cost up to 80,000 Stardust at Ultra Friends level.
8. What is a Lucky Pokémon, and how does it occur?
Lucky Pokémon are Pokémon that have a higher chance of having better IVs. They also require less Stardust to power up. Lucky Pokémon are obtained through trading. The longer you and the other trainer have been friends, the higher the chance of a trade resulting in Lucky Pokémon.
9. What is the limit on guaranteed Lucky Trades?
There is a mechanic for “guaranteed” Lucky Trades that applies to older Pokémon (generally those caught several years ago). However, the Trainer sending the guaranteed Lucky Pokémon must have been involved in fewer than 15 trades (as either a sender or recipient) where at least one party was guaranteed.
10. Can I trade a Purified Pokémon?
Yes, you can trade a Purified Pokémon. However, trading a Purified Pokémon counts as your Special Trade for the day, even if it isn’t also a Shiny or Legendary Pokémon.
11. How long do I have to wait before I can trade again after a previous trade?
There is no specific waiting period between regular trades. You can trade again immediately, provided you meet the requirements (Trainer Level, proximity to the other player). However, remember you are limited to one Special Trade per day.
12. How does Friendship Level affect trading?
Higher Friendship Levels unlock several benefits:
- Lower Stardust costs for trades, especially Special Trades.
- Increased chance of becoming Lucky Friends.
- Increased Attack Bonus in Raids.
13. Can I trade with myself in Pokémon GO?
No, you cannot trade with yourself directly within Pokémon GO. Trading requires two separate accounts and devices in close proximity.
14. Are region-locked Pokémon tradeable?
Region-locked Pokémon can be traded, but they may be difficult to acquire initially. Once you have one, you can trade it to a friend, regardless of their location.
15. What happens if a Pokémon is traded to me, but it doesn’t obey my commands in battle?
In the main series Pokémon games, a Pokémon received via trade won’t obey your orders until you impress it with the Gym Badges you’ve earned by defeating Gym Leaders. At the start of the game, you can only effectively use traded Pokémon of up to a certain level. This mechanic exists to prevent players from using high-level traded Pokémon to easily defeat early-game content. This does not directly apply to Pokemon GO as Pokemon level is determined by training/candies.
Staying Informed
Understanding the intricacies of Pokémon trading can greatly enhance your Pokémon GO experience. Always stay informed about game updates and mechanics to make the most of this social and strategic feature. The Games Learning Society, found at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/, offers research and resources for educators and game designers interested in harnessing the power of games for learning. You can learn about how games like Pokemon GO use trading and socialization to engage users and create a sense of community. GamesLearningSociety.org also explores how game mechanics can teach important skills such as collaboration, strategic thinking, and resource management.