Can You Still Transfer Pokémon From DS to Switch? A Comprehensive Guide

Yes, technically you can still transfer Pokémon from the older DS generation games to the Nintendo Switch, but it’s a process involving a few steps and specific tools. It’s not as simple as dragging and dropping files, but with the right approach, you can rescue those beloved pixelated companions from your older cartridges and bring them into the modern era.

The Pokémon Transfer Pipeline: A Step-by-Step Breakdown

Think of it like a historic preservation project for your digital monsters. The key is understanding the chain of tools and services required to bridge the gap between older and newer generations. Here’s how it generally works:

1. Generation IV & V (DS Games) to Pokémon Bank: This is the initial step, and it relies on the Poké Transporter application (for Gen V – Black, White, Black 2, White 2) or direct transfer functionality from the Gen IV games (Diamond, Pearl, Platinum, HeartGold, SoulSilver). Poké Transporter, once downloaded, allows you to upload Pokémon from these games to Pokémon Bank, a cloud-based storage service.

2. Pokémon Bank (3DS) to Pokémon HOME (Switch/Mobile): Pokémon Bank acts as the essential bridge. From Pokémon Bank on your Nintendo 3DS, you can transfer your stored Pokémon to Pokémon HOME, which is a cloud-based service accessible on both the Nintendo Switch and mobile devices. This transfer involves using a Moving Key generated on the Switch version of Pokémon HOME.

3. Pokémon HOME (Switch/Mobile) to Current Generation Games: Once your Pokémon are safely in Pokémon HOME, you can then transfer them into compatible Nintendo Switch Pokémon games like Sword, Shield, Brilliant Diamond, Shining Pearl, Legends: Arceus, Scarlet, and Violet. Note that not all Pokémon are compatible with all Switch games, some have not been available to transfer into any title in the switch generation.

Key Requirements and Considerations

• Nintendo Account Linkage: Your Nintendo Account needs to be linked to both your Nintendo Switch and your Nintendo 3DS to facilitate the transfers between Pokémon Bank and Pokémon HOME.

• Pokémon HOME Account: A Pokémon HOME account is necessary to receive the Pokémon transferred from Pokémon Bank.

• Pokémon Bank Download (Prior to Discontinuation): This is crucial. Pokémon Bank and Poké Transporter had to be downloaded before March 27, 2023. While the service is now free, you can’t download it anymore if you missed the deadline. If you did not, then you can’t transfer pokemon.

• Compatibility: Not all Pokémon can be transferred to every game. Check the compatibility charts for each Switch game to see which Pokémon are transferable.

• One-Way Transfer: Pokémon transferred to Pokémon HOME from Pokémon Bank cannot be transferred back to Pokémon Bank or used with Nintendo 3DS titles. It’s a one-way trip.

• Patience and Time: The process can be time-consuming, especially if you’re dealing with a large number of Pokémon across multiple games.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Error Messages: Double-check your Nintendo Account linkage and internet connection. Sometimes restarting the 3DS and Switch can resolve temporary glitches.

• Incompatible Pokémon: Refer to the official Pokémon HOME compatibility lists to ensure the Pokémon you’re trying to transfer are supported in the target game.

• Expired Moving Key: The Moving Key generated by Pokémon HOME has a limited lifespan (usually 3 minutes). Make sure to enter it into Pokémon Bank promptly.

FAQs: Your Burning Pokémon Transfer Questions Answered

Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify the process of moving your pocket monsters from DS to Switch.

1. Can I transfer DS games directly to Switch?

No. You cannot directly transfer entire DS games to the Nintendo Switch. The Nintendo Switch doesn’t have backwards compatibility for DS cartridges or digital downloads. The only way to bring your Pokémon forward is through the Pokémon Bank/HOME transfer process.

2. Is Pokémon Bank still available?

Yes, but with a catch. Pokémon Bank is currently available for free, but only if you downloaded it before March 27, 2023. You can’t download it if you missed that deadline. If you did download it, it can still be used to transfer Pokémon to Pokémon HOME.

3. What is Poké Transporter?

Poké Transporter is an application used to transfer Pokémon from Generation V (Black, White, Black 2, White 2) to Pokémon Bank. You need it to get your Pokémon from those games onto the 3DS system for eventual transfer to HOME. It must have been downloaded before March 27, 2023.

4. Do I need a Nintendo Online subscription for this process?

No, you do not need a Nintendo Online subscription to use Pokémon Bank or Pokémon HOME. However, you may need a Nintendo Online subscription to trade and battle with other players within the Switch games themselves.

5. What happens to my Pokémon if I don’t transfer them from Pokémon Bank?

If you downloaded the application before March 27, 2023, your Pokémon are safe within Pokémon Bank for as long as the service remains active. However, it’s always a good idea to transfer them to Pokémon HOME as soon as possible to ensure their long-term safety, as there is no end date planned for this Pokémon Bank no-cost service.

6. Can I transfer Pokémon from Virtual Console games (Gen 1 & 2) to Switch?

Yes! You can transfer Pokémon from the Virtual Console versions of Pokémon Red, Blue, and Yellow (Gen 1) and Pokémon Gold and Silver (Gen 2) on the 3DS to Pokémon Bank using Poké Transporter. From there, you can move them to Pokémon HOME.

7. Are there any Pokémon I can’t transfer to Pokémon HOME?

Potentially. There are certain event-exclusive Pokémon or those with specific conditions that might not be transferable. Also, as mentioned earlier, not all Pokémon are compatible with all Switch games. Check the compatibility charts for each Switch game for specifics. Also, at the time of this article, there are certain pokemon unavailable in the switch games.

8. Can I transfer Pokémon from DS to Pokémon Scarlet and Violet?

Yes, if they are compatible. You can transfer Pokémon from your DS games (via Pokémon Bank and HOME) to Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, but only if those Pokémon species are present in the Scarlet and Violet game data.

9. How long does the Pokémon Bank to HOME transfer take?

The transfer time depends on the number of Pokémon you’re moving. A single box of 30 Pokémon might take a few minutes, while transferring hundreds could take considerably longer.

10. What is a Moving Key, and why do I need it?

A Moving Key is a 16-character code generated by Pokémon HOME on the Switch. You enter this code into Pokémon Bank on your 3DS to link the two services and initiate the transfer. It’s a security measure to ensure you’re transferring to the correct Pokémon HOME account.

11. Can I use multiple 3DS systems to transfer Pokémon to the same Pokémon HOME account?

Yes, as long as each 3DS is linked to your Nintendo Account.

12. Is Pokémon HOME a free service?

Pokémon HOME has both free and paid (Premium) plans. The free plan offers limited storage space and functionality. A Premium Plan is required to transfer Pokémon from Pokémon Bank and offers more storage and other features.

13. I missed the Pokémon Bank download deadline. Am I out of luck?

Unfortunately, yes. If you didn’t download Pokémon Bank and Poké Transporter before March 27, 2023, you can no longer transfer Pokémon from your DS games to the Switch using this method.

14. Can I trade Pokémon between different Switch games using Pokémon HOME?

Yes! Pokémon HOME allows you to trade Pokémon with other players online and move Pokémon between different compatible Switch games linked to your account. This is a key feature for completing your Pokedex.

15. Where can I learn more about Pokémon and gaming?

There are plenty of places to learn about all the games, including Pokémon! For insights into the educational aspects of gaming, be sure to visit the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org. They explore the intersection of learning and game design.

Conclusion: Preserving Your Pokémon Legacy

While the process of transferring Pokémon from DS to Switch requires a few steps and tools, it’s a worthwhile endeavor for dedicated Pokémon trainers. By understanding the pathway through Pokémon Bank and Pokémon HOME, you can ensure that your cherished team members from past adventures continue their journey with you on the Nintendo Switch. Don’t let those digital companions languish on outdated hardware – bring them into the modern era and continue your Pokémon journey!