Navigating the Inter-Generational Maze: Trading Between Pokémon Generations 6 and 7

The world of Pokémon is vast and ever-expanding, with each new generation bringing fresh creatures, mechanics, and adventures. However, the connectivity between these generations isn’t always straightforward. So, let’s tackle a common question head-on: Can you directly trade Pokémon between Generation 6 (Pokémon X, Y, Omega Ruby, Alpha Sapphire) and Generation 7 (Pokémon Sun, Moon, Ultra Sun, Ultra Moon)?

The short answer is no, you cannot directly trade Pokémon between Generation 6 and Generation 7 games. This inter-generational divide was a conscious decision by the game developers. Instead of direct trading, a specific service exists to bridge the gap: Pokémon Bank.

The Role of Pokémon Bank in Transferring Pokémon

Pokémon Bank is a cloud-based storage service for the Nintendo 3DS. Think of it as a digital warehouse for your beloved Pokémon. It allowed players to store up to 3,000 Pokémon across multiple games. The primary purpose, in this context, was to facilitate the transfer of Pokémon from Generation 6 to Generation 7.

Here’s the process:

1. Deposit: You would use Pokémon Bank to deposit Pokémon from your Generation 6 games (X, Y, Omega Ruby, Alpha Sapphire) into your online Pokémon Bank account.

2. Transfer: Then, using Pokémon Bank on a Generation 7 game (Sun, Moon, Ultra Sun, Ultra Moon), you could withdraw those same Pokémon into your Generation 7 save file.

Important Considerations:

• One-Way Trip (Mostly): Pokémon could move from Gen 6 to Gen 7 using Pokémon Bank, but generally, they couldn’t move back. Once a Pokémon was withdrawn into a Gen 7 game, it was permanently locked into that generation and could not be returned to Gen 6. There were some very limited exceptions for Pokémon Bank distribution events, but these were rare.

• Real 3DS Required: This process necessitates access to a physical Nintendo 3DS console. Emulators can not access Pokémon Bank.

• Pokémon Bank is Now Free: With the discontinuation of the Nintendo eShop service for the Nintendo 3DS, Pokémon Bank is now available for free. This makes transferring Pokémon from older generations easier and more accessible than ever.

The Bigger Picture: Why the Restrictions?

You might wonder why Nintendo implemented this system rather than allowing direct trades. Several factors likely contributed to the decision:

• Balancing: Introducing new Pokémon, moves, and abilities in each generation creates a unique gameplay experience. Allowing direct trading could potentially disrupt the balance of the newer games.

• Encouraging the Use of New Features: Each generation aims to showcase its own unique elements. Restricting inter-generational trading encourages players to engage with the new Pokémon and mechanics.

• Promoting Pokémon Bank: Nintendo had a vested interest in promoting Pokémon Bank as a service, and restricting direct trading incentivized players to subscribe.

• Compatibility: Changes in data structure between generations may lead to compatibility issues if direct trading was permitted without the middleman of Pokémon Bank.

Looking Beyond: Pokémon Home

It’s also important to understand how Pokémon Home fits into this picture. Pokémon Home is the current cloud service for storing and transferring Pokémon across multiple games and generations. It essentially supersedes Pokémon Bank for newer titles. While Pokémon Bank is used for transferring Pokémon from Generation 6 and 7 into Pokémon Home, it’s important to understand that direct transfers between Generation 6 and 7 using Pokémon Home are also not possible. Pokémon Bank acts as a bridge to bring older Pokémon forward.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I trade between Pokémon X and Pokémon Sun directly?

No. Direct trading between Generation 6 and Generation 7 games is not possible. You must use Pokémon Bank as an intermediary.

2. I have Pokémon in my Pokémon Y game. Can I get them into Pokémon Ultra Moon?

Yes, you can. Deposit your Pokémon from Pokémon Y into Pokémon Bank. Then, use Pokémon Bank on your Pokémon Ultra Moon game to withdraw those Pokémon.

3. Is Pokémon Bank still necessary for transferring Pokémon from older games?

Yes, Pokémon Bank is essential for transferring Pokémon from Generation 6 (X, Y, Omega Ruby, Alpha Sapphire) and Generation 7 (Sun, Moon, Ultra Sun, Ultra Moon) into Pokémon Home.

4. What happens if I try to trade directly between a Gen 6 and Gen 7 game?

The game will not allow it. The trading functionality is generation-locked.

5. Can I transfer Pokémon from a ROM or emulated version of a Gen 6 game to a Gen 7 game?

No. Pokémon Bank requires a legitimate copy of the game and access to the Nintendo Network on a real Nintendo 3DS console.

6. Once I transfer a Pokémon from Gen 6 to Gen 7, can I trade it to another Gen 7 game?

Yes. Once the Pokémon is in a Generation 7 game, you can trade it to other Generation 7 games using the standard in-game trading mechanics.

7. What is the Pokémon Transporter?

The Pokémon Transporter is a separate application that works in conjunction with Pokémon Bank. It is used to transfer Pokémon from Generation 5 (Black, White, Black 2, White 2) into Pokémon Bank.

8. Is Pokémon Bank a one-time purchase, or do I need a subscription?

Pokémon Bank is now free to use due to the closure of the 3DS eShop.

9. Can I use Pokémon Bank to transfer items along with my Pokémon?

No. Pokémon Bank only transfers Pokémon. Any items held by the Pokémon will be returned to your bag before the transfer.

10. What happens if I try to transfer a Pokémon with an illegal move set from Gen 6 to Gen 7 using Pokémon Bank?

Pokémon Bank has some basic checks for legality, and it may prevent Pokémon with clearly illegal movesets or characteristics from being transferred.

11. Can I transfer Pokémon from the Virtual Console versions of Gen 1 and 2 games to Gen 7?

Yes, but first, you need to transfer them to Pokémon Bank using the Pokémon Transporter. They can then be moved to Gen 7.

12. Are there any Pokémon that cannot be transferred from Gen 6 to Gen 7 using Pokémon Bank?

Generally, no. All Pokémon from Gen 6 can be transferred to Gen 7 using Pokémon Bank. However, there may be specific event Pokémon with unique restrictions.

13. I accidentally transferred a Pokémon to Gen 7 that I wanted to keep in Gen 6. Can I get it back?

Unfortunately, no. Once a Pokémon has been transferred to and withdrawn in a Generation 7 game via Pokémon Bank, it cannot be moved back to a Generation 6 game.

14. How does Pokémon Home relate to trading between Gen 6 and Gen 7 now?

While Pokémon Home is the current central hub, you still need Pokémon Bank to get your Pokémon into Home from Gen 6 and 7. Pokémon Home can then transfer Pokémon to compatible newer games.

15. Where can I learn more about the educational aspects of Pokémon and other games?

You can explore the fascinating intersection of gaming and education at the Games Learning Society website: GamesLearningSociety.org. This is where scholars and educators explore the power of play!

Conclusion

While direct trading between Pokémon Generations 6 and 7 is not possible, Pokémon Bank provides a vital pathway to preserve and transfer your beloved Pokémon. Understanding the limitations and processes involved ensures a smooth transition for your digital companions into newer adventures. So, fire up that 3DS, dust off your old games, and prepare to move your Pokémon forward!