Can You Trade Pokémon from Black 2 to Black? A Comprehensive Guide

The short answer is yes, you can trade Pokémon between Black 2 and Black. However, the process isn’t as straightforward as simply initiating a trade. You’ll need to understand the mechanics of the Nintendo DS trading system and the limitations it presents to ensure a smooth transfer of your beloved Pokémon. This article will walk you through everything you need to know about trading between these two generations of Pokémon games.

The Basics of Trading Between Pokémon Black 2 and Black

Trading Pokémon between Black 2 and Black requires two functioning Nintendo DS or Nintendo 3DS systems. The primary method used is the Wireless Communication feature built into the games. Here’s a breakdown of the essential steps:

1. Two Systems are Required: You’ll need one console running Pokémon Black and another running Pokémon Black 2. Both systems need to have the game cartridges inserted and be powered on.
2. Progress in the Games: You must have progressed far enough in both games to unlock the trading function. Generally, this involves defeating the first Gym Leader in both games.
3. Entering the Pokémon Center: Once you’ve completed the Gym, head to any Pokémon Center in both games.
4. Accessing the Trade Room: Go upstairs in the Pokémon Center and talk to the lady in the middle. She’ll connect you to the Nintendo Wi-Fi service and give you a Pal Pad.
5. Adding Friend Codes: Now, you need to exchange friend codes with the person you want to trade with. This is done via the Pal Pad in each game.
6. Initiating a Trade: Once you’ve added each other’s codes, you can talk to the lady again and select “Trade”. This opens a connection between the two games.
7. Trading Pokémon: Inside the trade interface, you can select which Pokémon you want to send and which ones you want to receive from the other player.

Important Considerations

• No Direct Transfer: You cannot simply move Pokémon from Black 2 to Black without using a direct trade. There’s no built-in function for transferring saved data between the two games.
• Limitations of Wireless Connection: Trades can only be done if the systems are close to each other and have a stable wireless connection.
• No Pokémon Bank Involvement: This type of trading does not involve Pokémon Bank. Pokémon Bank is used for transferring Pokémon to later generations of games and is not required or usable for direct trades between Black and Black 2.
• Nintendo Wi-Fi Service Discontinuation: While you are connecting to the ‘Nintendo WiFi’, this doesn’t actually mean using the internet. Instead, it uses the DS consoles’ own local wireless connection – since the Nintendo Wi-Fi service has been discontinued for the original DS and 3DS. This means you cannot do online trading using the old systems.
• Trading Restrictions: The usual restrictions for trades in the games still apply. For example, certain event Pokémon might not be tradable.
• Evolution Through Trade: Some Pokémon only evolve when traded. This is still applicable during trades between Black 2 and Black.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions to give you a complete picture of trading between Black 2 and Black:

1. Do I need a 3DS to trade between Black 2 and Black?

No, you do not need a 3DS to trade between Black 2 and Black. Both games are designed to run on the original Nintendo DS system. However, you can use two 3DS systems as they are backward compatible and can play DS games.

2. Can I trade back and forth multiple times?

Yes, as long as the wireless connection is stable and you have met the requirements in both games, you can trade back and forth as many times as you wish.

3. What if I only have one Nintendo DS or 3DS?

If you only have one system, you won’t be able to trade directly. You would need another console running one of the other compatible games.

4. Does the level of the Pokémon affect trading?

The level of a Pokémon does not affect its tradability. Any level of Pokemon can be traded as long as the games both fulfill the other requirements.

5. Can I trade held items?

Yes, you can trade Pokémon that are holding items. The held item will be transferred along with the Pokémon to the new game.

6. Is trading available right from the start of the game?

No, you need to have progressed enough in both games to unlock the trading function. This usually involves beating the first Gym Leader in each game.

7. Can I trade special event Pokémon?

Some special event Pokémon may be subject to trading restrictions, even between Black and Black 2. It depends on the specific event Pokémon.

8. Do I need to use Pokémon Bank for this trade?

No, Pokémon Bank is not required for trading between Black 2 and Black. Pokémon Bank is used for transferring Pokémon to later generation games on the Nintendo 3DS and Nintendo Switch.

9. Can I trade between Black 2 and White, or White 2?

Yes, you can use the same trading method between Black 2 and White, or White 2. The process is identical to trading with Pokémon Black.

10. Does the nature or IVs change when trading between Black 2 and Black?

No, the nature, Individual Values (IVs), and Effort Values (EVs) of the Pokémon will remain the same when traded between the two games.

11. Can a Pokémon evolve during a trade between Black 2 and Black?

If a Pokémon normally evolves by trading, then yes, it will evolve during the trade between Black 2 and Black.

12. How do I get a friend code?

You get a friend code by going to a Pokémon Center and then talking to the lady in the middle upstairs. She will give you a Pal Pad and from there, you can exchange codes.

13. Is the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection still working for DS games?

No, the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection for Nintendo DS games has been discontinued. While it may say that you are connecting to the ‘Nintendo WiFi’, it is just a local wireless connection and not internet based. You can only trade with other people nearby.

14. Can I trade Pokémon from other generations to Black 2 or Black?

Yes, but only via Poke Transporter, and it can only bring pokemon from earlier generations up to Black and Black 2. It does not work the other way around.

15. Why should I trade from one game to another?

Trading can help you complete your Pokédex, get Pokémon you might not be able to find in your specific game, or simply transfer your favorite Pokémon to a different save file.

Conclusion

Trading between Pokémon Black 2 and Black is entirely possible with the correct equipment and game progress. While the process may be less straightforward than modern methods of transferring Pokémon, it remains a crucial function for those seeking to complete their Pokédex or play with Pokémon in a different setting within the old Nintendo DS ecosystem. By following the guidelines and understanding the limitations, you can successfully trade your Pokémon between these two classic games.