Trading Across Time and Space: Can You Trade Pokémon from Black to White?
The short answer is a resounding yes! You absolutely can trade Pokémon between Pokémon Black and Pokémon White. These games, both belonging to the fifth generation of the beloved Pokémon series, were designed with interoperability in mind. However, the process involves specific mechanics and requirements you’ll need to understand to ensure seamless trading. Let’s dive into the specifics of how to transfer your prized Pokémon between these two classic games.
The Trading Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
To trade between Pokémon Black and White, you’ll need a few things:
- Two Nintendo DS, DS Lite, DSi, or 3DS systems: Each system will need to run either Pokémon Black or Pokémon White.
- Two copies of the Pokémon games: One copy of Pokémon Black and one copy of Pokémon White.
- Access to the Pokémon Center: Trading can only be done within a Pokémon Center after you’ve progressed far enough into the game.
- The C-Gear: This key item is essential for wireless communication, including trading.
Once you have these prerequisites, follow these steps:
- Progress in both games: You need to have reached the point in the game where you can access a Pokémon Center. This usually involves obtaining your first Pokémon, battling a few trainers, and reaching the first major town.
- Enter the Pokémon Center: Head to the second floor of any Pokémon Center in both games.
- Talk to the receptionist: Speak to the receptionist in the middle of the room. She will offer you the option to enter the Union Room.
- Enter the Union Room in both games: Have both players select “Yes” when prompted to enter the Union Room. This will create a local wireless connection between the two games.
- Find each other: Your characters will appear in the Union Room. Walk around until you find the other player’s character.
- Initiate the trade: Talk to the other player’s character. A menu will appear allowing you to request a trade.
- Select the Pokémon: Both players will then select the Pokémon they wish to trade.
- Confirm the trade: Review the Pokémon offered and received, and confirm the trade.
- Enjoy your newly traded Pokémon! The Pokémon will be transferred between the two games.
Important Considerations
- Version Exclusives: Remember that Pokémon Black and White have version-exclusive Pokémon. Trading is the only way to obtain these Pokémon in the opposite game.
- Pokémon Levels: Traded Pokémon gain experience faster than Pokémon caught in the wild. Be mindful of this, especially if you’re planning to use the traded Pokémon in your main team.
- Loyalty Issues: Traded Pokémon may sometimes disobey if your trainer level isn’t high enough. This is especially true for Pokémon obtained at a much higher level than your current team.
Understanding the Fifth Generation and Trading Mechanics
Pokémon Black and White are pivotal entries in the Pokémon franchise. They introduced a completely new region, Unova, with a fresh roster of Pokémon. The games also refined existing mechanics and added new features, making the trading experience smoother and more engaging than in previous generations.
The Union Room, a staple for trading in Pokémon games, provides a simple and effective way to connect with other players locally. The wireless capabilities of the Nintendo DS family make the process straightforward, allowing players to exchange Pokémon quickly and easily.
The Broader Impact of Trading in Pokémon
Trading Pokémon isn’t just about completing your Pokédex. It’s a core element of the social experience that has defined the Pokémon franchise for decades. Trading fosters communication, cooperation, and friendly competition among players. It also allows players to strategize and build teams that are more powerful and diverse. It also ties in with the philosophy of the Games Learning Society (GamesLearningSociety.org) which understands the social and cognitive impacts of games on society.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 frequently asked questions about trading between Pokémon Black and White, designed to provide even more clarity and guidance:
1. Do I need the National Pokédex to trade between Black and White?
No, you do not need the National Pokédex to trade between Pokémon Black and White. You can start trading as soon as you reach the first Pokémon Center and gain access to the Union Room.
2. Can I trade Eggs between Black and White?
Yes, you can trade Eggs between Pokémon Black and White. This can be a great way to obtain version-exclusive Pokémon or Pokémon with specific natures.
3. Are there any Pokémon that cannot be traded between Black and White?
Generally, all Pokémon can be traded between Black and White. There are no specific restrictions on trading certain species.
4. What happens if my traded Pokémon knows a HM move?
If a Pokémon knows an HM move (like Cut, Fly, Surf, Strength, Waterfall, or Dive), it can still be traded. However, remember that HM moves cannot be deleted normally. You’ll need to visit the Move Deleter to remove them.
5. Can I trade Pokémon from Black 2 and White 2 with Black and White?
Yes, you can trade between Pokémon Black 2 and White 2 with Pokémon Black and White. The process is the same: use the Union Room in the Pokémon Center.
6. Does trading affect the Pokémon’s IVs (Individual Values) or EVs (Effort Values)?
No, trading does not affect a Pokémon’s IVs or EVs. These values are determined when the Pokémon is generated and remain constant throughout its life, regardless of trading.
7. What happens if I trade a Pokémon holding an item?
The Pokémon will carry the item with it when traded. This is a convenient way to transfer valuable items between games.
8. Can I trade with someone online using Black and White?
Yes, you can trade online using the Global Trade System (GTS) or by registering friend codes and trading directly. However, Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection service for Nintendo DS has been discontinued. Therefore, accessing the GTS isn’t possible anymore. You would need to find a friend to trade locally.
9. How do I register Friend Codes for online trading?
As the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection service for Nintendo DS has been discontinued, registering friend codes isn’t relevant for trading within the current infrastructure. Local wireless trading remains your best option.
10. Will traded Pokémon obey me if my trainer level is low?
Yes, potentially traded Pokémon may disobey you if your trainer level (measured by gym badges) is low compared to the Pokémon’s level. The higher the level of the traded Pokémon, the more badges you’ll need for it to consistently obey your commands.
11. What is the difference between local and online trading?
Local trading involves connecting two Nintendo DS systems wirelessly within close proximity. Online trading, which is no longer officially supported by Nintendo for these games, used the internet connection.
12. Are there any risks involved in trading Pokémon?
The main risk is potential scams if trading with strangers. Always ensure you trust the other player and clearly communicate your trading intentions to avoid disappointment.
13. Can I trade back Pokémon I received in a trade?
Yes, you can trade back Pokémon you received in a trade. There are no restrictions on re-trading Pokémon.
14. Does trading evolve certain Pokémon?
Yes, some Pokémon evolve through trading. Classic examples include Kadabra evolving into Alakazam, Graveler evolving into Golem, Haunter evolving into Gengar, and Machoke evolving into Machamp. These evolutions occur immediately after the trade is completed.
15. Is there a limit to how many times I can trade Pokémon?
No, there is no limit to the number of times you can trade Pokémon. You can trade as frequently as you like, provided you meet the necessary conditions (access to the Union Room, two consoles, etc.).
In conclusion, trading between Pokémon Black and White is a fundamental aspect of the games and allows for a richer and more complete Pokémon experience. Understanding the process and these FAQs will equip you to trade with confidence and expand your Pokémon collection.