Can you trade with yourself in Pokemon Y?

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Can you trade with yourself in Pokemon Y

Trading Solo: Your Guide to Trading with Yourself in Pokémon Y

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Yes, you absolutely can trade with yourself in Pokémon Y, although it requires a bit of maneuvering. Since the game itself doesn’t allow trading between the same console, you’ll need a second Nintendo 3DS or 2DS system and another copy of Pokémon X or Y (or any other compatible Gen 6 or 7 game). Alternatively, for transferring between your own Gen 6 and 7 games, you can leverage the Pokémon Bank application. Let’s dive into the methods and how to make the most of them!

Understanding the Options for Self-Trading

There are two primary methods for trading with yourself in Pokémon Y:

  1. Using Two Consoles: This is the classic method, and it involves using two separate Nintendo 3DS or 2DS systems. You’ll need a copy of Pokémon Y on one console, and another copy of Pokémon X or Y, Omega Ruby, Alpha Sapphire, Sun, or Moon, or Ultra Sun or Ultra Moon on the other. Each console needs to be far enough from other systems to not pick up other people’s consoles.
  2. Pokémon Bank and Pokémon HOME: This method involves utilizing Pokémon Bank, a cloud storage service for Nintendo 3DS games, and Pokémon HOME, a cloud storage service for Nintendo Switch games (and mobile devices). This method is slightly more involved but offers a way to transfer Pokémon between different generations of games.

Method 1: Two Consoles – The Traditional Approach

This is the most straightforward method, reminiscent of the classic Game Boy era. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:

  1. Requirements:
    • Two Nintendo 3DS or 2DS systems.
    • One copy of Pokémon Y.
    • A copy of another compatible Pokémon game (X, OR, AS, Sun, Moon, USUM)
  2. Game Setup:
    • Start your Pokémon Y game on one console.
    • Start the other Pokémon game on your other console.
    • Ensure you have progressed far enough in both games to access the Pokémon Center.
  3. Initiate the Trade:
    • In each game, head to the Pokémon Center and speak to the attendant in the middle, choosing the option to trade or battle with a friend.
    • Both games will search for a local wireless connection.
    • When both consoles detect each other, select the other player to initiate the trade.
  4. The Trading Process:
    • Once connected, you’ll enter the trading screen.
    • Select the Pokémon you wish to trade from each game.
    • Confirm the trade, and watch as your Pokémon exchange consoles!

Advantages of the Two-Console Method:

  • Simple and Direct: This method is very straightforward, especially if you already have two consoles.
  • No Subscription Required: Unlike the Pokémon Bank method, this doesn’t require a subscription.
  • Immediate Results: You see the Pokémon traded instantly.

Disadvantages of the Two-Console Method:

  • Requires Two Consoles: This is the biggest hurdle for many players.
  • Requires Two Game Copies: You need to own two copies of Pokémon games, which can be an investment.

Method 2: Pokémon Bank and Pokémon HOME – The Modern Approach

This method is more complex and requires subscriptions, but it’s incredibly useful for moving Pokémon between different 3DS games and even up to Nintendo Switch titles like Pokémon Sword and Shield.

  1. Requirements:
    • A Nintendo 3DS or 2DS system with Pokémon Y
    • A Nintendo Switch console.
    • Subscriptions for Pokémon Bank (on 3DS) and Pokémon HOME (on Switch). As of 2023, Pokémon Bank is usable at no cost due to the discontinuation of Nintendo eShop service for the Nintendo 3DS family of systems.
    • Downloads of the Pokémon Bank app on your 3DS and Pokémon HOME on your Switch.
  2. Setting up Pokémon Bank:
    • Download the Pokémon Bank application from the Nintendo eShop on your 3DS.
    • Open Pokémon Bank and follow the on-screen instructions to set up your account.
  3. Transferring from Pokémon Y to Pokémon Bank:
    • Launch Pokémon Bank and select the option to transfer Pokémon from your Pokémon Y game.
    • Choose the Pokémon you want to transfer and deposit them into Pokémon Bank.
    • Save and exit Pokémon Bank.
  4. Setting up Pokémon HOME:
    • Download and install Pokémon HOME on your Nintendo Switch or mobile device.
    • Link your Nintendo Account to Pokémon HOME.
  5. Transferring from Pokémon Bank to Pokémon HOME:
    • Open Pokémon HOME on your Nintendo Switch.
    • Select the option to transfer Pokémon from Pokémon Bank.
    • Follow the on-screen instructions to link your Nintendo Network ID (used on the 3DS) to your Nintendo Account (used on the Switch).
    • Choose the Pokémon you want to transfer from Pokémon Bank to Pokémon HOME.

Advantages of the Pokémon Bank/HOME Method:

  • Cross-Generational Transfers: This allows you to move Pokémon from older generations to newer ones.
  • Large Storage Capacity: Pokémon Bank and Pokémon HOME offer substantial storage space for your Pokémon.
  • Versatile Use: Pokémon HOME can be used across multiple devices, including Nintendo Switch and mobile phones.

Disadvantages of the Pokémon Bank/HOME Method:

  • Multiple Steps: The process is more complicated compared to the two-console method.
  • No Direct Trading: You can’t trade directly between Pokémon Y and another game; it’s a transfer process.

Trading with yourself in Pokémon Y is entirely achievable with the right tools and understanding of the available methods. Whether you prefer the classic two-console approach or the more modern Pokémon Bank and HOME system, you can manage your Pokémon collection effectively and complete those tricky trade evolutions! Be sure to check out resources like the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org for more information on the educational and social aspects of gaming.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions to help you further navigate the process of trading with yourself in Pokémon Y:

  1. Can I use the GTS (Global Trade System) to trade with myself in Pokémon Y?

    No, the GTS requires connecting with other players online, and you cannot connect with yourself. The GTS is designed for trading with unknown trainers around the world.

  2. Is it possible to trade Pokémon from Pokémon Y to Pokémon Let’s Go Pikachu/Eevee?

    Unfortunately, no. Pokémon Let’s Go, Pikachu! and Let’s Go, Eevee! only connect to Pokémon GO and Pokémon HOME. You cannot directly transfer Pokémon from Pokémon Y to these games.

  3. Can I evolve trade-evolution Pokémon (like Haunter) without trading in Pokémon Y?

    Normally, Pokémon like Haunter evolve only through trading. There is no in-game workaround in Pokémon Y itself to evolve them without trading via a link cable or Pokémon Bank.

  4. Do I need a specific version of the Nintendo 3DS to trade with myself?

    No, any Nintendo 3DS, 2DS, or New Nintendo 3DS model will work as long as it is functional and can connect to local wireless networks.

  5. Can I use emulators like Citra to trade with myself in Pokémon Y?

    Yes, using emulators like Citra, you can set up two instances of the game on your computer and use their local multiplayer features to trade with yourself. However, be aware of the legal implications of downloading ROMs.

  6. What happens if I lose connection during a trade in Pokémon Y?

    If the connection is lost, the trade will be interrupted. In most cases, the Pokémon you were trading will remain in their original locations, but there’s a slight chance of data corruption, so ensure a stable connection.

  7. Is Pokémon Bank free to use now?

    Yes, Pokémon Bank is currently usable at no cost due to the discontinuation of Nintendo eShop service for the Nintendo 3DS family of systems.

  8. Can I trade back Pokémon from Pokémon HOME to Pokémon Y?

    No, once Pokémon are transferred to Pokémon HOME, they cannot be moved back to Pokémon Bank or Pokémon Y. The transfer is one-way.

  9. Is there a limit to how many Pokémon I can store in Pokémon Bank?

    Pokémon Bank allows you to store up to 3,000 Pokémon.

  10. What is the Pokémon Transporter used for?

    The Pokémon Transporter is a separate application used in conjunction with Pokémon Bank to transfer Pokémon from Generation V games (Black, White, Black 2, White 2) to Pokémon Bank.

  11. Can I trade Pokémon holding items?

    Yes, Pokémon can hold items during trades, and the items will be transferred along with the Pokémon.

  12. How do I check the IVs (Individual Values) of my Pokémon in Pokémon Y?

    In Pokémon Y, you cannot directly check IVs in-game. You would need to transfer them to a later game or use external tools and calculators.

  13. Can I use Action Replay or other cheat devices to trade with myself more easily?

    Using cheat devices can potentially corrupt your game data or lead to unintended consequences. It’s generally not recommended.

  14. Do Pokémon lose their original trainer information when traded?

    Pokémon do not lose their original trainer information when traded. However, their Original Trainer (OT) will be different once they are traded to you.

  15. Where can I find more information about Pokémon trading and game mechanics?

    You can find valuable resources and communities online, including fan forums, Pokémon websites, and educational platforms like the Games Learning Society that explore the learning aspects of gaming.

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