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Do You Need Two Switches to Trade Pokémon? A Comprehensive Guide

The burning question on every Pokémon Trainer‘s mind: Do you really need two Nintendo Switch consoles to trade Pokémon? The simple answer is no, not always. However, the specifics depend on a few crucial factors, namely which Pokémon game you’re playing and how you want to trade. Understanding the nuances will save you time, money, and prevent potential trading frustrations.

Trading: One Switch vs. Two – Unpacking the Requirements

The core factor determining the need for two Switches is whether you’re trading with another player or trying to trade with yourself.

Trading with another player: This is where things get interesting. If you’re trading locally, meaning in the same physical location with someone next to you, you do not need two Switches if the game allows for local trading. Each player still needs their own Switch and their own copy of the game. This type of trading also does not require Nintendo Switch Online.
Trading with yourself: This is where two Switches become necessary. Because each Switch can only play one game at a time, trading between your own game files typically requires two consoles. You can also use Pokémon HOME to move Pokémon between compatible games but this does not allow for item trades.
Trading Online: For trading with other trainers online via the internet, **each player needs a *Nintendo Switch Online* membership**.

Pokémon HOME: The Bridge Between Games

Pokémon HOME is a cloud-based service designed to unite various Pokémon games. It acts as a storage system for your Pokémon, allowing you to transfer them between compatible titles.

However, there are crucial caveats:

Moving Pokémon, not Items: Pokémon HOME facilitates moving Pokémon, but items attached to those Pokémon are not transferred. They remain in the original game.
Compatibility: Not all Pokémon games are compatible with Pokémon HOME. Always check the official Pokémon HOME compatibility list.
Limited Free Transfers: The free version of Pokémon HOME has limitations on the number of Pokémon you can store and transfer at a time.

Digital vs. Physical Game Copies: Sharing and Trading

The type of game copy you own – digital or physical – also impacts trading and the need for multiple consoles:

Physical Copies: A physical game cartridge can only be used on one Switch at a time. To play the same game on two Switches simultaneously, you’ll need two physical copies.
Digital Copies: Digital copies are tied to your Nintendo Account. While you can link your account to multiple consoles, you can only play the same digital game on one console at a time unless you are gamesharing.
Game Sharing: The Nintendo Switch allows for a limited form of game sharing. You can designate one console as your “primary” console and play your digital games on it offline. On a “secondary” console, you can access your digital games, but you need an internet connection to launch them. This option is more for playing the same game on separate user profiles than simultaneous gameplay.

Local Wireless vs. Online Trading: Understanding the Difference

Knowing the difference between local wireless and online trading is vital:

Local Wireless: This involves trading with players in the same physical location. Each player needs their own Nintendo Switch and a copy of the game, but does not require a Nintendo Switch Online membership.
Online Trading: This connects you with players over the internet. To participate in online trading, **a *Nintendo Switch Online* membership is required**.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Switch Trading

1. Can you trade with one Switch in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet?

No, you cannot trade with yourself using only one Nintendo Switch. To trade with other players, each player will need their own copy of the game and Switch. Online trading will require a Nintendo Switch Online membership.

2. Can you trade between Switch profiles on the same console?

Yes, you can trade between family members with the Nintendo Switch version of Pokémon HOME. This requires using the Pokémon HOME application on the Switch and is subject to HOME’s limitations.

3. Do you need Switch Online to trade with friends?

Yes, **a *Nintendo Switch Online* membership is required to trade with another player online in most Pokémon games.** Local trading does not require a membership.

4. Do I need to buy two games if I have two Switches?

Yes, to play the same game simultaneously on two consoles, you generally need two copies of the game, whether physical or digital. With digital games, you can only be logged in on one console at a time playing the same game. Digital games can be shared to family members.

5. Can you use one Nintendo Account on two Switches?

Yes, you can link your Nintendo Account to multiple consoles. However, you can only play the same digital game simultaneously on one console unless you are gamesharing.

6. Can I share my digital Switch games with family?

Yes, you can gameshare on your Nintendo Switch. As long as you have a digital copy of a game in your account, you can easily share that game with a friend across the original Switch, Switch OLED, and a even the Switch Lite.

7. Do I need Switch Online to trade Pokemon Scarlet and Violet?

Yes, a Nintendo Switch Online membership is required to use the online multiplayer features, including trading in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet.

8. Can you trade Pokémon locally without Switch Online in Scarlet and Violet?

Yes, you can trade locally in offline mode without a Nintendo Switch Online subscription.

9. Can you trade between Let’s Go Pikachu and Eevee on the same switch?

No, you cannot trade between Let’s Go Pikachu and Eevee on the same Switch. You need two Switches and two copies of the game.

10. Can you merge two Pokémon HOME accounts?

No, you cannot merge two Pokémon HOME accounts. Each account can be linked to one Nintendo Account at a time.

11. Can two switches share an online account?

Yes, players using a family membership can access the Nintendo Switch Online service via the same Nintendo Switch system or multiple systems.

12. Can two switches share the same game simultaneously?

No, you cannot use the same Nintendo Account to access the same digital games on multiple consoles simultaneously.

13. Do you need Nintendo Switch Online to trade in Violet or Scarlet?

Yes, for online trading in Pokémon Violet and Scarlet, a Nintendo Switch Online subscription is mandatory.

14. If I have two people in the same house with separate Switches and games, do we have to have Nintendo online to do local trade?

No, you do not need Nintendo Switch Online to trade locally.

15. What is the difference between primary and secondary Nintendo Switch accounts and how does it relate to trading?

The primary Switch account can launch any game offline or online and can play them without limit. A secondary Switch account can only launch games when you have an online connection. This matters less for trading directly with other players, and more for who has access to digital games without constant internet access.

Conclusion: Trading Strategies for Every Trainer

Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a newcomer to the Pokémon world, understanding the intricacies of trading on the Nintendo Switch is essential. While two Switches aren’t always necessary, knowing when they are—and understanding the capabilities of services like Pokémon HOME—will significantly enhance your trading experience. Remember, the true spirit of Pokémon lies in connecting with others and sharing your favorite creatures, whether locally or online. So, choose your preferred method, grab your Joy-Cons, and happy trading! Consider visiting Games Learning Society, GamesLearningSociety.org, for more insights into how gaming fosters learning and community.

Do you need two switches to trade?