Does Pokémon Bank Still Work on 3DS? The Definitive Guide
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
Yes, Pokémon Bank still works on the Nintendo 3DS, but with a crucial caveat: it’s now free to use. This change came about because the Nintendo eShop for the 3DS family of systems was discontinued on March 27, 2023. While you can no longer purchase or download new software from the eShop, those who had already downloaded Pokémon Bank can continue using it to store and transfer their beloved Pokémon. Let’s delve into the details of how it works and answer some pressing questions you might have.
What is Pokémon Bank?
Pokémon Bank is essentially a cloud-based storage service designed for the Nintendo 3DS. It allows players to store up to 3,000 Pokémon online, freeing up space in their game cartridges or digital copies of Pokémon games. It’s a handy tool for avid Pokémon collectors or those looking to transfer Pokémon between compatible games. Prior to the eShop closure, it required an annual subscription fee, but thankfully, that’s no longer the case.
How to Access and Use Pokémon Bank After the eShop Closure
If you had Pokémon Bank installed on your 3DS before the eShop closed, you’re in luck. You can still use it. Here’s how:
- Ensure Pokémon Bank is installed: If you haven’t already, and obtained it before March 27, 2023, you should already have it available for use on your 3DS. Otherwise, it can no longer be downloaded.
- Launch Pokémon Bank: Navigate to the HOME Menu on your 3DS and select the Pokémon Bank icon.
- Update Pokémon Bank (if needed): Although you can no longer download it, you can still check to see if it is updated. If an update is required, you may not be able to use it.
- Use Poké Transporter: If you want to move Pokémon from older games like Pokémon Black, White, Black 2, or White 2, you’ll need Poké Transporter. This application is used in conjunction with Pokémon Bank to move Pokémon from those older generation games.
- Transfer Pokémon: Once in Pokémon Bank, you can deposit and withdraw Pokémon from various boxes.
- Move to Pokémon HOME: The ultimate goal for many is to get their Pokémon into Pokémon HOME, the current cloud storage service for Pokémon on the Nintendo Switch and mobile devices. To do this, you’ll use the “Move Pokémon to Pokémon HOME” option within Pokémon Bank.
Pokémon Bank and Pokémon HOME: The Connection
Pokémon Bank acts as a bridge between the older 3DS Pokémon games and the newer Pokémon HOME service. Pokémon HOME is the successor to Pokémon Bank and is available on the Nintendo Switch and mobile devices. It allows you to consolidate your Pokémon collection from various games in one place.
To transfer Pokémon from Pokémon Bank to Pokémon HOME, you’ll need both applications.
- Open Pokémon Bank: On your 3DS and select “Move Pokémon to Pokémon HOME”.
- Select Boxes: Choose the boxes you want to transfer.
- Generate a Moving Key: Open Pokémon HOME on your Nintendo Switch and generate a Moving Key. This key is a temporary code that links your Pokémon Bank to your Pokémon HOME account.
- Enter the Moving Key: Enter the Moving Key in Pokémon Bank on your 3DS.
- Begin the Transfer: Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the transfer.
Once the Pokémon are moved to Pokémon HOME, they cannot be transferred back to Pokémon Bank. Keep this in mind before initiating the transfer. The Games Learning Society offers great resources related to understanding the cultural impact of gaming, including Pokémon.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions about Pokémon Bank and its functionality after the Nintendo eShop closure:
1. Can I download Pokémon Bank now that the eShop is closed?
Unfortunately, no. If you didn’t download Pokémon Bank before the eShop closure on March 27, 2023, you can no longer download it.
2. Is Pokémon Bank completely free now?
Yes, Pokémon Bank is now free to use for anyone who had it downloaded prior to the eShop closure. There are no subscription fees required.
3. What 3DS Pokémon games are compatible with Pokémon Bank?
Pokémon Bank is compatible with the following games:
- Pokémon X
- Pokémon Y
- Pokémon Omega Ruby
- Pokémon Alpha Sapphire
- Pokémon Sun
- Pokémon Moon
- Pokémon Ultra Sun
- Pokémon Ultra Moon
4. Does Pokémon Bank work with Pokémon games on the original DS?
No, Pokémon Bank is exclusively a 3DS application. To transfer Pokémon from older DS games (Pokémon Diamond, Pearl, Platinum, HeartGold, SoulSilver, Black, White, Black 2, and White 2), you’ll need to use Poké Transporter in conjunction with Pokémon Bank. The Pokémon can move to Pokémon Black, White, Black 2, or White 2, and from there to the Pokémon Bank via Poké Transporter.
5. What is Poké Transporter and how does it work?
Poké Transporter is a companion application to Pokémon Bank that allows you to transfer Pokémon from Pokémon Black, White, Black 2, and White 2 to Pokémon Bank. To use it, you need to have both Poké Transporter and Pokémon Bank installed on your 3DS.
6. Can I transfer Pokémon from Pokémon Bank back to my 3DS games?
Yes, you can transfer Pokémon back and forth between Pokémon Bank and the compatible 3DS games listed above, as long as those are transferred locally within the 3DS. However, once Pokémon are moved from Pokémon Bank to Pokémon HOME, they cannot be transferred back to Pokémon Bank or any 3DS game.
7. How do I update Pokémon Bank?
Ideally you would do this via the eShop, however that is no longer an option. If an update is required it may no longer be possible to update the software. If you had the update before the eShop closure, it will be the latest version already.
8. What happens if I didn’t renew my Pokémon Bank subscription before it became free?
Since Pokémon Bank is now free, you don’t need to worry about renewing any subscriptions. Simply launch the application and you should be able to access your Pokémon. If you previously had Pokémon stored in Pokémon Bank and your subscription had expired, they should still be there.
9. Can I have Pokémon Bank on multiple 3DS systems with the same account?
No, it is not possible to link the same Nintendo Network ID to multiple 3DS systems simultaneously. Each system requires its own account.
10. Is Pokémon HOME free to use?
Pokémon HOME has both a free and a paid (Premium) version. The free version allows you to store a limited number of Pokémon and has limited features. The Premium version offers increased storage capacity and additional features, such as the ability to transfer Pokémon from Pokémon Bank.
11. How long will Pokémon Bank be available for free?
Nintendo hasn’t announced an end date for the free availability of Pokémon Bank. However, it’s safe to assume that it will remain available for the foreseeable future, as it’s the only way to transfer Pokémon from 3DS games to Pokémon HOME.
12. Can I still redownload games and updates from the 3DS eShop?
Yes, while you can no longer purchase new games or DLC from the 3DS eShop, you can still redownload games and DLC that you have previously purchased, as well as download updates for games you already own. GamesLearningSociety.org has additional resources on gaming and communities.
13. What happens to my Pokémon if Pokémon Bank eventually shuts down?
If Nintendo were to eventually shut down Pokémon Bank, it’s likely they would provide advance notice and instructions on how to transfer your Pokémon to Pokémon HOME. It’s always a good idea to keep your Pokémon backed up in Pokémon HOME to ensure their safety.
14. Can I transfer illegal or hacked Pokémon to Pokémon Bank and Pokémon HOME?
Nintendo explicitly warns against transferring Pokémon that have been created by means not approved by Nintendo, The Pokémon Company, and its affiliates. Doing so could result in losing the right to use Pokémon Bank and Pokémon HOME.
15. Will Pokémon Bank work on a modded 3DS?
System updates can be performed the same way as they are on an unmodified 3DS: through System Settings, Safe Mode, or the update prompt when the update is automatically downloaded. However, using modified systems may violate terms of service and could lead to unforeseen issues with the software, if an update is required.
Conclusion
While the closure of the Nintendo 3DS eShop marked the end of an era, the fact that Pokémon Bank is now free is a significant silver lining. It allows players to continue enjoying their Pokémon collections and transfer them to the newer Pokémon HOME service. So, if you have Pokémon Bank installed on your 3DS, make sure to take advantage of this free service to safeguard your Pokémon for years to come!