Does Pokémon HOME Work with Digital Games? A Comprehensive Guide
Yes, Pokémon HOME absolutely works with digital games! Whether you’ve downloaded your Pokémon adventures from the Nintendo eShop or have physical cartridges, Pokémon HOME is designed to be your central hub for managing your Pokémon collection. It bridges the gap between different generations and platforms, allowing you to transfer Pokémon from older games to newer ones, albeit with certain limitations we’ll explore in this guide.
Understanding Pokémon HOME’s Compatibility
Pokémon HOME acts as a cloud-based storage system, a digital sanctuary for your beloved Pokémon. It’s compatible with a range of Pokémon games on both the Nintendo Switch and mobile devices. The primary purpose of Pokémon HOME is to unite your Pokémon from various games under one digital roof.
Supported Games: Digital and Physical
The beauty of Pokémon HOME lies in its ability to work seamlessly with both digital and physical copies of compatible games. Here’s a breakdown:
- Nintendo Switch Games:
- Pokémon Scarlet
- Pokémon Violet
- Pokémon Legends: Arceus
- Pokémon Brilliant Diamond
- Pokémon Shining Pearl
- Pokémon Sword
- Pokémon Shield
All the above games work regardless of whether you own a physical or digital copy. You can deposit and withdraw Pokémon between these games and Pokémon HOME.
- Nintendo 3DS Games (via Pokémon Bank):
- Pokémon X
- Pokémon Y
- Pokémon Omega Ruby
- Pokémon Alpha Sapphire
- Pokémon Sun
- Pokémon Moon
- Pokémon Ultra Sun
- Pokémon Ultra Moon
For 3DS games, the process is a bit more involved, but yes, digital versions work perfectly with Pokémon Bank.
The Pokémon Bank Bridge
If you have a Pokémon collection stored on games made for the Nintendo 3DS family, you cannot directly upload them to Pokémon HOME. You’ll first need to transfer your Pokémon from those games to Pokémon Bank, a now-free cloud-based service on the 3DS. Once your Pokémon are safely stored in Pokémon Bank, you can then transfer them to Pokémon HOME.
Transfer Process: 3DS to Switch
Here’s a step-by-step rundown of transferring Pokémon from your 3DS games to Pokémon HOME:
- Open Pokémon Bank on your Nintendo 3DS.
- Select “Move Pokémon to Pokémon HOME” from the main menu.
- Choose the boxes containing the Pokémon you wish to transfer.
- Open Pokémon HOME on your Nintendo Switch or mobile device and generate a Moving Key.
- In Pokémon Bank, select “Begin Move” and enter the Moving Key generated by Pokémon HOME.
- Wait for the transfer to complete!
Important Note: Pokémon transferred to Pokémon HOME from Pokémon Bank cannot be transferred back to Pokémon Bank or used with Nintendo 3DS titles. It’s a one-way trip!
Subscription Models: Free vs. Premium
Pokémon HOME operates on a freemium model. While there’s a free tier, it comes with limitations.
- Free Plan: You can store a maximum of 30 Pokémon, and only one Pokémon can be deposited on the Global Trade System (GTS) at a time.
- Premium Plan: This unlocks all 200 boxes, allowing you to store up to 6,000 Pokémon. It also grants access to features like the Judge function and the ability to transfer Pokémon from Pokémon Bank.
Understanding Limitations
While Pokémon HOME is a powerful tool, it’s essential to understand its limitations:
- Game Compatibility: Not all Pokémon games are compatible. Older titles, such as those on the Game Boy Advance, cannot be directly linked to Pokémon HOME.
- Transfer Restrictions: Some Pokémon, such as Partner Pikachu, Partner Eevee, and fused forms of Necrozma, Kyurem, and Calyrex, may have transfer restrictions.
- Move Sets: When transferring Pokémon between games, their move sets may be altered to align with the destination game’s mechanics.
- Nintendo Account Requirement: You need a Nintendo Account to use Pokémon HOME on your Switch.
Pokémon HOME and the Games Learning Society
The complexities of Pokémon HOME, and the broader Pokémon universe, offer rich opportunities for learning and engagement. The strategic thinking involved in building a strong team, the social interactions through trading and battling, and the technological understanding of cloud services all contribute to a well-rounded educational experience. Organizations like the Games Learning Society are dedicated to exploring these aspects of gaming and education. Learn more at GamesLearningSociety.org.
Pokémon HOME FAQs: Your Questions Answered
1. Is Pokémon HOME on the eShop?
Yes, Pokémon HOME can be downloaded from the Nintendo eShop on your Nintendo Switch. You can also download the mobile version from the App Store or Google Play Store.
2. Can you still use Pokémon Bank after the eShop closure?
Yes! Pokémon Bank is now usable at no cost due to the discontinuation of the Nintendo eShop service for the Nintendo 3DS family of systems. This is excellent news for anyone looking to transfer Pokémon from their older games.
3. Does Pokémon HOME work without a Nintendo Switch Online membership?
No, you are not required to have a Nintendo Switch Online membership to use the Nintendo Switch version of Pokémon HOME. However, a subscription is required for other services.
4. Why can’t I use Pokémon HOME?
Ensure your mobile device meets the minimum requirements as listed in the Pokémon HOME system requirements and compatibility. Also, make sure you are running the most recent version of Pokémon HOME and that the app has access to your mobile device’s camera (if required).
5. How do I transfer DS games to Pokémon HOME?
As previously discussed, you’ll need to route your collection through Pokémon Bank on the 3DS first. Then, follow the steps for transferring from Pokémon Bank to Pokémon HOME using a Moving Key.
6. What happens to your Pokémon when your Pokémon HOME Premium plan expires?
Your Pokémon are not deleted immediately. Pokémon in the first box you have access to remain accessible. The rest are locked until you renew your subscription, and you won’t be able to do any 3DS to Switch transfer.
7. What’s the point of Pokémon HOME?
Pokémon HOME is a cloud service that can be accessed using a Nintendo Switch console and compatible mobile devices. With Pokémon HOME, you can move Pokémon between compatible games, trade Pokémon on the go, collect Pokémon HOME Points, receive special Mystery Gift Pokémon, and more.
8. Can I transfer my Pokémon from GO to HOME?
Yes, you can send Pokémon from Pokémon GO to Pokémon HOME. However, you cannot send Pokémon from Pokémon HOME back to Pokémon GO.
9. Can I have 2 3DS systems with the same Nintendo Account?
No, it is not possible to link the same Nintendo Network account to multiple Wii U or multiple Nintendo 3DS family systems at the same time.
10. Do Pokémon HOME Pokémon get deleted?
The Pokémon will remain in Pokémon HOME for a certain period of time. You will not be able to view or withdraw any Pokémon that are not in your Basic Box (if your plan changes to the Basic Plan).
11. Do you get a free Pikachu with Pokémon HOME?
Yes, starting up Pokémon HOME also gets you a free gift Pikachu! You also get your choice of one of the Gen 1 starters (Bulbasaur, Squirtle, or Charmander).
12. Is Pokémon HOME free?
Pokémon HOME is a free-to-access cloud-based service. However, to unlock the ability to transfer from Pokémon Bank, store more Pokémon, and access more trading features, you’ll need a premium subscription.
13. Are there any Pokémon not allowed in Pokémon HOME?
Yes, some Pokémon like Partner Pikachu, Partner Eevee, and certain fused forms like Necrozma, Kyurem, and Calyrex cannot be transferred to Pokémon HOME. Some Gigantamax Pokémon cannot be transferred from Pokémon HOME to BDSP or Legends: Arceus.
14. How many Pokémon can HOME hold?
The Basic Plan allows you to store up to 30 Pokémon. The Premium Plan grants access to all 200 boxes, capable of holding up to 6,000 Pokémon.
15. What is the difference between Pokémon HOME and Pokémon Bank?
Pokémon Bank is specifically for 3DS handheld Pokémon RPG main games. Pokémon HOME is designed to be the next generation of Pokémon storage, compatible with Pokémon Bank, Pokémon GO, Pokémon Let’s Go, Pokémon Sword and Shield, and more. It’s intended for Nintendo Switch Pokémon players and acts as a unified storage hub.
Conclusion
Pokémon HOME is an essential tool for any serious Pokémon trainer looking to manage their collection across multiple generations and games. Whether you prefer digital downloads or physical cartridges, Pokémon HOME integrates seamlessly, making it easier than ever to keep track of your favorite Pokémon and bring them along on new adventures. The platform bridges the gap between old and new games, ensuring your hard-earned Pokémon are never left behind.