Transferring Pokémon to Pokémon Bank Without a 3DS: A Comprehensive Guide

So, you’re looking to get your precious Pokémon into Pokémon Bank but don’t have a Nintendo 3DS? The short answer is: you can’t directly transfer Pokémon into Pokémon Bank without a 3DS. Pokémon Bank is an application exclusive to the Nintendo 3DS family of systems. However, there is a workaround to get Pokémon from Pokémon Bank to Pokémon HOME if the Nintendo Network ID linked to Pokémon Bank is also linked to the Nintendo Account used with Pokémon HOME.

Understanding the Transfer Ecosystem

Let’s break down the process. The transfer chain typically looks like this:

1. Old Generation Games (Game Boy Advance, Nintendo DS): Pokémon are transferred to newer DS games using methods like Pal Park or Poke Transfer.

2. Nintendo DS/3DS Games: Pokémon from Black, White, Black 2, and White 2 can be moved to Pokémon Bank via Poké Transporter (a companion app to Pokémon Bank).

3. Pokémon Bank: This acts as a cloud-based storage for your Pokémon from various 3DS titles, including X, Y, Omega Ruby, Alpha Sapphire, Sun, Moon, Ultra Sun, and Ultra Moon.

4. Pokémon HOME: This is the current generation cloud service for storing and managing Pokémon, available on Nintendo Switch and mobile devices.

The Key to the Workaround

Since you can’t put Pokémon into Pokémon Bank without a 3DS, the trick is to leverage the existing functionality of Pokémon Bank to move Pokémon out of it and into Pokémon HOME.

Here’s what you need:

• A Nintendo Account used with Pokémon HOME.
• A Nintendo Network ID (NNID) linked to Pokémon Bank.
• Ensure that the Nintendo Account is linked to the Nintendo Network ID.
• A 3DS system is needed to transfer Pokemon to Pokemon Bank.

Here’s how to do it:

1. Link Your Accounts: This is crucial. In Pokémon HOME on your Nintendo Switch, check that the Nintendo Account you’re using is linked to the Nintendo Network ID used with Pokémon Bank.

2. Access the “Move” Feature in Pokémon HOME: In Pokémon HOME on your Nintendo Switch, select Move.

3. Select “No Nintendo 3DS”: This option indicates that you’re not performing a local transfer using two systems.

4. Follow the On-Screen Instructions: Pokémon HOME will guide you through the process of connecting to your Pokémon Bank account using your linked Nintendo Network ID.

5. Initiate the Transfer: You will be able to select Pokémon from your Pokémon Bank boxes and move them to Pokémon HOME.

Important Considerations:

• Poké Transporter: This app is necessary to get Pokémon from Black, White, Black 2, and White 2 into Pokémon Bank. While it’s no longer downloadable from the eShop for new users, if you’ve downloaded it previously, you can still redownload it.
• Account Linking: The account linking is the most crucial step. Without it, you won’t be able to access your Pokémon Bank data through Pokémon HOME.
• Pokémon HOME Premium Plan: While Pokémon Bank is now free to use, transferring from Pokémon Bank to Pokémon HOME requires a paid Pokémon HOME Premium Plan.
• Game Compatibility: Not all Pokémon can be transferred to all games. Certain legendary or mythical Pokémon, or Pokémon with specific forms (like fused forms), may have restrictions. Always check compatibility charts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I still download Pokémon Bank?

You can still download Pokémon Bank if you have downloaded it previously. However, since the Nintendo 3DS eShop has closed, new users can no longer download the software. You have to find a 3DS that already has it.

2. Is Poké Transporter still available?

Similar to Pokémon Bank, Poké Transporter is no longer available for new downloads from the eShop. However, if you had previously downloaded it, you should be able to redownload it.

3. Do I need a Pokémon HOME Premium Plan to transfer from Pokémon Bank?

Yes, a Pokémon HOME Premium Plan is required to transfer Pokémon from Pokémon Bank to Pokémon HOME. The free version of Pokémon HOME doesn’t support this functionality.

4. What happens to my Pokémon in Pokémon Bank if I don’t subscribe to Pokémon HOME?

Your Pokémon will remain in Pokémon Bank indefinitely. However, you won’t be able to transfer them to Pokémon HOME or any other compatible games without a Premium Plan.

5. Can I transfer Pokémon from older games like Ruby or Sapphire to Pokémon Bank?

No, you can’t directly transfer from Ruby, Sapphire, or Emerald to Pokémon Bank. You would need to transfer them to a compatible DS game first (like Diamond, Pearl, Platinum, HeartGold, or SoulSilver), and then use Poke Transfer and Poké Transporter to get them into Pokémon Bank.

6. What Pokémon games are compatible with Pokémon Bank?

Pokémon Bank is compatible with the following 3DS games: Pokémon X, Pokémon Y, Pokémon Omega Ruby, Pokémon Alpha Sapphire, Pokémon Sun, Pokémon Moon, Pokémon Ultra Sun, and Pokémon Ultra Moon.

7. What if I have multiple Nintendo Network IDs?

You need to ensure that the Nintendo Network ID associated with your Pokémon Bank account is the same one linked to the Nintendo Account you’re using with Pokémon HOME. If they are different, you might need to transfer the Pokémon Bank data to the correct NNID.

8. Can I transfer hacked Pokémon to Pokémon Bank or Pokémon HOME?

While Pokémon Bank and Pokémon HOME have checks to prevent the transfer of heavily hacked Pokémon, it’s not guaranteed. Pokémon that are deemed illegitimate might not be transferable. There is a risk to your account though.

9. How long will Pokémon Bank be free?

Pokémon Bank is currently free due to the closure of the Nintendo 3DS eShop. Nintendo hasn’t announced an end date for this free access, but it’s subject to change.

10. What happens if my Nintendo Account gets banned?

If your Nintendo Account gets banned, you may lose access to Pokémon HOME and the Pokémon stored within it. Make sure you comply with Nintendo’s terms of service.

11. Can I transfer Pokémon from Pokémon GO to Pokémon Bank?

No, you can’t directly transfer Pokémon from Pokémon GO to Pokémon Bank. You can transfer them to Pokémon HOME and from there, to compatible Switch games.

12. Are there any Pokémon that can’t be transferred to Pokémon HOME?

Yes, certain Pokémon and forms have transfer restrictions. For example, fused forms of Kyurem, Necrozma, and Calyrex cannot be transferred to Pokémon HOME. Partner Pikachu and Eevee also can’t be transferred.

13. Can I merge two different Pokémon HOME accounts?

No, there is currently no way to merge two separate Pokémon HOME accounts. This is why properly linking your Nintendo Network ID and Nintendo Account is crucial.

14. Can I redownload Pokémon Bank on a new 3DS if I previously downloaded it?

Yes, as long as you are using the same Nintendo Network ID that you used to originally download Pokémon Bank, you can redownload it on a new 3DS.

15. Is there a way to bypass the Premium Plan for Pokémon HOME to transfer from Pokémon Bank?

No, there is no legitimate way to bypass the Pokémon HOME Premium Plan to transfer Pokémon from Pokémon Bank. The Premium Plan is required for this functionality.

Understanding the interconnectedness of these services is key to managing your Pokémon collection across generations. While not having a 3DS presents a challenge, you can still access your Pokémon Bank data through Pokémon HOME with the correct account linking and a Premium Plan subscription. Remember to stay informed about updates and changes to these services from Nintendo, as functionality and availability can change over time.

For further insights into gaming and learning, explore resources like the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org. Understanding the educational aspects of gaming can enhance your overall experience and appreciation for the medium.