Transferring Pokémon with a Single Nintendo DS: A Comprehensive Guide

So, you’re looking to move your beloved Pokémon around, but you’re working with just one Nintendo DS? The answer, unfortunately, is nuanced and depends heavily on which games you’re trying to transfer between. Direct trading between games on a single DS is impossible because trading mechanics require two consoles simultaneously. However, there are still methods you can use to migrate Pokémon through certain game generations, but true trading requires a second system.

This guide will explore the available methods of transferring between different generations and explain the limitations you may face when you are using just a single DS.

Understanding the Limitations

The core limitation boils down to the way Pokémon games handle trading. Trading, by design, is a two-way simultaneous process. Information needs to be exchanged between two consoles at the same time to prevent duplication or data loss. A single DS simply cannot interact with itself in this way. Forget about trading between your copy of Pokémon Diamond and Pokémon Pearl on a single DS to evolve that Haunter – it’s simply not possible.

Migration: A One-Way Ticket

Before the Nintendo 3DS era introduced services like Pokémon Bank, the primary method for moving Pokémon between generations using one DS was migration. This is a one-way transfer available between specific generations, mainly from Game Boy Advance (GBA) to Nintendo DS.

Here’s how it generally works:

1. You need a Nintendo DS or DS Lite (the original “fat” DS). These models have both a GBA cartridge slot and a DS cartridge slot.
2. Insert the GBA Pokémon game you want to transfer from into the GBA slot. This could be Ruby, Sapphire, Emerald, FireRed, or LeafGreen.
3. Insert the DS Pokémon game you want to transfer to into the DS slot. These are Diamond, Pearl, or Platinum.
4. Start the DS game. On the main menu, there should be a new option that says “Migrate from [GBA game name]”.
5. Select this option. The game will instruct you to choose six Pokémon from the GBA game to transfer. Be warned, you cannot get these Pokémon back to the GBA game after the transfer. This is important for those who may be missing Pokemon in other generations.
6. Once you confirm your selection, the Pokémon are essentially deleted from the GBA game and stored as data to be imported to the DS game when you begin your adventure.
7. Load your save file in the DS game.
8. You’ll need to reach a specific location in the DS game to access the Pal Park. In Diamond, Pearl, and Platinum, the Pal Park is located on Route 221.
9. Inside the Pal Park, you can capture the Pokémon you migrated. It’s presented as a mini-game where you use special park balls to catch them.

Important Considerations for Migration

• Compatibility is key: Migration only works between specific GBA and DS games. You can’t migrate from a Game Boy Color game (Gold, Silver, Crystal) to a DS game, or from a DS game to a 3DS game this way.
• One-way trip: Once you migrate Pokémon, they’re gone from the original game. Plan carefully!
• Game progress matters: You need to reach a certain point in the receiving DS game (usually unlocking the Pal Park) to complete the transfer.
• GBA compatibility: This method only works with DS models that have a GBA cartridge slot. The Nintendo DSi and 3DS family do not support GBA cartridges.
• Limitations on Held Items: Make sure to remove any held items on Pokemon you plan to transfer, these items will not be transferred.

Trading in later Generations via GTS (Limited Single DS Method)

While impossible for true trading, there’s a very niche (and convoluted) workaround to move items between saves on a single 3DS. It’s important to understand that this does not transfer Pokemon, just held items. This involves using the Global Trade System (GTS) in games like Pokémon X/Y, Omega Ruby/Alpha Sapphire, and Sun/Moon, with a throwaway Pokemon and second save:

1. Start with the game that has the item you want to transfer.
2. Catch a throwaway Pokémon (like a level 2 Poochyena).
3. Give the throwaway Pokémon the item you want to transfer.
4. Go to PlayNav>PSS>Tap the Icon at the Top>Choose GTS.
5. Select “Deposit Pokémon” and deposit your throwaway Pokemon.
6. Request a specific Pokémon for trade that is difficult to obtain on the GTS and that would not be available on your second save, such as a level 100 legendary.
7. Now, switch to your other save file.
8. Go back into the GTS and search for the throwaway Pokémon you deposited.
9. Attempt to trade for it with a similar level throwaway.
10. This trade will never be fulfilled by others, but you can now close this save, and transfer back to the first save with the item you want to transfer.
11. Finally, switch back to your other save file and complete the trade.

The other way that you can utilize GTS is by having a trusted individual use the GTS with two DS.

Important Considerations for the GTS Workaround:

• It’s Risky: The GTS is always active, and someone could potentially trade for your throwaway Pokémon. Be aware of the risk.
• Time-Consuming: This is a slow and cumbersome process. It’s really only worth it for very rare or valuable items.
• Not True Trading: Remember, this isn’t actually trading. It’s more like exploiting a loophole to move items between saves.

Pokémon Bank and HOME: The Modern Solution (Requires 3DS and Switch)

The most streamlined and officially supported method for transferring Pokémon across multiple generations is through Pokémon Bank (for 3DS games) and Pokémon HOME (for Nintendo Switch and mobile devices).

How it Works

1. Pokémon Bank (3DS): This is a paid online service (now free since the 3DS eShop shutdown) that allows you to store Pokémon from various 3DS games in online boxes. Supported games include:
   • Pokémon X and Y
   • Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire
   • Pokémon Sun and Moon
   • Pokémon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon
2. Poke Transporter (3DS): This companion app to Pokémon Bank allows you to transfer Pokémon from older DS games (Black, White, Black 2, White 2) into Pokémon Bank.
3. Pokémon HOME (Switch/Mobile): This is a cloud-based service that acts as a central hub for storing and moving Pokémon from various games.
4. Transferring from Bank to HOME: You can link your Pokémon Bank account to Pokémon HOME and transfer your Pokémon to HOME.
5. Transferring to Switch Games: From Pokémon HOME, you can then transfer your Pokémon to compatible Nintendo Switch games, such as:
   • Pokémon Sword and Shield (certain Pokémon only)
   • Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl (certain Pokémon only)
   • Pokémon Legends: Arceus
   • Pokémon Scarlet and Violet

Important Considerations for Bank and HOME:

• 3DS Required: You’ll need a 3DS to use Pokémon Bank and Poke Transporter to move Pokémon from older games.
• Nintendo Account: You’ll need a Nintendo Account to use Pokémon HOME.
• Compatibility: Not all Pokémon can be transferred to every Switch game. Some Pokémon are “stuck” in HOME or specific games.
• One-way Transfer from Bank: Pokémon transferred to Pokémon HOME from Pokémon Bank cannot be transferred back to Pokémon Bank or used with Nintendo 3DS titles.
• Pokemon Go: It is possible to transfer Pokemon from Pokemon Go to Pokemon Home, however this comes with certain limitations.

Conclusion

While trading Pokémon on a single DS is impossible, migration between specific GBA and DS games offers a one-way solution. The GTS can provide a limited workaround for moving items in later 3DS games. The best method for transferring between many generations involves using Pokémon Bank and Pokémon HOME, although this requires both a 3DS and a Nintendo Switch. Plan your transfers carefully, considering the limitations and compatibility of each method. Good luck on your journey to reunite your Pokémon across the generations!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I trade Pokémon from my DS to my 3DS with only one system?

No, you cannot directly trade Pokémon from a DS game to a 3DS game using only one system. Trading always requires two consoles. However, you can use Pokémon Bank on the 3DS to transfer Pokémon from DS games (Black, White, Black 2, White 2) to Pokémon HOME and then to compatible Switch games.

2. Do I need two DS systems to migrate Pokémon from GBA to DS?

Yes, to migrate Pokemon from Game Boy Advance to DS, you still need a Nintendo DS or DS Lite (the original “fat” DS) because these systems are the only DS with both a GBA cartridge slot and a DS cartridge slot.

3. Is Pokémon Bank still free to use?

Yes, Pokémon Bank is now free to use due to the discontinuation of Nintendo eShop service for the Nintendo 3DS family of systems.

4. Can I transfer Pokémon from a DS game directly to Pokémon HOME?

No, you cannot directly transfer Pokémon from a DS game to Pokémon HOME. You first need to transfer them to Pokémon Bank on a 3DS, and then from Pokémon Bank to Pokémon HOME. You can use Poke Transporter to get Pokemon from the DS to the 3DS.

5. Can I transfer Pokémon from Pokémon Bank back to my 3DS games?

No, Pokémon transferred to Pokémon HOME from Pokémon Bank cannot be transferred back to Pokémon Bank or used with Nintendo 3DS titles. The transfer is one-way only.

6. What happens to my items when I transfer Pokémon from GBA to DS?

Items held by Pokémon during migration from GBA to DS are not transferred. It is important to remove any held items to avoid losing them.

7. Can I use a Nintendo DSi or 3DS to migrate Pokémon from a GBA game?

No, you cannot. Migration from GBA games only works with the original Nintendo DS or DS Lite because they have a GBA cartridge slot. The DSi and 3DS family do not support GBA cartridges.

8. Which Pokémon games are compatible with Pokémon Bank?

The following Pokémon games are compatible with Pokémon Bank:

• Pokémon X and Y
• Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire
• Pokémon Sun and Moon
• Pokémon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon

9. Can I transfer Pokémon from Pokémon GO to Pokémon HOME?

Yes, you can transfer Pokémon from Pokémon GO to Pokémon HOME, although there are certain limitations. Mythical Pokémon like Mew and certain event Pokémon may not be transferable. Additionally, transferring Pokémon requires a Pokémon HOME account linked to your Nintendo Account.

10. Is it possible to trade Pokémon locally without WiFi on a DS?

In older Pokémon games (e.g., Red, Blue, Yellow), you could use a Link Cable to trade locally. On the DS, you can use the local wireless connection feature, but this still requires two DS systems.

11. What is the Pal Park, and how do I access it?

The Pal Park is a location in Pokémon Diamond, Pearl, and Platinum where you can capture Pokémon that have been migrated from GBA games. It is located on Route 221. You must reach a certain point in the game to unlock it.

12. How do I link my Pokémon Bank account to Pokémon HOME?

To link your Pokémon Bank account to Pokémon HOME, you need to download Pokémon HOME on your Nintendo Switch or mobile device. Follow the in-app instructions to link your Nintendo Account, which is the same account you use for Pokémon Bank.

13. Can I transfer Pokémon from older generations (e.g., Red, Blue) directly to Pokémon HOME?

No, you cannot directly transfer Pokémon from Generation 1 (Red, Blue, Yellow) or Generation 2 (Gold, Silver, Crystal) to Pokémon HOME. These games are not compatible with Pokémon Bank or Pokémon HOME.

14. Are there any risks associated with using the GTS method to transfer items with one DS?

Yes, there is a risk that someone else might trade for the throwaway Pokémon you deposited on the GTS, causing you to lose the item. It is a cumbersome process and only worth it for particularly rare or valuable items.

15. Where can I learn more about the educational impact of video games?

You can explore the impact of video games on learning and education by visiting the Games Learning Society website at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/ or GamesLearningSociety.org. The Games Learning Society is a valuable resource for understanding the intersection of gaming and education.