Why Can’t I Trade My Pokémon in HOME?
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There are several reasons why you might be experiencing issues trading your Pokémon in Pokémon HOME. The most common causes revolve around the limitations of the free plan, incompatible game versions, specific Pokémon restrictions, and trading partner limitations. Here’s a breakdown:
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Free Plan Limitations: Users on the Basic (free) plan have severely limited trading capabilities. While you can move Pokémon between compatible games, your Friend Trade functionality is capped at just 10 trades per day.
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Nintendo Switch vs. Mobile: Pokémon trading functionality, specifically Friend Trades, is only available on the mobile version of Pokémon HOME. The Nintendo Switch version does not support this feature. You must use the app on your phone or tablet.
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Pokémon Restrictions: Certain Pokémon cannot be traded via the GTS (Global Trade System) in Pokémon HOME. These typically include Mythical Pokémon like Celebi, Darkrai, Deoxys, Diancie, and Genesect. You can trade them via Friend Trades.
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Pokémon GO Restrictions: Pokémon that have already been traded in Pokémon GO cannot be traded again. This is a permanent restriction within the Pokémon GO ecosystem. Once traded, a Pokémon is locked to its new owner and cannot be traded back or to anyone else.
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Trading Partner Limitations: If you are doing Friend Trades make sure the other person is your friend in Pokémon HOME.
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Glitches and Bugs: Sometimes technical issues occur. Ensure your app is updated to the latest version. If problems persist, contacting Pokémon HOME support may be necessary.
Understanding these restrictions is key to successfully trading Pokémon in Pokémon HOME.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Trading in Pokémon HOME
How can I trade Pokémon in Pokémon HOME?
Pokémon HOME offers two primary trading methods:
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Wonder Box: You deposit Pokémon into the Wonder Box, and they’re traded randomly with other players around the world, even when you’re not actively using the app. This is a passive form of trading.
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GTS (Global Trade System): You specify which Pokémon you want to trade away and which Pokémon you want in return. Pokémon HOME then matches you with another trainer whose criteria match yours.
What is the daily trade limit in Pokémon HOME for free users?
Free users are limited to just 10 Friend Trades per day. There is not a limit in trades via GTS or Wonder Box.
Why can’t I trade Meltan, Melmetal, or Mythicals on the Pokémon HOME GTS?
Mythical Pokémon such as Meltan, Melmetal, Celebi, Darkrai, Deoxys, Diancie, and Genesect, are generally restricted from being traded on the GTS to prevent exploitation or unfair trades. They are intended to be traded via Friend Trades.
Can I trade in Pokémon HOME without a Premium Plan?
Yes, you can trade in Pokémon HOME with the Basic (free) Plan, but your options are more limited. You can use the GTS and Wonder Box, but Friend Trades only allow 10 trades per day. A Premium Plan unlocks additional features and allows more Pokemon in your boxes.
Can I evolve Haunter with Pokémon HOME trades?
No, the trade evolution mechanic (where certain Pokémon evolve when traded) does not work in Pokémon HOME itself. Trading a Haunter in Pokémon HOME will not make it evolve into Gengar. You need to trade in the games themselves.
Can I trade back Pokémon in HOME?
Yes, you can trade Pokémon back and forth between friends using the mobile version of Pokémon HOME. Be mindful of compatibility issues between different Pokémon games. Some Pokémon, once moved to Pokémon Sword or Pokémon Shield, cannot be moved back to Pokémon: Let’s Go, Pikachu! or Pokémon: Let’s Go, Eevee!
Should I purify Shadow Pokémon before trading them?
You cannot trade Shadow Pokémon at all. Purified Pokémon can be traded, but it is generally recommended not to trade them at all due to rarity.
Which Pokémon cannot be traded?
The following Pokémon types cannot be traded:
- Mythical Pokémon (on the GTS)
- Shadow Pokémon
- Eggs
- Current Buddies (in Pokémon GO)
- Pokémon currently defending a Gym (in Pokémon GO)
- Pokémon that are fainted or not at full health (in Pokémon GO)
- Pokémon that have already been traded (in Pokémon GO)
- Pokémon obtained through hacking, botting, or spoofing
Can I trade shiny Pokémon?
Yes, you can trade shiny Pokémon. However, trading shiny Pokémon, especially if one player doesn’t have the same shiny Pokémon, can be very expensive in terms of Stardust in Pokémon GO.
Will Pokémon Bank still work after March 2023?
No, after March 27, 2023, Pokémon Bank is no longer available for download or purchase. However, it is possible to transfer Pokemon from older games such as Pokémon Bank to Pokémon HOME.
What happens if I stop paying for Pokémon HOME Premium Plan?
If your Pokémon HOME Premium Plan lapses, your Pokémon will not be deleted. However, you will only be able to access the first box, containing 30 Pokémon. The rest of your Pokémon will be stored, but inaccessible, until you renew your subscription.
Are Lucky Pokémon always 3 stars?
Not necessarily. Lucky Pokémon have an IV floor of 12/12/12. A Pokémon with these IV stats is considered to be 2 stars. A Lucky Pokémon needs IV stats of 13/12/12 to be considered a 3 stars.
Which Pokémon are the best candidates for Lucky Trades?
Popular choices for Lucky Trades include powerful and rare Pokémon such as:
- Mewtwo
- Metagross
- Rayquaza
- Togekiss
- Giratina (Altered & Origin Forme)
- Garchomp
- Kyogre
- Lucario
These are valuable Pokémon that benefit significantly from the improved IVs that Lucky Trades can provide.
Why are 2016 Pokémon sometimes guaranteed Lucky?
Pokémon caught in July and August 2016 have a higher chance of becoming Lucky in trades, especially if the player sending the 2016 Pokémon has been involved in fewer than 10 trades where at least one Pokémon was guaranteed Lucky.
How do I find good Pokémon communities or resources online to improve my trading skills?
There are many great resources for learning more about Pokémon and improving your trading skills! Websites like Serebii.net provide in-depth information. The Games Learning Society also offers valuable insights into the educational and strategic elements of gaming. Learn about how games can enhance learning at the Games Learning Society website.
Trading in Pokémon HOME can be a rewarding experience if you understand the rules and limitations. Happy trading!