Why Can’t I Trade My Pokémon in Pokémon HOME?
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There are several reasons why you might be encountering difficulties trading Pokémon in Pokémon HOME. The restrictions are in place for various reasons including limitations imposed by the service itself, the specific Pokémon you’re trying to trade, or even restrictions carried over from the originating Pokémon game. It’s a multi-faceted issue, and understanding the nuances is key to successful trading. This comprehensive guide breaks down the most common culprits and offers solutions to get you back to building your perfect team.
Understanding the Restrictions: A Deep Dive
Trading in Pokémon HOME is facilitated through the mobile app (Friend Trades, Wonder Box, GTS) and the Nintendo Switch version, although the Switch version lacks direct trading functionality. The reasons for trade failures typically fall into these categories:
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Pokémon Type: Certain Mythical Pokémon (Mew, Celebi, Jirachi, Deoxys, Darkrai, Shaymin, Arceus, Victini, etc.) and Special Pokémon are often restricted from the GTS (Global Trade System) and sometimes even the Wonder Box. This is primarily to prevent cloning exploits and maintain the rarity of these sought-after creatures.
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Source Game Restrictions: Pokémon GO imposes several limitations. You cannot trade back a Pokémon that has already been traded. Each trade in Pokémon GO is final. Additionally, Pokémon transferred from Pokémon GO may have transfer restrictions, such as being unable to transfer them back to Pokémon GO after they’ve been in Pokémon HOME.
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Account Type (Free vs. Premium): Pokémon HOME offers both a free (Basic) and a paid (Premium) plan. Free users are limited in their trading capabilities. A key limitation is the number of Friend Trades per day, which is limited to 10. GTS and Wonder Box functionalities are available in both plans but come with some limitations depending on the specific Pokémon.
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Illegal Pokémon: Hacked, bot, or spoofed Pokémon are generally not allowed in Pokémon HOME. The system has checks in place to detect these illegitimate Pokémon, and attempting to deposit them can result in them being flagged, deleted, or even cause issues with your account.
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Technical Issues: Occasional glitches or server issues with Pokémon HOME can temporarily prevent trades from going through. Checking the official Pokémon HOME announcements and social media channels for updates on server status is always a good idea.
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Pokémon Status: There are certain conditions on the pokemon that restrict the trade. These restrictions include:
- Shadow Pokémon
- Eggs
- Current Buddies in Pokemon GO
- Pokémon currently defending a Gym in Pokemon GO
- Pokémon that are fainted or not at full health.
Navigating the Trading Landscape: A Step-by-Step Guide
Before attempting to trade, consider the following steps:
- Identify the Pokémon: Determine the origin of the Pokémon (game of origin), its status (Mythical, Legendary, Shiny, etc.), and if it has been previously traded.
- Check Trade Restrictions: Consult online resources and Pokémon HOME in-app help to confirm if the specific Pokémon is eligible for the desired trading method (GTS, Wonder Box, Friend Trade).
- Verify Account Status: Ensure you understand the limitations of your Pokémon HOME plan (Basic or Premium) and its impact on trading.
- Ensure Compatibility: Verify the receiving trainer can trade that specific Pokémon.
- Check Pokémon Status: Check to make sure that the Pokémon you want to trade isn’t in any of the restricted status mentioned above.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What Pokémon cannot be traded in Pokémon HOME?
Generally, Mythical Pokémon like Mew, Celebi, Jirachi, Deoxys, Darkrai, Shaymin, Arceus, and Victini are restricted from the GTS and Wonder Box. Certain special event Pokémon may also have trading limitations. Also, Shadow Pokémon, Eggs, and Pokémon that have already been traded in Pokémon GO cannot be traded.
2. Why can’t I trade Meltan and Melmetal on the Pokémon HOME GTS?
Meltan and Melmetal, while not Mythical in the strictest sense, are often restricted from the GTS due to their unique method of acquisition via Pokémon GO and their potential for exploitation. They can generally be traded via Friend Trade.
3. Can I trade Shiny Pokémon in Pokémon HOME?
Yes, Shiny Pokémon can be traded in Pokémon HOME using all available methods (GTS, Wonder Box, and Friend Trades), provided they meet all other eligibility requirements (not Mythical, etc.).
4. Can you evolve Haunter with Pokémon HOME trading?
No, the trade evolution mechanic (where Pokémon like Haunter evolve upon being traded) does not function within Pokémon HOME. You will need to trade Haunter in the original compatible games to trigger the evolution.
5. Is there a trade limit in Pokémon HOME?
Free Pokémon HOME users are limited to 10 Friend Trades per day. Premium users do not have a daily limit on Friend Trades.
6. Can you trade in Pokémon HOME without a premium subscription?
Yes, you can trade without a Premium Plan. However, you will have limited functionalities like fewer Pokémon you can store, and a limit of 10 trades per day.
7. What happens if I put a hacked Pokémon in Pokémon HOME?
Pokémon HOME has systems in place to detect hacked Pokémon. Depending on the severity, the Pokémon may be flagged, deleted, or converted into a “Bad Egg,” permanently occupying a space in your boxes.
8. Do you lose your Pokémon if your Pokémon HOME subscription expires?
No, your Pokémon are not deleted. However, if your subscription lapses, you will only have access to the Basic Box, which holds 30 Pokémon. Pokémon beyond that capacity will be inaccessible until you renew your subscription.
9. Why are my traded Pokémon ignoring me in the core games?
This applies to the core Pokémon games, not Pokémon HOME directly. Traded Pokémon may not obey you if your trainer level is insufficient, or you haven’t earned enough Gym Badges. Each game has a specific level cap based on your progress.
10. How can I increase my chances of a successful trade on the GTS?
Be specific about the Pokémon you are offering and requesting. Offer Pokémon that are in demand, and consider their level, nature, and any special characteristics.
11. What should I do if I suspect a Pokémon I received is hacked?
Release the Pokémon immediately. Keeping hacked Pokémon can potentially compromise your save data or account.
12. Why does it say “This Pokémon cannot be traded” when I try to move it?
This message typically indicates a specific restriction on the Pokémon, such as being a Mythical Pokémon attempting to be traded on the GTS, or being flagged as illegitimate. Double-check the Pokémon’s origin and eligibility for the chosen trading method.
13. Can I transfer Pokémon from older generations (e.g., Gen 3) directly to Pokémon HOME?
No, you cannot directly transfer from older generations to Pokémon HOME. You must first transfer them through intermediate games such as Pokémon Bank on the 3DS for older titles.
14. How does Pokémon HOME interact with Pokémon Sleep?
Pokémon HOME can connect with Pokémon Sleep. Connecting Pokémon Sleep with Pokémon HOME will grant you access to research tasks with Snorlax.
15. How can I learn more about effective game-based learning using games like Pokémon?
Explore resources and research on the Games Learning Society to understand how gaming mechanics and strategies can be applied to educational settings. The Games Learning Society ( GamesLearningSociety.org ) is a great place to start.
Conclusion: Mastering the Art of Pokémon HOME Trading
Trading in Pokémon HOME can seem complex due to the various restrictions. However, understanding these limitations and following the best practices outlined above will greatly increase your chances of successful trades and allow you to complete your Pokémon collection. Always double-check the Pokémon’s eligibility and your account status to avoid frustration. Happy trading!