Do I Need Switch Online to Trade Pokémon Scarlet and Violet?
In our previous article, we discussed a question that has been on everyone’s mind since the release of Pokémon Scarlet and Violet: do I need Nintendo Switch Online to trade Pokémon? In this updated article, we will dive deeper into this query and provide you with a comprehensive answer.
Direct Answer for the Question
To trade your Pokémon, you do not necessarily need a Nintendo Switch Online subscription. However, being connected to the internet is required for successful trading. This means that you can initiate a trade without an online membership, but you will need to be connected to WiFi or have a stable cellular connection to complete the trade.
Explanation of Trading Options
There are primarily two ways to trade your Pokémon: Locally and Online.
Offline Trading (Local Trading)
Important Point: You only need two Nintendo Switch consoles and each console must have a copy of Pokémon Scarlet and Violet to trade Pokémon locally.**
You can trade Pokémon with friends without the need for an internet connection. Ensure that both consoles are connected to the same battle arena, and you’re prepared to swap Pokémon. This method bypasses the need for an online service.
Online Trading
Important Points:
- *You need either a Nintendo Switch Online subscription (premium) or a mobile device’s internet connection to trade Pokémon online.
- Surprise Trade does not require a Nintendo Switch Online account.
To trade using online methods, you’ll need the Union Circle, a feature that allows you to connect and challenge other players. You can use any device with an internet connection to begin trading. Surprise Trades can be initiated without an Online membership.
**How to Trade Pokémon
- Launch Pokémon Home application: Ensure you have the home app installed on your Nintendo Switch by selecting the "Pokémon " option from the HOME menu.
- *Launch the app and find the "Trade" option. This will allow you to facilitate a trade.
- Choose the Right Method: Select the desired trading approach:
- Local/Offline Trading: Connect to each other’s consoles, and swap Pokémon for free.
- Online Trading/Union Circle: Use your Nintendo Online account (premium) or a nearby mobile device’s internet connection
- Select the Pokémon To Trade: Choose the Pokémon you wish to relocate. You can select multiple Pokémon under one trade.
- Await Confirmation: Wait for the "Trade" confirmation message appears. This signifies success. If the trade fails, analyze the message for any issues connected to the trade.
Surprise Trading:
- Select the Surprise Trade Options: You can initiate a surprise Trade from the " Surprise Trade" menu.
- The random trade will search for a suitable friend, and you’ll receive a brief summary of the trade.
- Select the trade, and confirm transfer. The trade will complete autonomously.
*Additional Tips
• Save your trades early and often: Ensure your Poké Balls are stored securely once a trade is complete.
- The trading process may take a few extra minutes to complete, so be ready for potential delays.
- Make duplicates and backup your saves on Pokémon Home.
• Explore the Union Circle area to meet other trainers and challenge friendly battles.
• Use **Team Leaders to find suitable co-trainers for battles; you can even request a specific teammate for a trade.
Conclusion: While you don’t necessarily need a Nintendo Switch Online subscription to participate in Pokémon trading, an effective online connection is necessary for online interaction. Be sure to understand the various Trading methods, and always save your trades at regular intervals.