How to Trade Pokémon Between Sword and Shield: A Comprehensive Guide
The Pokémon franchise has always been known for its exciting multiplayer features, and the latest installment, Pokémon Sword and Shield, is no exception. One of the most anticipated features of the game is the ability to trade Pokémon with friends and other players. In this article, we will guide you through the process of trading Pokémon between Sword and Shield.
Connecting Online and Trading
To trade Pokémon, you need to connect your game to the internet. Here’s how you can do it:
- Press Y to open the Y-Comm menu.
- Press + while in the Y-Comm menu to connect online.
- Choose "Start Trading" to be paired with a random person.
- Choose "Set Link Code" to connect with someone specific, who also must choose the same Link Code.
Surprise Trade
In addition to traditional trading, Pokémon Sword and Shield also feature a "Surprise Trade" feature. This feature allows you to trade a Pokémon with a random player, and you won’t know what you’re getting until the trade is complete. This feature is a great way to get rare or unique Pokémon.
Benefits and Tips for Surprise Trade
• Increased chances of getting rare Pokémon: With Surprise Trade, you have a higher chance of getting rare or unique Pokémon.
• More excitement: The surprise element adds an extra layer of excitement to trading.
• Opportunity to get Pokémon you might not have otherwise: With Surprise Trade, you might get a Pokémon that you wouldn’t have otherwise obtained.
Transferring Pokémon
If you want to transfer Pokémon from your previous games to Sword and Shield, you can use the Pokémon Home app. Here’s how:
- Download Pokémon Home on your Nintendo Switch and click on the Pokémon icon.
- Connect to a game and/or to Pokémon Bank.
- Move Pokémon from Game or Bank Boxes into Pokémon Home Boxes.
- Then move Pokémon from Pokémon Home into Sword and Shield.
Can You Trade with Yourself?
Yes, you can trade with yourself using the Pokémon Home app. This feature is called "Friend Trade." To use it, follow these steps:
- Create a second account on your Nintendo Switch.
- Connect both accounts to Pokémon Home.
- Friend Trade with your second account.
Shiny Pokémon
Shiny Pokémon are rare and unique variations of regular Pokémon. If you’re lucky, you might get a Shiny Pokémon through Surprise Trade. Here’s how to claim a Shiny Zeraora:
- After the Surprise Trade, open up Pokémon Home on your mobile device.
- Select the Menu button on the main screen.
- Select the Mystery Gifts options.
- Select Gift Box.
- Select the most recent box to collect the Shiny Zeraora.
Trading Table
| Feature | How to Do It |
|---|---|
| Connect Online | Press Y, then +, then choose "Start Trading" or "Set Link Code" |
| Surprise Trade | Choose "Start Trading" and select Surprise Trade |
| Transfer Pokémon | Download Pokémon Home, connect to a game, move Pokémon to Pokémon Home, then move to Sword and Shield |
| Trade with Yourself | Create a second account, connect to Pokémon Home, Friend Trade |
Conclusion
Trading Pokémon between Sword and Shield is a fun and exciting feature that allows you to share your Pokémon with friends and other players. Whether you’re looking to trade for rare Pokémon or want to surprise your friends with a unique Pokémon, we hope this guide has been helpful. Happy trading!