When can I no longer use Pokémon Bank?

When Can I No Longer Use Pokémon Bank?

As the Nintendo 3DS and Wii U eShops begin to close, Pokémon fans are wondering what this means for their Pokémon storage and transfer needs. One of the biggest concerns is the fate of Pokémon Bank, the popular app for storing and transferring Pokémon across different games and systems. In this article, we’ll explore when you can no longer use Pokémon Bank and what implications this has for your Pokémon collections.

When is Pokémon Bank Going Away?

On March 27, 2023, at 5:00 p.m. PDT, Pokémon Bank’s paid passes will no longer be offered for purchase. This means that once the deadline passes, you will no longer be able to buy a paid pass or subscribe to Pokémon Bank. However, what about users who have already purchased a paid pass? Don’t worry; they can still use the service.

Is Pokémon Bank Free?

Starting from March 27, 2023, Pokémon Bank will become free to use. Yes, you read that correctly! The service that once cost $4.99 for a year-long subscription will now be completely free to download and use. But there’s a catch: you’ll only be able to use it if you had downloaded it before the eShop closed. So, if you haven’t already, make sure to download Pokémon Bank while you still can.

What About Poké Transporter?

Poké Transporter, the app for transferring Pokémon from older games to Pokémon Bank, is also affected by the eShop’s closure. As of March 27, 2023, new users will no longer be able to download Poké Transporter. However, users who had previously downloaded the app can still use it to transfer Pokémon.

Transferring Pokémon: What’s the Future?

So, what happens to your Pokémon if you transfer them from Pokémon Bank to Pokémon HOME (or other compatible games)? Rest assured that once you’ve transferred your Pokémon, you’ll still be able to access them on the new service. However, be aware that some Pokémon cannot be transferred from Bank to Home. These include Partner Pikachu, Partner Eevee, and fused forms of Necrozma.

Pokémon Bank Capacity and Compatibility

Pokémon Bank can hold up to 3,000 Pokémon in total, across 100 boxes. Each box can store 30 Pokémon, so you can keep your collection organized and easily accessible.

What Happens if You Have a Hacked Pokémon in Pokémon HOME?

If you inadvertently obtain a hacked Pokémon or enter it into Pokémon HOME, it will become a "Bad Egg" and take up a spot in your HOME. However, this will not result in a ban. Your Pokémon will remain safely stored, albeit in an invalid state.

Other Important Considerations

• Pokémon Bank’s free version will still have limitations. You’ll be able to store a limited number of Pokémon, and you may face restrictions on certain features.
• The free version may not have all the features of the paid subscription. Check the Pokémon Bank website for the latest information on what’s included.
• Keep in mind that the Pokémon HOME Premium Plan requires a paid subscription to use. Make sure to renew your subscription to keep transferring and storing your Pokémon.

In Conclusion

Pokémon Bank is an essential tool for many trainers, and the changes coming to the service may affect your Pokémon storage and transfer plans. As the 3DS and Wii U eShops close, Pokémon Bank will become free to use, with some limitations. Make sure to transfer your Pokémon before the deadline and keep in mind the changes to Pokémon Bank and Pokémon HOME. Happy Pokémon training, and may your Pokédex remain full and diverse!