Will Pokémon Bank Work After March?
As we approach the end of an era for Pokémon Bank and Poke Transporter, we’re left wondering what happens to our beloved Pokémon accounts. In this article, we’ll delve into the details of what’s planned for Pokémon Bank and the impact it will have on our Pokémon adventures.
Direct Answer: Will Pokémon Bank Work After March?
According to the recent announcement, Pokémon Bank will no longer offer paid passes for purchase on March 27, 2023, at 5:00 p.m. PDT. This means that players will no longer be able to purchase subscription passes for Pokémon Bank or Poke Transporter. While Pokémon Bank will remain accessible, the service may eventually be discontinued in the future.
Can You Transfer Pokémon from DS Games to Switch without Pokémon Bank?
For those who plan to transfer their Pokémon from DS games to the Nintendo Switch, you can still do so without Pokémon Bank. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
How to Transfer Pokémon without Pokémon Bank:
• Access Nintendo eShop on a Nintendo Switch console.
• Download Pokémon HOME from the HOME Menu.
• Launch Pokémon HOME and select Pokémon from the main menu.
• Select the game you want to connect to and access the save data.
• Follow the prompts to transfer your Pokémon.
Can You Still Transfer from 3DS to Switch without Pokémon Bank?
Yes, you can transfer Pokémon from 3DS games to the Nintendo Switch without Pokémon Bank. In fact, the process is quite straightforward:
Steps to Transfer from 3DS to Switch:
• Access Nintendo eShop on a Nintendo Switch console.
• Download Pokémon HOME from the HOME Menu.
• Launch Pokémon HOME and select Pokémon from the main menu.
• Select the 3DS game you want to connect to (e.g., Pokémon Omega Ruby, Pokémon Alpha Sapphire).
• Follow the prompts to transfer your Pokémon.
Do You Lose Your Pokémon if PokeBank Expires?
If you don’t purchase a new annual pass or trial period, your Pokémon will no longer be accessible in the Pokémon Bank. However, it’s essential to remember that Pokémon Bank will only store Pokémon for a short period after the subscription period ends. This means your Pokémon will be deleted once the storage period expires. To avoid losing your cherished Pokémon, it’s essential to transfer them to another compatible game or Pokémon Bank before the expiration date.
Can 3DS Still Go Online?
Unfortunately, Nintendo has confirmed that 3DS online services will be discontinued in early April 2024. This means that for many, the answer is no – the 3DS will no longer support online play. For a full list of games that will be affected, please check the Nintendo Life article titled "Pokémon Bank Shutdown: What Happens When the 3DS Wii Online Services End?"
Important Dates to Remember
• March 27, 2023: Last day to purchase Pokémon Bank subscription passes.
• Early April 2024: Online services for 3DS and Wii U will be discontinued.
Conclusion:
As we bid farewell to Pokémon Bank and Poke Transporter, it’s essential to understand the planned changes and what they mean for our Pokémon adventures. While the news may come as a shock to many, it’s crucial to take action to transfer and store our Pokémon safely to avoid losing them. As we move forward, Nintendo has assured us that it will continue to support existing Pokémon games and services for the foreseeable future. Keep your Pokémon safe, stay informed, and get ready for the next chapter of your Pokémon journey!