To transfer Pokémon from Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! or Pokémon: Let's Go, Eevee! to Pokémon Sword, you must use the cloud-based service Pokémon HOME on your Nintendo Switch.
How to Transfer Pokémon from Let's Go to Sword
The process involves moving your Pokémon from Pokémon: Let's Go into Pokémon HOME, and then from Pokémon HOME into Pokémon Sword. It's important to note that once a Pokémon has been transferred from Let's Go to Pokémon HOME, it cannot be returned to the Let's Go games.
Step 1: Download and Set Up Pokémon HOME
First, you need to acquire Pokémon HOME on your Nintendo Switch.
- Access the Nintendo eShop on your Nintendo Switch console.
- Search for and download Pokémon HOME. It's a free application, though a Premium Plan offers additional features like storing more Pokémon.
- Once downloaded, launch Pokémon HOME from your Nintendo Switch HOME Menu.
- Follow the initial setup instructions to link it to your Nintendo Account.
Step 2: Transfer Pokémon from Let's Go to Pokémon HOME
Now, you will move your desired Pokémon from Pokémon: Let's Go into your Pokémon HOME storage.
- From the main menu in Pokémon HOME, select Pokémon.
- Choose the option to connect to a game and select Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! or Pokémon: Let's Go, Eevee!
- Select the user's save data that you wish to access.
- You will see your Pokémon Boxes from the Let's Go game and your Basic Boxes in Pokémon HOME.
- Drag and drop the Pokémon you want to transfer from your Let's Go Boxes into your Pokémon HOME Basic Boxes.
- Once you have moved all desired Pokémon, select the + button or the equivalent option to save and exit the transfer.
- Confirm the transfer when prompted. Remember, these Pokémon cannot return to Let's Go.
Step 3: Transfer Pokémon from Pokémon HOME to Pokémon Sword
With your Pokémon safely in Pokémon HOME, you can now transfer them into Pokémon Sword.
- From the main menu in Pokémon HOME, select Pokémon.
- Choose the option to connect to a game and select Pokémon Sword.
- Select the user's save data for Pokémon Sword that you wish to access.
- You will see your Pokémon Boxes from Pokémon Sword and your Basic Boxes in Pokémon HOME.
- Drag and drop the Pokémon you wish to transfer from your Pokémon HOME Basic Boxes into your Pokémon Sword Boxes.
- Important Note: Only Pokémon that are present in the Pokémon Sword Pokédex can be transferred into the game. If a Pokémon is not in Sword's regional Pokédex (or added through expansions), you won't be able to move it into the game.
- After moving your Pokémon, select the + button or the equivalent option to save and exit the transfer.
- Confirm the transfer.
Key Considerations for Transfers
- One-Way Transfer: Pokémon from Let's Go can only move forward into Pokémon HOME and then to compatible games like Sword. They cannot return to Let's Go.
- Compatibility: While Pokémon HOME can store almost all Pokémon, Pokémon Sword can only accept Pokémon that are coded into its game data.
- Moveset Changes: When a Pokémon transfers from Let's Go to Sword, its moveset might be altered to match the moves available in Sword.
- Stats and Abilities: Core stats, Nature, and Abilities generally remain the same, though some might be adjusted or gain new options if introduced in later games.
Transfer Flow Summary
Here’s a quick overview of the transfer path:
| From Game | To Game | Method | Reversibility | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Let's Go, Pikachu/Eevee! | Pokémon HOME | Nintendo Switch App | One-way only | Essential first step. |
| Pokémon HOME | Pokémon Sword | Nintendo Switch App | Two-way | Must be in Sword's Pokédex. |
By following these steps, you can successfully bring your favorite Pokémon from the Kanto region in Let's Go to the Galar region in Pokémon Sword via Pokémon HOME.
