How to Trade Pokemon Sword Complete Trading Guide
Trading is a core element of the Galar region experience, allowing trainers to complete their Pokédex and acquire version-exclusive creatures. Whether you want to swap a Sirfetch'd for a Galarian Corsola or evolve your Haunter into a Gengar, mastering the built-in system mechanics is essential. Navigating this guide will show you exactly how to trade Pokemon Sword versions safely and efficiently.
Setting Up Your Local and Online Connections
Before launching a trade, you need to determine if your trading partner is in the same room or somewhere across the world. Local wireless connections do not require any paid subscription and work flawlessly if you are standing next to another Nintendo console. However, online trading across global networks requires an active Nintendo Switch Online subscription and a stable internet connection.
To begin the process, press the Y button on your controller to open up the Y-Comm menu on your screen. If you wish to connect globally, press the plus button while the menu is open to switch from Local Wireless mode to Internet mode. Ensuring you are on the correct connection style prevents connectivity errors before you start matching with other trainers.
Utilizing Link Trades and Set Link Codes
The primary method for targeted transactions is the Link Trade feature, which lets you connect with specific friends or community groups. By choosing this option from your Y-Comm menu, you can select whether to start searching immediately or set a private security key. Choosing to set a Link Code ensures that you only pair with your intended partner rather than a random player.
Link Codes are eight-digit numbers that both trading participants must enter identically into their respective systems. Once the codes match up, the game automatically establishes a link and brings both players into the trade selection screen. This targeted approach is highly recommended when exchanging highly valuable legendary or shiny pocket monsters.
Exploring Surprise Trades for Random Exchanges
If you are simply looking to expand your collection or gather global ID numbers for the in-game lottery, Surprise Trades offer an entertaining alternative. This feature allows you to select one creature from your storage boxes to send out into the digital ether. The system then searches in the background while you continue exploring the wild areas of Galar.
Once a match is found, the game automatically exchanges your chosen creature for one sent by another player worldwide. You never know what you will receive, making it an exciting way to find rare breedjects or hidden ability starters. It runs quietly in the background, allowing you to maximize your gameplay efficiency during long exploration sessions.
Navigating Version Exclusives and Evolution Mechanics
Trading is mandatory for completing the Galar Pokédex due to specific version differences built into the software layout. Pokémon Sword players cannot naturally encounter creatures like Tyranitar, Reuniclus, or Eiscue within their native game files. Establishing a reliable trading network allows you to secure these elusive entries through balanced community cooperation.
Additionally, several popular species require a successful trade transaction to trigger their final evolutionary transformations. Creatures like Machoke, Rhydon holding a Protector, and Phantump will evolve immediately upon arriving on your partner's system. Coordinating a return trade ensures both participants successfully document these powerful entries in their local databases.