To trade between Pokémon HeartGold and Pokémon SoulSilver, connect the two Nintendo DS-family systems using local wireless, then meet at the Union Room counter on the second floor of a Pokémon Center. The original Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection and its online trading features ended on May 20, 2014, so the Union Room is the documented official route for a nearby trade.
What you need for a local trade
- One DS-family system and one compatible Generation IV Pokémon game card for each player.
- A nearby trading partner. The games communicate over local DS Wireless Communications; no cable or separate wireless adapter is required for this Union Room procedure.
- A compatible card for each system: HeartGold, SoulSilver, Pokémon Platinum, Pokémon Diamond, or Pokémon Pearl, as listed in Nintendo’s HeartGold instruction booklet.
You do not need two copies of the same game. Each player uses their own system and game card, and HeartGold and SoulSilver can trade with one another.
![Pokemon Heart Gold [Japan Import]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51c+nkqV8NL._SL160_.jpg)
How to trade in the Union Room
- Start the games on both systems and use local DS Wireless Communications. Choose the local wireless option, not the former online Wi-Fi route.
- In each game, go to a Pokémon Center and take the stairs to the second floor. Speak to the counter attendant and enter the Union Room.
- When both players are in the room, face the other player and press A to interact.
- Choose Trade, select the Pokémon you want to offer, then choose TRADE.
- Review the Pokémon your partner is offering. Select YES only after confirming that the exchange is the one you intend.
Nintendo’s booklet describes the Union Room procedure but does not establish the story milestone that unlocks access, so this guide does not give an unlock point.
What to know before confirming
- Trade evolutions: A Pokémon that evolves by trading evolves during the exchange.
- Ball Capsules: A Pokémon wearing a Ball Capsule cannot be traded. Remove the capsule before offering it.
- Check both sides: The exchange completes after you inspect the partner’s offer and confirm YES. Verify the Pokémon on each side before confirming.
Can you trade online now?
No—not through Nintendo’s original online service. Nintendo states that Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection was discontinued on May 20, 2014, including online play and user exchanges of in-game characters through the Global Trade Station. Nintendo also says this change does not affect offline play. The former GTS was an online way to trade with players elsewhere, as described on Nintendo’s historical HeartGold and SoulSilver communications page; it is not a currently functioning official option for these games. For an official trade between the original DS releases, use local wireless with a nearby player.
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- This renewed game will not come with the original case or manual; cartridge only. It has been cleaned, tested, and is in nice condition.
Nintendo’s discontinuation notice is available at Service Discontinuation: Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection Service. No current official online alternative for these DS titles is established by these sources.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- Games in 2D. Some areas also playable in 3D. For Nintendo 3DS systems, use Parental Controls to restrict 3D mode for children 6 and under.
- Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) Content Description: Suitable_for_all_users
Rank #2
![Pokemon HeartGold Version - Limited Edition - Nintendo DS [video game]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/612BHs15YsL._SL160_.jpg)
- Pokewalker, a special pedometer is included.
- Use the Poke Radar to catch wild Pokemon!
- Find items by using the Pokewalker Dowsing Machine.
- Connect your Pokewalker with a friends and receive a special gift.
- Enhanced graphics and sound
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