The Pokémon Unite Phone-Switch Transition

Being that I have a Nintendo Switch today, I can play Pokémon Unite on my phone or on the console. Complementing this is the fact that players or Trainers on both of the platforms are able to share progression (cross-progression) and are able to play together (cross-play). This situation being able to occur is a great thing, but for them, it will likely require some transitioning in different ways in order to maintain and ascertain success wherever one plays.

For starters, those looking to allow the transition to occur must link (bind) their data to a Nintendo Account, as this is where the Switch will save and read the data played there; naturally, those starting on the Switch will have done that (allowing for mobile play by logging in), while those on mobile will need to do it if it hasn't been done (before playing on the Switch). There's a bit of a jarring transition in the latter process - which I found when I transitioned - but after that, it should be mostly smooth swimming.

Or not. Perhaps the most difficult part is adjusting to the controls whichever way the transition goes. When I transitioned to the Switch, it was also to the mini controller that I also obtained, so I basically needed to relearn all the basic mechanisms from moving, choosing and executing moves, and all the way to sending messages and reactions to others, which took a bit of time. It was only later that I regained enough confidence to play in Ranked matches again, but in any case it's quite doable and possible. Those making the opposite transition might have an easier time, though it could be harder to maintain two separate skill sets.

It is also worth reminding that the Unite Club Membership, or at the least some of its elements, cannot make the transition. The elements for which this condition applies can only be played on the respective platform where one signed up. Therefore, it is likely that even with the transition carried out, one will have to (be able to) keep playing on both platforms to maintain utility of the Unite Club Membership, though it may be certain that the bonuses that make the transition are regardless useful as ever.

The possession of both a mobile phone and a Nintendo Switch might bode well for players or Trainers of Pokémon Unite, in that they can transition between the two, albeit with just a few things of concern. Once all the concerns are wrapped up, only the gameplay remains, and that could be just as well as ever with the transition. It's something I've willingly committed to, and I'm certain that the benefits are already quite evident.

One year ago: Nostalgic "Coins" of Pokémon

Two years ago: Remote Raids and Invitations

Three years ago: Pokémon Go Community Day, 8/3/2019

Four years ago: Divergent Anime?

Five years ago: A Hobbled Pikachu... 3DS XL