Before diving into the fixes, it’s important to understand what Pokémon Home Error Code 998 signifies. Generally, this error indicates that there is an issue with either the server connection or your device’s ability to communicate properly with the Pokémon Home servers. This could happen for various reasons, including server maintenance, data corruption, or network issues.
Some common scenarios where you might encounter this error include:
- Trying to transfer Pokémon from Pokémon Bank or other games.
- Having trouble during cloud save synchronization.
- Attempting to link your Pokémon Home account to a new device.
It’s important to note that error code 998 could also occur if there’s a region lock issue or if the servers are down temporarily.
Fix 1: Check Pokémon Home Server Status
Why It’s Important:
One of the first things to check when troubleshooting Pokémon Home Error Code 998 is the server status. Sometimes the error appears simply because Pokémon Home servers are experiencing downtime or undergoing maintenance. This means that the issue might not be related to your device but to server-side problems that are outside of your control.
How to Fix:
- Visit the official Pokémon Home Twitter page or the official Pokémon website for updates on server issues.
- Check for any scheduled maintenance or downtime announcements.
- If servers are down, the best course of action is to wait until they are back online.
Fix 2: Clear Cache to Fix Pokémon Home Error Code 998
Sometimes, corrupted or outdated data stored in the app’s cache can cause unexpected errors. Clearing the cache might resolve the issue and allow you to resume using Pokémon Home without interruptions.
How to Fix:
For Nintendo Switch:
- From the main menu, go to System Settings.
- Select Data Management.
- Scroll down and choose Manage Software.
- Find Pokémon Home in the list and select it.
- Choose Clear Cache and confirm.
For Android:
- Open Settings on your Android device.
- Go to Apps or App Management.
- Locate Pokémon Home in the app list and select it.
- Tap on Storage and then select Clear Cache.
Clearing the cache should help eliminate any temporary data issues that may be contributing to the error.
Fix 3: Check Your Network Connection
Pokémon Home Error Code 998 is often linked to network connection problems. If your device cannot connect to the Pokémon Home servers properly, this error can appear. Ensure you have a stable internet connection to avoid this problem.
How to Fix:
- Restart your router to ensure a fresh network connection.
- Try switching between Wi-Fi and mobile data if you’re on a mobile device.
- If you’re on Nintendo Switch, ensure you have a stable Wi-Fi connection by going to the Settings menu and testing your internet connection.
Fix 4: Reinstall Pokémon Home
If none of the previous fixes work, reinstalling the app can sometimes resolve the Pokémon Home Error Code 998. This step can clear up any underlying software issues that might have developed over time. However, be cautious—reinstalling the app could lead to the loss of your saved data.
How to Fix:
For Nintendo Switch:
- From the main menu, highlight Pokémon Home and press A.
- Select Manage Software and then choose Delete Software.
- Go to the Nintendo eShop, search for Pokémon Home, and reinstall it.
For Android/iOS:
- Long-press the Pokémon Home app icon.
- Select Uninstall or Delete.
- Reinstall the app from the Google Play Store or App Store.
Before reinstalling, ensure that your Pokémon Home data is backed up using cloud services to prevent losing your progress.
Fix 5: Ensure Correct Account Linking
Sometimes, Pokémon Home Error Code 998 occurs due to account linking issues. If you’re trying to transfer Pokémon from your Pokémon Bank or another game, ensure that your accounts are properly linked to your Nintendo Account.
How to Fix:
- Open the Pokémon Home app.
- Go to Settings and select Linked Accounts.
- Check that your Nintendo Account is correctly linked.
- If there are issues, try unlinking and then relinking the accounts.
Fix 6: Perform System Update
Another common cause of Pokémon Home Error Code 998 is using an outdated version of the app or console system. Ensure that your device and the Pokémon Home app are fully updated.
How to Fix:
For Nintendo Switch:
- Open System Settings.
- Scroll to System and select System Update.
- Follow the on-screen prompts to install any available updates.
For Android/iOS:
- Go to Google Play Store or App Store.
- Search for Pokémon Home and check if an update is available.
- If yes, tap Update to install the latest version.
Common Causes of Pokémon Home Error Code 998
Understanding the underlying causes of Pokémon Home Error Code 998 can help you better troubleshoot future issues. Some potential causes include:
- Server issues due to maintenance or overload.
- Account linking problems between Pokémon Home and Nintendo Accounts.
- Network connectivity issues, especially on mobile devices.
- Cloud save or migration failures, such as transferring Pokémon from Pokémon Bank.
Additional Tips for Preventing Pokémon Home Error Code 998
To avoid encountering Pokémon Home Error Code 998 in the future, consider the following tips:
- Regularly check server status before attempting major transfers or cloud backups.
- Ensure your device’s firmware and the Pokémon Home app are always up to date.
- Back up your data to avoid potential data corruption issues.
- Be cautious when linking multiple accounts to Pokémon Home, as incorrect configurations can cause errors.