Pokémon GO Nintendo Switch Connection Explained
The Pokémon GO Nintendo Switch connection allows players to link Pokémon GO with Pokémon Scarlet or Pokémon Violet to unlock special in-game features.
If you’re trying to farm Gimmighoul Coins, use a Gold Lure Module, or ensure you have access to the correct Gimmighoul mechanics before evolving into Gholdengo, understanding how the Pokémon GO Nintendo Switch connection works is essential.
Here’s exactly how to connect Pokémon GO to your Nintendo Switch and what it unlocks.
What Does the Pokémon GO Nintendo Switch Connection Do?
When you link Pokémon GO to Pokémon Scarlet or Pokémon Violet, you unlock:
• Postcard sending between games
• Access to Gold Lure Modules
• Special Gimmighoul interactions
• Golden PokéStop mechanics
The connection feature was introduced to integrate Paldea content into Pokémon GO and remains the only way to earn Gold Lure Modules directly.
If you’re unsure what Golden PokéStops are, read our Pokémon GO Golden PokéStops guide.
How to Connect Pokémon GO to Nintendo Switch
Follow these steps to set up the Pokémon GO Nintendo Switch connection:
Step 1: Open Pokémon GO
Go to Settings in Pokémon GO.
Step 2: Select Connected Devices & Services
Tap Nintendo Switch.
Step 3: Open Pokémon Scarlet or Violet on Your Switch
Navigate to the Poké Portal in-game.
Step 4: Choose Mystery Gift
Select “Connect to Pokémon GO.”
Step 5: Pair the Devices
Confirm the pairing request on both devices.
Once paired, you can begin sending Postcards from Pokémon GO to your Nintendo Switch game.
How to Send Postcards to Scarlet and Violet
After linking:
- Open your Postcard Book in Pokémon GO
- Select a Postcard
- Tap “Send to Nintendo Switch”
You can send one Postcard per day.
Sending Postcards over multiple days eventually rewards you with a Gold Lure Module in Pokémon GO.
If you want a full breakdown of how Gold Lures work, see our Pokémon GO Gold Lure Module guide.
Do You Need a Nintendo Switch to Evolve Gimmighoul?
No, not to evolve, but you do initially. If you need further information on how to do this, it can be found by clicking here. You can evolve Gimmighoul without connecting to a Nintendo Switch.
However, the Pokémon GO Nintendo Switch connection makes coin farming significantly easier by allowing you to earn Gold Lure Modules yourself.
If you’re working toward Gholdengo, read our full Gholdengo Pokémon GO evolution guide.
Common Nintendo Switch Connection Problems
Some players experience issues such as:
• Devices not pairing
• Connection timing out
• Postcards not sending
If this happens:
• Ensure Bluetooth is enabled
• Restart both devices
• Update both games
• Stay within close physical range
Most connection issues are temporary and resolve after restarting.
Is the Pokémon GO Nintendo Switch Connection Worth It?
If you’re serious about:
• Farming Gimmighoul Coins
• Creating Golden PokéStops
• Speeding up the Gholdengo grind
Then yes, linking Pokémon GO to Pokémon Scarlet or Violet is absolutely worth it.
While not mandatory, it gives you more control over the coin farming process instead of relying on event spawns or other players.
