How to Fix Pokémon HOME Error Code 10015
5 min read
If you’ve encountered the Pokémon HOME error code 10015, you’re not alone. This frustrating issue tends to catch players off-guard, especially when transferring or managing their Pokémon across various games and the HOME application. Many users are left wondering why this error appears and what steps they can take to get back to organizing their favorite monsters. In this guide, we’ll clearly explain what causes error 10015 and walk you through how to fix it using reliable and legitimate methods.
TL;DR
Error code 10015 in Pokémon HOME is typically associated with the presence of unauthorized or hacked Pokémon in your storage boxes. You can fix it by identifying and removing any suspicious Pokémon using sorting features and cross-checking their origin. Restoring normal functionality may also involve reinstalling the app or contacting Nintendo Support if the problem persists. Avoid future issues by only trading and importing legitimate Pokémon from official sources and games.
What is Pokémon HOME Error Code 10015?
Pokémon HOME error code 10015 usually appears when the app detects something unusual or unauthorized in your Pokémon boxes. This error often prevents you from accessing or transferring your Pokémon and interrupts normal operation. The suspected causes primarily circulate around the use of tampered or hacked Pokémon that do not follow the official game’s ruleset, such as impossible stats, moves, or origin data.
Common Causes of Error Code 10015
The specific trigger for this error typically rests on the following:
- Hacked or Clone Pokémon – Pokémon created or altered using third-party software that do not match parameters allowed in official games.
- Illegal Trades – Transfers or trades accepted via online services or forums that provided modified Pokémon.
- Importing Pokémon from External Sources – Attempting to import Pokémon from non-legitimate sources or previous games using unofficial tools.
The core function of Pokémon HOME includes verifying data integrity. Any detection of tampering will result in service refusal—including displaying the 10015 error.
Fixing the Error: Step-by-Step Guide
Fixing Pokémon HOME Error Code 10015 involves a systematic cleanup of your Pokémon boxes and storage. Below are steps to help resolve the issue.
1. Scan for Suspicious Pokémon
Understand that Pokémon HOME flags Pokémon that appear to be illegitimate. Begin by:
- Logging into Pokémon HOME from your Nintendo Switch or mobile device.
- Checking all boxes for Pokémon with abnormal characteristics (e.g., maxed stats, wrong Poké Ball types, odd Trainer names, impossible regional origins).
- Sorting Pokémon by tags, source games, or caught region using filters within the app to isolate recent transfers or oddities.
2. Transfer Suspicious Pokémon Out
Once identified, remove potential offenders by either:
- Transferring them back to their original game—use the same Nintendo Account and console to avoid duplications or mistakes.
- Depositing them into non-critical storage like Pokémon Bank (if compatible).
- Releasing them entirely if there is no legitimate source or return path.
Note: Releasing a suspicious Pokémon is often the most direct way to unlock full server functionality again.
3. Reinstall Pokémon HOME
If the problem persists even after clearing out potential illegal Pokémon, try reinstalling the HOME application:
- Delete the app from your mobile device or Nintendo Switch.
- Re-download it from your device’s official store (Nintendo eShop or mobile app store).
- Log back in using your Nintendo Account and check if the error reappears.
This serves to reset any local errors while retaining cloud-based storage (Pokémon you did not delete will remain intact online).
4. Contact Nintendo Support
If all else fails and you’re confident your Pokémon are legitimate or you cannot identify any problematic entries, contact Nintendo directly. Include the following:
- Nintendo Account email or user ID
- A detailed description of the error message, including screenshots
- Steps already taken to resolve the issue
Usually, support agents can assist in clearing the issue or provide more insight into the specific flagged Pokémon.
Preventing Error Code 10015 in the Future
Once the error is fixed, be cautious to avoid it returning. Follow these best practices:
1. Avoid Hacked or Botted Trades
Don’t accept trades from sketchy online sources or modified save files. Stay within the Pokémon HOME GTS or use in-game trading with trusted friends. If a Pokémon seems “too good to be true,” it likely is.
2. Only Use Official Games and Tools
When transferring Pokémon from older generations or ports, only use approved software like Poké Transporter, Pokémon Bank, and OFFICIAL Nintendo services. Avoid using third-party software or plug-ins that can alter your save data—these are the primary cause of detection.
3. Check Pokémon Legitimacy Before Storing
Keep an eye on Pokémon that show abnormal attributes. Pokémon legality checkers like PKHeX exist, but beware: even if your Pokémon passes such tools, HOME can still flag them if something appears inconsistent in metadata.
Insight into Pokémon HOME’s Security Measures
Behind the scenes, Pokémon HOME connects with online databases to cross-verify Pokémon identity markers, including:
- Trainer ID and name
- IV spread (stats) and EV allocation
- Ball type, caught location, origin game, and encounter method
Even the individual values and moves a Pokémon knows are validated against an internal legality radar. Any mismatch triggers internal blocks—leading to error 10015.
Players often don’t understand that a cloned or hacked Pokémon may look legitimate visually, but may contain metadata anomalies not visible in-game. That’s why manually inspecting Pokémon when possible is vital before transfer.
Conclusion
Pokémon HOME Error Code 10015 can be discouraging, but understanding its causes arms you with the ability to fix and prevent it. Whether your collection has accidentally inherited an illicit Pokémon from a global trade, or you’re using tools that inadvertently broke the rules, taking responsible steps to legitimize your storage will get you back on track. Always stick to official features and guide your gameplay with the same integrity the Pokémon world encourages.
Resolving this issue is a sign of a committed trainer. Keep your collection clean, play fair, and enjoy the limitless potential of modern Pokémon storage with peace of mind.