PKHeX

PKHeX
Developer(s)Kurt
Initial release2013
Written inC#
Operating systemWindows
LicenseGNU General Public License

PKHeX is a Pokémon save file editor developed by a user by the name of Kurt, also known by the handle "kwsch".[1] The tool allows users to modify save data from various Pokémon games, providing functionality to adjust Pokémon attributes, game progress, inventory, and more. PKHeX is widely used by players and researchers to customize their gaming experience, analyze game data, or restore corrupted save files.[2]

Overview

PKHeX was initially released in 2013 and has since become one of the most popular save editors for Pokémon games.[3] It supports save files from games across multiple Pokémon generations, including titles from the Game Boy Advance, Nintendo DS, and Nintendo Switch consoles.[4][5] The program is written in C# and is distributed as open-source software on GitHub.[1][6][7]

Development history

PKHeX has undergone significant development since its initial release. Key milestones include:

  • 2014 – Support added for Pokémon X and Y (Generation VI).
  • 2016 – Compatibility expanded to include Pokémon Sun and Moon (Generation VII).
  • 2018 – Pokémon Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee! save editing introduced.
  • 2019 – PKHeX updated to support Pokémon Sword and Shield.[8] [9]
  • 2022 – Pokémon Home 2.0.0 support added, allowing the transfer and editing of Pokémon across various titles.[10]
  • 2023 – Updates released for compatibility with Pokémon Scarlet and Violet DLC, The Teal Mask.[11]

Community and contributions

PKHeX is actively maintained by kwsch and other contributors. The project is hosted on GitHub, where users can submit bug reports, feature requests, and contribute to development. Additionally, PKHeX is distributed through the Project Pokémon platform, which serves as a hub for Pokémon hacking tools and resources.[6]

Controversy and legality

The use of PKHeX has been a topic of debate within the Pokémon community, particularly regarding its implications for fair play.[12] While the tool can be used for benign purposes such as restoring corrupted save files[2] or modifying offline gameplay[5], it can also facilitate cheating in online battles and competitions.[13] Certain Pokémon created or modified using PKHeX are often flagged by official Pokémon tournaments and online services, resulting in bans or disqualifications.[14]

See also

References

  1. ^ a b "PKHeX GitHub Repository". GitHub. Retrieved December 26, 2024.
  2. ^ a b Nick Robinson (Babylonian) (2022-04-02). Can we rescue a deleted Pokémon - 15 years after its death?. Retrieved 2024-12-26 – via YouTube.
  3. ^ "Best Pokemon editor?". GBAtemp.net - The Independent Video Game Community. 2016-06-29. Retrieved 2024-12-27.
  4. ^ "PKHeX Tutorial and List of Supported Games".
  5. ^ a b Aurora (2019-11-16). "News: Pokémon Sword and Shield in-game on Yuzu & Ryujinx + Save Modding Tool PKHeX updated for it & reF00D keys.bin updated to support latest game updates by modifying artificial firmware limit!". Wololo.net. Retrieved 2024-12-27.
  6. ^ a b "PKHeX". Project Pokémon. 12 November 2024. Retrieved December 26, 2024.
  7. ^ "Github Development Log". GitHub.
  8. ^ "PKHeX now compatible with Pokémon Sword and Shield". Reddit. 16 November 2019. Retrieved December 26, 2024.
  9. ^ "pkhex_is_now_compatible_with_pokemon_sword_and/". 16 November 2019.
  10. ^ "PKHeX 22.06.01". Project Pokémon. 2 June 2022. Retrieved December 26, 2024.
  11. ^ "PKHeX 23.09.16". Project Pokémon. 16 September 2023. Retrieved December 26, 2024.
  12. ^ "Specialist Says Over Half Of The Teams Used in The 2023 Pokémon World Championship Were Hacked". Esports Illustrated On SI. 2023-08-23. Retrieved 2024-12-27.
  13. ^ "Competitive Pokémon Is Full Of Cheating, According To New Data". Kotaku. 2023-08-21. Retrieved 2024-12-27.
  14. ^ stoonfishthrowaway (2023-08-12). "Misunderstanding about the VGC Disqualifications". r/stunfisk. Retrieved 2024-12-26.