The Global Trade System (GTS)

The Global Trade System (GTS) is a revolutionary feature introduced in Pokémon Diamond and Pearl, allowing trainers from all over the world to trade Pokémon with each other. This guide will walk you through accessing and effectively utilizing the GTS to complete your Pokédex, acquire rare Pokémon, or simply exchange your extra catches.

Accessing the GTS

To begin your global trading journey, you'll need to visit the Global Trade Station. This building is prominently located in Jubilife City, just north of the Pokémon Center. You won't be able to access it until you've received your first Gym Badge from Roark in Oreburgh City and spoken to the TV reporter in Jubilife City who mentions the GTS.

Upon entering the GTS, you'll be greeted by a friendly NPC who will explain the system. You'll then be presented with two main options:

Deposit Pokémon: Offer one of your Pokémon for trade.
Seek Pokémon: Search for a specific Pokémon you wish to acquire.

Depositing a Pokémon

If you choose to Deposit Pokémon, follow these steps:

Select the Pokémon: Choose any Pokémon from your party or PC that you wish to offer for trade.
Specify Desired Pokémon: You will then be prompted to select which Pokémon you want in return. You can choose from a comprehensive list of all Pokémon in the National Pokédex.
Set Level Range: Crucially, you can also specify a level range for the Pokémon you desire. This is vital for preventing unfair trades (e.g., asking for a Level 1 Dialga).
Confirm Trade: Once you've set your preferences, confirm the trade. Your Pokémon will be held at the GTS until a suitable trade is found.

Strategy Tip: When depositing, consider offering common Pokémon that are difficult to obtain in other regions (e.g., a Starly for a Bidoof if you know Bidoof is rare elsewhere). For rarer Pokémon, you can ask for equally rare or even legendary Pokémon, but be realistic about what others will offer.

Seeking a Pokémon

If you choose to Seek Pokémon, here's how to navigate the system:

Select Desired Pokémon: Choose the Pokémon you are looking for from the National Pokédex list.
Filter Options: You can refine your search by:
- Gender: Male, Female, or Any.
- Level: A specific level range (e.g., Level 1-10, Level 50-60).
Browse Offers: The GTS will display a list of trainers who have deposited the Pokémon you're seeking, along with what they are requesting in return.
Initiate Trade: If you find an offer you like and possess the Pokémon being requested, you can initiate the trade immediately. The exchange happens automatically.

Strategy Tip: When seeking, always check the level range of the Pokémon being offered. Some trainers might offer a low-level Pokémon for a high-level one, or vice-versa. Be patient; the perfect trade might not appear instantly, but new offers are constantly being added.

Important Considerations

National Pokédex: While you can request any Pokémon, you can only see Pokémon you have already encountered in your Pokédex when searching. However, when depositing, you can request any Pokémon, even if you haven't seen it yet.
Legendary Pokémon: Trading legendary Pokémon is possible, but often requires offering another legendary or a highly sought-after rare Pokémon in return.
Connectivity: The GTS requires a stable Wi-Fi connection to function. Ensure your Nintendo DS is connected to the internet.
No Take-Backs: Once you deposit a Pokémon, it's committed to the trade. You can cancel your offer if it hasn't been accepted yet, but you cannot retrieve a Pokémon once a trade is complete.

The GTS is an invaluable tool for completing your Pokédex and discovering new Pokémon. With a little patience and strategic thinking, you'll be trading like a pro in no time!