| Tool | Location | Purpose |
|------|----------|---------|
| Legality Checker | Top toolbar (✔️) | Validate edited Pokémon |
| Batch Editor | Tools → Batch Editor | Mass edit boxes (shiny, IVs, moves) |
| Encounter Database | Tools → Data → Encounter DB | Search legal encounter slots |
| SVT (Scarlet/Violet) | Not yet editable in this build | View but don’t edit |
| PKHeX Plugins | Copy .dll to plugins folder | Add features like Auto-Legality Mod |
It is impossible to discuss PKHeX without addressing the context of its use. While the tool is open-source and widely celebrated for its ability to preserve save files and facilitate research, its use in online competitive play remains a contentious topic.
The 22.12.18 release included updates to help users create "legal" Pokémon that can pass Nintendo’s basic hack checks. However, the community ethos remains: with great power comes great responsibility. The tool is invaluable for players who want to test competitive teams without spending dozens of hours breeding, but using obviously hacked impossible Pokémon (such as shiny-locked event legends) remains a quick ticket to a ban hammer.
If the limitations above concern you, consider these alternatives: pkhex 22.12.18
| Tool | Best For | Latest Version | |--------------------------|-----------------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------| | PKHeX (latest nightly) | Full Gen 9 + DLC + HOME support | 2024.xx.xx (frequent updates) | | SysBot (Discord) | Automated trading of legal Pokémon | Always online | | PkAltered | Mobile (Android) save editing | 3.0+ (outdated for Gen 9) | | NSSI (Switch Save Investigator) | Forensic save analysis, not editing | 1.2+ |
For most users in 2025 and beyond, the latest PKHeX nightly is the recommended choice. Use 22.12.18 only for legacy projects or specific emulator setups.
💡 Use Tools → Data → Encounter Database to find legal wild/event/gift encounters for a species. | Tool | Location | Purpose | |------|----------|---------|
PKHeX’s hallmark feature—the legality checker—received updates to validate Gen 9 Pokémon against known encounter data from the first two months of SV, including:
(Note: this section assumes the release corresponds to December 18, 2022; if date differs, treat as release build 22.12.18.)
(Note: for precise changelog entries, consult the official repository release notes.) It is impossible to discuss PKHeX without addressing
Click File → Export SAV → Save as.... Overwrite the original save file. Then use your save manager to restore the edited save back to your console or emulator.
The December 18 build fully integrated the Gen 9 data structure. You could: