This paper examines PKHeX version 23.12.18, a significant update to the premier open-source save file editor for the Pokémon core-series games. Developed by kwsch (Kaphotics), PKHeX is a free utility that allows users to manipulate various save formats to customize Pokémon attributes, trainer information, and inventory. Overview of PKHeX 23.12.18
Released on December 18, 2023, this version was a milestone update primarily focused on providing compatibility for the Pokémon Scarlet and Violet The Indigo Disk DLC. Technical Specifications
Runtime Requirements: This version marked a shift to .NET 8 for its runtime (updated from .NET 7), requiring a 64-bit Windows operating system and the corresponding .NET Desktop Runtime.
File Support: It maintains support for standard save file types such as .sav, .dsv, .dat, and .gci, as well as individual Pokémon entity files like .pk9. Key Features and Improvements
New Game Support: Added comprehensive support for Scarlet & Violet version 3.0.0 (Indigo Disk).
Legality Checker Updates: Integrated initial legality checks for encounters added in the Teal Mask and Indigo Disk DLCs. Legacy Content Enhancements:
Generation 2: Added Mystery Gift item and unlock flag editing.
Generation 4: Introduced a Korean-to-International/Japanese save file converter and a "Chatter" editor. Generation 5: Added a Musical Prop editor.
Generation 6: Added a map position/rotation editor and an XY Roamer editor. Accessibility and Ethical Use
PKHeX is distributed as free software via official platforms such as Project Pokémon and GitHub. While the software itself is free, using it with physical consoles often requires specialized hardware or "homebrew" software to extract and re-import save files.
The developers and community maintain a no-cheating policy, discouraging the use of modified Pokémon in competitive online play or trades with unsuspecting players. Users are encouraged to utilize the built-in legality checker to ensure their modifications remain within the bounds of what is possible through standard gameplay to avoid potential bans.
New to modded switch, have queries on PKhex : r/NxSwitchModding
PKHeX is the premier save file editor for the Pokémon main series. The December 2022 (22.12.18) release specifically stabilized support for the then-new Generation 9 games, allowing users to import, export, and modify save data from various platforms. Core Features
Pokémon Editing: You can modify a Pokémon's species, level, nature, IVs, EVs, and moves.
Legality Checking: The tool includes a built-in legality checker. A green checkmark indicates the Pokémon is valid for online play, while a red warning suggests it may be "illegal". pkhex 221218 free
Trainer Customization: Edit trainer names, gender, money, and in-game hours.
Inventory Management: Instantly "Give All" items, TMs, or Berries to your save file.
Pokedex Completion: Use the "Modify All" feature to instantly complete your Pokedex. How to Use (Basic Steps)
Extract Your Save: Use a homebrew tool (like JKSV or Checkpoint) on your console to dump the main save file to your SD card.
Open in PKHeX: Launch PKHeX on your PC and go to File > Open to load your main file. Edit Data:
Party/Box: Drag a Pokémon to the editing window to change its stats or moves.
Showdown Import: You can copy a team set from Pokémon Showdown and use Tools > Auto Legality Mod to import it directly.
Save Changes: After editing, right-click the Pokémon and select Set to put it back in the box. Then, go to File > Export SAV to overwrite your original main file.
Restore Save: Use your homebrew tool on the console to "Restore" the edited file back to your game. Safety Tips
Backups: Always keep a backup of your original save file before editing in case the file gets corrupted.
Online Play: Using Pokémon with "illegal" stats or moves (indicated by red warnings in PKHeX) can lead to online bans.
PKHaX Mode: For those wanting to experiment with "illegal" builds (like impossible abilities), you can activate "PKHaX mode" by renaming the executable.
For the latest updates and detailed technical discussions, the Project Pokemon Forums are the primary resource for the PKHeX community. How To Use PkHex! (Ultimate 2026 Pkhex Tutorial)
is a powerful, free open-source save file editor used primarily for the core series games. The version identifier This paper examines PKHeX version 23
refers to the release published on December 18, 2022, which brought significant compatibility updates for then-new titles. Review: PKHeX 22.12.18
This specific version was a landmark update because it introduced initial support for Pokémon Scarlet & Violet
, allowing players to edit save files from the Paldea region for the first time. Project Pokemon Forums Comprehensive Editing:
It allows you to modify almost every aspect of a Pokémon, including IVs, EVs, Nature, Tera Type, and movesets. Legality Checking:
One of its strongest features is the built-in legality checker, which flags if a Pokémon has impossible stats or moves, helping users avoid online bans. Time Efficiency:
For competitive players, it eliminates hundreds of hours of "breeding" and "grinding" for perfect stats. Inventory Management:
You can easily add items like Rare Candies, Master Balls, or specific hold items that are otherwise limited in-game. Project Pokemon Forums Technical Barrier:
It requires a way to extract save files from your console (usually via a modded Switch or 3DS), which can be daunting for casual users. Complexity:
The interface is feature-dense and can be overwhelming for beginners who aren't familiar with Pokémon's internal data structures. No ROM Hack Support:
It is designed strictly for official retail save files; using it on fan-made ROM hacks often leads to errors or file corruption. Key Features of Version 221218 Generation 9 Support: Initial save editing for Batch Editor Updates:
Enhanced tools for modifying multiple Pokémon simultaneously. Updated Legality Bank:
New checks to ensure "genned" Pokémon appear legitimate to Nintendo's servers.
You can download the latest official version for free from the Project Pokémon Forums extract your save file from a Nintendo Switch to use with this tool? PKHeX - Save Editing - Project Pokemon Forums
PKHeX is a free, open-source save editor developed by [26]. The version "221218" refers to the release from December 18, 2022 🔗 Where to find it (safely) PKHeX is
, which specifically added support for Pokémon Scarlet and Violet save editing. 1. Getting Started : You can always find the latest version on the official Project Pokémon PKHeX page Prerequisites : Ensure you have .NET Framework 4.6 or newer installed (standard on modern Windows) [6]. : Extract the ZIP file and run
. It will prompt you to create a backup folder; always select to prevent data loss [6]. 2. Loading Your Save File
To edit your game, you must first extract your save file from your console or emulator: For Emulators (Ryujinx/Yuzu)
: Right-click your game in the emulator, select "Open User Save Directory," and find the file named For Consoles (3DS/Switch)
: You must use homebrew software (like JKSV or Checkpoint) to export the save to your SD card [4, 9, 16]. : Drag the file directly into the PKHeX window [1]. 3. Core Features Pokémon Editing
: Click any slot in your boxes to edit that Pokémon’s stats, moves, IVs/EVs, and legality [8, 13]. Legality Checker
: A small icon (green checkmark or red hazard) indicates if a Pokémon is "legal" for online play [6, 28]. Encounter Database Tools > Data > Encounter Database to find and generate legal Pokémon from scratch [5, 24]. Trainer Info
: You can change your character's name, gender, money, and items [25]. 4. Finalizing Changes
PKHeX is open source on GitHub. Build 221218 is not the current version, but archived copies may be found via:
Note: I cannot provide direct download links. Always download from trusted, official sources to avoid malware.
Happy editing, and stay legal (or at least stay smart)!
By now, PKHeX has evolved beyond 221218. Current builds support:
Yet the 221218 build is still used by:
A: No. PKHeX is portable. There is no installer. You delete the .exe when you are done. If you downloaded an installer, run a virus scan immediately.
Before exporting, click the "Legality" button (blue checkmark). PKHez 221218 will scan your Pokémon.