What is pkhex

Last updated: April 1, 2026

Quick Answer: PKHeX is a Pokémon save file editor that allows players to modify and manage their Pokémon game saves across multiple platforms. It enables editing of Pokémon stats, moves, items, and other game elements while supporting saves from various Pokémon game generations.

Key Facts

Overview

PKHeX is a comprehensive Pokémon save file editor developed as a free, open-source tool for the community. It provides players with the ability to modify their Pokémon game saves on multiple platforms, including Windows, Linux, and macOS. The software supports save files from nearly all Pokémon game titles, from the original Red and Blue versions through the latest releases.

Key Features

PKHeX offers extensive editing capabilities for Pokémon game saves. Players can modify individual Pokémon's stats, such as HP, attack, defense, and special attributes. The editor allows changes to movesets, abilities, held items, experience levels, and even shiny status. Additionally, users can add or remove Pokémon from their party, organize boxes, and edit trainer information including name, money, and badges.

Supported Games

The software maintains compatibility with a wide range of Pokémon titles, including:

Validation and Safety

PKHeX includes built-in validation tools that check edited save files for compatibility with the original games. This prevents corrupted saves or incompatible modifications that could cause errors when loading the file on a game cartridge or digital version. The software performs legality checks to ensure Pokémon are properly configured.

Technical Aspects

The tool reads and writes directly to save files, decrypting proprietary game save formats to allow editing. PKHeX handles the complex data structures used by Pokémon games to store creature information, trainer data, and game state. The software is regularly updated to support new Pokémon games and new features introduced in later generations.

Related Questions

What is PKSM for 3DS?

PKSM is a save manager specifically designed for Nintendo 3DS Pokémon games. It allows backup, restoration, and editing of save files directly on 3DS hardware, offering similar functionality to PKHeX but optimized for the handheld console platform.

Is using save editors allowed in competitive Pokémon?

Competitive Pokémon organizations have strict rules against modified saves. Pokémon created or edited with tools like PKHeX are typically banned from official tournaments and ranked online battles to maintain fair play.

How do Pokémon save files store data?

Pokémon save files use encrypted binary formats containing data for Pokémon stats, moves, items, trainer information, and game progress. Each generation uses different encryption and data structures that PKHeX must account for when reading and modifying saves.

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Sources

  1. PKHeX GitHub Repository GPL-3.0