Connect Pokemon HeartGold to StarMe DNS
The official Nintendo WFC service is no longer online. StarMe works by changing the DNS used by the connection profile this game already understands.
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1
Join compatible 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi
Generation 4 games cannot use the DSi or 3DS advanced WPA-only connection slots. Even on newer hardware, the game needs a DS-compatible open or WEP 2.4 GHz network.
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2
Open this game's connection settings
From the game title screen, open Nintendo WFC Settings, then Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection Settings. Edit the connection slot that matches your Wi-Fi network.
Auto-obtain IP AddressYes Auto-obtain DNSNo Primary DNS161.35.72.83 Secondary DNS0.0.0.0 -
3
Save and run the connection test
A successful test confirms that the console can reach the network. Return to Pokemon HeartGold and open the online feature you want to use.
How to get Mystery Gifts in Pokemon HeartGold
Mystery Gift unlocks automatically after you receive the Pokedex. On the title screen, scroll down if the Mystery Gift option is below the visible menu choices.
- 1From the title screen, scroll to and open Mystery Gift.
- 2Choose Receive Gift, then Get via Nintendo WFC.
- 3Collect the delivered Pokemon or item from the green delivery person inside any Poke Mart, then save your game.
Use the GTS and online trades
After the connection test succeeds, load your save and visit the Global Terminal in Goldenrod City. Connect normally and StarMe will route the game to its community Global Terminal.
For direct friend trades and battles, use the in-game Wi-Fi Club and the Pal Pad. Both players need working StarMe connections and separate online identities.
If Pokemon HeartGold will not connect
Check the Wi-Fi security and confirm you edited the connection slot for the network the game is actually using.
The game is still reaching the discontinued official service. Re-enter StarMe as Primary DNS and turn Auto-obtain DNS off.
The console cannot join or keep the Wi-Fi connection. Recheck 2.4 GHz compatibility, password, and signal strength.
Make sure two devices or emulators do not share the same MAC address or copied online identity.
Pokemon HeartGold online FAQ
Can Pokemon HeartGold still connect online in 2026?
Yes. The official Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection service closed in 2014, but Pokemon HeartGold can use the unofficial community-run StarMe DNS service for supported online features.
What DNS should I use for Pokemon HeartGold?
Set Primary DNS to 161.35.72.83. Leave Secondary DNS at 0.0.0.0 unless your network requires another value.
How do I get Mystery Gifts in Pokemon HeartGold?
After configuring StarMe DNS, From the title screen, scroll to and open Mystery Gift. Collect the delivered Pokemon or item from the green delivery person inside any Poke Mart, then save your game.
Why will Pokemon HeartGold not connect to my Wi-Fi?
Generation 4 games cannot use the DSi or 3DS advanced WPA-only connection slots. Even on newer hardware, the game needs a DS-compatible open or WEP 2.4 GHz network.