The "CIA" method is generally used by those with custom firmware installed on their 3DS or by those using the Citra emulator on a PC.
The most compelling reason to install Update 1.5 is to safeguard your save data against game-breaking bugs. Pokémon X and Y launched with a notorious, progression-blocking glitch in Lumiose City.
The official Nintendo 3DS servers are offline. However, the homebrew community has revived online play via . For Pretendo to work with Pokémon X, you must be on Version 1.5. If you try to play online with an older version, the game will force a failed update check. The Update 15 CIA ensures compatibility with custom online servers, allowing you to trade and battle again in 2025.
The update fixes specific sprite animation and user interface errors. For example, earlier versions suffered from a glitch that prevented Vivillon’s unique menu icon from populating correctly within the Friend Safari. It also fixes specific Poké Ball deployment animations when sending your partner into battle first. Performance: Unpatched Game vs. Update 1.5 CIA Base Game (v1.0) Update 1.5 CIA Applied High risk of save corruption 100% patched and safe GTS Filter Navigation Frequent communication crashes Smooth, optimized browsing Wonder Trade Evolution Occasional move-pool errors Fixed behavior Data Mismatch Handling System lock-ups and crashes Graceful connection termination Modding & Fan Servers Incompatible with modern scripts Fully compatible (Pre-requisite) How to Install the Update 1.5 CIA pokemon x update 15 cia better
: Improvements to internet communication issues that previously caused disconnects in Random Matchups.
: It enhances unauthorized data-check functions. Players attempting to use manipulated data during Random Matchups or Online Competitions will be automatically disconnected. Matchmaking Stability
If you need help configuring your setup, feel free to share you are currently using, your current system firmware version , or any specific error codes you are running into. Share public link The "CIA" method is generally used by those
Here is a comprehensive breakdown of why the Pokémon X Update 1.5 CIA is better, what it fixes, and how it optimizes your game. What is the Pokémon X Update 1.5 CIA?
Nintendo requires your game to match the current network version to participate in Wonder Trades, the Global Trade Station (GTS), and online battles.
If you’re determined to try the “Update 15 CIA Better” mod: The official Nintendo 3DS servers are offline
Press HOME to exit FBI. Hover over your Pokémon X icon. You should see a small banner or notice indicating the game version is now updated, or you can verify it via the data management settings. Emulation Note: Citra and Post-Citra Forks
Select SD , navigate to the folder where you copied the CIA file, and select it.
If you are using custom firmware (CFW) on your Nintendo 3DS—such as —you will need the CIA (CTR Importable Archive) format of this update to install it via FBI. This article explains why the 1.5 update is superior to previous versions, what it fixes, and how to safely install it. Why the Pokémon X Update 1.5 CIA is "Better"
: Most online features are disabled unless your software is current.