The Pokémon franchise has been a juggernaut for decades, capturing the imaginations of kids and adults alike with its addictive gameplay loop and cast of lovable creatures.
Pokémon Sun is a core entry in the 7th generation of Pokémon games, whisking players away to a brand-new region with new Pokémon to discover, battle, and befriend.
This article will explore the core mechanics and gameplay loop of Pokémon Sun, offering a deep dive into what makes this entry special.
Exploring the Alola Region: A New World
Pokémon Sun and Moon introduce players to the Alola region, a vibrant, diverse chain of tropical islands teeming with new Pokémon and surprising environments.
The Unique Setting of Alola
The Alola region’s ecosystem is divided into different biomes, each of which affects the gameplay and the Pokémon you’ll encounter.
Discovering New Pokémon
Pokémon Sun features a plethora of new Pokémon species to discover and collect. Plus, you’ll find regional variants of classic Pokémon who’ve adapted to the Alola region’s climate.
Gameplay Mechanics: Battles and Z-Moves
Battles in Pokémon Sun and Moon rely on the bond between trainer and Pokémon, so strategic trainer-Pokémon interaction is key.
To be successful in battle, you’ll need to master type matchups and move selection.
Introduction to Z-Moves
Pokémon Sun and Moon introduced Z-Moves, powerful moves that can be used only once in each battle. Z-Moves are designed to emphasize the connection between trainer and Pokémon.
Pokémon Capture, Evolution, and Training
No Pokémon game would be complete without the fun of building a team, evolving them, and training them to be the very best (like no one ever was).
Capturing and Expanding Your Team
As you explore the Alola region, you’ll have the chance to capture wild Pokémon, adding them to your team and giving you a wider range of strategies to use in battle. Building a team with a good balance of Pokémon types is essential if you want to overcome the challenges in the game.
Evolution and Training
As in previous Pokémon games, Pokémon in Sun and Moon can evolve, increasing their stats and unlocking new abilities. There are a few ways to train your Pokémon, including battling other trainers or wild Pokémon and using items to help them level up and become stronger.
Trainer Challenges and the Island Challenge
The main storyline in Pokémon Sun revolves around the Island Challenge. Instead of the classic gym battles, you’ll be tasked with completing different trials on each of the Alola region’s islands.
These trials involve facing Trial Captains, who guide you through the challenge, and then battling Totem Pokémon, which are powered-up versions of regular Pokémon. You’ll need to be strategic and use your Pokémon’s strengths to win.
Beating the Island Challenge and overcoming these tough battles is essential to getting stronger and moving forward in the game.
Wrapping Up
With its new region, Pokémon, and gameplay, Pokémon Sun offers a unique and memorable experience.
Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the Pokémon franchise, you’ll find a lot to love about this installment.
With its innovative features and captivating story, Pokémon Sun has left a lasting impact on the Pokémon universe.