Summary
- Release Year: 2016
- Genres: Adventure, Role-playing game (RPG), Strategy, Turn-based strategy (TBS)
- Platforms: Nintendo 3DS
- Developers: Game Freak
- Publishers: Nintendo, The Pokémon Company
Pokémon Moon: A Journey Through Alola
Pokémon Moon is a role-playing video game developed by Game Freak and published by Nintendo for the Nintendo 3DS. It was released on November 18, 2016, alongside its counterpart, Pokémon Sun. The games are set in the Alola region, a tropical archipelago based on the Hawaiian Islands.
In Pokémon Moon, players take on the role of a young Pokémon Trainer who has just moved to Alola from Kanto. The player must explore the region, catch and train Pokémon, and battle other Trainers in order to become the Pokémon League Champion.
Along the way, the player will encounter a variety of new Pokémon, including the starters Rowlet, Litten, and Popplio. They will also meet new characters, such as Professor Kukui, the island kahunas, and the Aether Foundation.
New Features in Pokémon Moon
Pokémon Moon introduces a number of new features to the Pokémon series, including:
- Alola Forms: Some Pokémon from previous generations have new forms that are unique to the Alola region. These forms have different appearances, types, and abilities than their original counterparts.
- Z-Moves: Z-Moves are powerful new moves that can be used once per battle. They are powered by Z-Crystals, which are special items that can be attached to Pokémon.
- Ride Pokémon: Ride Pokémon are special Pokémon that can be used to traverse the Alola region. They can be used to surf, climb, and fly.
- Poké Pelago: Poké Pelago is a new area where players can store their Pokémon and interact with them. Pokémon can play games, collect items, and even level up in Poké Pelago.
Story
The story of Pokémon Moon begins with the player character moving to Alola from Kanto. The player quickly meets Professor Kukui, who gives them their first Pokémon and sets them on their journey to become the Pokémon League Champion.
As the player explores Alola, they will encounter a variety of challenges, including Team Skull, a group of troublemakers who are trying to take over the region. The player will also learn about the Aether Foundation, a group of scientists who are studying the Ultra Beasts, mysterious creatures from another dimension.
Gameplay
Pokémon Moon is a traditional role-playing game with turn-based combat. Players control a party of up to six Pokémon and must use their moves to defeat their opponents. Pokémon Moon also features a number of new gameplay elements, such as:
- Island Trials: Island Trials are a new type of challenge that players must complete in order to progress through the game. Each island trial is hosted by a different kahuna, and the player must defeat the kahuna’s Pokémon in order to move on.
- Pokémon Refresh: Pokémon Refresh is a new feature that allows players to care for their Pokémon. Players can feed their Pokémon, groom them, and play with them. Pokémon that are well-cared for will be more likely to win battles.
Reception
Pokémon Moon was a critical and commercial success. It received positive reviews from critics, who praised its new features, story, and gameplay. The game was also a commercial success, selling over 16 million copies worldwide.
Overall
Pokémon Moon is a great addition to the Pokémon series. It features new Pokémon, new characters, and new gameplay elements that make it a must-play for fans of the series.
Review Score
9/10