What QR codes are in Pokémon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon
In Pokémon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon, QR codes are a distribution mechanism used to deliver event Pokémon and related bonuses to your Alola save. Unlike local wireless or trade-based transfers, these codes are typically obtained online and redeemed once in game, usually in Festival Plaza. Scanning a QR code can add a Mythical or special event Pokémon to your collection, unlock items, or trigger in-game bonuses tied to official distributions. Because QR codes are tied to specific time windows, understanding how they work helps you act before offers expire.
Where to find official Pokémon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon QR codes
Official event distributions and where codes appear
Official QR codes are published by The Pokémon Company and its partners during event periods. You can typically locate them on:
- The official Pokémon website and event pages
- Corresponding regional event distributions pages
- Partner sites such as Pokémon Center, official social channels, and sometimes retailer promotions
Each QR code is linked to an event that runs for a limited duration, and not all event distributions are available in every region. Check local event listings for your country and language to confirm which offers apply to your version.
How to scan and redeem a QR code in Festival Plaza
Step‑by‑step process
Once you have a valid QR code image, follow these steps in Pokémon Ultra Sun or Ultra Moon:
- Open your game and reach Festival Plaza.
- Enter at least one Festival Plaza and unlock the Festival Plaza services, including the QR Scanner.
- Select the QR Scanner option and choose Scan QR Code.
- Align the on‑screen frame with the QR code image until a successful scan is confirmed.
- Redeem the event distribution when prompted; some events require you to be at a certain point in the story or to have completed key Festival Plaza upgrades.
If a code fails to scan, verify that it has not expired, is fully visible within the frame, and has not been altered. Low lighting, glare, or image quality issues are common causes of scan failures.
Event distributions unlocked by QR codes
Mythical and special event Pokémon available in Alola
Certain event distributions in Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon are accessed primarily or exclusively via QR codes. Below is an overview of notable event distributions tied to this mechanic. Note that availability depends on the event’s active window and regional support.
| Event / Pokémon | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Event distributions tied to QR codes | Delivered via QR code during specified event periods | Official event announcements |
| Mythical Pokémon offered | Legendary and Mythical species distributed through these events | Game and event documentation |
| Redemption window | Defined start and end dates for each QR‑based event | Event schedules |
| Regional availability | Varies by territory and language version | Localized event pages |
| Required game progress | May require key story milestones or Festival Plaza upgrades | Event terms and conditions |
What you receive and how to verify rewards
When a QR code redemption is successful, the event Pokémon or item is delivered to your Festival Plaza or your party, depending on the distribution type. Common outcomes include:
- Mythical Pokémon added to your party or available for pickup in Festival Plaza
- In‑game items such as Rare Bones, Ability Patches, or event TMs
- Bonus effects like increased encounter rates for a limited time
To verify that a distribution was applied, check your party’s summary or your Festival Plaza items. Some distributions also display a brief confirmation message with details about the received item or Pokémon. If you believe a code did not work, confirm the event window, your internet connection, and that the code was entered exactly as shown.
Tips for reliably using QR codes in Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon
Best practices and troubleshooting
- Save your game before attempting a scan; if the result is unexpected, you can revert.
- Use clear, high‑contrast images of QR codes without obstructions or glare.
- Ensure the code fills much of the screen within the camera frame and is steady.
- Check that your Nintendo 3DS system clock matches your local time; some events use time‑based validation.
- Confirm regional and language compatibility; some event distributions are region‑locked.
- If repeated scans fail, restart the game or your 3DS system and try again during the event period.