Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon PokéBank refers to the use of the Nintendo 3DS bank-style cloud save service to store, manage, and transfer Pokémon between Ultra Sun, Ultra Moon, and compatible titles. This guide explains how the system functions for these remakes, which generations and events are preserved, and practical steps for moving creatures safely. Understanding storage slots, transfer rules, and platform limitations helps players protect their collections without confusion or lost progress.
What Is the PokéBank in Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon
The PokéBank is a cloud-based save and management system originally designed for Nintendo 3DS games, allowing players to store multiple titles and transfer Pokémon across supported games. In Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon, the functionality aligns with the original Sun and Moon framework, enabling long-term storage of captured creatures, event distributions, and preparation for future mainline entries. It is not a direct in-game item but a separate application provided by Nintendo that requires a valid Nintendo Network ID and appropriate system settings.
Core Features and Account Requirements
- Cloud saves for Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon game data, protecting progress and box contents.
- Cross-game transfers within the Sun and Moon generation when titles are linked to the same account.
- Potential support for future titles, subject to Nintendo announcements and compatibility windows.
Supported Titles and Compatibility
Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon are compatible with Pokémon Bank for storing and managing creatures, and they participate in broader Sun and Moon generation transfers. However, compatibility depends on account linking, software versions, and Nintendo’s active support for the transfer systems. Older titles using the 7DS or Bank-specific event distributions may have unique conditions that affect migration paths.
Compatible Games in the Sun and Moon Generation
| Title | Pokémon Bank Support | Primary Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| Pokémon Bank (3DS application) | Required for storage and transfers | Cloud saves and cross-game moves |
| Pokémon Ultra Sun | Supported | Store, manage, and transfer out |
| Pokémon Ultra Moon | Supported | Store, manage, and transfer out |
| Pokémon Sun and Moon | Supported | Bidirectional transfers with US/UM |
| Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire | Limited transfers from Sun/Moon/US/UM | Receive via Poke Transporter then Bank |
| Pokémon X and Y | Limited transfers from ORAS | Receive via Poke Transporter then Bank |
Event and Distribution Handling
Event Pokémon distributed before the end of official support remain stored in the cloud and can be redownloaded onto compatible systems while transfers are active. Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon preserve event flags and item data when moved through proper channels, but players should note that future titles may not honor legacy event conditions. For long-term collections, it is best to maintain working copies in both the original cartridge/cloud slot and a separate backup when possible.
Key Event Considerations
- Legitimate event flags persist through Bank storage and authorized transfers.
- Redownloads depend on active Nintendo server support for the specific event.
- Some third-party events may not transfer cleanly between generations.
Transfer Process and Safety Steps
To move Pokémon into or out of Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon, players typically use Pokémon Bank as an intermediary, selecting send or retrieve options from the 3DS home menu. The process involves confirming titles, verifying system updates, and ensuring each game version matches the required software revision. Because transfers can be one way or bidirectional depending on the titles involved, planning the route beforehand reduces the risk of accidental release or data loss.
- Back up your save data through the 3DS system settings.
- Open Pokémon Bank and log in with your Nintendo Network ID.
- Select the source and destination games, confirming compatibility.
- Initiate transfer and wait for completion without powering off the system.
Storage Limits, Slots, and Account Notes
Each Pokémon Bank account provides a set number of storage slots shared across supported games, with individual boxes functioning like in-game storage. Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon use the same bank pool as other Sun and Moon titles, so a single purchase can cover multiple games under one account. Console-specific limitations and updates may adjust the total available space or rules around moving back and forth between generations, so checking current terms helps avoid surprises.
Best Practices for Long-Term Access
For collections that matter to you, treat the PokéBank as one layer of protection rather than the only copy. Maintain at least one local backup save on the console or a supported device, avoid risky homebrew modifications that could corrupt cloud flags, and monitor official announcements regarding transfer windows. When shifting Pokémon into future mainline entries, follow the prescribed chain of Poke Transporter, Bank, then the new game to preserve legality and item data.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Connectivity errors, mismatched software versions, and unexpected prompts can interrupt transfers between Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon. Basic fixes include verifying system updates on each title, restarting the application, confirming account sign-in status, and ensuring no other data management tasks are running simultaneously. If a problem persists, consult Nintendo support with details about the error code or message to accelerate resolution.