Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon are enhanced remakes of Pokémon Sun and Moon, launched for Nintendo 3DS in late 2017. Both versions introduce new Ultra Recon Squad missions, additional story events, and expanded postgame content, but they emphasize different legendary encounters and regional details. This evergreen explainer outlines how Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon differ from each other and from their originals, focusing on gameplay changes, exclusive distributions, and version-exclusive scenarios players can experience.
What Are Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon
Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon are enhanced editions of Pokémon Sun and Moon, released for Nintendo 3DS in November 2017. They build on the original games by adding new story segments, expanded areas, and higher encounter rates for select Pokémon. Each version features a distinct version mascot and changes to legendary Pokémon distribution, while retaining the core loop of exploration, battles, and trial completion found in Alola.
Version Exclusivity and Legendaries
Version Exclusive Pokémon
Certain Pokémon are available only in one version of Ultra Sun or Ultra Moon, encouraging trade or transfers between players. These exclusives include legendary and mythical Pokémon tied to the story and regional distribution choices made by The Pokémon Company and Nintendo.
| Pokémon | Ultra Sun | Ultra Moon | Source Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Solgaleo | Version Mascot | Not Available | Version Exclusive |
| Lunala | Not Available | Version Mascot | Version Exclusive |
| Magearna | Available in Story | Distribution Only | Event Distribution |
| Marshadow | Event Distribution | Event Distribution (Timing Differs) | Event Distribution |
Legendary Battles and Story Changes
The legendary encounters in Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon are reshaped to reflect the player’s chosen version. Key story moments are altered so that Sun and Moon narratives are not simply mirrored, giving each version a slightly different perspective on the Ultra Wormhole crisis and the role of the Ultra Recon Squad.
New Features and Story Additions
Both versions include new missions from the Ultra Recon Squad, extra cutscenes, and an expanded postgame. Players can unlock additional areas and challenge new trial captains, which were absent or optional in the original releases. These changes are designed to refresh the pacing and offer more content without altering the fundamental exploration-based design.
Ultra Recon Squad Missions
- Additional story-driven side missions that unlock after the main quest.
- New items and encounter rates tied to mission completion.
- Opportunities to photograph rare Pokémon in updated locales.
Battle Tree and Postgame
The Battle Tree returns with higher-level opponents and improved rewards. Trainers gain access to more powerful moves and items in the postgame, supporting extended competitive and casual playthroughs. This refresh keeps the endgame engaging for returning players.
Differences from Original Sun and Moon
Compared to the original Sun and Moon, Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon are closer to each other than to their base counterparts. The core regions, music, and gym challenges remain consistent with the originals, but the enhanced editions introduce more narrative branching and additional event opportunities. This makes them distinct experiences that build upon rather than simply repeat the first Alola adventure.
| Aspect | Ultra Sun / Ultra Moon | Original Sun / Moon | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|---|
| Story Content | Expanded postgame and new missions | Base story completed in one playthrough | Increased replay value and tasks |
| Legendary Availability | Version-based exclusives and altered encounters | Fixed distribution in original titles | Changes trade需求 and team-building |
| New Features | Ultra Recon Squad missions, updated areas | Standard Alola experience | Fresh objectives and exploration incentives |
| Pacing and Difficulty | Adjusted encounter rates and optional challenges | Baseline difficulty and encounter flow | Allows customization of challenge level |
Which Version Should You Choose
Choosing between Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon often comes down to legendary preference, event interests, and trading plans. If you favor Solgaleo or the Sun-themed storyline, Ultra Sun is the natural pick. If Lunala and Moon-focused narrative beats appeal more, Ultra Moon aligns better. Consider which version-exclusive events and distributions you want to access in your playthrough.
Accessing and Playing
Both Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon are available digitally on the Nintendo 3DS eShop and as physical cartridges. They remain compatible with Pokémon Home transfers into later titles, which preserves team builds and supports ongoing competitive and collection goals. Online features such as Global Trade System (GTS) and Wonder Trade continue to function, enabling cross-version cooperation.
FAQ
Reader questions
Are Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon required to complete the Pokédex?
No, but they make it easier by increasing encounter rates and adding postgame content. Trading between versions or using connectivity features is still helpful for 100% completion.
Do story differences between the versions affect the main ending?
The core conclusion remains the same, but side content, legendary encounters, and mission availability differ, offering distinct narrative flavors.
Can you transfer Pokémon from Sun or Moon directly into Ultra Sun or Ultra Moon?
Yes, original Sun and Moon saves can be transferred forward, and the enhanced versions support onward transfers into Sword, Shield, and later titles via Pokémon Home.
Is there a reason to buy both versions?
For collectors and completionists, owning both versions can maximize access to exclusive distributions and trade advantages, though a single version can provide the full main story experience. They are the final main-series entries of Generation VII, closing the Alola chapter while laying groundwork for Scarlet and Violet. Their enhancements refine the formula introduced in Sun and Moon rather than resetting it.