INTRODUCTION
Ah, Pokémon Ultra Sun! If you’ve been riding the Pokémon train for as long as it’s been puffing, you’d find it hard to pretend you don’t know this gem. Released as part of the series’ seventh generation, this Nintendo game hit the shelves on November 17, 2017, exclusive to the 3DS console. As with its ancestors, it’s got a fraternal twin, Pokémon Ultra Moon, and for the connoisseurs among us, there’s even a deluxe edition that melds both.
A HAWAIIAN-THEMED PARADISE: ALOLA
Hold on to your flip-flops because the first thing you’ll notice about Pokémon Ultra Sun is that you’re nowhere near Pallet Town. Nope, you’re in Alola, an archipelago that’s Hawaii with a side of mythical creatures. As a young whippersnapper from the Kanto region, you move with your mom to Melemele Island. Things spice up when you rescue Lillie, a local, and as a reward, Professor Kukui gifts you a Pokémon. You then begin your adventures, which mainly consist of island hopping, fighting some not-so-friendly Pokémon, and thwarting the plans of Team Skull, the baddies of the piece. Along the way, you uncover the mysteries of Alola and eventually run into Nebby, a legendary Cosmog Pokémon that’s really into light energy.
TIME-SAVER PLOT BUT A POKEDEX TIME-SINK
The game’s storyline won’t spoil your weekend, but if you aim to catch them all, good luck and Godspeed! The map of Alola is an ecological smorgasbord, each environment boasting its unique array of Pokémon. You’re looking at more than 300 types to catch, so you better clear your calendar. And thanks to the 3DS’s graphical capabilities, every little critter, and its corresponding environment pop out in vivid 3D, turning your Pokémon catching quest into an eye-candy feast.
OLD MECHANICS WITH NEW TRICKS
While Pokémon Ultra Sun proudly parades its tropical setting, it hasn’t forgotten its roots. The game keeps the essence of older generations alive by incorporating features like Mega Evolution and Pokémon Refresh. But don’t get too comfy; they’ve thrown in a new wrench called Z-Moves. You can only use it once per battle, but it packs a punch. It’s like your Pokémon had five cups of coffee and a whole sugar jar. It amps up battle tactics, making each fight a nail-biting experience.
A COMMERCIAL AND CRITICAL SMASH HIT
If you’re skeptical about the game’s quality, perhaps a dash of numbers will ease your worry. Pokémon Ultra Sun has been applauded by critics and fans, with rave reviews in big-name gaming journals. On the commercial front, it’s less of a game and more of a gold mine. Sales? Through the roof! And though the game has been out for a while, it still enjoys a dedicated following. In short, it’s not just a fad; it’s a phenomenon.
STILL A HOT COMMODITY
What makes Pokémon Ultra Sun still relevant? It’s simple: it just doesn’t get old. The compelling storyline, familiar yet innovative mechanics, and a dizzying array of Pokémon to catch keep players coming back for more. Even though it’s been out for some years, it’s still as hot as a Charizard’s tail, with gamers globally hunting for a copy.
So there you have it, folks! Whether you’re a lifelong Pokémon fan or a newcomer looking to get your feet wet, Pokémon Ultra Sun for the 3DS offers a riveting, visually stunning, and strategically challenging experience that has stood the test of time. If you’ll excuse me, I have a Pokedex to complete.
