Sun and Moon version differences and Pokédex completion
Separate the original 302-entry Alola index, exclusives, time offset and Ultra-release changes.
Original Pokémon Sun and Pokémon Moon for Nintendo 3DS (2016). Sun and Moon differences are labelled. Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon have a different story, expanded Pokédex and altered trials.
Sun versus Moon
| Sun | Moon |
|---|---|
| Solgaleo | Lunala |
| Alolan Vulpix → Ninetales | Alolan Sandshrew → Sandslash |
| Cottonee → Whimsicott | Petilil → Lilligant |
| Rufflet → Braviary | Vullaby → Mandibuzz |
| Passimian | Oranguru |
| Turtonator | Drampa |
| Cranidos and Tirtouga fossil lines | Shieldon and Archen fossil lines |
| Buzzwole and Kartana | Pheromosa and Celesteela |
| Verdant Cavern Totem Gumshoos | Verdant Cavern Totem Alolan Raticate |
| Clock matches system time | Clock offset by 12 hours |
This is a planning list, not a complete encounter catalogue. Rockruff’s evolution is also version-dependent: Midday in Sun and Midnight in Moon, with the matching time requirement.
Complete the original regional index
Sun/Moon use a 302-entry Alola Pokédex. Ultra Sun/Ultra Moon expand it to 403, so those collection lists are different. Evolved entries may require levels, friendship, stones or trade items instead of direct wild catches. Check a profile’s form, version and method. Completing the required regional entries earns the Shiny Charm from the GAME FREAK office in Heahea; Mythical Pokémon are excluded from that completion requirement.
Trades fill deliberate gaps
Only one starter is given normally, and version-exclusive species need compatible trades to complete both sides. Fossils are purchased from Olivia’s shop in the version-specific selection and revived at Route 8’s Fossil Restoration Center. Local wireless trading remains useful for trade evolutions and collecting the other version’s lines. QR scans normally register a seen entry rather than granting the Pokémon.
Keep the original and Ultra games distinct
Original Sun/Moon use Hala in the Elite Four and Kukui as the final first-League opponent. Ultra substitutes Molayne and Hau, changes the late story around Necrozma, adds a Fairy trial and changes several Totems. Dusk Lycanroc, Ultra Necrozma, Mantine Surf, Ultra Warp Ride and Team Rainbow Rocket are outside this original adventure.
These guides cover original Pokémon Sun and Pokémon Moon (2016). Check the version and in-game time before planning an encounter.