Pokémon Moon

About Pokémon Moon

Pokémon Moon is a turn-based RPG set in the Alola Region, a tropical archipelago where trainers catch, battle, and evolve Pokémon. Developed by Game Freak and released in 2016 for the Nintendo 3DS, it lets players pick from three partner Pokémon and explore islands teeming with new creatures and Z-Moves. The story revolves stopping Team Skull while uncovering regional variants and legendary beasts. With nine language options and a focus on exploration, it’s a classic Pokémon entry with fresh mechanics like enhanced movement via Poké Ride. Ideal for fans of deep monster collection and structured progression.

Gameplay

Battles remain turn-based, but Z-Moves add flashy, high-risk finishes. Players cross islands on foot or via Poké Ride, which lets Pokémon sprint or glide over terrain. Each session blends catching, training, and battling island captains. Partner Pokémon evolve uniquely, shaping playstyles. The game’s structure is linear but rewards backtracking, with side quests and challenges like the Island Trials. Multiplayer lets you trade or battle online. Controls are straightforward on the 3DS, though the handheld’s screen can feel cramped during intense fights.

What Players Think

Pokémon Moon holds an 81 out of 100 on IGDB, with 45% of players finishing the story. Average playtime is 50 hours, and 24% hit 100-hour milestones. Community moods are mostly "nostalgic" and "engaging," though some call it "slow." Critics praise the Alola Region’s polish but note repetitive dialogue. One review says, "Z-Moves feel overpowered but fun." Achievements include 65 total, with 30 required for full completion. Despite a $39.99 price tag, it’s seen as a must-play for series veterans.

PlayPile's Take

Pokémon Moon is a solid RPG for fans of the series, offering 50+ hours of grinding, catching, and battling. The Z-Moves add novelty but don’t revolutionize combat. With 65 achievements and a 45% completion rate, it’s rewarding but time-heavy. At its price point, it’s a fair investment if you enjoy structured progression and monster collection. Skip if you prefer fast-paced action or dislike turn-based systems. The 3DS requirement is a barrier, but the Alola Region’s charm and depth still shine.

Storyline

Embark on a new adventure as a Pokémon Trainer and catch, battle, and trade all-new Pokémon on the tropical islands of the Alola Region. Discover the Z-Moves and unleash these intense attacks in battle. Call upon Pokémon with Poké Ride to discover new areas across the region and take on the Island Challenge Trials to become the Pokémon Champion! Choose one of three new partner Pokémon that will accompany you as you set out on an all-new adventure and discover new Pokémon and regional variant Pokémon in the Alola region. Catch and train Pokémon as you encounter captains, and kahunas of the 4 main Islands of the region. Discover the mystery of the Legendary Pokémon while stopping Team Skull from causing chaos throughout the land.