Sun Versus Moon

Discover the key differences between pokemon sun moon, including a 12-hour time shift in Moon and version-exclusive Pokémon like Solgaleo and Lunala.

The primary difference between pokemon sun moon lies in the time of day and the specific Pokémon species available in each version. This guide details these distinctions.

Time Offset:

If you are playing Pokémon Sun, the in-game time will mirror your real-world time. However, Pokémon Moon players will experience a 12-hour shift. When it is daytime in real life, it will be nighttime in Pokémon Moon, and vice versa. The game uses the 3DS system clock to determine the time of day. If you wish to alter this time asymmetry, you can manually adjust your 3DS clock by 12 hours, but be cautious of potential side effects in other games.

Exclusive Pokémon:

Certain Pokémon species are exclusive to either Pokémon Sun or Pokémon Moon. To obtain a Pokémon exclusive to the other version, you will need to trade with another player.

New Pokémon Exclusives:

• Exclusive to Sun: Passimian, Turtonator, Vulpix (Alolan), Ninetales (Alolan), Solgaleo, Buzzwole, Kartana
• Exclusive to Moon: Oranguru, Drampa, Alolan Sandshrew, Alolan Sandslash, Lunala, Pheromosa, Celesteela

Returning Pokémon Exclusives:

• Exclusive to Sun: Cottonee, Whimsicott, Rufflet, Braviary, Cranidos, Rampardo, Tirtouga, Carracosta
• Exclusive to Moon: Petilil, Lilligant, Vullaby, Mandibuzz, Shieldon, Bastiodon, Archen, Archeops

Exclusive Evolution:

Rockruff has two distinct evolution paths depending on the game version. In Pokémon Sun, Rockruff evolves into Lycanroc (Midday). In Pokémon Moon, it evolves into Lycanroc (Midnight). If you desire the other form, you can trade with a player who owns the opposite version. Alternatively, you can temporarily loan a Rockruff to a friend, have it evolve in their game, and then return it.

There is at least one other Pokémon that evolves into two different forms based on the game version, but details are being withheld due to story spoilers.

Alternate Events:

Some story events differ between Pokémon Sun and Pokémon Moon. For example, the Totem Pokémon encountered at the end of a trial may vary, and you might face different Ultra Beasts.