3DS Review: Pokémon Ultra Moon

Does Alola deserve a return visit?

New Pokemon forms have been discovered in the Aloha region in Pokemon Ultra Sun and Pokemon Ultra Moon. These forms are reminiscent of the Legendary Pokemon Solgaleo, Lunala, and Necrozma, first revealed in Pokemon Sun and Pokemon Moon. Head out on an epic journey as you solve the mystery behind these Pokemon. In this expanded adventure, get ready to explore more of the Alola region, catch more amazing Pokemon, and battle more formidable foes in Pokemon Ultra Sun and Pokemon Ultra Moon.

Pokémon Sun and Moon were great additions to the Pokémon series, but is it worth revisiting Alola? This expanded version of last year’s game comes with new Pokémon to catch, a new gym, an expanded post-story, collectible totem stickers, a traditional gym as well as a new Island Trial, as well as a new online mode and mini-game. I’m just skimming over the new additions, but believe me when I say that they really do add to the Pokémon Sun and Moon experience in their new Ultra versions.

The main brunt of the game is the same, but like I said there’s plenty of new bits to get your teeth stuck into. As the last Pokémon 3DS title, these two expanded versions of Sun and Moon are a nice swansong for Nintendo’s handheld. I suppose the next will no doubt be headed to Nintendo’s other handheld/console hybrid, the Switch.

Performance-wise, Pokémon Ultra Moon runs at a decent framerate and pushes the 3DS to it’s limits. Pokémon monsters are nicely detailed, as are the new additions and Alola looks just as nice as it did last year. The soundtrack is also decent as you would expect.

The Verdict

Pokémon Ultra Moon is a nice swansong for the Pocket Monsters time on the 3DS. It improves upon it’s predecessor and adds plenty to the mix, making it great value for money and a worthy addition to your 3DS.

Score: 9.0