To begin a new Pokémon Sun game, power on your Nintendo 3DS, select the Pokémon Sun icon, and choose “New Game” at the title screen.
Ready to dive into the tropical Alola region again? Starting a new adventure in Pokémon Sun is easy. We will show you the simple steps.
Many players find themselves wanting to restart and experience the story again. It’s all about that first journey of selecting your starter Pokemon. Let’s quickly go over how to start a new Pokémon Sun game.
How to Start a New Pokemon Sun Game
So, you’re ready to dive into the tropical Alola region and begin your Pokémon Sun adventure? Awesome! Getting started might seem like a lot, but don’t worry; it’s easier than you think. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from choosing your starter Pokémon to taking your first steps as a new trainer. Let’s get your journey started!
Choosing Your Starter Pokémon
The first big decision you’ll make in Pokémon Sun is choosing your very first Pokémon partner. Professor Kukui will present you with three adorable options, each with its own special type and strengths. Picking the right one for you can make the beginning of the game more fun. Here are the three choices:
Rowlet – The Grass/Flying Type
Rowlet is a small, round owl Pokémon. It’s a Grass and Flying type, which makes it strong against Water, Ground, and Rock-type Pokémon early on. However, be careful because Rowlet is weak against Fire, Flying, Poison, Ice, and 4x weak to Rock-type attacks. Rowlet is good for players who like a balanced starter that evolves into a powerful archer later on. It’s a good pick if you want a Pokémon that’s reliable throughout the game. Here are some important facts about Rowlet:
- Type: Grass/Flying
- Strengths: Water, Ground, Rock
- Weaknesses: Fire, Flying, Poison, Ice, Rock (4x)
- Final Evolution: Decidueye (Grass/Ghost)
- Good for: Balanced playstyle, early game advantages.
Litten – The Fire Type
Litten is a cool-looking, black and red cat Pokémon with the Fire type. Fire types are often good at attacking, and Litten is no exception. Fire types are effective against Grass, Bug, Ice, and Steel-type Pokémon. Just watch out for Water, Ground, and Rock types, because Litten will struggle against them. Litten is a good choice if you prefer using a Pokémon with strong offensive power. Later, Litten’s final evolution is a strong Fire/Dark type. Here is some key info about Litten:
- Type: Fire
- Strengths: Grass, Bug, Ice, Steel
- Weaknesses: Water, Ground, Rock
- Final Evolution: Incineroar (Fire/Dark)
- Good for: Players who like strong attacks
Popplio – The Water Type
Popplio is a cute, blue sea lion Pokémon with the Water type. Water types are strong against Fire, Ground, and Rock-type Pokémon. But, keep in mind that Popplio is weak to Grass and Electric type moves. Popplio is a good choice for trainers who like a Pokémon that’s good at both offense and defense. It eventually evolves into a powerful and elegant Water/Fairy type. Here are some facts about Popplio:
- Type: Water
- Strengths: Fire, Ground, Rock
- Weaknesses: Grass, Electric
- Final Evolution: Primarina (Water/Fairy)
- Good for: Balanced gameplay, versatility
No matter which starter you pick, you’ll have a great partner to begin your adventure. There is no wrong choice so pick which one appeals to you the most! Remember, you can catch other Pokémon along the way to build your team. You can also find out more about each Pokémon by doing some extra research online.
Setting Up Your Game
Before you can start your Alola journey, you’ll need to get your game ready. Here’s how to do it:
Starting a New Game
When you turn on your Nintendo 3DS and load Pokémon Sun, you will see the title screen. Select the “New Game” option to start your adventure. You will then be greeted by Professor Kukui, who will guide you along the first steps.
Choosing Your Character
You’ll then get to pick your character’s appearance. This includes choosing your gender and skin tone. This choice doesn’t affect the gameplay, but it’s fun to choose a character you like!
Naming Your Character and Rival
Next, you will have to name your character. Pick a name that you like. You will also name your rival, who is named Hau. You can choose a different name for Hau if you wish.
Understanding the Control Scheme
It’s a good idea to understand the controls in Pokémon Sun before you get too far into the game. Here is a simple control scheme:
- Circle Pad: Move your character.
- D-Pad: Can be used to move your character as well.
- A Button: Select, interact with objects/people, and advance dialogue.
- B Button: Cancel, run faster (hold it down).
- X Button: Opens the main menu.
- Y Button: Use key items, or other special actions.
- L and R Buttons: Access the camera and other functions in some situations.
- Start and Select Button: No special function in game.
Take some time to practice moving your character. It will be helpful when moving around in the game.
Your First Steps in Alola
After you have set up your game, you’re now officially ready to start your adventure in Alola! Here’s what to expect in the beginning:
Meeting Professor Kukui
You’ll meet Professor Kukui, who is the region’s Pokémon expert. He will explain some basic things about the Alola region and Pokémon.
The First Town: Iki Town
Your journey will start in Iki Town. Here, you will get to explore a small town, and meet some of the important people there. This is a great place to practice using the controls and talking to different characters to understand what is going on.
Receiving the Rotom Pokedex
You’ll soon receive a special device known as the Rotom Pokedex. This Pokedex has a Pokémon named Rotom inside of it. Rotom will talk to you from inside the Pokedex, and will offer advice about where to go. You can access the map, and information about your progress in the game. As you progress through the game, the Rotom Pokedex will have more features.
The First Battles
Right away, you will have your first Pokémon battles. You might battle other trainers or wild Pokémon. It is important to learn the basics of combat by battling the wild Pokémon that you encounter. Here are some important aspects to keep in mind during battle:
- Turn Based System: Pokémon battles are turn-based. Each Pokémon takes a turn. The Pokémon with a higher speed stat goes first.
- Moves: Each Pokémon has different types of moves it can use. Moves also have different effects, damage, and accuracy.
- Type Advantages: Some move types are more effective against certain Pokémon. For example Fire is effective against Grass.
Catching Your First Pokémon
During your first battles with wild Pokémon, you will have the opportunity to catch Pokémon. Here’s how you do it:
- Weaken the Wild Pokemon: First, reduce the wild Pokémon’s health, but be sure not to faint it!
- Throw a Poké Ball: Once the wild Pokémon has low health, use a Poké Ball to capture it.
- Success!: If successful, the wild Pokémon will join your team!
Exploring Alola and Beyond
Once you’ve gotten your bearings, you are now on your way to continue the main story of Pokémon Sun. But there are also many things to do in the game besides the main story!
Following the Island Challenge
Instead of gym battles, Alola has a special Island Challenge. It’s made up of trials on each island that you have to complete. Each trial has different goals and challenges. You will have to explore, and battle to pass them all.
Meeting New People and Pokémon
As you travel, you’ll meet all sorts of interesting people. You will also find and catch many Pokémon. Each island has its own unique species to find, so make sure you keep an eye out.
Using Z-Moves
In Alola, you can use special Z-Moves. These are powerful attacks that you can only use once per battle. They can be helpful in tough situations, so you should learn how they work.
Pokémon Refresh
You can care for your Pokémon using Pokémon Refresh. This lets you clean, feed, and play with your Pokémon. This will increase your bond with your team, and can help them in battle.
Trading and Battling with Friends
If you have friends who play Pokémon Sun, you can trade and battle with them. This is a great way to make the game more fun, and get different Pokémon!
Side Quests
Besides the main adventure, there are many side quests. You can talk to non player characters (NPCs) to receive missions, and you will receive items as a reward. Take the time to explore, as this will make the game more enjoyable.
Making use of the Poke Pelago
As you progress through the game, you can unlock a feature called Poke Pelago. Poke Pelago allows you to send your Pokémon to different isles, where they can complete tasks. This is a great way to level up your Pokémon and find new items.
Other Activities
You can also take part in activities like riding Pokémon and playing mini-games. The game has so many things to do so you will not get bored.
Starting Pokémon Sun can be a little intimidating at first, but with a bit of patience, and this guide, you will be well on your way to exploring Alola and becoming the very best. Each step, from choosing your starter to beating the Island challenge, is part of a fun and rewarding adventure. Don’t be afraid to experiment, talk to everyone, and explore everything. Alola is waiting for you!
How to start a New Game in Pokémon Sun and Moon!
Final Thoughts
To begin anew, delete your current save data from the 3DS system settings. Then, launch Pokémon Sun. The game will prompt you to start a fresh adventure. You choose your character and receive your starter Pokémon to begin your journey.
This simple process is how to start a new pokemon sun game. Remember to save frequently throughout your play through. This is a must for anyone wanting a new gaming experience.
