"**Pokémon Moon**" is a role-playing game developed by Game Freak and published by The Pokémon Company and Nintendo for the Nintendo 3DS. It is part of the seventh generation of the Pokémon series and was released alongside "Pokémon Sun."
### Overview:
- **Genre**: Role-playing game
- **Developer**: Game Freak
- **Publisher**: The Pokémon Company, Nintendo
- **Platform**: Nintendo 3DS
- **Release Date**: November 18, 2016 (North America, Japan), November 23, 2016 (Europe)
### Storyline:
The game is set in the Alola region, a tropical archipelago inspired by Hawaii. Players take on the role of a young trainer who has recently moved to Alola and sets out on a journey to become the Pokémon Champion. The plot involves encountering and battling the evil organization Team Skull and the mysterious Aether Foundation, while also uncovering the secrets of the Ultra Beasts and the legendary Pokémon, Lunala.
### Gameplay:
- **Alola Region**: Unlike previous regions, Alola consists of four natural islands and one artificial island. Each island has its own unique environment and Pokémon species.
- **Pokémon**: The game introduces 81 new Pokémon species, including the starter Pokémon Rowlet, Litten, and Popplio. Additionally, some Pokémon have Alolan forms, which are regional variants with different appearances and types.
- **Island Challenge**: Instead of traditional gyms, players participate in the Island Challenge, which involves completing various trials on each island. Trials can include battles, puzzles, and other tasks, culminating in a battle against a powerful Totem Pokémon.
- **Z-Moves**: A new battle mechanic that allows Pokémon to use powerful moves called Z-Moves once per battle. Each Z-Move requires a corresponding Z-Crystal, which is obtained during the Island Challenge.
- **Battle System**: The core turn-based battle system remains intact, but with enhancements such as the ability to see which moves are effective against opponents and an improved interface.
- **Rotom Pokédex**: The player's Pokédex is inhabited by a Rotom, providing guidance and additional features, such as a map and a list of current objectives.
- **Ultra Beasts**: Mysterious and powerful creatures from another dimension that play a significant role in the story.
- **QR Scanner**: Allows players to scan QR codes to register Pokémon in their Pokédex and locate them in the game.
### Visuals and Audio:
- **Graphics**: The game features enhanced 3D graphics with more detailed environments and character models compared to previous Pokémon games. The Alola region's design emphasizes its tropical theme.
- **Soundtrack**: Composed by Junichi Masuda, Go Ichinose, and Minako Adachi, the soundtrack captures the vibrant and diverse atmosphere of the Alola region with upbeat and culturally inspired music.
### Reception:
"Pokémon Moon" received positive reviews for its fresh take on the Pokémon formula, engaging story, and the vibrant Alola region. Critics and fans praised the game's new mechanics, the Island Challenge, and the introduction of Alolan forms.
### Additional Features:
- **Poké Pelago**: A feature that allows Pokémon in storage to engage in various activities, such as growing berries, finding items, and training.
- **Festival Plaza**: An online hub where players can participate in various activities, trade, battle, and earn Festival Coins to spend on items and facilities.
- **Global Link**: Integration with the Pokémon Global Link service for online competitions, trading, and other multiplayer features.
### Special Editions:
- **Dual Pack**: A special dual pack containing both "Pokémon Sun" and "Pokémon Moon" was released, often including additional in-game bonuses.
"Pokémon Moon" is a standout entry in the Pokémon series, offering a fresh and exciting experience for both new and veteran players with its unique setting, new mechanics, and engaging storyline.