how to start new game in pokemon sun

Embarking on a new adventure in the Alola region is an exciting prospect. "Pokémon Sun," a core entry in the beloved franchise, offers a vibrant world filled with new Pokémon, characters, and a unique island challenge. Starting a new game is the first critical step, and while it may seem straightforward, understanding the initial choices and mechanics can profoundly shape your journey. This guide will walk you through the process of beginning your adventure, from the initial setup to your first steps on Melemele Island, ensuring you are well-prepared for the trials ahead.

Table of Contents

Initial Setup and Language Selection
Creating Your Character and Rival
Meeting Professor Kukui and Choosing Your Starter Pokémon
Understanding the Rotom Pokédex and Early Gameplay Mechanics
Setting the Foundation for Your Island Challenge

Initial Setup and Language Selection

The journey begins at the title screen. Before diving into the world of Alola, you must navigate the initial system setup. Upon booting the game for the first time, you will be prompted to select your preferred language. This choice is permanent for that save file, so choose carefully. The game supports several languages, including English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, Korean, and Japanese. Following this, you will be greeted with a brief introductory sequence showcasing the Alola region. To start a completely new game, you must select "New Game" from the main menu. If a previous save file exists, the game will ask for confirmation to overwrite it, erasing all prior progress. This is the point of no return, so ensure you are ready to begin afresh.

Creating Your Character and Rival

After confirming a new game, you proceed to create your protagonist. "Pokémon Sun" allows you to customize your trainer's appearance. You first choose your character's gender, selecting either the male or female avatar. Following this, you enter your name. This name will be used throughout the game by NPCs and will represent you in your adventures. The next crucial step is naming your rival. In "Pokémon Sun," your primary friend and rival is Hau, a cheerful boy with a love for malasadas. While the game suggests a default name, you have the option to change it to your preference. These initial customization options, though simple, personalize your adventure and create a connection to your in-game persona and your friendly competitor.

Meeting Professor Kukui and Choosing Your Starter Pokémon

Your adventure officially commences in your new home on Melemele Island. After a brief scene with your mother and a visit from the enthusiastic Professor Kukui, you are tasked with meeting Hau at the nearby beach. Here, the professor will present you with the most important decision of the early game: choosing your starter Pokémon. The three Alolan starters each offer a distinct playstyle. Rowlet, the Grass/Flying-type owl, begins with a balanced approach. Litten, the Fire-type cat, offers high physical attack. Popplio, the Water-type sea lion, excels in special attack and has a versatile movepool. There is no objectively "best" choice; the decision hinges on your personal preference and battle strategy. Hau will then choose the Pokémon with a type disadvantage to yours, establishing the traditional rival dynamic. Your first battle with Hau serves as the practical tutorial for Pokémon combat.

Understanding the Rotom Pokédex and Early Gameplay Mechanics

Following your first battle, Professor Kukui will gift you the revolutionary Rotom Pokédex. This device is far more than a digital Pokémon encyclopedia; it is a living guide equipped with a Rotom. It provides constant navigation assistance, marking your next objective on the map, which is invaluable for new players. The early gameplay focuses on teaching core mechanics. You will learn how to capture Pokémon by receiving Poké Balls from Kukui and practicing on wild Pokémon in tall grass. The game introduces the new "Pokémon Refresh" feature, accessible from the menu, which allows you to pet, feed, and cure status conditions of your Pokémon outside of battle, increasing affection and providing in-battle benefits. Familiarizing yourself with these systems—capturing, battling, and caring for your team—is essential before tackling the island challenges.

Setting the Foundation for Your Island Challenge

With your starter Pokémon secured and the basics mastered, your path toward becoming the Island Challenge champion is set. Your immediate goal is to journey to Iki Town to participate in a festival. This journey serves as the final part of the tutorial, introducing you to the wild Pokémon of Route 1 and the concept of the island kahunas. At the festival, you will encounter Tapu Koko and officially be entrusted with the Island Challenge by Kahuna Hala. This moment formally begins your unique quest to complete trials rather than defeat Gym Leaders. Before venturing forth, ensure you interact with NPCs in your hometown and on Route 1 to obtain useful items like Potions. Speak to your mother regularly to heal your team. The choices you make now, from the Pokémon you catch to the items you collect, lay the groundwork for your entire adventure. A strong, balanced team and a solid understanding of the new Alolan mechanics are the keys to success.

Starting a new game in "Pokémon Sun" is a gateway to a richly detailed and culturally distinct Pokémon experience. The process involves careful consideration, from language selection to the pivotal choice of your starter companion. By paying attention to the introductory tutorials, engaging with the Rotom Pokédex, and understanding the shift from Gyms to Island Trials, you position yourself for a rewarding journey. The Alola region awaits with its tropical beauty, formidable Totem Pokémon, and a story deeply intertwined with its environment. Take your time, explore thoroughly, and enjoy the unique rhythm of this island adventure from the very first moment you press "New Game."

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