Pokémon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon introduced a revolutionary way to add Pokémon to your collection: QR codes. These codes, scannable with your Nintendo 3DS, allowed access to a wide variety of Pokémon, from common encounters to rare, event-exclusive ones. This guide delves into everything you need to know about Pokémon Ultra Moon QR codes, including how they worked, what Pokémon were available, and why they're no longer accessible.
How Did Pokémon Ultra Moon QR Codes Work?
The system was straightforward. Each QR code represented a specific Pokémon with its own unique characteristics: species, level, moves, abilities, and held items. By launching the game, navigating to the QR scanner feature (usually found in the Rotom Dex), and scanning the code, you’d encounter the Pokémon in the wild. It was essentially a shortcut to obtaining Pokémon that would normally require significant time and effort to find.
What Types of Pokémon Were Available via QR Codes?
The range of Pokémon accessible through QR codes was extensive. They included:
- Common Pokémon: Many readily available Pokémon species could be obtained this way, providing a convenient alternative to standard gameplay.
- Rare Pokémon: Some less frequently encountered Pokémon could be obtained via specific QR codes, expanding your Pokédex quickly.
- Event Pokémon: Occasionally, Nintendo released QR codes for special event Pokémon, usually tied to promotional events or specific periods. These were often incredibly valuable additions to a player’s collection.
Where Can I Find Pokémon Ultra Moon QR Codes Now?
Unfortunately, the official QR code distribution for Pokémon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon has ceased. Nintendo no longer supports the in-game scanner feature. While some websites may still archive lists of QR codes, we strongly advise against using them from unofficial sources. This is because these codes could potentially contain malicious software, or lead to compromised game saves. It's best to prioritize safe and official methods for obtaining Pokémon.
What Alternatives Exist to QR Codes?
While QR codes are no longer functional, there are still plenty of ways to acquire a diverse collection of Pokémon in Pokémon Ultra Moon:
- Standard Gameplay: Exploring the regions, engaging in battles, and completing the Pokédex through traditional methods remains a fulfilling experience.
- Trading: Connecting with other players via the online features (where still available) allows for trading Pokémon to complete your collection.
- Breeding: Breeding Pokémon allows you to create your own custom teams and variations.
Why Did Nintendo Stop Supporting QR Codes?
The decision to discontinue support for QR codes in Pokémon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon likely stemmed from a combination of factors, including:
- Game Lifecycle: As the games aged, support for secondary features often diminishes as Nintendo focuses on newer releases.
- Security Concerns: Maintaining a system for distributing QR codes requires ongoing security updates to prevent misuse and the spread of malicious codes.
Are there any risks associated with using unofficial QR Codes?
Yes, using unofficial QR codes carries significant risks:
- Malware: Unofficial codes could contain malware that could harm your 3DS system or your game save data.
- Game Corruption: Scanning corrupted or incorrectly formatted codes can lead to game crashes or data loss.
- Illegal Pokémon: Some unofficial codes could provide Pokémon with illegal stats or moves that could compromise online play or lead to bans.
Can I still use QR codes from my previous saves?
No, the QR code functionality is no longer supported in-game, even if you have previously scanned codes. The scanner feature itself is deactivated.
In conclusion, while the Pokémon Ultra Moon QR code system is no longer operational, its impact on the way players collected Pokémon remains significant. The era of quickly adding Pokémon to your collection via QR codes is over, but the game still offers numerous ways to enjoy building a diverse team. Remember to always prioritize safe and legitimate methods for expanding your Pokémon roster.
