The Island Scan feature in Pokémon Sun and Moon was a unique way to encounter rare and powerful Pokémon. This guide will delve into the specifics of Island Scan, detailing which Pokémon you could find and offering tips for maximizing your chances of encountering these coveted creatures. We'll also tackle some frequently asked questions surrounding this beloved feature.
What is Island Scan in Pokémon Sun and Moon?
Island Scan was a daily event in Pokémon Sun and Moon that allowed players to discover specific Pokémon on the islands of Alola. By activating it via the Rotom Pokédex, you could scan for a particular type of Pokémon, increasing their spawn rate in specific locations for a limited time. This wasn't just about finding common Pokémon; Island Scan was your key to obtaining some incredibly rare and powerful creatures, often ones difficult to find through normal gameplay.
Which Pokémon Could You Find Through Island Scan?
The Pokémon available through Island Scan varied daily and were typically stronger and rarer than those you'd usually encounter in the wild. The selection wasn't random; the Rotom Pokédex would reveal the type of Pokémon available for scanning each day, allowing you to choose whether to scan or not depending on your needs. This list included many sought-after Pokémon like legendaries and ultra beasts (though these were less frequent). The exact roster of Pokémon available through Island Scan is extensive, making it a crucial part of completing your Alolan Pokédex. Remember that the potential for shiny Pokémon was also boosted by the Island Scan.
How Did Island Scan Work?
The process was straightforward:
- Open the Rotom Pokédex: Access the Pokédex via your menu.
- Select "Island Scan": The option was clearly labeled.
- Choose to Scan or Skip: You were presented with the type of Pokémon available for that day; you could choose to scan or skip if the Pokémon offered wasn't of interest.
- Explore the Islands: Once you’d scanned, head to the indicated island and search for the designated Pokémon. They appeared more frequently in the specified locations.
- Limited Time: Remember, the increased spawn rate lasted for a limited time. Act quickly!
What Were the Best Locations for Island Scan Pokémon?
The ideal location for finding Island Scan Pokémon varied based on the Pokémon type. While the Rotom Pokédex indicated a general island, some areas on those islands proved more fruitful hunting grounds. Generally, the areas with denser grass or more varied terrain were more productive. Exploration and patience were vital.
What if I Missed a Day of Island Scanning?
Unfortunately, missed Island Scan opportunities were lost forever. There was no way to redo a scan or access previously available Pokémon. This underscored the importance of using the Island Scan each day.
Could You Get Shiny Pokémon Through Island Scan?
Yes! While not guaranteed, the odds of encountering shiny Pokémon were increased significantly during the Island Scan period. Many players were fortunate enough to obtain rare shiny variants of normally difficult-to-find Pokémon.
Are Island Scan Pokémon Different From Normally Encountered Pokémon?
While the species of Pokémon was the same, Island Scan Pokémon often had higher levels and better Individual Values (IVs), making them more valuable for competitive battling and breeding.
Can I Use Island Scan to Obtain All Pokémon?
No. While Island Scan provided access to many rare Pokémon, it didn't include every Pokémon in the Alola region. Certain Pokémon were only obtainable through other means, such as trading, specific in-game events, or other in-game methods.
The Island Scan feature added an element of daily excitement and strategic planning to Pokémon Sun and Moon. While no longer accessible in the game, its legacy as a unique and rewarding gameplay mechanic remains strong among players. Hopefully, this guide provides a comprehensive overview of this memorable addition to the Pokémon world.
