The allure of Shiny Pokémon has captivated players since the franchise's inception. The chance to encounter a Pokémon with an alternate, shimmering color palette adds an extra layer of excitement and challenge to the gameplay. In Pokémon Sun and Moon, the Alola region offers unique opportunities to hunt for these rare treasures. This guide dives deep into the world of Shiny Pokémon in Sun and Moon, covering everything from the odds to effective hunting strategies.
What are Shiny Pokémon?
Shiny Pokémon are incredibly rare variants of standard Pokémon. Instead of their usual coloration, they boast a different, often more vibrant, color scheme. Spotting a Shiny Pokémon is a thrilling experience for many players, often signifying a significant accomplishment in their journey. Their rarity is what fuels the desire to collect them all!
How Rare are Shiny Pokémon in Sun and Moon?
The base odds of encountering a Shiny Pokémon in Sun and Moon are 1 in 4096. This means that, statistically, you'll need to encounter approximately 4096 Pokémon of a specific species before you have a reasonable chance of finding a Shiny variant. However, various methods and strategies can significantly improve these odds, as we'll explore later in this guide.
How to Increase Your Chances of Finding Shiny Pokémon
Several methods can increase your chances of finding a Shiny Pokémon in Sun and Moon. These methods rely on different game mechanics and require patience and dedication.
Chain Fishing:
This is arguably one of the most effective methods. By repeatedly catching the same species of Pokémon without breaking the chain, the odds of encountering a Shiny Pokémon gradually increase. The longer the chain, the higher the chances. This method requires significant time investment and patience.
SOS Battles:
Many Pokémon in Alola have a chance to call for help during battles. These SOS battles offer increased chances of encountering Shiny Pokémon, especially if you manage to chain SOS calls. This method requires careful strategizing and the right Pokémon to manage the battles effectively.
Shiny Charm:
The Shiny Charm is an item obtained after completing the Pokédex. Once acquired, it significantly increases the odds of encountering a Shiny Pokémon, further improving the success rate of your hunting endeavors. This item is a must-have for serious Shiny hunters.
What are the best Shiny Pokémon to hunt in Sun and Moon?
This is entirely a matter of personal preference! Some players prioritize hunting legendaries, while others enjoy the challenge of catching more common Shiny Pokémon. The beauty of Shiny hunting lies in the thrill of the chase and the personal satisfaction of encountering a rare variant of your favorite Pokémon.
Can I breed Shiny Pokémon in Sun and Moon?
Yes, you can breed Shiny Pokémon in Sun and Moon. However, the odds are still relatively low, even with the Shiny Charm. The mechanics behind Shiny breeding involve inheriting the Shiny trait from parents, which greatly depends on the Pokémon's nature and genetics. This method requires understanding breeding mechanics and often involves a considerable amount of time and effort.
Is there a Shiny Pokémon checklist or tracker?
While there isn't an official in-game Shiny Pokémon checklist, numerous online resources and communities offer trackers and checklists. These resources can help you keep track of your progress and identify which Shiny Pokémon you have already encountered.
Are there any glitches or exploits to find Shiny Pokémon?
While there have been glitches and exploits in previous Pokémon games, it's generally not advisable to employ such methods. These methods often risk your game save and may violate the game's terms of service. It is always best to obtain Shiny Pokémon through legitimate gameplay.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of Shiny Pokémon hunting in Pokémon Sun and Moon. Remember, patience and persistence are key to success. Happy hunting!
