Pokémon Sun and Moon introduced players to the Alola region, offering a variety of free digital content through official distributions and in-game non-player character (NPC) interactions. These giveaways included rare Mythical Pokémon, special event items, and standard gameplay gifts that assist players during their journey. While many limited-time distributions have concluded, several freebies remain accessible to players who own the original Sun and Moon titles or their enhanced Ultra versions.
This guide details the methods for obtaining these free items and Pokémon, focusing on distribution deadlines, redemption processes, and specific locations within the game world.
Current and Past Distribution Events
Official distributions for Pokémon Sun and Moon were managed through the Mystery Gift feature or specific QR code scanning. These events were often time-sensitive, tied to movie releases, or partnered with retail locations.
Magearna (QR Code Distribution)
Unlike most Mythical Pokémon, Magearna is not distributed via the standard Mystery Gift menu. Instead, it requires the use of the QR Scanner feature within the game. * Eligibility: Players must have defeated the Elite Four and completed the main story. * Redemption Process: After completing the game, players should open the QR Scanner (accessed via the game menu), scan the official Magearna QR code, and then visit the Antiques shop in Hau'oli City. A deliveryman inside the shop will provide the Pokémon. * Game Compatibility: This method is available for the original Pokémon Sun and Moon.
Marshadow (Retail Distribution)
The Fighting/Ghost-type Mythical Pokémon Marshadow was available as a limited-time distribution at participating retailers. * Availability: This distribution required players to visit physical retail locations. In the United States, codes were distributed at GameStop, while participating retailers in the UK handled the distribution. * Pokémon Details: The distributed Marshadow was Level 50 and came equipped with the Marshadium Z item. Its moveset included Spectral Thief, Close Combat, Force Palm, and Shadow Ball. * Status: This was a limited-time offer and is no longer generally available.
Ash’s Pikachu (Movie Promotion)
To celebrate the release of the film Pokémon the Movie: I Choose You!, six different versions of Ash’s Pikachu were distributed. Each version featured a different hat corresponding to the regions Ash traveled through.
* Redemption Method: Players entered the code PIKACHU20 in the Mystery Gift menu.
* Distribution Schedule: The specific version of Pikachu received depended on the date the code was redeemed. The schedule included:
* September 19–25: Original Hat
* September 26–October 2: Hoenn Hat
* October 3–9: Sinnoh Hat
* October 10–16: Unova Hat
* October 17–23: Kalos Hat
* October 24–30: Alola Hat
* Status: This distribution schedule has expired.
Shiny Silvally (Retail Distribution)
A Shiny Silvally was distributed at retail locations in North America. * Availability: Players in the US and Canada could pick up download codes from GameStop and EB Games. * Dates: The distribution ran from October 23 until November 13. * Status: This event has concluded.
Greninja (Demo Transfer)
While not a standard distribution, a special Water/Dark-type Greninja with the Battle Bond ability was obtainable. * Process: Players were required to complete the Pokémon Sun and Moon demo version. After purchasing the full game, they could speak to Professor Kukui in a Pokémon Center to transfer the Greninja to their main game. * Pokémon Details: This Greninja knew Water Shuriken, Aerial Ace, Double Team, and Night Slash.
In-Game Gifts and Freebies
Beyond official distributions, the Alola region is populated with NPCs who provide free items and Pokémon. These gifts are permanently available within the game and are not tied to external events.
Hau'oli City Freebies
Hau'oli City serves as the central hub for early-game gifts and daily activities. * Potion: Upon entering the city, the first woman on the right will give the player a Potion. * Poke Ball: Located on the sand, in front of the first set of staircases. * Poke Finder Extension: Hau will escort the player to the tourist bureau to upgrade the Rotom Pokédex. * Loto-ID: The woman behind the counter on the left allows players to draw a Loto Ticket. Prizes are awarded if the player's Pokémon share numbers with the winning ticket. * Makeup and Accessories: Lillie stops the player in front of an Apparel Shop to provide the Lens Case and Makeup Bag (for female trainers), allowing for changes to eye color and lip color.
Paniola Ranch (Eevee)
A free Eevee egg is available to assist players in obtaining this versatile Pokémon early in the game. * Location: Paniola Ranch. * NPC: The woman standing at the main desk. * Condition: The egg is given only on the player's first visit to the ranch. It must be incubated and hatched.
Daily Activities and Rewards
Players can engage in daily activities to earn currency and items.
Pyukumuku Chucking
- Location: Hano Beach.
- Activity: Players can throw beached Pyukumuku back into the ocean. This can be done once per day.
- Reward: Players receive 20,000 Poké Dollars for completing the task.
Malie City Gym (Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon Only)
In Pokémon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon, a gym is open in Malie City, modeled after the Kanto region's Vermilion City Gym. * Cost: 1,000 Poké Dollars to enter. * Activity: Players battle all trainers inside, including a potential appearance by Ryuki, and then defeat the Gym Leader. * Reward: Players receive a Fresh Water upon entry and a Surge Badge upon completion. The badge has no functional use but provides experience points and can be collected daily.
Conclusion
While many of the time-limited distribution events for Pokémon Sun and Moon have expired, players can still access a variety of free content. The permanent in-game gifts, such as the Eevee egg in Paniola Ranch and the items found throughout Hau'oli City, provide essential resources for progression. Additionally, the QR code method for obtaining Magearna remains a valid way to secure a rare Mythical Pokémon after completing the main story.