The player moves to Alola and begins their adventure with one of the starter Pokémon (Rowlet, Litten, or Popplio), accompanied by Professor Kukui and their friend Hau. Instead of Gym Leaders, they participate in Trials and Grand Trials across four islands, with Totem Pokémon as bosses. Team Skull causes chaos, while the Aether Foundation claims to protect Pokémon but hides dark motives. The player meets Lillie and the mysterious Pokémon Cosmog, which is connected to the legendary Lunala (Moon) and Solgaleo (Sun).

The game introduces Z-Moves, Regional Forms (Alolan variants), and Ultra Beasts, while removing HMs and adding Ride Pokémon. Pokémon Moon takes place 12 hours behind Pokémon Sun, affecting the in-game environment. It stands out for its narrative focus, cultural diversity, and innovation in the journey's structure.