When you catch a Legendary Pokémon in Pokémon Sun, the thrill is undeniable. These rare creatures are the crown jewels of any collection, often caught after a challenging battle or a tense Ultra Beast encounter.
But what if your Solgaleo, Lunala, or other Legendary Pokémon bears a name in a foreign language? Many players, especially those using imported games or trading globally, find themselves with Legendary Pokémon whose names are not in English.
The desire to personalize these prized Pokémon by changing their names to English is understandable. After all, the name of a Legendary carries weight, shaping both its mythos and your connection to it.
But how flexible is Pokémon Sun when it comes to renaming these iconic creatures? Let’s delve into the mechanics, rules, and real-world experiences surrounding Legendary Pokémon names in Pokémon Sun—and see what options you truly have for making those legendary names your own.
Understanding Pokémon Naming Rules in Sun
Pokémon Sun, like many other games in the franchise, has a set of rules that determine whether a Pokémon’s name can be changed. While giving your Pokémon a unique nickname is a beloved tradition for many players, not all Pokémon are eligible for name changes, especially after certain conditions are met.
When you first capture a Pokémon, the game usually prompts you to give it a nickname. This is true for Legendary Pokémon as well.
However, after this initial opportunity, the ability to rename a Pokémon depends on several factors. The game takes into account where the Pokémon was obtained, whether it already has a nickname, and if it was traded.
Legendary Pokémon are special not just because of their rarity and power, but also because of the unique restrictions placed on their names. The rules are designed to maintain authenticity and prevent confusion during trades or battles.
For players who catch a Legendary in their own game, the options are straightforward, but things get a bit more complicated when foreign or traded Pokémon are involved.
- Pokémon obtained in your game can be nicknamed once.
- Pokémon received via trade usually cannot be renamed.
- Pokémon with foreign names retain those names unless specific criteria are met.
“A traded Pokémon’s name cannot be changed unless it is the original nickname given by the Trainer who caught it. If it retains its species name from another language, it remains unchanged.” —Official Pokémon Support
How the Name Rater Works in Pokémon Sun
The Name Rater is an iconic NPC who appears in almost every Pokémon game, offering players the chance to rename their companions. In Pokémon Sun, the Name Rater can be found in the Heahea City Tourist Bureau on Akala Island.
His role is crucial for those wanting to personalize their teams.
When you visit the Name Rater, you can ask him to rate the nickname of any Pokémon in your party. If the Pokémon was caught by you and does not already have a nickname, he allows you to give it a new name.
However, if the Pokémon was obtained via trade, the Name Rater will usually refuse your request.
The Name Rater’s limitations can be frustrating, especially for players who love collecting Pokémon from around the world. The inability to rename traded or foreign Pokémon is a rule that has persisted across most Pokémon generations, and Pokémon Sun is no exception.
- The Name Rater is located in Heahea City.
- He only allows renaming of Pokémon you caught yourself.
- Traded Pokémon with foreign names cannot be renamed.
Why the Restriction Exists
The reason for this restriction is to protect the integrity of the Original Trainer (OT) and their naming choices. If players could freely rename traded Pokémon, it could disrupt the sense of ownership and history attached to each Pokémon.
This rule also helps maintain clarity during online battles and trades, ensuring that each Pokémon’s origin and history are easily traceable. For many collectors and battlers, this traceability is just as important as the Pokémon’s stats or abilities.
“The ability to rename a Pokémon is tied to its original Trainer to maintain authenticity and respect the choices of other players.” —Game Freak Developer Interview
Foreign Legendary Pokémon: Can You Change Their Names to English?
Now, let’s address the core question: Can you change a Legendary Pokémon’s name to English in Pokémon Sun if it was originally in another language? The answer depends on how you obtained the Pokémon.
If you caught the Legendary in your English-language copy of Pokémon Sun, you can give it any nickname you like, including its English species name. However, if you received the Pokémon via trade—especially from a game in another language—the rules become much stricter.
Pokémon with foreign names, such as a Japanese Lunala traded into your English game, will retain their original names. The Name Rater will not allow you to change their names to English or any other language.
This can be disappointing for collectors who want a uniform Pokédex, but it is a long-standing policy in the Pokémon series.
- Caught by you: Nickname or English name possible at capture.
- Traded from another language: Name cannot be changed.
- Only original nicknames from the OT can be altered, not species names from other languages.
| Scenario | Can Rename? |
| Caught in English Sun (by you) | Yes |
| Caught in Japanese Sun, traded to you | No |
| Traded from another English game, with nickname | No |
Workarounds and Limitations
Some players attempt to circumvent these rules by using external tools or hacks, but these methods are not recommended. They can corrupt your save file or result in bans during online play.
Sticking to official game mechanics ensures your Pokémon remain safe and legitimate.
For those who value authenticity and collection integrity, embracing these limitations can even add value to your Pokémon journey. A foreign-named Legendary can serve as a badge of international trading and connection.
“Foreign-named Pokémon are a reminder that the Pokémon world is vast and interconnected. Embrace the diversity in your collection.” —Pokémon Community Moderator
The Significance of Legendary Pokémon Names
The names of Legendary Pokémon in Pokémon Sun are more than just labels—they are part of each Pokémon’s identity. Whether in English, Japanese, or any other language, the name of a Legendary often carries lore, symbolism, and nostalgia.
Players who receive a Legendary Pokémon from a different language may find the foreign name intriguing, but also challenging to pronounce or remember. For some, it is an honor, while others may feel disconnected from their prized catch.
The wish to change the name to English is a natural response to wanting a deeper personal connection.
Despite the restrictions, the original name can become a point of pride. It distinguishes your Pokémon as internationally sourced, making it unique among your friends or in online battles.
There is even a community of collectors who actively seek foreign-named Legendaries for their exclusivity.
- Foreign names signify an international connection.
- English names foster familiarity and ease of use.
- Nicknames allow for personal expression and storytelling.
“Each Legendary’s name tells a story—whether it’s a tale of a wild encounter, a cross-continental trade, or a battle-won nickname.” —Pokémon Enthusiast
Comparing Name Appeal
| Name Type | Pros | Cons |
| Original English | Familiar, easy to remember | Less unique in trades |
| Foreign Language | Unique, collectible | Can be hard to pronounce |
| Custom Nickname | Personal meaning, creativity | Not always possible |
Trading and Its Impact on Name Changing
Trading is a cornerstone of the Pokémon experience, connecting trainers across the globe. However, trading Legendaries comes with unique implications for naming rights.
Once a Pokémon is traded, it is essentially “locked” in terms of its name.
If you trade away your Legendary Pokémon, the recipient cannot change its name—regardless of language or nickname. This rule preserves the bond between the Original Trainer and the Pokémon.
It also helps maintain the history and provenance of highly desirable or competitive Pokémon in the community.
Players often wonder if trading back and forth between games can “unlock” the ability to rename. Unfortunately, even with multiple trades, the name remains tied to the original game’s language and the OT’s choices.
- Trading removes the ability to rename, even after multiple exchanges.
- Original nicknames from the OT cannot be altered by new owners.
- Species names in foreign languages persist after trading.
Tips for Collectors and Traders
If having an English name is crucial to you, always try to catch or receive your Legendary in your own language version. When trading, communicate with your trading partner about nicknames before finalizing the exchange.
Some collectors enjoy the authenticity of keeping foreign-named Pokémon as evidence of rare trades, while others prioritize consistency in their collection. The decision is personal and should align with your collecting goals.
“A Pokémon’s name is a timestamp of its origin story—trading may open new adventures, but the name stays true to its roots.” —Veteran Pokémon Trader
Why Game Freak Maintains These Restrictions
The developers at Game Freak have kept a tight grip on naming rules for decades. Their reasoning extends beyond mere tradition; it’s about ensuring each Pokémon’s journey is traceable and meaningful, no matter how many times it changes hands.
Allowing unrestricted renaming could lead to confusion in competitive environments and diminish the sense of ownership felt by original trainers. It also acts as a safeguard against inappropriate or offensive nicknames that could circulate in the global community.
From a technical perspective, these restrictions ensure data consistency and help prevent issues that could arise during international trading or online battles. The legacy of a Legendary Pokémon is preserved through its name, no matter where it travels.
- Protects original trainer’s choices and legacy.
- Keeps competition and trading environments fair.
- Prevents misuse of the nickname feature.
Community Perspectives
While some fans push for more flexibility, the majority appreciate the balance between personalization and preservation. Many believe the rules keep the game’s spirit alive and make each Pokémon’s backstory richer.
For players who want more control, there are always opportunities to nickname newly caught Pokémon or communicate with trade partners ahead of time for custom names.
“Restricting nickname changes isn’t about limiting creativity—it’s about respecting each Trainer’s unique journey.” —Pokémon Community Leader
Alternatives and Creative Solutions for Trainers
If you’re disappointed that you can’t directly change a Legendary Pokémon’s foreign name to English in Pokémon Sun, there are still ways to make your Pokémon feel more personal. Creativity and resourcefulness can help bridge the naming gap, even within the game’s limits.
One popular method is to catch your own version of the Legendary in your language version, then trade for the foreign version as a collector’s item. This way, you can enjoy both the English-named Pokémon and the novelty of a foreign-named one.
Another approach is to use your imagination when referring to your Pokémon. Develop nicknames, stories, or even themes for your team outside of the game.
Some trainers keep written “trainer logs” or digital records to track their Pokémon’s journeys and nicknames, regardless of what is displayed in the game.
- Catch your own Legendary for an English name.
- Collect foreign-named Legendaries for rarity.
- Create custom stories or logs for your Pokémon.
Community Engagement and Resources
Joining online communities can also provide support and inspiration. Many Pokémon fans share their stories and collections, exchanging tips for creating meaningful connections with their teams.
Some trainers even organize nickname trading events or collaborate to help each other obtain Pokémon with desired names. This spirit of cooperation is at the heart of the Pokémon community, much like the camaraderie found in learning about Ariel’s last name or uncovering Husk’s real name in other fandoms.
“Pokémon nicknames are just the beginning—what truly matters is the story you create with your team.” —Pokémon Fan Club Member
Frequently Asked Questions About Legendary Pokémon Names
Renaming Legendary Pokémon is a hot topic in the community. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions, along with clear, concise answers to guide you through the process.
- Can I change the name of a Legendary Pokémon I caught myself? Yes, but only once, at the time of capture. The Name Rater allows a nickname if you are the Original Trainer and the Pokémon has not already been nicknamed.
- Can I change the name of a traded Legendary Pokémon? No. Once traded, the Pokémon’s name is locked, regardless of language or nickname.
- What if I trade a Legendary from my own other game? If you are not the OT on the receiving game, you cannot change its name. Only the Original Trainer can rename Pokémon they caught themselves.
- Can external tools or cheats help me rename foreign Pokémon? While possible, using unofficial tools risks corrupting your game and getting banned from online features. It’s not recommended.
For those who love collecting trivia and name lore, exploring topics like Jeff the Killer’s real name or producer synonyms can be just as engaging as collecting rare Pokémon!
Summary Table: Name Changing Rules
| Situation | Can Change Name? |
| Caught by you, not nicknamed yet | Yes |
| Traded from another player | No |
| Foreign species name from trade | No |
| Using external tools | Not recommended |
Conclusion: Embracing Your Legendary Pokémon’s Unique Name
While you may not be able to change a Legendary Pokémon’s name to English in Pokémon Sun if it arrives from a foreign language, this limitation is not a flaw but a feature. It preserves the rich, interconnected history of each Pokémon, making every member of your team a true original.
Embrace the diversity in your collection, whether you have a Solgaleo named in Japanese or a Lunala bearing its English name. These differences tell stories of global connections, thrilling trades, and personal journeys that go far beyond the game itself.
If naming consistency is important to you, plan your captures and trades with care. Otherwise, celebrate the uniqueness of each Legendary and the stories their names tell.
Pokémon is, at its heart, about adventure, discovery, and the bonds we form—sometimes in a language all our own. And who knows?
Your collection of international Legendaries might just inspire curiosity and connection, much like learning Cinderella’s last name or diving into the meaning behind the name Venus. Your Legendary’s name, no matter the language, is a testament to your journey as a trainer.
Cherish it, and let your story continue to grow—one name at a time.
