Update 1.2 for Pokémon Ultra Sun (and Ultra Moon) is a software patch primarily focused on fixing critical bugs that caused the game to freeze during competitive play. Key Fixes in Update 1.2 Move Glitch Fixes: Addresses a major issue where using the moves Forest's Curse Power Trick String Shot
during Live Competitions or QR Code battles could cause the game to freeze or crash. Ion Deluge: Fixed a bug where the move Ion Deluge would not function correctly. Gameplay Stability:
Includes general improvements and minor bug fixes to enhance the overall gaming experience. Technical Details (CIA/3DS) Approximately 539 blocks (roughly 67 MB). Compatibility:
This update is required for all online features, including Link Battles, Wonder Trades, and the Global Trade System (GTS). Battle Videos: Be aware that after installing this update, any Battle Videos
saved on version 1.1 or earlier may no longer be playable or shareable.
The "WORLD" or "Region Free" CIA update is typically used on consoles with Custom Firmware (CFW) to ensure compatibility across different regional versions of the game. Common Issues with CIA Updates Persistent Update Prompts:
If you have installed the 1.2 update via CIA but the 3DS still asks for an update, it may be due to an incorrect internal version number in the CIA file (often seen in "bad dumps"). Crashing on Startup:
Some users report crashes after installing the 1.2 update CIA on certain Ultra Sun versions; this can sometimes be resolved by ensuring the base game and the update are from matching regions or sources.
Pokémon Ultra Sun Update 1.2 is a mandatory patch required for all online features. Released in early 2018, it primarily addresses game-breaking glitches during competitive play and QR Code events. Key Changes & Fixes
The update fixes several specific bugs that previously caused the game to freeze during Live Competitions or QR events:
Move Glitches: Fixed a major bug where using Curse, Forest's Curse, Power Trick, or String Shot could cause the game to freeze. These moves were unbanned from tournaments following the patch.
Ion Deluge: Resolved an issue where the move Ion Deluge would no longer function correctly.
Online Stability: Required for all online functionality, including the Festival Plaza and Link Battles.
Battle Videos: Note that after installing, Battle Videos saved prior to the update may no longer be playable or shareable. How to Install the 1.2 Update
The update requires approximately 539 Blocks of space on your SD card. Method 1: Official Nintendo Update (Recommended) Ensure your Nintendo 3DS is connected to the Internet. Open the Nintendo eShop from the Home Menu.
Search for "Pokémon Ultra Sun Update" or find it in the "Settings/Other" -> "Updates" section. Select the Version 1.2 update and download it.
Once finished, launch the game; "v1.2" should appear on the title screen. Method 2: For Custom Firmware (CFW) Users
If you are using a modified 3DS and cannot access the eShop, you can install the update as a .cia file:
via FBI: Transfer the Update 1.2 [WORLD].cia file to your SD card and install it using the FBI Homebrew app.
via hShop: You can download and install the update directly using the hShop/3hs app on your 3DS.
Troubleshooting: If the game continues to prompt for an update after installation, ensure the update region matches your game's region (e.g., a "WORLD" update for a "WORLD/USA" game). If it still fails, use FBI to delete the existing update and ticket before reinstalling.
Having trouble with multiple Pokemon Ultra Sun CIAs : r/3dspiracy
The Pokémon Ultra Sun Update 1.2 for the Nintendo 3DS is a vital patch released to stabilize competitive play and resolve several critical bugs. Weighing in at approximately 539 blocks (about 67 MiB), this update is mandatory for accessing any online features, including the Global Trade Station (GTS) and Live Competitions. Key Bug Fixes in Version 1.2
The primary focus of this update was addressing game-breaking freezes related to specific moves during high-stakes battles.
Move Stabilization: Fixed a major glitch where moves like Curse, Forest's Curse, Power Trick, and String Shot would cause the game to freeze during Live Competitions. These moves were temporarily banned from official play until this patch was released.
Ion Deluge Fix: Resolved an issue where the move Ion Deluge would fail to function entirely.
Pokédex Registration: Fixed a bug that sometimes prevented Pokémon received via Mystery Gift from being registered in the Pokédex. Managing CIA Files and Installation
For users managing their 3DS library via CIA files, there are specific technical considerations:
Pokémon Ultra Sun Update 1.2 is the final official software patch released for the Nintendo 3DS titles Pokémon Ultra Sun and Pokémon Ultra Moon. Update Details Release Date: February 6, 2018. File Size: Approximately 539 blocks. Key Fixes:
Resolved a bug where the move Ion Deluge did not function correctly.
Fixed a freezing issue occurring in Live Competitions when using the moves Curse, Forest's Curse, Power Trick, or String Shot. Applied various minor gameplay improvements and bug fixes.
Requirement: This update is mandatory for all online features, including Trading, Battle Spot, and Live Competitions. Technical File Information (CIA) In the context of 3DS homebrew and emulation:
The Pokémon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon Version 1.2 update, released February 7, 2018, is a mandatory 67 MB patch that fixes critical battle bugs involving moves like Curse and Forest’s Curse. This update reinstates these moves to competitive play and stabilizes the game against crashes during online battles. For more details, visit PocketMonsters.net Pokémon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon Version 1.2 Patch 7 Feb 2018 —
Update 1.2 for Pokémon Ultra Sun (and Ultra Moon) is a critical performance and stability patch primarily released to resolve game-breaking bugs that affected both competitive play and general gameplay. Key Patch Highlights Move Glitch Fixes:
The primary focus of Update 1.2 was fixing a bug where using Forest's Curse Power Trick String Shot
could cause the game to freeze during Live Competitions or QR Code events. Competitive Unbanning:
Due to these freezes, those four moves were temporarily banned from official Play! Pokémon tournaments; the 1.2 update successfully lifted these bans. Ion Deluge Fix: Resolved an issue where the move Ion Deluge failed to function correctly. Mystery Gift Registration:
Fixed a bug that sometimes prevented Pokémon received via Mystery Gift from being registered in the Pokédex. Battle Video Compatibility: Note that after installing this update, any Battle Videos
saved on previous versions can no longer be played or shared. Technical Details for 3DS Users
This title appears to refer to several different things depending on what you are looking for. It could be related to: The official Nintendo eShop update for the game.
The digital file format used for 3DS homebrew and emulators. A specific download entry from a ROM-sharing website.
Could you please clarify if you are looking for technical patch notes, installation instructions for a modded console, or something else?
However, I must note that Pokémon Ultra Sun never received an official “Update 1.2” — the final official update for the game is Version 1.1 (which added Festival Plaza connectivity for the Global Link and minor bug fixes). Any file labeled “Update 1.2” from unofficial sources is almost certainly a fan-made patch or a modified CIA (a format used with custom firmware like Luma3DS).
Given that, here is a detailed blog post written from the perspective of a tech-savvy Pokémon fan who understands the 3DS scene — while clearly distinguishing between official updates and community modifications.
3. Distribution Channels (Unauthorized)
Update 1.2 CIA files circulate on:
- ROM sites (e.g., “3DS CIA” sections)
- Torrent trackers
- Discord servers focused on 3DS homebrew
- Archive.org (often removed)
- CDN downloader tools (e.g., NUSspli, FBI with proper title keys)
Note: The same update could be legally obtained via official Nintendo eShop on a non-modded 3DS, but not as a standalone CIA. The CIA version is created by repackaging the eShop download or dumping from an updated console.
💡 Bonus: What does Update 1.2 actually do?
If you are wondering why you need this file, Update 1.2 (released in early 2018) provided the following fixes:
- Fixed a bug where the game would freeze if a Pokémon used the move "Parting Shot" under specific circumstances.
- Fixed a bug where the game would sometimes crash when checking the Pokémon Box.
- Improved overall system stability to enhance the user experience.
2. The "WORLD" Independence
Before the eShop closure, you had to match your console region. Now, with physical cartridges being rare, many users own a Japanese Ultra Sun cart but want English text. The -WORLD- CIA updates the game without forcing a system format.
Gameplay & Balance Changes
- Necrozma Fusions: The update stabilized the "Ultra Burst" mechanic for Ultra Necrozma, correcting base stat calculations during online battles.
- Z-Move Adjustments: Several Z-Move animations were shortened, and damage values for "Light That Burns the Sky" were patched to prevent overflow glitches.
- Totem Pokémon Stats: Totem Pokémon (especially Togedemaru and Mimikyu) had their aura boosts recalculated for difficulty balancing.
2. QoL Changes
- Instant text speed beyond the normal maximum.
- Skip cutscenes – a major request for Ultra Sun/Ultra Moon, known for their long intro and frequent dialogue.
- Wild encounter rate adjustments (lower or higher based on user preference).
- Remove trade evolution requirements (evolve Machoke, Haunter, etc. by level-up or item use).

