The most frequently asked questions about Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Explorers of Sky, with short answers and links to our detailed pages.
The game
What is Explorers of Sky?
A turn-based dungeon-crawling game on the Nintendo DS, released in Europe on 20 November 2009. It is the enhanced version of Explorers of Time and Darkness. See the fact sheet.
What is the difference from Time and Darkness?
The same story, with five extra starter Pokémon, five Special Episodes, new dungeons, Spinda’s Café and many tweaks. See What’s New.
Which starter Pokémon can you play?
Nineteen, determined by the personality quiz, including the new Vulpix, Eevee, Phanpy, Shinx and Riolu. Meowth and Munchlax are reserved for the partner. See Starter Pokémon.
Can you choose your Pokémon without the quiz?
No, the quiz is mandatory. To get a specific Pokémon, you have to answer accordingly or start over. The partner, however, can be chosen freely.
How many chapters does the story have?
Twenty, followed by a second story after the credits. See our walkthrough and After the Story Ends.
Playing
When can you recruit Pokémon?
From chapter 5, when Chimecho opens up recruiting.
When can the hero and the partner evolve?
Only in the post-game, after the victory over Darkrai. Unlike in Time and Darkness, you do not need to have recruited Palkia.
How do you unlock the Special Episodes?
By progressing through the main story. See Special Episodes.
How do you get Shaymin?
After graduating from the guild, at Shaymin Village, at the foot of Sky Peak.
What is Destiny Tower?
A post-game dungeon exclusive to Sky, often considered the hardest in the series.
I’m stuck at Amp Plains: what should I do?
Bring a Ground-type Pokémon, gain a few levels and carry some Seeds. See the walkthrough for chapters 6 to 10.
Today
Can you still play it?
Yes, on cartridge on Nintendo DS or Nintendo 3DS. The Wii U Virtual Console version, released in 2016, has no longer been on sale since the Wii U eShop closed in 2023.
Does online rescue still work?
No, Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection closed in 2014. Passwords and local connection still let you rescue each other among friends.
Is the game available on Switch?
No. The only Mystery Dungeon on Switch is Rescue Team DX, a remake of the first game.
