The player steps into the shoes of a Pokémon Ranger in the land of Almia, on the cusp of graduation from Ranger School. But they haven't long to enjoy to their newly-earned status—Pokémon across the region are going crazy, and it appears to be the work of the dastardly Team Dim Sun.

The player will travel across the region of Almia, using their Capture Styler (the stylus) to circle and capture over 250 different Pokémon. Free mind-controlled Pokémon from the thrall of Team Dim Sun's machines, and call upon various Pokémon's Poké Assists and Field Moves to capture other Pokémon and clear obstacles. Over 60 Quests are present for the player to take on, allowing them to power up their Capture Styler and meet even more Pokémon partners. Over the course of the adventure the player will use different types of Stylers—culminating in the powerful Vatonage Styler, a tool that allows a Ranger to capture any Pokémon, friend or foe.