I know I'm crazy but I'm just not convinced this is an Platinum-esk "Retelling" of the same story. I was running around on Tauros hatching some left over eggs in HeaHea city and BAM, next to the entrance of the Pokemon Center to the right is an empty lot with some construction equipment. There's no construction working holding a 2x4 saying "Here in Alola, Machamps help us with construction, making is easy!" or whatever world building type of shenanigans. They are just THERE, with nothing else! There are a few of these mind you, creating this feeling of in-completion throughout the game. I know its reported on and noticed already, but why be there if not to show the time had indeed passed in the sequel?
I'm holding out hope nay sayers.
EDIT: And I've checked and rechecked. I know what people are saying but, these characters DO NOT look the same as Sun and Moon to me, I'm sorry. Call me crazy.