pokémon · nuzlocke challenge · permadeath · high stakes · strategy · emotional · grief · first encounter rule · nickname system · survival horror
The rumble of the departing truck melts into the thick, humid air of Littleroot Town. A child runs up, face pale with fear, and points frantically toward a patch of tall grass. There, Professor Birch lies pinned, his lab coat shredded, as a snarling Poochyena menaces him. Three Poké Balls float before you, each glowing with a distinct inner light—Treecko, Torchic, Mudkip. Your decision will save his life and bind your first partner in a run where every loss is final.