Challenge Runs beginner

Complete Nuzlocke Rules and Tips for Beginners

Everything you need to know about the Nuzlocke challenge — official rules, popular variants, and pro tips to survive your first run.

Complete Nuzlocke Rules and Tips

The Nuzlocke challenge is the most popular self-imposed difficulty mode in Pokemon. It transforms a casual playthrough into an intense, emotional experience where every battle matters.

Core Nuzlocke Rules

Rule 1: First Encounter Only

You may only catch the first Pokemon you encounter on each route or area. If you defeat it, let it faint, or it runs away — you get nothing from that area.

Rule 2: Permadeath

If a Pokemon faints, it is considered dead and must be permanently boxed or released. No revives, no second chances.

Rule 3: Nickname Everything

Every Pokemon must be given a nickname. This creates emotional attachment and makes losses hit harder — which is the whole point.

  • Set Mode — Change battle style to “Set” instead of “Shift” so you don’t get a free switch when the opponent sends out a new Pokemon
  • Level Cap — Don’t level above the next gym leader’s ace Pokemon
  • No Items in Battle — Can’t use potions, revives, or X-items during battle
  • Species Clause — If your first encounter is a species you already have, you can skip it
  • Shiny Clause — Shiny Pokemon can be caught regardless of the first encounter rule

Tips for Your First Nuzlocke

1. Grind More Than You Think

In a normal playthrough, you might rush through. In a Nuzlocke, being 2-3 levels above the gym leader is insurance against losing a team member.

2. Know Your Type Matchups

A single super-effective hit can end your best Pokemon. Study the type chart or use our Type Calculator.

3. Always Carry Antidotes

Poison is the silent killer of Nuzlocke runs. In early game, always have antidotes.

4. Don’t Get Attached to Your Starter

It sounds harsh, but your starter will often die at some point. Be ready to build around other Pokemon.

5. Every Pokemon Has Value

That Rattata you didn’t want might save your run. Give every capture a chance.

6. Save Before Big Battles

Not save-scumming (that breaks the challenge) — but save in case your game crashes.

Track Your Run

Use our Nuzlocke Tracker to log encounters by route, track your team, and remember your fallen friends. All data saves locally in your browser.

Start Your Nuzlocke

Pick any Pokemon game you’re familiar with, set the rules, and begin. The first Nuzlocke is always the most memorable. Good luck, trainer — you’ll need it.