Wiped halfway through the Elite 4. All sorts of feelings but I'm overall happy with my result. This session has got me thinking more than the other runs I've attempted, and I'll try to keep my rant short and sweet.

Journey of the Professional

Nuzlocke mode can be equated to anything I see and treat Nuzlocke as living a life's journey as a professional. Not everyone in life can "Be the best, like no one ever was"; It's not a particularly practical mindset to have. Statistically you won't achieve it. Not everyone gets the equal chance, or commits to be at the top. Eventually most of every professional gets to the point where they can recognize and be grateful for what they have achieved. Good enough is great. If I ended up not getting farther than the elite 4 in a real life pokemon experience I'd be damn proud.

Meaningful Goals

I think the emphasis should be less about "did I do well compared to everyone else?". Every pokemon game wants you to try and beat the Elite 4 to prove that your 8 year old self can defy logic. This goal is understandable, however, this goal isn't the only meaningful one. We have a lot of other goals that are more valuable.

• "Did I play an honest game?"
• "Did I play the game in a beautiful way?"
• "Did I give up when it got hard?"

These are all important parts of Nuzlocke that make the game amazing. Seriously give yourself some credit if you can value other goals in this mode.

Letting Go

No other game is as emotionally punishing as Nuzlocke. If you can release your starter and favorite pokemon like I have, then I have a lot of respect for you.

But seriously, think about it. What other game makes you go through such turmoil? I think life is really the only other substitute. You've invested time, love, and energy into something you're forced to part from. This is a skill that you rarely learn from anything other than experience, and Nuzlocke delivers it.

Rant over

Thank you guys for the continued support! May you all grow from your journeys!