What is the Nuzlocke Challenge?

The Nuzlocke Challenge is a series of self-imposed rules intended to make the game Pokémon more challenging. The challenge gained popularity in 2010 when its creator released his exploits as a web comic.

There are two main rules to the challenge. The first is that only the first Pokémon encountered in an area can be caught. If the Pokémon flees or is knocked out, there are no second chances. The second is that once a Pokémon in the player's party faints, it is released, symbolizing permanent death. Individual players can also decide to use a number of implied and optional rules, including banning the trading of Pokémon and forcing the player to give each Pokémon a nickname.