One of the most exciting trends that’s gained traction among Pokémon enthusiasts over the years is the challenge runs. Among these, the Nuzlocke Challenge stands out as the most popular. In a Nuzlocke, players add a layer of difficulty by setting strict rules: only one Pokémon caught per area, and any Pokémon that faints must be released. While this kind of gameplay can be applied to any mainline Pokémon title, there’s a compelling case for revisiting Generation 1 for a Nuzlocke in 2025.
Though many fans hold the original games dear, Generation 1 is notoriously challenging to revisit. With Game Freak’s initial attempt at the iconic Pokémon formula, it lacks the polish of later generations. Running a Gen 1 Nuzlocke in 2025 offers an adventure like no other, testing players with unique challenges and a rewarding sense of nostalgia. The simplicity and lack of features in Generation 1 make it a perfect candidate for an intense Nuzlocke run.
When deciding which game from Gen 1 to Nuzlocke, your choice can significantly impact your experience. Pokémon Red and Blue share the same number of encounter locations, each with slight differences in available Pokémon. Pokémon Blue has 93 possible catches, while Red has 92. Yet Pokémon Yellow provides 94 potential Pokémon, making for a broader range of choices. However, Yellow starts players with a Pikachu and includes extra encounters with Jessie and James of Team Rocket, adding layers of difficulty some might want to avoid, potentially guiding players back to Red or Blue for a more straightforward challenge.
The battle mechanics of Gen 1 drastically alter the Nuzlocke experience compared to other Pokémon games. Critical hits, for instance, hinge on a Pokémon’s speed, with faster Pokémon scoring crits more frequently. These crits can make or break a run, as their damage increases with Pokémon level. Moreover, status effects behave differently; putting an opponent to sleep in Gen 1 can be particularly advantageous, as they could stay asleep for up to seven turns.
Pokémon roles and effectiveness take on new dimensions in Gen 1. Psychic types, for example, dominate due to a programming quirk that leaves them strong against Ghost types, which should instead counter them. Bug moves like Pin Missile and Twineedle, effective against Psychic types, are hampered by low base power. Thus, facing trainers like Sabrina, with her intimidating Psychic team, becomes a monumental hurdle in a Nuzlocke, offering a challenge that some players will relish.
In Pokémon Yellow, Sabrina’s team is terrifying, with Pokémon like Abra, Kadabra, and Alakazam all at level 50. This presents a tougher challenge than in Red and Blue, where her team varies significantly in levels.
For those tackling these nostalgic adventures, Pokémon like Butterfree become surprisingly valuable assets. It can be caught early and has access to Sleep Powder and Psychic, making it a strategic choice for overcoming the rigorous trials that a Gen 1 Nuzlocke throws at trainers.
