Streamer Triumphs Over Pokémon’s Most Complex Challenge After 3,978 Attempts

Pokémon video games are frequently criticized for being too simple for seasoned players, which is why community-created challenges like the Nuzlocke have gained significant popularity over the years.

There is one challenge, however, that has been labeled as the toughest of them all, and it took streamer PointCrow a staggering 3,978 resets over 15 months to complete it (thanks to GamesRadar+). Known as the ‘Kaizo Ironmon’ challenge, it entails finishing a playthrough of Pokémon under a set of strict limitations; somewhat similar to Nuzlocke, but in fact, much… more.

The complete set of rules is rather extensive to cover in detail here, but in summary, it’s essential to complete the game using only one Pokémon, which must have entirely random movesets and items activated. There are no shops available, no healing items outside of battle, and the rule states that if your Pokémon faints even once, it’s game over. There are many more fascinating rules, which you can explore in detail over at Github.

PointCrow eventually succeeded in completing the challenge with a Flareon that had moves such as Tri Assault, Brick Break, Aerial Ace, and Bulk Up. An online video capturing his triumph has been shared, where he excitedly yells, “3,978 resets and a dr