I like the idea behind this, but losing Pokemon permenantely is way too hard on me. I prefer to play using those rules, but also give myself the option to go back to previous saves. Gives me the added challenge I need, but without the heartbreak of getting so attached to your team, only to lose them.

Yeah...I know it's cheap, but I can't help it. I like to think of it is Pokemon-Fire Emblem edition, which is another case where I refuse to allow any casualties on my playthroughs.

I don't have any recommendations, but glad you made the thread. I had the same question, actually. I was a teenager when the first Pokemon hit and it passed me by at the time. Now, I'm thinking about going back and discovering the series for the first time.