Pokémon are often subjected to rigorous training, forced to battle repeatedly, and sometimes even abandoned or traded away like commodities. This can lead to a range of psychological issues, including anxiety, depression, and even post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The bond between trainer and Pokémon can become toxic, with trainers prioritizing their own ambitions over the well-being of their Pokémon.
When an institution (military, medical board, sports federation) certifies the trainer’s authority, trainees pre-emptively accept suffering as legitimate. The trainer becomes a symbolic representative of the desired identity (“a real Marine,” “a real surgeon”). To reject the trainer is to reject the dream self. the suffering ties that bind trainer
Because the game is hard . Not just mechanically—but psychologically. The game’s morality system punishes you for killing innocent civilians (even accidentally). Resources are scarce. The monsters (The Burrowers, The Mainliners, The Slavers) are designed to overwhelm you. Pokémon are often subjected to rigorous training, forced