Not only does this game make you its play thing, in a weird sort of way, you'll want it to torture you. you'll like the agonizing battles and the puzzles that seem to have been constructed from the pits of hell. This game sets a new standard for pokemon games with not only the level curving and capping but also the content. Not only does the game have an extensive and interesting story line, it actually seems kind of believable to some level. Dr. Sigmound, for example, is a great look into how truly messed up the world of pokemon can be. I mean the guy uses electric type pokemon to fuck with the brains of orphaned minors!! This game shows how dark pokemon can be. On the other hand, it shows you how awesome it can be too, and I don't mean the theme of valuable friendships that mainstream pokemon is drilling into this generation either. I'm talking about deeper themes like: learning to stand up for yourself, accepting who you are, fighting for those who cant fight for themselves, etc. One of the main rivals is an openly gay guy!!! That alone should tell you how progressive this game is( I love his dialogue btw) As a gay man myself, I was happy to see a main character that represents a group that I can identify with. All in all, this game is more than worth playing. If you truly consider yourself a pokemon fan and a truly progressive person, this game is too good an opportunity to pass up.