When it comes to choosing the best starter Pokémon from each region, it can be a tough decision. Each generation brings its own unique set of starters, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. As a Pokémon fan myself, I’ve had the opportunity to play through each generation and have formed my own opinions on the matter. Here are my personal choices for the best starter Pokémon from each region:
1. Kanto: Bulbasaur
Growing up playing Pokémon Red and Blue, Bulbasaur always held a special place in my heart. Its dual Grass/Poison typing gives it an advantage against many early Gym Leaders, and its movepool allows it to learn a variety of powerful moves. Plus, evolving into Venusaur grants it access to the powerful Solar Beam attack, making it a formidable opponent.
2. Johto: Cyndaquil
Cyndaquil, the Fire-type starter from Pokémon Gold and Silver, is another favorite of mine. Its adorable design and fiery personality instantly won me over. As it evolves into Quilava and then Typhlosion, it becomes a powerful Fire-type Pokémon that can take down opponents with its fiery attacks. Its speed and special attack stats make it a force to be reckoned with.
3. Hoenn: Mudkip
Ah, Mudkip. The meme-worthy Water/Ground-type starter from Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire. But beyond the memes, Mudkip is actually a fantastic choice for a starter. Its dual typing provides great coverage against many types, and its final evolution, Swampert, becomes a Water/Ground powerhouse. With access to moves like Earthquake and Surf, Mudkip can handle a wide variety of opponents.
4. Sinnoh: Chimchar
Chimchar, the Fire-type starter from Pokémon Diamond and Pearl, gets my vote for the best starter in the Sinnoh region. As a Fire/Fighting-type, it shares the same typing as the popular Blaziken from the Hoenn region. Chimchar’s final evolution, Infernape, boasts impressive speed and attack stats, allowing it to dish out powerful physical attacks. Its movepool also includes a variety of coverage moves like ThunderPunch and Close Combat.
5. Unova: Tepig
In the Unova region, my choice for the best starter goes to Tepig, the Fire-type Pokémon from Pokémon Black and White. Tepig’s final evolution, Emboar, is a Fire/Fighting-type powerhouse that can deal heavy damage with its moves like Flare Blitz and Hammer Arm. Its high HP stat and access to moves like Bulk Up make it a durable and formidable choice in battles.
6. Kalos: Froakie
Froakie, the Water-type starter from Pokémon X and Y, takes the crown as the best starter in the Kalos region for me. Its final evolution, Greninja, has become an iconic Pokémon in the franchise, known for its speed and special attack prowess. Greninja’s ability, Protean, allows it to change its typing to match the move it uses, making it incredibly versatile in battle. Its signature move, Water Shuriken, can deal multiple hits, making it a force to be reckoned with.
7. Alola: Popplio
In the Alola region, my choice for the best starter goes to Popplio, the Water-type Pokémon from Pokémon Sun and Moon. While it may not have been the most popular choice among fans, Popplio’s final evolution, Primarina, is a Water/Fairy-type powerhouse. With its high special attack and special defense stats, Primarina can dish out powerful special attacks like Moonblast and Hydro Pump while also taking hits. Its unique typing also gives it an advantage against Dragon-type Pokémon, making it a valuable member of any team.
8. Galar: Scorbunny
In the Galar region, my choice for the best starter goes to Scorbunny, the Fire-type Pokémon from Pokémon Sword and Shield. Scorbunny’s final evolution, Cinderace, is a speedy and agile Fire-type Pokémon that excels in physical attacks. Its signature move, Pyro Ball, deals heavy damage and has a high chance of causing a burn. With access to moves like High Jump Kick and Court Change, Cinderace can be a formidable opponent in battles.
These are my personal choices for the best starter Pokémon from each region. Of course, opinions may vary, and each player may have their own preferences. The beauty of Pokémon is that there are so many options to choose from, and each starter has its own unique strengths and playstyles.