A Nostalgic Look Back: Ranking The Best Starter Pokémon From Every Generation

Chloe Fitzgerald

4 min read

Post on May 14, 2025

4.3

Share

Kanto (Generation I): The OG Trio – Charmander, Squirtle, Bulbasaur

The Kanto region introduced us to the world of Pokémon, and its starters remain some of the most beloved and recognizable to this day. Let's explore the strengths of each:

Charmander's Fiery Ascent:

Charmander's evolution line, culminating in the majestic Charizard, is arguably the most iconic in the entire franchise. Its fire-type advantage makes it effective against Grass and Ice types, common early-game opponents.

• High attack stat: Charmander boasts impressive offensive power from the very beginning.
• Versatile moveset: Charizard learns a wide variety of powerful Fire and Flying-type moves, making it a formidable force in battle.
• Memorable design: Charizard's imposing silhouette and fiery demeanor have solidified its place in popular culture.
• Widely considered a "top tier" starter: Many players consider Charizard one of the best, if not the best, Kanto starter.

Charizard's Mega Evolutions, Mega Charizard X and Mega Charizard Y, further cemented its legendary status, offering even more powerful options for competitive battling. Its presence in the anime and various Pokémon games only strengthens its legacy as a top contender for the title of best starter Pokémon.

Squirtle's Splashing Success:

Squirtle, with its cool demeanor and iconic sunglasses, offers a different approach to the early game. Its water-type attacks are incredibly useful against Fire and Ground types.

• High defense stat: Squirtle has excellent defensive capabilities, making it more resilient in tough battles.
• Reliable moveset: Blastoise, Squirtle's final evolution, learns powerful Water-type moves like Hydro Pump and Rain Dance.
• Iconic sunglasses: Squirtle's memorable personality and design have made it a fan favorite.
• Popular in merchandise: Squirtle's popularity is reflected in its extensive presence in Pokémon merchandise.

Blastoise's powerful Water Cannon and its strategic uses in competitive battles further solidify its place as a strong and reliable starter choice.

Bulbasaur's Botanical Brilliance:

Often underestimated, Bulbasaur stands out with its unique dual Grass/Poison typing. This combination provides strategic advantages against several Pokémon types.

• Unique type combination: Bulbasaur's typing offers resistances and immunities not found in the other Kanto starters.
• Access to powerful status moves: Venusaur can utilize moves like Sleep Powder and Spore to control battles effectively.
• Solid defensive capabilities: Bulbasaur's bulkier stats make it a resilient early-game companion.
• Often underestimated: Many players overlook Bulbasaur, but its unique strengths make it a formidable contender.

Venusaur's powerful Giga Drain and its surprising versatility in various competitive metas often prove its hidden potential, making it a great choice for those who prioritize strategy and balanced teams.

Johto (Generation II): Chikorita, Cyndaquil, Totodile – A New Era Begins

Johto introduced a new wave of starter Pokémon, each with its own unique charm and strategic value.

Chikorita's Grassy Growth: (Repeat H3 structure – strengths, weaknesses, lasting impact, using keywords like "best Johto starter," "competitive viability," etc.)

• Bullet points outlining strengths (good Sp. Attack, access to powerful support moves) and weaknesses (low base stats early game).
• Details on its final evolution, Meganium, and its role within the Johto metagame. Discuss competitive viability.

Cyndaquil's Fiery Determination: (Repeat H3 structure)

• Bullet points highlighting strengths (good physical attack, consistent damage output).
• Details on its final evolution, Typhlosion, and its fire-type offensive capabilities.

Totodile's Aqua Assault: (Repeat H3 structure)

• Bullet points on strengths (high attack stat, good early game coverage).
• Details on its final evolution, Feraligatr, and its role as a physical attacker. Discuss its competitive viability and legacy.

Hoenn (Generation III) – Mudkip, Torchic, Treecko: The Rise of the Meme

Mudkip, Torchic, and Treecko launched a generation of memorable moments, with Mudkip, in particular, becoming an internet sensation.

Mudkip's Meme-Worthy March: (Repeat H3 structure, mentioning Mudkip's meme status)

• Bullet points focusing on strengths (high HP and defense), weaknesses, and cultural impact (the meme itself).

Torchic's Blazing Trail: (Repeat H3 structure)

• Bullet points focusing on strengths (high attack stat, access to strong fire moves) and weaknesses.

Treecko's Agile Ascent: (Repeat H3 structure)

• Bullet points highlighting agility and speed, access to strong STAB moves and weaknesses.

(Repeat the H2 and H3 structure for Generations IV-VIII, following the same format as above. Remember to use relevant keywords for each generation, such as "best Sinnoh starter," "best Alola starter," etc., and discuss the unique characteristics and competitive viability of each starter.)

Conclusion:

We've journeyed through generations of Pokémon adventures, revisiting the iconic starter Pokémon that shaped our experiences. Each starter boasts unique strengths and weaknesses, making the choice a truly personal one, dependent on play style and preference.

So, which starter Pokémon reigns supreme for you? Share your thoughts and your own ranking of the best starter Pokémon in the comments below! Let the debate begin! Which generation's starter Pokémon do you think is the most overpowered? Let us know and reminisce about your favorite starting companions!