A ranking of every Pokémon starter.

      After nine generations of mainline games, the Pokémon roster has expanded to include over 1,000 distinct creatures to catch, train, and battle. Each game generally follows a similar format where players build their teams to become the regional champion, starting with the selection of a starter Pokémon. While Legendary Pokémon often take the spotlight in new titles, we believe that the starters truly characterize each generation. This initial partner accompanies you throughout your journey and establishes the game's overall atmosphere. Having played each installment extensively, we feel qualified to rank the starter Pokémon from least to most favorable, based on our extensive experience (and some personal biases).

      Note: This ranking exclusively considers starters from mainline Pokémon games and excludes any from spinoff titles.

      10. Tepig

      GameFreak

      At the bottom of our list is the charming yet somewhat uninspiring Tepig. This Fire-type option from Gen 5 is the only starter that remains viable for almost every significant encounter within the game. Its final evolution incorporates the Fighting-type, which provides an advantage in battles against the Elite Four. In terms of design, Tepig maintains a somewhat silly appearance across its evolutions. While Emboar boasts the coolest design, it doesn’t leave a lasting impact.

      9. Sobble

      GameFreak

      In our view, Gen 8 has the weakest selection of starter Pokémon. The three starters are quite similar in appearance, making them feel less distinct, though they are nearly equal in terms of their battle viability. This balance in difficulty diminishes the unique experience tied to each choice. Sobble performs decently against later-game gyms, and its final evolution has a distinctive character. We also enjoy its Pokédex entry in Sword, which humorously notes that its tears “pack the chemical punch of 100 onions.”

      8. Fuecoco

      GameFreak

      Initially, we didn’t expect to like Fuecoco before diving into Scarlet and Violet. It bore a resemblance to a Fire-type version of Totodile, which somewhat holds true in terms of design. However, its abilities and final evolutions changed our perspective significantly. This does not include its middle stage, Crocalor, which we find rather lackluster. When it evolves into Skeledrige, it becomes impressive, being the first starter that evolves into a Fire and Ghost-type, giving it a unique edge. Additionally, it’s the first Fire-type starter to remain on all fours in its final form.

      7. Totodile

      GameFreak

      Following the groundbreaking first generation of Pokémon, Gen 2 could never quite match the impact of the original trio. Yet, Totodile felt reminiscent of Squirtle without being a direct copy. It appears somewhat like just a blue crocodile, but manages to strike a balance between cuteness and a hint of danger. Among Gen 2 starters, Totodile is notable for evolving at an earlier level than the others. Unfortunately, its evolutions are relatively minor in their design changes, which could be considered a positive depending on personal preferences.

      6. Chimchar

      GameFreak

      We concede that Chimchar initially resembles a monkey version of Charmander. This perception extends somewhat to its second evolution, but Infernape stands out as a unique and impressive form. Infernape is evidently inspired by Son Wukong and serves as a fitting final evolution. In practical terms, Chimchar enjoys a peculiar advantage over other starters in Gen 4, as this installment introduces fewer new Fire-types compared to Water and Grass, allowing players to fill a potential gap in their type coverage effortlessly.

      5. Cyndaquil

      GameFreak

      Who didn’t choose Cyndaquil on their first playthrough of Gen 2? While we eventually grew to appreciate Chikorita and Totodile, Cyndaquil’s fiery back immediately caught our attention. Fire-types proved to be very powerful against the gyms and Elite Four in this game. It would rank much higher if its evolutions were more creatively designed. Typhlosion is acceptable but ultimately feels like a more substantial version of Cyndaquil on two legs.

      4. Mudkip

      GameFreak

      Did we elevate Mudkip this high solely due to memes? Not entirely, but they did play a role. This lovable Water-type from Gen 3 became somewhat of a joke, but it remains quite endearing. Once it fully evolves into Swampert, it begins to appear much cooler, sporting additional fins and vibrant colors. Additionally, since it transitions to a Water and Ground-type after its first evolution, Mudkip could be considered the objectively best starter for this game.

      3. Charmander

      GameFreak

      Were it not for Pikachu, Charmander—better known as Charizard—would likely be the most recognizable Pokémon across the franchise. Except for Charmeleon’s awkward adolescent stage, each evolution meets our expectations for a starter. It starts off as unassuming and a bit cute, yet retains a sense