Since the franchise's debut in 1996, Pokémon has grown from a pair of Game Boy RPGs into a global phenomenon spanning trading cards, anime, and blockbuster games. With over a thousand creatures now in the Pokédex, the original 151 have expanded into a vast universe. Yet one tradition has remained constant: at the start of every adventure, players choose from a Fire, Water, or Grass-type starter. These partners are designed to be reliable companions, but some shine brighter than others in their home regions.
Choosing the "best" starter often comes down to how well they perform against gym leaders, their type coverage, and their stats. Here's our ranking of the top starter Pokémon from each generation, based on their usefulness in a standard playthrough.
Generation I: Venusaur
The original Kanto trio—Bulbasaur, Charmander, and Squirtle—is iconic, but Venusaur, the final form of Bulbasaur, is the most dependable. Its Grass/Poison typing gives it an edge in the early gyms, and it can handle the Electric and Grass-type challenges later on. In the remakes, it learns Sleep Powder early, which lets you put foes to sleep and set up strategies. Even in the original games, Leech Seed and Poison Powder wear down opponents, making Venusaur a solid all-rounder.
Generation II: Typhlosion
Johto's starters were the first to remain pure types even after evolving. Among them, Typhlosion, the final form of Cyndaquil, stands out. With stats identical to Charizard's, it's a fast and powerful special attacker. It tears through Bug and Steel-type gyms, and its Fire moves are invaluable in a region where Fire-types are scarce. While its movepool is limited, it excels at what it does best: burning through the competition.
Generation III: Swampert
Hoenn introduced abilities and natures, and Mudkip's final evolution, Swampert, benefits greatly. Its Water/Ground typing gives it only one weakness—Grass—and makes it a powerhouse against Rock, Electric, and Fire-type gyms. With great bulk and a wide TM movepool, Swampert can handle most challenges. In Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire, its Mega Evolution boosts its Attack and grants Swift Swim, turning it into a rain-powered sweeper.
Generation IV: Infernape
The physical/special split in Generation IV changed the game, and Sinnoh's starters were designed to take advantage. Infernape, the final form of Chimchar, is a fast mixed attacker with equal prowess in physical and special moves. Its Fighting typing comes in handy against Rock, Grass, Steel, and Ice gyms, and it's a great counter to Team Galactic's Pokémon. With few Fire-types in Sinnoh, Infernape is a versatile and essential pick.
Generation V: Emboar
Unova's starters were part of a soft reboot, introducing over 150 new Pokémon. While Tepig's final form, Emboar, was criticized for being the third Fire/Fighting-type in a row, it's undeniably useful. Its high Attack and HP make it a tanky physical sweeper, and it can learn a variety of coverage moves. In a region where Fire-types are rare, Emboar is a reliable choice for taking on the many Grass and Bug-types you'll encounter.
Generation VI: Greninja
Kalos introduced the Fairy type and Mega Evolutions, but the standout starter is Greninja, the final form of Froakie. Its Water/Dark typing gives it excellent coverage, and its ability Protean changes its type to match its move, offering incredible versatility. With high Speed and Special Attack, Greninja can outspeed and take down most foes. Its popularity soared thanks to its appearance in the anime and Super Smash Bros., cementing its status as a fan favorite.
Generation VII: Decidueye
Alola's starters brought unique typings, and Decidueye, the final form of Rowlet, is a standout. As a Grass/Ghost type, it has a unique niche and a great design. Its signature move, Spirit Shackle, traps opponents, and its high Attack and Speed make it a solid physical attacker. It's particularly effective against the many Water and Ground-types in Alola, and its Ghost typing gives it immunity to Normal and Fighting moves.
Generation VIII: Cinderace
Galar's starters were inspired by sports, and Cinderace, the final form of Scorbunny, is the clear winner. Its Fire typing is boosted by its hidden ability Libero, which changes its type to match its move, similar to Protean. With high Speed and Attack, Cinderace can hit hard and fast, and its movepool includes a variety of coverage options. It's a fantastic choice for taking on the many Grass, Bug, and Steel-types in the Galar region.
Generation IX: Skeledirge
Paldea's starters introduced new typings, and Skeledirge, the final form of Fuecoco, is a standout. As a Fire/Ghost type, it has a unique combination that offers great defensive utility. Its ability Blaze boosts its Fire moves when low on HP, and its signature move Torch Song raises its Special Attack. With high HP and Special Attack, Skeledirge can take hits and dish out damage, making it a reliable partner throughout the Paldea region.
While every starter has its merits, these picks stand out for their performance in their respective games. Whether you're a seasoned trainer or a newcomer, choosing one of these will give you a strong start to your journey.
