Choosing the Best Starter Fighter in Pokémon Fire Red

Choosing your first Pokémon in the world of Pocket Monsters is more than just the beginning of an adventure; it's a strategic decision that can significantly impact your gameplay. Each of the three FireRed starters boasts unique strengths and weaknesses, making the choice a crucial one. This article analyzes each starter Pokémon to help you determine the best companion for your journey.

Table of Contents

• Squirtle
• Bulbasaur
• Charmander
• Choosing Your First Pokémon: Who to Take on Your Journey?

Squirtle

This turtle-like Pokémon possesses a sturdy shell, not just for protection and rest, but also for enhanced hydrodynamics, enabling impressive swimming speed. Its precise water jet attacks add to its offensive capabilities. While a Water-type, Squirtle performs well on land too. Its temperament is relatively calm, making it easier to train than Charmander, though slightly more challenging than Bulbasaur.

Squirtle's high defense and balanced stats make it an excellent choice for beginners. Its early-game advantage is undeniable, easily overcoming Brock's Rock-type Pokémon and holding its own against Misty's Water-types. Its final evolution, Blastoise, boasts powerful Water attacks, high survivability, and access to Surf—a valuable move both in battle and for exploration. Its Torrent ability boosts Water moves, and its hidden ability, Rain Dish, heals it during rain.

However, Squirtle’s weaknesses to Grass and Electric types pose challenges against Erika and Lt. Surge. Its attack power is lower than Charmander's, and its speed isn't its strongest attribute.

Bulbasaur

Bulbasaur, a Grass/Poison type, is a small, green quadruped with a distinctive bulb on its back. This bulb stores energy, allowing survival for days without food. Sunlight fuels its growth, signaling its evolution into Ivysaur when it becomes too heavy to support on two legs.

Bulbasaur's balanced stats provide versatility. Its type advantage helps overcome early Gym Leaders like Brock and Misty. Leech Seed, inflicting damage over time, is a valuable asset. Vine Whip, utilizing strong vines for attacks and manipulation, adds to its offensive and utility capabilities. Its hidden ability, Chlorophyll, doubles speed in sunlight.

Despite its strengths, Bulbasaur's vulnerabilities to Fire, Ice, Psychic, and Flying types are significant. Its speed is a drawback, and its attacks may lack the power of later-game Pokémon like Charizard or Blastoise.

Charmander

Charmander, a Fire-type lizard Pokémon, has a tail flame reflecting its health and emotions. The flame's extinction signifies death, but a healthy Charmander's flame persists even in rain. While a popular choice, its early-game struggles are noteworthy.

Charmander's high Attack and Speed, with effective Fire moves against Grass, Ice, Bug, and Steel types, are significant advantages. Its evolution into Charizard unlocks powerful moves and Mega Evolution potential. However, early-game matchups against Brock's Rock-types and Misty's Water-types are difficult. Its low defense also makes it vulnerable.

Despite its early challenges, Charmander's potential for immense power makes it a rewarding choice for players willing to overcome initial hurdles.

Choosing Your First Pokémon: Who to Take on Your Journey?

Each starter Pokémon offers unique advantages, influencing gameplay style. Bulbasaur provides an easier start, while Charmander presents a greater challenge. Squirtle offers a balanced approach. We believe Bulbasaur's Grass typing and effective performance against the first two Gym Leaders makes it the most comfortable option for progression. Its solid Defense and Stamina make it suitable for beginners. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your preferred playstyle and long-term strategy. Whichever you choose, it will lay the foundation for your Pocket Monsters adventure.