Best Starter Fighter in Pokémon Fire Red: Top Picks

Choosing your first fighter in the Pocket Monsters universe is more than just the beginning of an adventure; it's a pivotal strategic decision that can influence the entire trajectory of your game. Each of the three starter Pokémon in Pokémon FireRed brings its own unique qualities and advantages to the table. In this guide, we'll delve into the characteristics of Squirtle, Bulbasaur, and Charmander, helping you determine which one offers the best start for your journey.

Squirtle

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Squirtle, the Water-type turtle Pokémon, boasts a sturdy shell that's more than just a protective covering. It can retract into its shell for safety or rest, and the shell's hydrodynamic shape allows Squirtle to swim at impressive speeds. Additionally, it can shoot precise water jets from its mouth. While primarily a Water type, Squirtle is also adept on land.

Known for its calm demeanor, Squirtle can be somewhat challenging to train, falling between Bulbasaur and Charmander in terms of difficulty. It's an excellent choice for beginners due to its high defense and well-rounded stats. Early in the game, Squirtle provides a significant advantage by easily defeating Brock's Rock-type Pokémon and handling Misty's Water types. Its final evolution, Blastoise, offers powerful Water attacks, high survivability, and the ability to use Surf, which is invaluable both in battle and for traversing the game world.

Squirtle's Torrent ability enhances its Water moves, and its hidden ability, Rain Dish, restores 1/16 of its health during rain. However, it faces challenges against Grass and Electric types, particularly in battles against Erika and Lt. Surge. Its attacks may be less potent than Charmander's, and its speed could be improved.

Bulbasaur

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Bulbasaur, a dual Grass and Poison type, is a small, green, four-legged creature with a distinctive bulb on its back. This bulb acts as an energy storage organ, enabling Bulbasaur to survive extended periods without food during droughts. As it absorbs sunlight, the bulb grows, signaling an imminent evolution into Ivysaur when it becomes too heavy for the Pokémon to stand on two legs.

Bulbasaur is a versatile choice for players embarking on their Pokémon adventure, with balanced stats that suit a variety of situations. Its dual types give it an edge against the first Gym Leaders, like Brock and Misty. Bulbasaur's Leech Seed ability allows it to sap opponents' health over time, while its Vine Whip move uses its vines to strike enemies or manipulate objects. Its hidden ability, Chlorophyll, doubles its speed under sunny conditions, providing a tactical advantage.

However, Bulbasaur is vulnerable to Fire, Ice, Psychic, and Flying attacks, making it weaker against Pokémon like Charmander. Its speed is also not its strongest suit, which can affect its performance in some battles. As the game progresses, these vulnerabilities become more pronounced, and its attack power may lag behind that of other evolved Pokémon like Charizard or Blastoise.

Charmander

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Charmander, the Fire-type lizard Pokémon, has a flame on its tail that reflects its health and emotions. A vibrant flame indicates strength, while a dim one suggests exhaustion. It's said that if the flame extinguishes, Charmander's life ends. However, a healthy Charmander can keep its flame burning even in the rain.

Despite its popularity, Charmander can present challenges at the game's start. It boasts high Attack and Speed, and its Fire moves are effective against Grass, Ice, Bug, and Steel types. As it evolves into Charizard, it gains access to powerful moves and the ability to Mega Evolve.

Yet, Charmander struggles early on against the first Gym Leaders: Brock's Rock-type Pokémon resist Fire attacks, and Misty's Water types can easily overpower it. Its relatively low defense also makes it vulnerable in battles. Despite these initial hurdles, Charmander becomes a formidable ally as the game progresses, rewarding those willing to tackle the early challenges.

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

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Each of the three starters offers distinct advantages and challenges, and the best choice depends on your preferred play style. For an easier start, Bulbasaur is recommended due to its effectiveness against the first two Gyms. If you thrive on challenges, Charmander might be your pick. For a balanced and versatile approach, Squirtle stands out.

In our view, Bulbasaur emerges as the top choice for a smooth progression through the game. Its Grass type excels against the initial Gym Leaders, offering a confident start. With robust Defense and Stamina, it's less likely to falter in battles and is ideal for beginners. Bulbasaur proves its value early and remains a reliable companion throughout the journey.

Each starter Pokémon shapes your playstyle and battle strategies. Consider not only the early game challenges but also your long-term plans. Your choice will lay the foundation for your adventure in the world of Pocket Monsters.