Best Starter Fighter in Pokémon Fire Red: A Guide

Embarking on your journey in the Pocket Monsters universe begins with a pivotal decision: choosing your first fighter. This choice not only marks the start of your adventure but also influences your strategic approach throughout the game. Each of the three starter Pokémon in Pokémon FireRed—Bulbasaur, Charmander, and Squirtle—offers unique traits and advantages. In this guide, we'll delve into each starter's strengths and weaknesses to help you decide which is best for a successful start in your game.

Table of Contents

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

Squirtle

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Squirtle, a Water-type Pokémon resembling a small turtle, is equipped with a sturdy shell that serves multiple purposes. Beyond offering protection and a place for rest, the shell's hydrodynamic design enhances Squirtle's swimming speed. Moreover, Squirtle can launch precise water jets from its mouth, proving its prowess both in and out of water.

While Squirtle boasts a generally calm demeanor, it can be challenging to train due to its sometimes stubborn nature. However, it's easier to handle than Charmander. Squirtle is an excellent choice for beginners, thanks to its high defense and balanced stats. Early in the game, it easily triumphs over Brock's Rock-type Pokémon and Misty's Water-types. Evolving into Blastoise, it gains access to powerful Water attacks and the versatile Surf move, which aids in both combat and exploration.

Squirtle's Torrent ability amplifies its Water moves, while its hidden ability, Rain Dish, restores health during rain. Despite these strengths, it faces challenges against Grass and Electric types, particularly against Erika and Lt. Surge. Additionally, its attack power and speed lag behind Charmander's.

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Bulbasaur

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Bulbasaur, a Grass and Poison-type, is a small, green creature with a distinctive bulb on its back that stores energy. This bulb enables Bulbasaur to survive extended periods without food and signals its impending evolution into Ivysaur when it becomes too heavy to support on two legs.

Bulbasaur is an ideal starter for new players due to its balanced stats and versatility. Its types give it an edge against the initial Gym Leaders, Brock and Misty. Bulbasaur's Leech Seed ability inflicts continuous damage on opponents, while Vine Whip allows it to strike with its extendable vines, which can also lift heavy objects or assist in climbing. Its hidden ability, Chlorophyll, doubles its speed under sunlight, offering a significant advantage in battles.

However, Bulbasaur is vulnerable to Fire, Ice, Psychic, and Flying attacks, making it weak against Charmander and certain later-game opponents. Its speed can also be a disadvantage in some encounters, and its evolution may not match the power of Charizard or Blastoise.

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Charmander

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Charmander, a Fire-type lizard Pokémon, is known for the flame on its tail, which reflects its health and emotions. A strong and vibrant flame indicates a healthy Charmander, while a dimming flame signals exhaustion or distress.

Despite its popularity, Charmander presents early challenges in the game. Its high Attack and Speed stats, and effective Fire moves against Grass, Ice, Bug, and Steel types, are offset by its struggles against the first Gym Leaders, Brock and Misty. Charmander's low defense makes it vulnerable in early battles. However, with perseverance, Charmander evolves into the formidable Charizard, gaining access to powerful moves and the potential for Mega Evolution.

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

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The choice of your first Pokémon hinges on your preferred play style. Bulbasaur offers an easy start and handles the initial gyms well, making it ideal for a comfortable progression. Charmander appeals to those who relish challenges and are willing to invest time in overcoming early hurdles for long-term gains. Squirtle provides balance and versatility, suitable for players seeking a well-rounded experience.

In our analysis, Bulbasaur emerges as the top choice for a smooth start. Its Grass type gives it an advantage against the first two Gym Leaders, and its solid Defense and Stamina make it a reliable partner throughout your journey. Whether you choose Bulbasaur for ease, Charmander for challenge, or Squirtle for versatility, your selection will shape your adventure in the world of Pocket Monsters.