Best Starter Fighter in Pokémon Fire Red: A Guide

Embarking on your journey in the Pocket Monsters universe begins with a crucial decision: selecting your first fighter. This choice not only marks the start of your adventure but also sets the strategic tone for your entire gameplay experience. In this guide, we delve into the unique attributes of each starter Pokémon in Pokémon FireRed, helping you decide which one will give you the best start.

Squirtle

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Squirtle, resembling a small turtle, boasts a sturdy shell that serves multiple purposes. Not only does it offer protection and a place to rest, but its hydrodynamic shape also allows Squirtle to swim at impressive speeds. This Water-type Pokémon can also shoot precise water jets from its mouth, making it effective both in and out of water.

While Squirtle's calm nature makes it somewhat challenging to train, it's easier to manage compared to Charmander. Its high defense and balanced stats make it an ideal choice for beginners. Early in the game, Squirtle excels against Brock's Rock-type Pokémon and Misty's Water-types. Its final evolution, Blastoise, brings powerful Water attacks and high survivability, enhanced by the ability to use Surf for both combat and exploration.

Squirtle's Torrent ability amplifies its Water moves, and its hidden ability, Rain Dish, heals it during rain. However, it struggles against Grass and Electric types, particularly against Erika and Lt. Surge. Its attacks are less potent than Charmander's, and its speed could be better.

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Bulbasaur

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Bulbasaur, a Grass and Poison type, features a bulb on its back that stores energy, enabling it to survive without food during dry spells. This bulb grows by absorbing sunlight, signaling evolution into Ivysaur when it becomes too heavy.

A versatile choice for new players, Bulbasaur's balanced stats and types give it an edge against the first Gym Leaders, Brock and Misty. Its Leech Seed ability inflicts continuous damage on foes, while Vine Whip uses its vines as effective limbs for combat and manipulation. The hidden ability, Chlorophyll, doubles its speed in sunlight, providing a tactical advantage.

However, Bulbasaur is vulnerable to Fire, Ice, Psychic, and Flying attacks, making it weak against Charmander. Its speed is not its strongest suit, and its attacks may not match the power of those from Charizard or Blastoise later in the game.

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Charmander

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Charmander, a Fire-type lizard, carries a flame on its tail that reflects its health and emotions. A vibrant flame signifies strength, while a dim or flickering one indicates fatigue or emotion. It's believed that if the flame extinguishes, Charmander's life ends, though a healthy one can keep its flame burning even in rain.

Despite its popularity, Charmander poses early challenges. Its high Attack and Speed make it potent against Grass, Ice, Bug, and Steel types, and it evolves into the formidable Charizard, capable of Mega Evolution. However, it struggles against Brock's Rock-types and Misty's Water-types due to its low defense, making the initial stages of the game tough.

Yet, Charmander's potential to become a powerful ally later in the game makes it a rewarding choice for those willing to face early challenges.

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

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Each starter Pokémon offers distinct advantages and challenges, aligning with different play styles. Bulbasaur provides an easy start, Charmander suits those who enjoy overcoming challenges, and Squirtle offers balance and versatility.

In our view, Bulbasaur emerges as the top choice for a smooth progression. Its Grass type excels against the first two gyms, providing confidence from the outset. With strong Defense and Stamina, Bulbasaur is less likely to falter in battles, making it a reliable choice for beginners and seasoned players alike. It remains a valuable asset throughout your journey.

Ultimately, your choice of starter Pokémon shapes your strategy and playstyle. Consider not only the early game challenges but also your long-term goals. Whichever Pokémon you select, it will lay the foundation for your adventure in the world of Pocket Monsters.