Best Starter Fighter in Pokémon Fire Red: A Guide

Choosing your first fighter in the Pocket Monsters universe is not just the start of an adventure, but also a crucial strategic decision that can shape the entire course of your game. Each of the three Pokémon available at the beginning—Squirtle, Bulbasaur, and Charmander—possesses unique qualities and advantages. In this article, we delve into the details of each Pokémon FireRed starter to help you determine which one offers the best start for a successful journey.

Squirtle

Image: ensigame.com

Squirtle, resembling a small turtle, is covered by a sturdy shell that serves multiple purposes. Not only does it provide protection and a place for rest, but its hydrodynamic design allows Squirtle to swim at high speeds. This Water-type Pokémon can also shoot precise water jets from its mouth, making it versatile both on land and in water.

Known for its calm nature, Squirtle can be challenging to control at times, making it more difficult to train than Bulbasaur but easier than Charmander. Its high defense and balanced stats make it an excellent choice for beginners. Squirtle offers a significant advantage at the start, easily defeating Brock's Rock-type Pokémon and handling Misty's Water types. Its final evolution, Blastoise, boasts powerful Water attacks and high survivability, enhanced by the Torrent ability which boosts Water moves and the hidden ability Rain Dish, which restores health during rain.

However, Squirtle has its weaknesses, struggling against Grass and Electric types, particularly in battles against Erika and Lt. Surge. Its attacks are less powerful than Charmander's, and its speed could be improved.

Image: alphacoders.com

Bulbasaur

Image: ensigame.com

Bulbasaur, a Grass and Poison type, is a small, green, four-legged creature with a large head and a bulb on its back. This bulb stores energy, allowing Bulbasaur to survive for days without food during dry periods. As it absorbs sunlight, the bulb grows, signaling its evolution into Ivysaur when it becomes too heavy.

This starter is an excellent choice for new players due to its balanced stats and versatility. Its types give it an edge against the first Gym Leaders, Brock and Misty. Bulbasaur's ability, Leech Seed, deals damage over time, while Vine Whip uses its vines to strike opponents and manipulate objects. Its hidden ability, Chlorophyll, doubles its speed in sunlight, providing a critical advantage.

Despite these strengths, Bulbasaur is vulnerable to Fire, Ice, Psychic, and Flying attacks, making it weak against Pokémon like Charmander. It also lacks speed, which can be a disadvantage in battle. As the game progresses, its evolution retains these vulnerabilities, and its attacks may not match the power of other final evolutions like Charizard or Blastoise.

Image: pinterest.com

Charmander

Image: ensigame.com

Charmander, a Fire type lizard Pokémon, has a flame on its tail that reflects its condition—burning brightly when strong, dimming when exhausted, and flaring with emotions. If the flame goes out, it is believed Charmander's life ends, though a healthy one can withstand rain.

While Charmander is a popular choice, it presents challenges at the start. With high Attack and Speed, its Fire moves are effective against Grass, Ice, Bug, and Steel types. Eventually, it evolves into the powerful Charizard, gaining access to strong moves and Mega Evolution.

However, early on, Charmander struggles against the first gyms. Brock's Rock-type Pokémon are resistant to Fire attacks, and Misty's Water types can easily defeat it. Charmander's low defense makes it vulnerable in battle. Despite these initial hurdles, it becomes a formidable ally later in the game, rewarding trainers who are ready to face early challenges.

Image: alphacoders.com

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

Image: ensigame.com

Each starter Pokémon has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice depends on your play style. If you prefer an easy start, Bulbasaur is the way to go. For those who enjoy challenges, Charmander is a good option. If you seek balance and versatility, Squirtle is ideal.

In our opinion, Bulbasaur is the best choice for a comfortable progression. It effectively handles the first two gyms thanks to its Grass type. Unlike Charmander, which faces a tough start, Bulbasaur feels confident from the beginning. With solid Defense and Stamina, it is less likely to lose battles and is suitable even for beginners. It proves its worth early on and remains useful throughout the game.

Each companion offers unique advantages that can shape your playstyle and approach to battles. Consider not only the challenges of the early stages but also your strategy for the later parts of the game. The choice depends on what you're looking for in your fighter. No matter your decision, this choice will lay the foundation for your adventure in the world of Pocket Monsters.