Picking your starter Pokémon in the FireRed edition isn't just about beginning an adventure—it's a strategic move that influences your entire gameplay journey. Each of the three initial monsters offers distinct traits and strengths. Here, we'll analyze every FireRed starter to help you determine the best pick for a successful playthrough.

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Squirtle Bulbasaur Charmander Which Starter Should You Choose? 0 0 Leave a comment

Squirtle

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This Water-type resembles a small turtle with a protective shell—more than just armor, its streamlined design enhances swimming speed. Squirtle can fire precise water jets and adapts well to land despite its aquatic nature.

While generally docile, Squirtle requires moderate training effort—easier than Charmander but trickier than Bulbasaur.

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Ideal for newcomers thanks to solid defense and balanced stats, Squirtle dominates early gym battles against Brock (Rock-type) and Misty (Water-type). Its final evolution, Blastoise, packs powerful Hydro Pump and learns Surf—valuable for both combat and exploration.

Key strengths include Torrent (boosts Water moves in critical health) and Rain Dish (gradual HP recovery during rain). However, it falters against Grass/Electric opponents like Erika's or Lt. Surge's teams, with mediocre speed and attacking power.

Bulbasaur

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The dual Grass/Poison-type sports a photosynthetic bulb storing energy—enabling survival without food for days. Sunlight absorption triggers evolution into Ivysaur when the bulb's weight becomes unmanageable.

With excellent type matchups against early gyms, Bulbasaur offers beginners reliable versatility. Vine Whip's flexible vines deliver surprising lifting power and offensive strikes.

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Leech Seed drains opponents' HP over time, while Chlorophyll doubles speed in sunlight—a tactical edge during key battles. However, vulnerabilities to Fire, Flying, Psychic, and Ice attacks limit effectiveness against certain types.

Though weaker than Charizard/Blastoise in late-game, Bulbasaur remains consistent throughout the adventure.

Charmander

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The fiery lizard's tail flame reflects its vitality—burning intensely when healthy but vulnerable to extinguishing in weakened states. Ironically challenging early-game, its high Attack/Speed shines against Grass, Bug, and Steel types.

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Early hurdles include Rocky- and Water-type gyms that resist its Fire moves. Fragile defense demands careful play. However, evolving into Charizard unlocks devastating Flamethrower/Earthquake combos plus Mega Evolution potential.

Which Starter Should You Choose?

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The optimal pick hinges on playstyle: Bulbasaur for smooth early-game progression, Charmander for late-game dominance (despite initial struggles), or Squirtle for balanced performance.

Our recommendation? Bulbasaur—its Grass/Poison typing counters early gyms while maintaining steady viability through the campaign. With reliable bulk and Solar Beam potential, it minimizes early frustration while teaching core strategies.

Ultimately, your starter shapes your team composition and tactical approach. Whether favoring immediate advantage or long-term payoff, this foundational decision launches your Pokémon journey—choose wisely.