Starter Pokemon Tier List – Expert (March 2026) Guide
When I first began my Pokemon journey decades ago, choosing my starter Pokemon felt like the most important decision I’d ever make. That initial choice between Bulbasaur, Charmander, and Squirtle shaped my entire adventure. Today, with over 27 starter Pokemon spanning nine generations, the decision has become even more complex. That’s why I’ve created this comprehensive Starter Pokemon Tier List – to help you make the most informed choice possible.
In this ultimate guide, I’ll rank every starter Pokemon based on multiple factors: competitive viability, in-game performance, popularity, and overall usefulness. Whether you’re a competitive battler looking for the strongest edge or a casual player wanting the best companion for your journey, this tier list has everything you need.
Quick Overview: Starter Pokemon Rankings (March 2026)
| Tier | Pokemon | Competitive Rank | Popularity | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| S+ | Cinderace | Ubers | High | Competitive battling |
| S | Blaziken | UUBL | Very High | Sweeper sets |
| S | Greninja | OU | High | Versatile attacker |
| A+ | Rillaboom | OU | Medium | Grassy Terrain teams |
| A | Primarina | UU | Medium | Special wallbreaker |
| A | Swampert | UU | High | Defensive pivot |
| A | Venusaur | UU | High | Sun teams |
| B+ | Incineroar | RU | Medium | Doubles support |
| B | Blastoise | NU | Medium | Shell Smash sweeper |
| B | Decidueye | NU | Medium | Physical wallbreaker |
| C+ | Inteleon | NU | Low | Special revenge killer |
| C | Sceptile | PUBL | Medium | Electric Terrain teams |
| C | Charizard | PU | Very High | Niche special sets |
Understanding Starter Pokemon Tier List Methodology
Before diving into the rankings, let me explain how I’ve structured this comprehensive tier list. Unlike simple popularity polls, my rankings combine multiple crucial factors that actually matter in battle:
Competitive Viability (40% Weight)
I’ve analyzed Smogon tier placements, competitive usage statistics, and tournament results. The higher the competitive tier, the better the ranking. For example, Cinderace’s placement in Ubers (the highest competitive tier) automatically puts it in the S+ tier.
In-Game Performance (30% Weight)
How well does each starter perform in its native game? I’ve considered factors like type advantages against early gyms, movepool availability, and evolution timing. A starter that carries you through the main story scores higher here.
Popularity & Community Reception (20% Weight)
Using data from Pokemon tier list voting communities and general fan sentiment, I’ve factored in how beloved each starter is. However, popularity alone won’t save a competitively weak Pokemon from a lower ranking.
Versatility & Team Synergy (10% Weight)
The best starters can fit into multiple team compositions and fulfill various roles. Pokemon that can run multiple effective sets or provide unique team support score higher in this category.
S+ Tier: Game-Breaking Starters
Cinderace (Ubers) – The Unstoppable Force
Type: Fire/Fighting
Abilities: Blaze, Libero (Hidden)
Competitive Rank: Ubers
Last Updated: November 2024
Cinderace stands alone as the only starter Pokemon to reach Ubers tier, making it objectively the most competitive starter in existence. What makes this soccer-themed Pokemon so devastatingly powerful?
Why Cinderace Dominates:
- Libero Ability: Changes Cinderace’s type to match its first move, giving every attack STAB (Same Type Attack Bonus)
- Incredible Movepool: Access to Pyro Ball, High Jump Kick, U-turn, and Gunk Shot provides perfect coverage
- Speed and Attack: Base 119 Speed and 120 Attack make it both fast and powerful
- Team Utility: U-turn allows for momentum building, making it valuable even when not attacking
Competitive Sets:
- Libero Attacker: Pyro Ball / High Jump Kick / U-turn / Gunk Shot
- Choice Scarf: Outspeeds almost everything while maintaining power
- Life Orb: Maximum damage output with perfect coverage
In-Game Performance: Cinderace excels throughout Sword and Shield’s main story, with Fire/Fighting typing providing excellent coverage against most gyms. Its evolution at level 16 means you get its powerful form relatively early.
Verdict: If competitive battling is your priority, Cinderace is unquestionably the best starter Pokemon available. Its Ubers placement isn’t just for show – it genuinely breaks the competitive metagame.
S Tier: Elite Competitive Threats
Blaziken (UUBL) – The Speed Boost Sweeper
Type: Fire/Fighting
Abilities: Blaze, Speed Boost (Hidden)
Competitive Rank: UUBL
Last Updated: October 2024
Blaziken has been a competitive staple since Generation 3, and for good reason. This fighting chicken’s Speed Boost ability makes it one of the most terrifying sweepers in Pokemon history.
Why Blaziken Excels:
- Speed Boost: Gains +1 Speed at the end of each turn, making it unstoppable after one turn
- Mega Evolution: Mega Blaziken boasts incredible Attack and Speed with Tough Claws ability
- Perfect Coverage: Fire/Fighting typing hits most of the meta for neutral damage
- Setup Potential: Swords Dance turns it into an immediate win condition
Competitive Sets:
- Speed Boost Sweeper: Protect / Swords Dance / Flare Blitz / High Jump Kick
- Mega Blaziken: Flare Blitz / High Jump Kick / Stone Edge / Swords Dance
- Choice Band: Immediate wallbreaking power
In-Game Performance: Blaziken dominates Generation 3 games with early access to Fire and Fighting moves. Its evolution line is well-timed, and it carries players through the Elite Four with ease.
Verdict: Blaziken’s combination of Speed Boost and offensive power makes it one of the most dangerous starters in competitive play. While it requires some setup, the payoff is absolutely worth it.
Greninja (OU) – The Versatile Protean User
Type: Water/Dark
Abilities: Torrent, Protean (Hidden)
Competitive Rank: OU
Last Updated: September 2024
Greninja represents the pinnacle of versatility among starter Pokemon. With Protean changing its type to match every move it uses, this ninja frog can adapt to any situation.
Why Greninja Shines:
- Protean Ability: Changes type with every move, providing incredible defensive and offensive flexibility
- Battle Bond Form: Transforms into Ash-Greninja after knocking out a Pokemon, becoming even more powerful
- Extensive Movepool: Water Shuriken, Dark Pulse, Ice Beam, and Spikes provide unmatched utility
- Speed Control: Base 122 Speed outpaces most threats in the tier
Competitive Sets:
- Protean Attacker: Water Shuriken / Dark Pulse / Ice Beam / Spikes
- Battle Bond: Water Shuriken / Dark Pulse / Hydro Pump / Spikes
- Choice Specs: Maximum special damage with Water/Dark coverage
In-Game Performance: Greninja excels in Generation 6 games with Water/Dark typing providing excellent coverage. Its early evolution and access to powerful moves make it a fantastic choice for main story playthroughs.
Verdict: Greninja’s versatility and Speed make it one of the most dangerous starters in competitive play. While it requires careful prediction, its ability to adapt to any situation makes it invaluable.
A+ Tier: Excellent Competitive Options
Rillaboom (OU) – The Grassy Terrain Master
Type: Grass
Abilities: Overgrow, Grassy Surge (Hidden)
Competitive Rank: OU
Last Updated: August 2024
Rillaboom brings something unique to the table: automatic Grassy Terrain setup. This gorilla drummer excels in controlling the battlefield and supporting its team.
Why Rillaboom Excels:
- Grassy Surge: Automatically sets Grassy Terrain upon switching in
- Grassy Glide: Priority Grass move that becomes stronger in Grassy Terrain
- Bulk and Power: Good defensive stats combined with respectable Attack
- Team Utility: Supports Grass-type teammates and provides passive healing
Competitive Sets:
- Terrain Setter: Grassy Glide / Wood Hammer / Knock Off / Swords Dance
- Choice Band: Immediate power with Grassy Glide priority
- Defensive: Leech Seed / Protect / Grassy Glide / Knock Off
In-Game Performance: Rillaboom dominates Generation 8 games with Grass typing providing advantages against early gyms. Its evolution timing is perfect, and Grassy Glide makes it incredibly useful throughout the game.
Verdict: Rillaboom’s unique ability to control terrain makes it one of the most strategically valuable starters. While it lacks the raw power of S-tier threats, its team utility is unmatched.
A Tier: Solid Competitive Choices
Primarina (UU) – The Special Wallbreaker
Type: Water/Fairy
Abilities: Torrent, Liquid Voice (Hidden)
Competitive Rank: UU
Last Updated: July 2024
Primarina stands out as one of the best special attackers among starter Pokemon. Its Water/Fairy typing and unique Liquid Voice ability make it a formidable wallbreaker.
Why Primarina Excels:
- Water/Fairy Typing: Excellent defensive and offensive typing
- Liquid Voice: Turns sound-based moves into Water-type moves
- Special Bulk: High Special Defense allows it to tank special attacks
- Movepool: Access to Moonblast, Scald, and Psychic provides great coverage
Competitive Sets:
- Special Wallbreaker: Moonblast / Scald / Psychic / Sparkling Aria
- Defensive: Scald / Moonblast / Protect / Perish Song
- Choice Specs: Maximum special damage with Water/Fairy coverage
In-Game Performance: Primarina excels in Generation 7 games with Water/Fairy typing providing excellent coverage throughout the main story. Its early evolution and access to powerful special moves make it a fantastic choice.
Verdict: Primarina’s unique typing and special attacking prowess make it one of the most reliable Water-type starters. While it lacks the speed of higher-tier threats, its power and bulk compensate well.
Swampert (UU) – The Defensive Powerhouse
Type: Water/Ground
Abilities: Torrent, Damp (Hidden)
Competitive Rank: UU
Last Updated: June 2024
Swampert has been a competitive staple since Generation 3, known for its incredible bulk and offensive presence. This mud fish pokemon excels as both a defensive pivot and offensive threat.
Why Swampert Excels:
- Water/Ground Typing: Only one weakness (Grass) with excellent defensive coverage
- Mega Evolution: Mega Swampert gains Swift Swim and becomes a terrifying rain sweeper
- Physical Bulk: High HP and Defense allow it to tank physical hits
- Stealth Rock: Access to hazards makes it valuable for team support
Competitive Sets:
- Defensive Pivot: Stealth Rock / Earthquake / Scald / Roar
- Mega Swampert: Waterfall / Earthquake / Ice Punch / Swords Dance
- Offensive: Earthquake / Waterfall / Ice Punch / Stealth Rock
In-Game Performance: Swampert dominates Generation 3 games with Water/Ground typing providing excellent coverage. Its evolution timing is perfect, and it carries players through the entire game with ease.
Verdict: Swampert’s combination of bulk, typing, and offensive presence makes it one of the most consistent starters across all generations. Whether you need a defensive pivot or offensive threat, Swampert delivers.
Venusaur (UU) – The Sun Abuser
Type: Grass/Poison
Abilities: Overgrow, Chlorophyll (Hidden)
Competitive Rank: UU
Last Updated: May 2024
Venusaur represents the original Grass starter and remains one of the most competitively viable. Its access to Chlorophyll and Mega Evolution makes it incredibly versatile.
Why Venusaur Excels:
- Chlorophyll Ability: Doubles speed in sunlight, making it a terrifying sweeper
- Mega Evolution: Mega Venusaur gains Thick Fat and incredible bulk
- Grass/Poison Typing: Excellent defensive typing with few weaknesses
- Status Support: Access to Sleep Powder and Leech Seed provides utility
Competitive Sets:
- Sun Sweeper: Growth / Giga Drain / Sludge Bomb / Sleep Powder
- Mega Venusaur: Giga Drain / Sludge Bomb / Leech Seed / Synthesis
- Defensive: Leech Seed / Protect / Giga Drain / Sludge Bomb
In-Game Performance: Venusaur excels in Generation 1 games with Grass/Poison typing providing advantages against early gyms. Its early evolution and access to status moves make it incredibly useful throughout the game.
Verdict: Venusaur’s versatility and sun synergy make it one of the most strategically flexible Grass starters. Whether you need a sweeper, wall, or support pokemon, Venusaur can fill the role.
B+ Tier: Good Competitive Options
Incineroar (RU) – The Doubles Specialist
Type: Fire/Dark
Abilities: Blaze, Intimidate (Hidden)
Competitive Rank: RU
Last Updated: April 2024
Incineroar has found its niche in doubles formats, where its Intimidate ability and support moves make it invaluable. While less impressive in singles, it’s a doubles powerhouse.
Why Incineroar Excels:
- Intimidate Ability: Lowers opponents’ Attack, providing immediate team support
- Doubles Utility: Access to Parting Shot and Fake Out provides incredible support
- Fire/Dark Typing: Good offensive typing with few defensive weaknesses
- Bulk: Decent defensive stats allow it to survive hits
Competitive Sets:
- Doubles Support: Fake Out / Parting Shot / Flare Blitz / Darkest Lariat
- Singles Attacker: Flare Blitz / Darkest Lariat / Earthquake / Swords Dance
- Defensive: Will-O-Wisp / Parting Shot / Flare Blitz / Roar
In-Game Performance: Incineroar performs well in Generation 7 games with Fire/Dark typing providing good coverage. Its evolution timing is solid, and it remains useful throughout the main story.
Verdict: While Incineroar shines brightest in doubles formats, it’s still a solid choice for singles play. Its support capabilities and decent offensive presence make it a reliable starter.
B Tier: Viable Competitive Choices
Blastoise (NU) – The Shell Smash Sweeper
Type: Water
Abilities: Torrent, Rain Dish (Hidden)
Competitive Rank: NU
Last Updated: March 2024
Blastoise has found new life in modern generations with access to Shell Smash, transforming it from a defensive pokemon into a terrifying sweeper.
Why Blastoise Excels:
- Shell Smash: Boosts Attack, Special Attack, and Speed by two stages
- Water Typing: Pure Water typing provides excellent defensive coverage
- Special Movepool: Access to Hydro Pump, Ice Beam, and Aura Sphere
- Defensive Utility: Can still function as a defensive pivot when needed
Competitive Sets:
- Shell Smash: Shell Smash / Hydro Pump / Ice Beam / Aura Sphere
- Defensive: Scald / Ice Beam / Rapid Spin / Roar
- Specs Attacker: Hydro Pump / Ice Beam / Dark Pulse / Aura Sphere
In-Game Performance: Blastoise performs excellently in Generation 1 games with Water typing providing advantages throughout. Its evolution timing is perfect, and it remains one of the most reliable Water starters.
Verdict: Blastoise’s access to Shell Smash has revitalized its competitive presence. While it requires setup, its sweeping potential is undeniable and makes it a viable choice for competitive teams.
Decidueye (NU) – The Physical Wallbreaker
Type: Grass/Ghost
Abilities: Overgrow, Long Reach (Hidden)
Competitive Rank: NU
Last Updated: February 2024
Decidueye brings a unique Grass/Ghost typing combination that sets it apart from other starters. Its signature move Spirit Shackle provides incredible utility.
Why Decidueye Excels:
- Grass/Ghost Typing: Unique typing with few weaknesses and good offensive coverage
- Spirit Shackle: Signature move that traps opponents, preventing switches
- Physical Movepool: Access to Leaf Blade, Shadow Sneak, and Brave Bird
- Hisuian Form: Grass/Fighting form provides different utility
Competitive Sets:
- Physical Attacker: Leaf Blade / Spirit Shackle / Shadow Sneak / Brave Bird
- Trapper: Spirit Shackle / Leaf Blade / Roost / Toxic
- Hisuian Form: Triple Arrows / Close Combat / Leaf Blade / Shadow Sneak
In-Game Performance: Decidueye performs well in Generation 7 games with Grass/Ghost typing providing unique coverage. Its evolution timing is solid, and Spirit Shackle makes it incredibly useful throughout the game.
Verdict: Decidueye’s unique typing and trapping ability make it one of the most strategically interesting Grass starters. While it lacks the raw power of higher-tier threats, its utility is unmatched.
C+ Tier: Niche Competitive Options
Inteleon (NU) – The Speedy Special Attacker
Type: Water
Abilities: Torrent, Sniper (Hidden)
Competitive Rank: NU
Last Updated: January 2024
Inteleon represents the fastest Water-type starter, boasting incredible Speed but lacking in other areas. It excels as a revenge killer but struggles with bulk.
Why Inteleon Excels:
- Incredible Speed: Base 120 Speed outpaces most threats in its tier
- Special Movepool: Access to Hydro Pump, Ice Beam, and Dark Pulse
- Sniper Ability: Powers up critical hits, making it threatening when it scores them
- Cleaner Potential: Can sweep weakened teams with its Speed and power
Competitive Sets:
- Special Attacker: Hydro Pump / Ice Beam / Dark Pulse / U-turn
- Choice Specs: Maximum special damage with Water coverage
- Cleaner: Hydro Pump / Ice Beam / Air Slash / Focus Energy
In-Game Performance: Inteleon performs adequately in Generation 8 games with Water typing providing good coverage. Its evolution timing is late, but its Speed makes it useful for revenge killing throughout the game.
Verdict: Inteleon’s incredible Speed makes it a viable revenge killer, but its lack of bulk and reliance on prediction hold it back from higher tiers. It’s a niche choice that requires careful play.
C Tier: Situational Competitive Choices
Sceptile (PUBL) – The Electric Terrain Abuser
Type: Grass
Abilities: Overgrow, Unburden (Hidden)
Competitive Rank: PUBL
Last Updated: December 2023
Sceptile has found a small niche in modern generations with Unburden and Electric Terrain teams, but it struggles to find consistent success outside of these specific strategies.
Why Sceptile Excels:
- Unburden Ability: Doubles Speed when item is consumed, enabling sweeping
- Electric Terrain Synergy: Works well with Electric Seed and terrain teams
- Mega Evolution: Mega Sceptile gains Grass/Dragon typing and Lightning Rod
- Speed: Naturally high Speed allows it to outpace many threats
Competitive Sets:
- Unburden Sweeper: Acrobatics / Leaf Blade / Swords Dance / Protect
- Mega Sceptile: Leaf Storm / Dragon Pulse / Focus Blast / Protect
- Electric Terrain: Leaf Blade / Acrobatics / Swords Dance / Protect
In-Game Performance: Sceptile performs well in Generation 3 games with Grass typing providing advantages against early gyms. Its evolution timing is perfect, and it remains one of the fastest Grass starters.
Verdict: Sceptile requires specific team support to reach its full potential, but when properly supported, it can be devastating. Its niche is small but effective for players willing to build around it.
Charizard (PU) – The Niche Special Attacker
Type: Fire/Flying
Abilities: Blaze, Solar Power (Hidden)
Competitive Rank: PU
Last Updated: November 2023
Charizard remains one of the most popular Pokemon despite its competitive struggles. Its Mega Evolutions save it from complete obscurity, but its base form struggles in modern metagames.
Why Charizard Excels:
- Mega Evolutions: Both Mega Charizard X and Y are incredibly powerful
- Solar Power Ability: Boosts Special Attack in sunlight, enabling wallbreaking
- Special Movepool: Access to Fire Blast, Solar Beam, and Dragon Pulse
- Popularity: Remains one of the most beloved Pokemon, giving it psychological value
Competitive Sets:
- Mega Charizard X: Dragon Dance / Flare Blitz / Dragon Claw / Earthquake
- Mega Charizard Y: Fire Blast / Solar Beam / Dragon Pulse / Roost
- Solar Power: Fire Blast / Solar Beam / Focus Blast / Air Slash
In-Game Performance: Charizard performs excellently in Generation 1 games with Fire/Flying typing providing good coverage. Its evolution timing is late, but its power makes it worth the wait.
Verdict: Charizard’s competitive viability almost entirely depends on its Mega Evolutions. Without them, it struggles in modern metagames, but its popularity and Mega potential keep it relevant.
Complete Starter Pokemon Tier List by Generation (2026)
Generation 1 Starters
| Pokemon | Type | Competitive Rank | Tier | Best Role |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bulbasaur | Grass/Poison | UU | A | Sun sweeper |
| Charmander | Fire/Flying | PU | C | Special wallbreaker |
| Squirtle | Water | NU | B | Shell smash sweeper |
Generation 2 Starters
| Pokemon | Type | Competitive Rank | Tier | Best Role |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chikorita | Grass | PU | D | Defensive support |
| Cyndaquil | Fire | RU | B+ | Fast special attacker |
| Totodile | Water | UU | A | Physical wallbreaker |
Generation 3 Starters
| Pokemon | Type | Competitive Rank | Tier | Best Role |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Treecko | Grass | PUBL | C | Electric terrain sweeper |
| Torchic | Fire/Fighting | UUBL | S | Speed boost sweeper |
| Mudkip | Water/Ground | UU | A | Defensive pivot |
Generation 4 Starters
| Pokemon | Type | Competitive Rank | Tier | Best Role |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Turtwig | Grass/Ground | NU | C | Physical tank |
| Chimchar | Fire/Fighting | RU | B+ | Fast physical attacker |
| Piplup | Water/Steel | UU | A | Special wallbreaker |
Generation 5 Starters
| Pokemon | Type | Competitive Rank | Tier | Best Role |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Snivy | Grass | NU | C | Defensive support |
| Tepig | Fire/Fighting | NU | C | Physical wallbreaker |
| Oshawott | Water | RU | B+ | Mixed attacker |
Generation 6 Starters
| Pokemon | Type | Competitive Rank | Tier | Best Role |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chespin | Grass/Fighting | NU | C | Physical tank |
| Fennekin | Fire/Psychic | RU | B+ | Special wallbreaker |
| Froakie | Water/Dark | OU | S | Versatile attacker |
Generation 7 Starters
| Pokemon | Type | Competitive Rank | Tier | Best Role |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rowlet | Grass/Ghost | NU | B | Physical trapper |
| Litten | Fire/Dark | RU | B+ | Doubles support |
| Popplio | Water/Fairy | UU | A | Special wallbreaker |
Generation 8 Starters
| Pokemon | Type | Competitive Rank | Tier | Best Role |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grookey | Grass | OU | A+ | Terrain controller |
| Scorbunny | Fire | Ubers | S+ | Libero attacker |
| Sobble | Water | NU | C+ | Fast special attacker |
Generation 9 Starters
| Pokemon | Type | Competitive Rank | Tier | Best Role |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sprigatito | Grass | RU | B+ | Fast physical attacker |
| Fuecoco | Fire/Ghost | UU | A | Special wallbreaker |
| Quaxly | Water/Flying | NU | C | Defensive support |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best starter Pokemon for competitive battling?
Based on comprehensive competitive analysis, Cinderace stands as the best starter Pokemon for competitive battling. As the only starter to reach Ubers tier, Cinderace’s Libero ability and incredible movepool make it game-breakingly powerful. Following closely are Blaziken and Greninja, both of which have dominated competitive tiers for multiple generations.
Which starter Pokemon is best for in-game story progression?
For in-game story progression, Swampert and Venusaur consistently perform well across their respective generations. Swampert’s Water/Ground typing provides excellent coverage with only one weakness, while Venusaur’s Grass/Poison typing and status moves make it incredibly versatile throughout the main story.
Are Fire-type starters generally better than Water or Grass types?
Statistically, Fire-type starters tend to perform better competitively than Water or Grass types. This is largely due to their offensive typing and access to powerful moves. However, Water-type starters like Swampert and Primarina, and Grass-types like Venusaur and Rillaboom, prove that type alone doesn’t determine competitive success.
How often do starter Pokemon tier lists change?
Starter Pokemon tier lists typically change with new game releases, mechanic changes, or competitive tier shifts. Major updates usually occur 2-4 times per year, with the most significant changes happening when new generations introduce powerful new starters or mechanics that alter the competitive landscape.
Should I choose my starter based on this tier list?
While this tier list provides excellent competitive guidance, I recommend choosing your starter based on personal preference first. Pokemon is ultimately about enjoying your journey, and the emotional connection to your starter often matters more than competitive viability. However, if competitive battling is your primary goal, this tier list will help you make the most informed choice possible.
What makes a starter Pokemon competitively viable?
Several factors contribute to a starter Pokemon’s competitive viability: excellent typing (defensive and offensive), powerful abilities (like Speed Boost or Libero), strong movepool coverage, good stat distribution, and the ability to fulfill multiple roles on a team. The most successful starters typically excel in at least three of these areas.
How do Mega Evolutions affect starter Pokemon rankings?
Mega Evolutions significantly boost several starters’ competitive viability. Mega Blaziken, Mega Charizard X/Y, Mega Venusaur, and Mega Swampert all elevate their base forms to much higher competitive tiers. However, with the temporary removal of Mega Evolutions in recent generations, some starters have seen their competitive rankings decline.
What’s the difference between popularity-based and competitive tier lists?
Popularity-based tier lists (like the one from PokemonTierLists.com) reflect community voting and personal preferences, while competitive tier lists (like this one) focus on battle performance and tournament results. Popularity can influence competitive usage, but the two don’t always align – some beloved starters like Charizard struggle competitively, while less popular ones like Cinderace dominate.
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Final Thoughts
Creating this comprehensive Starter Pokemon Tier List has been an incredible journey through Pokemon history. From the original trio of Bulbasaur, Charmander, and Squirtle to the latest Generation 9 starters, each Pokemon brings something unique to the table.
Remember that while competitive viability is important, the best starter Pokemon is ultimately the one that resonates with you personally. Whether you choose the game-breaking Cinderace, the versatile Greninja, or the beloved Charizard, your journey through the Pokemon world will be unforgettable.
I’ll be updating this tier list regularly as new mechanics, games, and competitive shifts occur. Be sure to bookmark this page and check back for the latest rankings and analysis. Happy training, trainers!
Note: This tier list was last updated in March 2026 and reflects the current competitive metagame. Rankings may change with new game releases or competitive tier shifts.