The age-old debate for Pokémon enthusiasts: which Kanto starter rises above the rest in FireRed and LeafGreen? Whether you’re an experienced Nuzlocker or just returning to your Game Boy Advance roots, selecting the right Bulbasaur, Squirtle, or Charmander isn’t just about appearance—it’s a choice that can determine your entire quest. Read on for a look at what makes each starter tick and why some picks can make your adventure even easier. Or more frenzied.
1. Bulbasaur: Early-Game MVP
For a silky smooth beginning, Bulbasaur is the choice. Its Grass/Poison dual typing provides you with an easy win against Brock’s Rock-types and Misty’s Water-types for the first two Gyms. For Nuzlocke challengers, where each fight can be life-or-death, Bulbasaur’s arsenal is a godsend.
Plays such as Leech Seed and Toxic (even after nerfs this gen) allow you to whittle down hard-hitting foes while recovering HP, providing a more secure means of dealing with early-game threats. And its limited weaknesses—Bug, Fire, and Flying—are easily protected by early Rock-types. By the time you’ve established a team around your Venusaur, you’ll be well-positioned to face whatever Kanto throws your way. Bulbasaur isn’t only the convenient option—it’s the tactical one.
2. Squirtle: The Solid Anchor with a Twist
Squirtle is as solid as they get. With good defensive numbers and an effortless victory over Brock, it’s a great pick for players who prefer a no-frills, well-rounded run.
Surf comes in early and packs a punch, and generally speaking, Squirtle’s line feels like the reliable workhorse of the three.
But here’s the catch: once you get Lapras free in-game, Squirtle’s value decreases. Lapras not only takes care of Surf but also introduces Ice-typing into the equation, providing you with improved type coverage as a whole. Nevertheless, for security and reliability in the early game, Squirtle well deserves its popularity.
3. Charmander: The Fan-Favorite Underdog
Charmander could be the most popular of the three—admit it, a lizard-like dragon is not easy to top—but with a rough road. The first two Gyms? Tough. Rock and Water-types are just what Charmander will not want to encounter, and early assistance is not easy to find unless you happen to catch a Mankey or an Oddish/Bellsprout.
Add to that Charmander’s weaker defenses, which can be a hindrance in Nuzlocke plays, where an ill move can kill a play-through. Its positives—burning Bug and Grass-types—are trivially covered by Pokémon such as Pidgey or Spearow. Charizard is a virtual superstar later in the game, but reaching there is a serious grind. If you want to win the hard way, Charmander’s your choice—but good luck.
4. The Hidden Genius of Professor Oak’s Advice
Here’s a clever little touch that often goes unnoticed: Professor Oak hints at all of this when you’re picking your starter. He says Bulbasaur is “easy to raise,” Squirtle is worth raising, and Charmander should be raised patiently.”
It’s a subtle but smart way the developers communicate the difficulty curve of each choice, especially for new players. It’s like the game is whispering in your ear, “Are you certain you want to do it the hard way?” But, sometimes going the hardest way there is brings you to the most rewarding quest.