In Pokémon Legends: Arceus, players are introduced to three distinct starter Pokémon, each hailing from different regions. These starters—Cyndaquil, Rowlet, and Oshawott—each bring their own unique traits, typing, and evolutions. While they share familiar evolutionary lines, the Hisui region has given them new, region-specific final evolutions that alter their typing and abilities.
This guide will cover each starter Pokémon, their evolutions, and provide advice to help you choose the right one for your journey.
Starter Pokémon in Pokémon Legends: Arceus
In Pokémon Legends: Arceus, you can choose one of three starters to begin your adventure. These Pokémon were brought to the Hisui region by the Galaxy Expedition Team from different parts of the world:
- Rowlet (Grass/Flying type)
- Cyndaquil (Fire type)
- Oshawott (Water type)
Though the starters come from different regions, all three can eventually be caught during the endgame, so exclusivity is not a concern when making your choice.
Rowlet – Grass/Flying Type
Rowlet is a round, owl-like Pokémon originally from the Alola region. It is a Grass/Flying-type Pokémon, known as the Grass Quill Pokémon. Rowlet absorbs sunlight through photosynthesis during the day and becomes active at night. However, its Grass/Flying typing can be strategically limiting, as it is vulnerable to Rock-type moves, which are common among Pokémon that counter Grass-types.
- Normal Evolution Line:
Rowlet → Dartrix → Decidueye (Grass/Ghost type) - Hisuian Evolution Line:
Rowlet → Dartrix → Hisuian Decidueye (Grass/Fighting type)
Hisuian Decidueye has swapped its Ghost typing for Fighting-type, which makes it a Grass/Fighting-type Pokémon. This new typing offers different strategic advantages and opportunities in battle.
Cyndaquil – Fire Type
Cyndaquil is a Fire-type Pokémon from the Johto region. This small, timid «Fire Mouse» Pokémon can ignite flames from its back to defend itself. While it starts as a Fire-type, its evolution in the Hisui region has led to a new Fire/Ghost-type form.
- Normal Evolution Line:
Cyndaquil → Quilava → Typhlosion (Fire type) - Hisuian Evolution Line:
Cyndaquil → Quilava → Hisuian Typhlosion (Fire/Ghost type)
Hisuian Typhlosion, unlike its standard Fire-type counterpart, gains the Ghost-type in Pokémon Legends: Arceus. This combination brings new possibilities in battle, providing a unique set of resistances and offensive strategies.
Oshawott – Water Type
Oshawott, the Sea Otter Pokémon, is a Water-type starter from the Unova region. Known for its scalchop (a shell-like tool on its belly), Oshawott uses this item for defense and offense. Like the other starters, Oshawott’s evolution in the Hisui region introduces a new typing for its final form.
- Normal Evolution Line:
Oshawott → Dewott → Samurott (Water type) - Hisuian Evolution Line:
Oshawott → Dewott → Hisuian Samurott (Water/Dark type)
Hisuian Samurott replaces its original Water typing with a dual Water/Dark typing, adding a new layer of offensive and defensive strategy to this evolution.
Choosing Your Starter Pokémon
When choosing your starter Pokémon in Pokémon Legends: Arceus, consider the types and evolutions of each, as well as the rest of your team. For instance, if you plan to add Hisuian Growlithe (Fire/Rock type) or Vulpix (Fire type) to your party, it might be wise to choose a Water- or Grass-type starter to create a more balanced team.
Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal playstyle. Whether you choose Rowlet for its Grass/Fighting-type evolution, Cyndaquil for its Fire/Ghost-type form, or Oshawott for its Water/Dark-type finale, each Pokémon offers a unique experience in the Hisui region. And remember, all three starters can be caught later in the game, so you won’t miss out on any of them.
