In Pokémon Sun and Moon, as in all core Pokémon games, you’ll begin your adventure by choosing one of three Starter Pokémon. These three Pokémon each represent one of the classic elemental types: Grass, Fire, and Water. Your choice will not only determine your early-game strategy but will also set the stage for battles against rival trainers like Hau. Below are the three Starters in Alola and a breakdown of their traits and evolutions.
The Starters:
- Rowlet (Grass/Flying Type)
- Category: Grass Quill Pokémon
- Ability: Overgrow
- Signature Move: Leafage (Grass-type move)
- Description: Rowlet is a quiet, stealthy fighter inspired by owls. It can fly silently, approaching its target unnoticed, and then strike with powerful kicks. This Pokémon also uses razor-sharp leaves as projectiles to attack from a distance. Rowlet’s unique feature is its ability to twist its neck nearly 180° to see behind itself, a skill that makes it highly observant in battle.
- Rowlet evolves into Dartrix (Grass/Flying-type) and then into Decidueye (Grass/Ghost-type).
- Decidueye uses its signature move, Spirit Shackle, a Ghost-type attack that traps the opponent, preventing them from fleeing or switching out.
- Litten (Fire Type)
- Category: Fire Cat Pokémon
- Ability: Blaze
- Signature Move: Ember (Fire-type move)
- Description: Litten is a mischievous Fire-type with a striking feature: it can attack using flaming furballs. The oils in Litten’s fur allow it to create these fiery projectiles, and when it sheds old fur, it bursts into flames. This Pokémon is known for its independent nature and strong fiery attacks.
- Litten evolves into Torracat (Fire-type) and then into Incineroar (Fire/Dark-type).
- Incineroar is known as the “Heel Pokémon,” a nod to wrestling’s “bad guy” archetype. Its signature move is Darkest Lariat, a Dark-type attack that ignores the target’s stat changes.
- Popplio (Water Type)
- Category: Sea Lion Pokémon
- Ability: Torrent
- Signature Move: Water Gun (Water-type move)
- Description: Popplio is a playful Water-type with an artistic flair. It can create water balloons with its breath, using them in battle to confuse and attack opponents. Popplio is both spirited and hardworking, constantly practicing its balloon-making skills to become a battle performer.
- Popplio evolves into Brionne (Water-type) and then into Primarina (Water/Fairy-type).
- Primarina uses its powerful singing voice to control water balloons in battle, and its signature move, Sparkling Aria, is a unique Water-type attack that heals burns.
Stats and Evolutionary Path:
- Incineroar is a strong choice for players who enjoy a brawler. While its stats are evenly distributed, it’s a bit slow compared to other Starters. Its Dark typing adds a unique flair but also introduces vulnerabilities to Fairy and Fighting-type moves. If you prefer an offensive playstyle and don’t mind its slower speed, Incineroar can still be very effective in battle.
- Decidueye is a great choice for those who prefer a more tactical, ranged fighter. Its Ghost typing grants it a unique edge with immunities and resistances, but it also makes it vulnerable to Ghost and Dark-type moves. Decidueye shines with its high Special Defense and versatile move pool, making it a solid all-around choice.
- Primarina is best for players who favor special attackers. Its high Special Attack and Special Defense make it a formidable opponent in both offense and defense. However, its Water/Fairy typing leaves it open to Electric-type moves, so it’s important to cover this weakness when building your team.
Final Thoughts:
All three Starters—Rowlet, Litten, and Popplio—are viable picks for your journey across Alola. While Litten’s evolution, Incineroar, might be the weakest of the three in terms of stats and versatility, it’s a fantastic choice if you enjoy a wrestling-inspired design and a Dark-type Pokémon.
Rowlet and Decidueye, with their Ghost typing, bring a tactical edge to your team, especially for players who like to keep their opponents guessing with status effects like trapping moves.
Lastly, Popplio and Primarina stand out for their special prowess, with a balance of elegance and power. As a Water/Fairy-type, Primarina has access to some amazing moves and can be a powerhouse in the later stages of the game.
Ultimately, the best Starter is the one that matches your playstyle and the one that excites you the most. So, choose the Pokémon that appeals to you the most and enjoy your adventure through the Alola region!
And remember, you can always replace your Starter later in the game once you capture wild Pokémon to cover any weaknesses.
