Unveiling the Gen 9 Starters: Your Guide to Paldea’s Partners
The Gen 9 starters in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet are Sprigatito (Grass-type), Fuecoco (Fire-type), and Quaxly (Water-type). These three adorable creatures are your companions as you embark on your adventure in the Paldea region. Each one boasts unique characteristics, evolutionary paths, and battling potential, making the choice of which to pick a crucial first step in your Pokémon journey. Let’s delve deeper into each of these fascinating Pokémon.
A Closer Look at Sprigatito, Fuecoco, and Quaxly
Sprigatito: The Grass Cat Pokémon
Sprigatito is a capricious, attention-seeking Grass-type Pokémon. Its description in the game emphasizes its love for attention, often getting sulky if ignored. It’s a playful and energetic partner, making it a popular choice for trainers who appreciate a bit of feline charm. Its final evolution, Meowscarada, is a Grass/Dark-type that uses deception and stealth in battle.
Fuecoco: The Fire Croc Pokémon
Fuecoco is a laid-back and food-loving Fire-type Pokémon. This cute little crocodile is known for its goofy personality and habit of setting things on fire accidentally. It is a powerful choice for trainers who like Fire-type Pokémon. Skeledirge, its final evolution, is a Fire/Ghost-type that sings haunting melodies to incinerate its foes.
Quaxly: The Water Duckling Pokémon
Quaxly is an earnest and tidy Water-type Pokémon. This duckling is known for its dedication to keeping itself clean and its strong sense of self-worth. It is a reliable choice for trainers who want a dependable Pokémon. Its final evolution, Quaquaval, is a Water/Fighting-type that uses dance-like movements in battle.
Gen 9 Starters: Frequently Asked Questions
Here are 15 frequently asked questions (FAQs) to provide even more details about the Gen 9 starters.
1. What are the evolution stages for each Gen 9 starter?
- Sprigatito: Sprigatito -> Floragato (Level 16) -> Meowscarada (Level 36)
- Fuecoco: Fuecoco -> Crocalor (Level 16) -> Skeledirge (Level 36)
- Quaxly: Quaxly -> Quaxwell (Level 16) -> Quaquaval (Level 36)
2. Are the Gen 9 starters Shiny locked?
Yes, the Gen 9 starter Pokémon Sprigatito, Fuecoco, and Quaxly are Shiny locked in Pokémon Scarlet & Violet, meaning you cannot obtain them as Shiny Pokémon through the initial selection process or by breeding.
3. Which Gen 9 starter is considered the “best” competitively?
There’s no universally agreed-upon “best,” as it depends on playstyle and team composition. However, Skeledirge is often cited as a strong contender due to its unique typing, good stats, and signature move, Torch Song, which boosts its Special Attack each time it’s used. Meowscarada is known for it’s high speed, and Quaquaval has the strongest physical attack of the three.
4. What are the secondary typings of the final evolutions?
- Meowscarada: Dark
- Skeledirge: Ghost
- Quaquaval: Fighting
5. Which Gen 9 starter is the fastest?
Sprigatito, and subsequently its evolution line ending in Meowscarada, is the fastest of the three starters, and it continues to be so in their final evolutions.
6. Are there any hidden abilities for the Gen 9 starters?
Yes, each starter has a hidden ability:
- Sprigatito (Meowscarada): Protean (Changes the Pokémon’s type to the type of the move it is about to use.)
- Fuecoco (Skeledirge): Unaware (Ignores the opponent’s stat changes.)
- Quaxly (Quaquaval): Moxie (Raises Attack one stage when the Pokémon knocks out another Pokémon.)
7. Which starter is best for beginners?
Again, it’s subjective, but Fuecoco can be a good choice for beginners due to its higher HP and Defensive stats in its final evolution. It can take hits more easily, providing more opportunities to learn the game’s mechanics.
8. What are some popular movesets for the final evolutions?
- Meowscarada: Flower Trick, Knock Off, Play Rough, U-Turn
- Skeledirge: Torch Song, Shadow Ball, Earth Power, Will-O-Wisp
- Quaquaval: Aqua Step, Close Combat, Brave Bird, Swords Dance
9. Which starter is the most popular overall?
Popularity varies by region and personal preference, but Fuecoco has generally garnered a lot of affection online due to its charming design and personality.
10. How do the Gen 9 starters compare to previous generations?
Each generation’s starters bring unique designs and typings to the table. The Gen 9 starters continue this trend, offering a blend of cuteness and strategic potential. Meowscarada’s Protean ability is very strong and useful, making it popular with trainers. Skeledirge’s typing makes it more useful than other Fire Pokémon.
11. What are the signature moves of the Gen 9 starters’ final evolutions?
- Meowscarada: Flower Trick (Grass-type physical move that always results in a critical hit.)
- Skeledirge: Torch Song (Fire-type special move that raises the user’s Special Attack by one stage.)
- Quaquaval: Aqua Step (Water-type physical move that raises the user’s Speed by one stage.)
12. Are the Gen 9 starters good for Raids?
Yes, all three final evolutions can be effective in raids with the right movesets and strategies. Skeledirge’s Torch Song can quickly boost its Special Attack for massive damage output.
13. How do the Gen 9 starters fit into the Paldea region’s lore?
While not explicitly tied to any specific lore, their designs and typings fit well with the Spanish-inspired theme of the Paldea region.
14. Can you breed the Gen 9 starters?
Yes, once you have progressed far enough in the game to have a Ditto, you can breed any of the Gen 9 starters, and they will produce eggs of the respective base form (Sprigatito, Fuecoco, or Quaxly).
15. How do I choose the right starter for me?
Ultimately, the “best” starter is the one you connect with the most. Consider their designs, types, and potential playstyles. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find the Pokémon that best complements your team and battling preferences! Maybe the research found on GamesLearningSociety.org could help you decide.
Making Your Choice: A Matter of Personal Connection
Choosing your Gen 9 starter is more than just a strategic decision; it’s about forging a bond with a partner that will accompany you throughout your Paldean adventure. Each Pokémon offers unique strengths and appeals, making the selection a deeply personal one. Whether you’re drawn to the playful Sprigatito, the laid-back Fuecoco, or the earnest Quaxly, your chosen starter will undoubtedly become a cherished member of your team. So, take your time, consider your options, and embark on your journey with confidence, knowing that the right choice is the one that feels right for you. Have fun exploring Paldea!