What is the Coolest Johto Starter? A Definitive Ranking and FAQ

The definitive answer? Cyndaquil. While the choice of a starter Pokémon is a deeply personal one, steeped in nostalgia and individual playstyles, Cyndaquil’s evolution line – Quilava and the powerful Typhlosion – boasts a compelling combination of design, utility, and lore that edges it out as the coolest of the Johto starters. Let’s delve into why, shall we?

Why Cyndaquil Reigns Supreme

Cyndaquil isn’t just “cool” in a subjective sense; it embodies several characteristics that make it objectively appealing:

• Design Simplicity and Elegance: Cyndaquil’s design is deceptively simple, yet incredibly effective. Its small, unassuming form with the perpetually lit flames on its back gives it a unique charm. This simplicity carries through to Quilava and culminates in Typhlosion’s majestic, fiery mane. The evolutions showcase a smooth and visually appealing transition.

• Strategic Advantage: The Fire-type offers a significant offensive advantage against many common Pokémon types. This is especially useful in the early game when your team is still developing. Also, in later games, Typhlosion gains even more moves.

• Nostalgia Factor: For many players who experienced Pokémon Gold and Silver, or their remakes HeartGold and SoulSilver, Cyndaquil represents a cornerstone of their Pokémon journey. The memory of facing the Elite Four with a powerful Typhlosion is a powerful draw.

• Type Advantages & Gym Battles: Sure, Chikorita struggles against the early gyms, but Cyndaquil blazes through the first few challenges with considerable ease. This allows players to experience early success which further cements its position in players’ minds.

• Lore and Mystery: Unlike some Pokémon with extensive backstories, Cyndaquil and its evolutions possess an air of mystery. This allows players to project their own interpretations and narratives onto the Pokémon, fostering a deeper connection.

The Case for Totodile

While I maintain Cyndaquil’s coolness factor, let’s acknowledge Totodile’s strengths. It presents a strong physical attacker. Feraligatr provides valuable coverage with access to diverse Water, Ice, and Dark moves. For those preferring brute force, Totodile is certainly a viable contender.

The Case for Chikorita (a.k.a. The Underdog)

I commend players who select Chikorita. It is an experience that demands strategic team building. Chikorita’s design is undeniably unique, embodying a natural grace. It offers a genuinely rewarding playthrough for those who seek a challenge.

In Conclusion: It’s a Matter of Perspective

Ultimately, the “coolest” Johto starter is a matter of personal preference. However, Cyndaquil possesses a distinct blend of design, strategic utility, nostalgia, and lore that makes it a front-runner in the cool-factor competition.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is Cyndaquil or Totodile a better starter for beginners?

For a first-time player, Cyndaquil often presents a slightly easier start due to its favorable matchups against early Gym Leaders. Its Fire typing also provides a straightforward offensive advantage. Totodile is a great option for those who want a challenge.

2. Why is Chikorita often considered the “worst” Johto starter?

Chikorita faces a tough challenge early on. It’s a Grass-type with poor matchups against the first two Gyms. Its movepool can also be somewhat limited. As such, it is the hardest to manage.

3. Which Johto starter has the best final evolution?

This is subjective, but Typhlosion (Cyndaquil’s final form) generally receives high praise for its powerful special attack stat and access to strong Fire-type moves. Feraligatr (Totodile’s final form) is a force to be reckoned with as well. Meganium (Chikorita’s final form) may be an underdog but its support utility and defensive capabilities can shine.

4. Does the choice of starter affect the overall difficulty of Pokémon Gold, Silver, or Crystal?

Yes, the starter choice significantly impacts the early game’s difficulty. Cyndaquil offers an easier start, Totodile presents a moderate challenge, and Chikorita requires more strategic team building.

5. Which Johto starter is the most popular in competitive battling?

This varies depending on the specific meta. Feraligatr often sees competitive use due to its Sheer Force ability and access to strong physical attacks.

6. Which is better for my team composition?

The best choice always depends on your planned team strategy. If you need a strong special attacker, Cyndaquil is the way to go. Totodile is a strong physical attacker while Chikorita’s strength is in its defensive ability and team support.

7. What are the weaknesses of each Johto starter?

• Cyndaquil: Weak to Ground, Rock, and Water.
• Totodile: Weak to Electric and Grass.
• Chikorita: Weak to Fire, Flying, Poison, Bug, and Ice.

8. Are there any significant differences between the Gold/Silver and HeartGold/SoulSilver versions regarding starters?

No, the basic stats, types, and evolution lines of the starters remain the same. However, HeartGold and SoulSilver feature updated movepools and abilities that can influence their effectiveness.

9. How do I know if my starter has good stats?

Check the Pokémon’s nature and Individual Values (IVs). A beneficial nature (e.g., Modest for Typhlosion) and high IVs in key stats (e.g., Special Attack for Typhlosion) will significantly improve its performance.

10. Can I catch all three Johto starters in any of the Generation II games or their remakes?

Not in a single playthrough. You must trade with other players or use save editing tools (which are generally not recommended for legitimate gameplay) to obtain all three.

11. Does Ash Ketchum ever choose a Johto starter in the anime?

Yes, Ash catches all three Johto starters. Chikorita eventually evolves into Bayleef, while Cyndaquil and Totodile remain in their unevolved forms.

12. What is the best move set for Typhlosion?

A common and effective move set includes:

• Flamethrower (or Lava Plume for more PP)
• Earthquake (for coverage against Rock types)
• Focus Blast (for coverage against other types)
• Solar Beam (requires Sunny Day support for immediate use)

13. What is the best move set for Feraligatr?

A common and effective move set includes:

• Waterfall
• Ice Punch
• Crunch
• Earthquake

14. What is the best move set for Meganium?

A common and effective move set includes:

• Giga Drain
• Reflect
• Light Screen
• Aromatherapy

15. Are there any studies on the effects of choosing different starters on player experience?

While there may not be specific academic studies focusing solely on the Johto starters, research in game studies explores player choice and its impact on engagement and learning. For example, the Games Learning Society is dedicated to understanding how gameplay can promote learning and development. This could include exploring how different starter choices shape players’ strategic thinking and problem-solving skills. You can learn more about their work at GamesLearningSociety.org.

The world of Pokémon is wide and varied with plenty to explore. There is definitely something for every kind of player to enjoy!