Which Starter Should You Choose in Pokémon Scarlet? A Paldean Professor’s Perspective

So, you’re about to embark on a grand adventure in the Paldea region with Pokémon Scarlet, and the age-old question looms: which starter should you pick? While there’s no wrong answer (after all, it’s your journey!), Fuecoco offers a strategic advantage, especially for newcomers. Its Fire typing will give you an edge against the first two Gym Leaders, and its final evolution, Skeledirge, is a powerhouse. Ultimately, choose the one that sparks the most joy!

Diving Deeper: Making an Informed Starter Choice

Choosing your starter Pokémon in Pokémon Scarlet is more than just picking the cutest critter. It’s about setting the stage for your entire Paldean adventure. Here’s a more in-depth look at each starter to help you make the perfect choice for you:

Fuecoco: The Fire Croc with Flair

• Pros: Fuecoco starts strong with its Fire typing, offering an early advantage against the Bug and Grass-type Gyms. Skeledirge, its final evolution, gains a Ghost typing, providing immunity to Normal-type moves and access to powerful STAB (Same-Type Attack Bonus) moves. Skeledirge’s signature move, Torch Song, boosts its Special Attack with each use, making it a formidable special attacker.
• Cons: Fire types can struggle against Water, Rock, and Ground-type Pokémon, requiring strategic team building to overcome these weaknesses.
• Best for: Players looking for a strong, straightforward attacker and who want an easier early game. Fuecoco shines in battles that require special attack strength.

Sprigatito: The Grassy Good Cat

• Pros: Sprigatito’s final evolution, Meowscarada, is a Grass/Dark type. This gives it access to strong Dark-type moves and makes it immune to Psychic-type attacks. Meowscarada is incredibly fast and excels at dealing physical damage. Its signature move, Flower Trick, always lands as a critical hit.
• Cons: The Grass typing leaves it vulnerable to Fire, Flying, Poison, Bug, and Ice-type attacks. Players need to be mindful of type matchups to avoid being easily knocked out.
• Best for: Players who prefer a fast, physical attacker with a bit of trickery. Great for those who appreciate a more strategic approach to battles.

Quaxly: The Dapper Duck with Dance Moves

• Pros: Quaxly’s final evolution, Quaquaval, is a Water/Fighting type. It is a physical attacker with high attack and speed stats. Access to Water and Fighting type moves grants it good coverage against different Pokemon types.
• Cons: The Water typing leaves it vulnerable to Electric and Grass-type attacks. Players need to be mindful of type matchups to avoid being easily knocked out.
• Best for: Those that prefer Water-types, and a good all-around physical attacker.

Balancing Act: Considering Your Playstyle

Ultimately, the “best” starter depends entirely on your playstyle. Do you prefer a powerful attacker, a speedy physical sweeper, or a more balanced team? Think about the types of Pokémon you typically enjoy using and how well each starter fits into your preferred team composition.

Also, remember to consider the three storylines in the game (Victory Road, Path of Legends, and Starfall Street) and which starter might give you an advantage in each. The article mentions that Sprigatito is a good choice for the Titans, while Quaxly is helpful against Team Star.

Beyond the Starter: Building Your Dream Team

Don’t get too hung up on the initial choice! Pokémon Scarlet offers an incredible variety of Pokémon to catch and train. Your starter is just the beginning. Focus on building a well-rounded team with diverse type coverage to tackle any challenge Paldea throws your way.

FAQs: Your Burning Starter Questions Answered

1. Is Fuecoco really the “best” starter for beginners?

While Fuecoco’s Fire typing gives you a head start against the early Gyms, “best” is subjective. Fuecoco’s early advantage makes it an easier start. Choose based on your preference!

2. Can I get all three starters in Pokémon Scarlet?

You cannot catch the other starters in the wild. The only way to get all three is through trading with other players, either locally or online.

3. Does my starter choice affect the story?

Your starter choice doesn’t significantly alter the main storyline. The story is consistent regardless of the starter you choose.

4. Is Pokémon Scarlet difficult? Will my starter choice make a big difference?

Pokémon Scarlet has challenging moments, particularly in trainer battles and against Titan Pokémon. Your starter choice can make the early game easier, but a well-leveled team with good type coverage is crucial for success.

5. What are some things I should do first in Pokémon Scarlet?

Focus on completing “The First Day of School” to unlock the open world. Then, explore, catch Pokémon, and tackle the three storylines (Victory Road, Path of Legends, and Starfall Street) at your own pace.

6. What’s the recommended Gym order in Pokémon Scarlet?

Here’s the suggested order: Cortondo (Bug), Artazon (Grass), Levincia (Electric), Cascarrafa (Water), Medali (Normal), Montenevera (Ghost), Alfornada (Psychic), and Glaseado (Ice).

7. What order should I do the Titan battles in Path of Legends?

A suggested order is: Stony Cliff (Klawf), Open Sky (Bombirdier), Lurking Steel (Orthworm), Quaking Earth (Great Tusk/Iron Treads), and False Dragon (Dondozo).

8. Are there any hidden features or things I might miss in Pokémon Scarlet?

Don’t forget to attend Academy Classes, explore Look-Out Towers, claim Pokedex Rewards, customize your Profile Photos, and find Hidden Gimmighouls!

9. Is Pokémon Scarlet a good first Pokémon game?

Absolutely! Pokémon Scarlet minimizes many of the series’ flaws and doubles down on its strengths, making it beginner-friendly and enjoyable for both newcomers and veterans.

10. How long does it take to beat Pokémon Scarlet?

The main storyline typically takes around 25-30 hours to complete. Aiming for 100% completion can take around 79 hours.

11. Is there level scaling in Pokémon Scarlet?

No, there is no level scaling, so you might struggle if you attempt high-level areas too early.

12. What age group is Pokémon Scarlet suitable for?

Pokémon Scarlet is generally suitable for ages 7 and over.

13. Are there multiple endings in Pokémon Scarlet?

The game has one main ending that wraps up the three storylines. However, there is post-game content to explore after the credits roll.

14. Does gender matter in Pokémon Scarlet?

While clothing options are available to everyone, the game still enforces binary gender notions despite having little impact on actual gameplay.

15. What are the version exclusives in Pokémon Scarlet versus Violet?

Pokémon Scarlet features past-themed creatures and Professor Sada, while Pokémon Violet focuses on future-themed creatures and Professor Turo. Version exclusive Pokémon and storyline details differ between the two.

The Paldean Path: A Learning Experience

Remember, your Pokémon Scarlet adventure is more than just battles and collecting. It’s a journey of discovery, friendship, and learning. Take your time, explore the vast Paldea region, and embrace the challenges that come your way. Whether you choose Fuecoco, Sprigatito, or Quaxly, the true reward lies in the experiences you create along the way.

If you are interested in game-based learning, consider exploring the resources available at the Games Learning Society, as well as the GamesLearningSociety.org website for innovative approaches to education and engagement.

Good luck, future Champion! And may your journey be filled with amazing Pokémon and unforgettable memories.