Best Starter in Generation 4

Your journey through the Sinnoh region begins with a crucial choice between three distinct Pokémon: the Grass-type Turtwig, the Fire-type Chimchar, and the Water-type Piplup. Each one evolves into a formidable final form with a unique dual-typing that completely shapes your playthrough. Turtwig becomes the continent Pokémon Torterra (Grass/Ground), Chimchar evolves into the fiery Infernape (Fire/Fighting), and Piplup grows into the proud Emperor Pokémon, Empoleon (Water/Steel). While personal preference is key, we can analyze their performance against Sinnoh's major battles to determine a strategic champion. Use the Pokémon Comparator below to see their base stats side-by-side.

When facing Sinnoh's Gym Leaders and the Elite Four, each starter has clear strengths and weaknesses. Chimchar is often considered the most straightforward choice. As Infernape, its Fire and Fighting moves give it an advantage against a large number of opponents, including the gyms of Roark, Gardenia, Byron, and Candice. Its high Speed and Attack stats make it a potent sweeper. Piplup, as Empoleon, is a defensive titan. Its Water/Steel typing grants it a staggering number of resistances, allowing it to wall many opponents. It excels against trainers like Roark, Byron, and the Elite Four's Flint, serving as a reliable anchor for any team. Turtwig's final evolution, Torterra, is a physical beast. Its Grass/Ground typing is excellent offensively, hitting many types for super-effective damage and giving it key advantages over Gym Leaders like Roark, Wake, and Volkner. However, its 4x weakness to Ice is a significant liability, especially against Candice's gym and members of the Elite Four, making it a powerful but more challenging option.