Welcome, Trainers!
Choosing your first Pokémon is one of the biggest decisions a Trainer ever makes — it’s the start of every great adventure! From the moment you meet your first partner in the tall grass, a lifelong friendship begins.
To celebrate that bond, we asked Pokémon fans around the world to vote for their favorite starter Pokémon of all time. Thousands of votes came in, and the results are finally here! 🌟
So grab your Poké Balls, Trainers — let’s count down the Top 10 Starter Pokémon that have captured hearts for generations!
🥇 #1 – Charizard (Kanto)
Type: Fire/Flying
Starter Line: Charmander → Charmeleon → Charizard
The original Fire-type powerhouse reigns supreme! Charizard’s fiery wings and fierce loyalty have made it a fan favorite since the earliest days in Kanto. Whether soaring above the Indigo Plateau or Mega Evolving into a blazing dragon, Charizard’s presence is legendary.
🔥 Fan Quote: “Charizard was my first Pokémon back in Red version — he’ll always be my champion!”
🥈 #2 – Greninja (Kalos)
Type: Water/Dark
Starter Line: Froakie → Frogadier → Greninja
Swift, stealthy, and undeniably cool — Greninja leapt into fans’ hearts with its ninja moves and signature Water Shuriken attack. Its unique “Battle Bond” form with Ash in the anime made it a global icon and even earned it a spot in Super Smash Bros.
💧 Fun Fact: Greninja was voted the world’s favorite Pokémon in the 2020 official poll!
🥉 #3 – Bulbasaur (Kanto)
Type: Grass/Poison
Starter Line: Bulbasaur → Ivysaur → Venusaur
The first Pokémon in the National Pokédex and the OG Grass-type starter! Bulbasaur’s gentle nature and loyal heart make it the perfect first companion for new Trainers. Plus, who doesn’t love that little bulb glowing as it grows stronger?
🌱 Trainer Tip: In the anime, Ash’s Bulbasaur famously refused to evolve — showing true spirit and heart.
🕊️ #4 – Rowlet (Alola)
Type: Grass/Flying
Starter Line: Rowlet → Dartrix → Decidueye
The roundest, fluffiest owl of them all — Rowlet captured hearts with its bow tie and polite hoots. Don’t be fooled by the cuteness, though; Rowlet can deliver razor-sharp attacks with its feathered arrows. Smart, stylish, and stealthy!
🌴 Fun Fact: Rowlet can turn its head almost completely around, just like a real owl!
🔥 #5 – Cyndaquil (Johto)
Type: Fire
Starter Line: Cyndaquil → Quilava → Typhlosion
Small in size but big in courage! Cyndaquil’s fiery back and shy personality made it one of Johto’s most beloved starters. Whether it’s battling Team Rocket or lighting the way in the dark, this little fire mouse never backs down.
💫 Pokémon Lore: Hisuian Typhlosion (from Legends: Arceus) channels ghostly flames — a mystical twist on a classic favorite.
🌊 #6 – Mudkip (Hoenn)
Type: Water
Starter Line: Mudkip → Marshtomp → Swampert
“So I herd u liek Mudkips?” — an internet legend that became an eternal meme. Mudkip’s cheerful face and unstoppable power (especially in its Swampert form) make it a beloved starter for competitive players and meme lovers alike.
🌊 Trainer Fact: Swampert can swim faster than a jet ski and sense storms coming miles away!
🌸 #7 – Torchic (Hoenn)
Type: Fire
Starter Line: Torchic → Combusken → Blaziken
A fiery little chick with dreams of greatness! Torchic’s evolution into the mighty Blaziken introduced the world to one of the first Fire/Fighting-type Pokémon. Its Mega Evolution brought the flames even higher — making it both adorable and unstoppable.
🔥 Pokémon Trivia: Blaziken was the first starter Pokémon to get a Mega Evolution!
🐢 #8 – Squirtle (Kanto)
Type: Water
Starter Line: Squirtle → Wartortle → Blastoise
Cool shades? Check. Water cannons? Double check. Squirtle’s combination of attitude and heart makes it a timeless favorite. From the Squirtle Squad to powerful Hydro Pumps, this turtle knows how to make a splash!
💧 Fun Fact: Blastoise’s water jets can shoot through solid steel — talk about pressure!
🐱 #9 – Litten (Alola)
Type: Fire
Starter Line: Litten → Torracat → Incineroar
This cool cat from Alola burns bright with fighting spirit. Litten’s evolution into Incineroar gave the world a Fire-type wrestler Pokémon — powerful, flashy, and full of flair. Loved by fans of both battles and the Pokémon anime.
🔥 Anime Moment: Ash’s Litten had one of the most emotional stories in the Alola series.
🌱 #10 – Chikorita (Johto)
Type: Grass
Starter Line: Chikorita → Bayleef → Meganium
Sweet, gentle, and full of love, Chikorita brings sunshine wherever it goes. Though not the most powerful in battles, its caring nature makes it unforgettable. Many fans still remember Ash’s Chikorita — strong-willed and fiercely loyal.
🌼 Pokémon Fact: Chikorita releases a pleasant aroma from its leaf that calms others — a true peacekeeper Pokémon.
🏅 Honorable Mentions
Some Pokémon barely missed the Top 10 but still deserve a shoutout:
- Totodile (Johto) – The happiest Water-type ever!
- Scorbunny (Galar) – Fast, fiery, and full of energy.
- Turtwig (Sinnoh) – A true nature lover with a big heart.
- Fuecoco (Paldea) – The lovable fire croc with a musical side!
🎉 Final Thoughts
No matter who tops the rankings, every starter Pokémon holds a special place in our hearts.
They’re our first partners, our teammates, and often — our best friends. ❤️
So, Trainers, the question is: Who was your first Pokémon?
Vote in our next community poll and let your voice shape the next generation’s favorites!
🗳️ Click here to cast your vote for “Top Starter Pokémon 2026!”