Starter strategy for Pokémon Red and Blue
Jumping into the Kanto region for the first time is as much about your approach as it is about the battles you fight. The choice of starter—Bulbasaur, Charmander, or Squirtle—shapes your early game rhythm, your gym challenges, and the pace at which you fill your roster. Each option brings a distinct toolkit and a different storytelling arc, so the best pick is the one that feels most aligned with your playstyle.
What each starter brings to the table
- Bulbasaur — A popular—almost classic—first pick for a smoother early run. Its Grass-type moves give you a meaningful edge against Brock’s Rock-type lineup, making the first Gym encounter feel less punishing. As you train, Bulbasaur evolves into Ivysaur and then Venusaur, offering solid bulk and utility through the majority of the game. The trade-off? You’ll need to navigate Fire and Psychic-type challenges with care, and you may miss some early-type diversity if you lean heavily on Grass.
- Charmander — The choice for players who crave a steady challenge. Charmander starts with weaker defenses in the early portion of the game, but its Fire-type moves scale into one of the most reliable power curves in Gen I. If you enjoy turning up the heat later in your team’s evolution, Charmander rewards patience with strong offensive presence and a dramatic late-game payoff. The trade-off is a bumpier early game as you wrestle through some gym matchups where Fire isn't ideal.
- Squirtle — The balanced option that often feels forgiving and approachable. Water-type moves provide sturdy coverage against many early foes, helping you stay durable during the mid-game push. Squirtle’s evolution into Wartortle and then Blastoise emphasizes resilience and steady progression, making it a dependable companion for players who want to avoid frequent surgical gym-type planning. The light edge here is that you might miss some of the sharper type matchups you get with Bulbasaur or Charmander, but you’ll rarely feel underpowered.
“Your starter isn’t a loud declaration of skill—it’s a lens through which you enjoy the journey. Pick what makes the climb feel rewarding, not what feels easiest on paper.”
Ultimately, the decision should align with your preferred pacing. If you value early-game security and a gym-teasing edge, Bulbasaur is your ally. For players who savor a dramatic rise in power and a seasoned endgame, Charmander delivers. If you want a well-rounded, consistently reliable experience, Squirtle serves as a steady backbone for your team.
One practical approach to strategy is to plan your squad around the starter’s strengths while remaining flexible enough to adapt to what you encounter later. It’s smart to keep an eye out for Pokémon that complement your starter’s weaknesses, so you’re not locked into a single type dynamic. And while you’re planning routes and gym routes, a little on-the-go protection for your own device can keep momentum uninterrupted during long play sessions—consider a Clear Silicone Phone Case - Slim Profile, Durable & Flexible to stay ready for every bus ride or coffee-shop session.
For retro aficionados, revisiting these choices isn’t just about winning battles—it’s about savoring the pacing, the surprises, and the way your team evolves as you chase badges and fill your Pokédex. The early-game decision matters less as a test of skill and more as a reflection of your preferred tempo and the stories you want to tell with your squad.