Sun and Moon Pokemon Starters Complete Starter Guide
Choosing your first companion in the Alola region is a monumental decision that shapes your entire island challenge journey. Pokémon Sun and Moon introduced a vibrant trio of starters, each bringing unique typing combinations and distinct strategic advantages to the table. Evaluating their growth, base statistics, and final forms will help you select the ideal partner for your adventure.
Rowlet The Grass and Flying Type Contender
Rowlet stands out as an incredibly popular choice due to its dual Grass and Flying typing right from the beginning of the game. This unique combination gives trainers an early advantage against Grass, Fighting, and Bug-type opponents found throughout the islands. Its physical and special stats are relatively balanced, allowing for a versatile moveset during the early stages.
As Rowlet evolves into Dartrix and eventually into Decidueye, it sheds its Flying type to become a Grass and Ghost-type Pokémon. This final evolution gains access to the powerful signature move Spirit Shackle, which prevents opposing monsters from fleeing or switching out. Players looking for a tactical, defensive playstyle with tricky status moves will find this evolutionary line highly rewarding.
Litten The Fire Type Powerhouse
For trainers who prefer a straightforward, offensive approach, Litten offers incredible physical attack power and high baseline speed. The pure Fire-type starter easily melts through early Bug and Grass-type encounters on Melemele Island. Its aggressive stat distribution ensures that you can defeat most wild encounters before they have a chance to strike back.
Upon reaching its final form, Incineroar, this fiery feline gains the Dark secondary typing, significantly shifting its competitive viability. Incineroar boasts excellent physical bulk alongside its signature move, Darkest Lariat, which completely ignores the stat changes of your opponent. This combination makes it a premier choice for clearing difficult totem battles and defeating the Elite Four.
Popplio The Versatile Water Type Choice
Popplio is an excellent option for players who want to focus on high special attack and exceptional special defense metrics. This Water-type companion excels at utilizing powerful special moves to wash away Rock and Ground-type adversaries. Its early progression is incredibly smooth, providing reliable damage output against many early-game trial captains.
When Popplio reaches its final evolutionary stage, Primarina, it adopts a dual Water and Fairy typing. This powerful typing grants complete immunity to Dragon-type attacks while providing devastating coverage against Fighting, Dark, and Fire opponents. Primarina can also utilize its unique signature move, Sparkling Aria, to heal burns while dealing massive special damage to targets.
Making Your Final Selection
Ultimately, selecting the best partner relies heavily on your intended team composition and preferred combat strategy. Rowlet offers excellent utility and strategic positioning, Litten provides raw physical power, and Popplio delivers unmatched special offensive capabilities. Balancing these elements will guarantee a successful journey across the beautiful islands of Alola.