First partner Pokémon: Difference between revisions

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[[File:25th Anniversary key art.png|thumb|250px|Artwork featuring the player's starter Pokémon from [[Generation]]s {{Gen|I}} through {{Gen|VIII}} (except Eevee)]]  
[[File:Pokémon Day 2022 Kanto Artwork.png|thumb|300px|{{ga|Red}} picking his first partner Pokémon]]
At the beginning of their quest, {{pkmn|Trainer}}s are given a '''starter Pokémon''' or '''first partner Pokémon''' (Japanese: '''はじめてのポケモン''' ''Beginning Pokémon'' or '''{{tt|最初|さいしょ}}のポケモン''' ''first Pokémon''; known as '''{{tt|御三家|ごさんけ}}''' ''the big three'' among Japanese fans). This {{OBP|Pokémon|species}} will be used to battle the first [[wild Pokémon]] that the {{pkmn|Trainer}} encounters.
A '''first partner Pokémon''', also referred to informally as a '''starter Pokémon''', is the first {{OBP|Pokémon|species}} that a {{pkmn|Trainer}} owns at the start of their [[Pokémon journey]]. This primarily refers to {{t|Grass}}-, {{t|Fire}}-, or {{type|Water}} Pokémon given to players by a [[Pokémon Professor]] or other mentor at the beginning of the [[core series]] [[Pokémon games]], as well as {{p|Pikachu}} in {{game|Yellow}} and Pikachu or {{p|Eevee}} in {{LGPE}}. However, the term can sometimes be used to refer to any Pokémon that was the first one owned by a Trainer.


Once another Pokémon is {{pkmn2|caught}}, the starter Pokémon may be retired, but it is often with this Pokémon that Trainers learn [[friendship]] and trust. As such, even advanced Trainers may still use their starter Pokémon, and they will often be the most powerful Pokémon on their respective teams.
In the games, the player's first partner will be used to battle the first [[wild Pokémon]] they encounter. Once another Pokémon is {{pkmn2|caught}}, their first partner may be retired, but it is often with this Pokémon that Trainers learn [[friendship]] and trust. As such, even advanced Trainers may still use their first partner Pokémon, and they will often be the most powerful Pokémon on their respective teams.


In the [[core series]] games, it is said that the starter Pokémon are extremely rare in the wild, giving the {{player}} a reason why the Pokémon not chosen can't be found in the wild in most of the games.
It is said that the first partner Pokémon are extremely rare in the wild, accounting for their uniqueness in each game.


==In the games==
In the creative process, first partner Pokémon are the Pokémon from each game that the most work goes into, and usually take significantly more time than other Pokémon in each [[generation]].<ref>[https://www.gamesradar.com/how-pokemon-are-born/ How Pokemon are born | GamesRadar+], by Michael Grimm, published 20 March 2009</ref>
In the core series {{pkmn|games}} ([[Pokémon Yellow Version|with two]] [[Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee!|exceptions]]), the player can choose a {{t|Fire}}-, {{t|Water}}-, or {{type|Grass}} starter Pokémon at [[level]] 5. At least one of the player's [[rival]]s will also always choose or have a starter Pokémon, typically the one that has a type advantage over the player's.


===Starter Pokémon===
==Terminology==
====Core series====
[[File:First Partner Pokémon Abound.png|thumb|300px|Promotional image for [[The Indigo Disk]] using the term "first partner Pokémon"<ref>[https://scarletviolet.pokemon.com/en-gb/news/first_partner_pokemon/ Pokémon Scarlet and Pokémon Violet | Familiar First Partner Pokémon].</ref>]]
=====[[Kanto]]=====
{{main|Terminology of first partner Pokémon}}
In [[Pokémon Red and Green Versions|Pokémon Red, Green]], [[Pokémon Blue Version (Japanese)|Blue]], [[Pokémon FireRed and LeafGreen Versions|FireRed, and LeafGreen]], [[Professor Oak]] will bring Trainers to his lab to give them one of the following to begin their journey:


{| style="margin:auto; width:auto; background:#{{kanto color dark}}; text-align:center; font-size:85%; {{roundy}}; border:5px solid #{{kanto color}}"
Since [[Generation VI]], "first partner Pokémon", sometimes shortened to "first partner", has become the primary term used to describe these Pokémon across official media. It is sometimes shortened to simply "first partner". Occasionally, other Pokémon have been referred to as first partner Pokémon, such as {{p|Poipole}} in {{pkmn|Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon|Pokémon Ultra Sun}} and various Pokémon in {{g|Masters EX}}. Krysta Yang, a former public relations manager at [[Nintendo of America]], has claimed that the phrase "partner Pokémon" is preferred in official communication due to "starter Pokémon" implying that the player will "be rid of them" later in the game.<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vqQEFEjLybE&t=6120s Nintendo's Big Announcement Season EXPLAINED - EP81 Kit & Krysta Podcast | Kit & Krysta on YouTube] — Krysta Yang: "They did start using 'partner Pokémon' a couple of years back, but it's been hard for them to get people to catch on to this official terminology because people like to say 'starter Pokémon.' ... I think there was something about how, if you call it a 'starter Pokémon,' you're basically saying that you will be rid of them. ...That was one of the reasons, I believe, is that if you call it a 'starter Pokémon,' it's like, oh, you're only just going to start the game with it, and then you ditch it for your, like, shinies and your legendaries. ... So then the 'partner Pokémon' became the phrasing that they liked better because it's like, 'this is your partner for your whole adventure,' like you really want to get attached to this character, this Pokémon that you start your game with, but it's not just who you start your game with..."</ref>
|-
! colspan=4 style="width:80px; background:#{{kanto color light}}; {{roundytl|5px}}" | {{ArtP|001|Bulbasaur|size=100px}}<br>{{pcolor|Bulbasaur|{{kanto color dark}}}}
! colspan=6 style="width:80px; background:#{{kanto color light}}" | {{ArtP|004|Charmander|size=100px}}<br>{{pcolor|Charmander|{{kanto color dark}}}}
! colspan=4 style="width:80px; background:#{{kanto color light}}; {{roundytr|5px}}" | {{ArtP|007|Squirtle|size=100px}}<br>{{pcolor|Squirtle|{{kanto color dark}}}}
|-
{{typetable2|Grass}}
{{typetable2|Poison}}
| colspan="6" style="background:#{{fire color}}" | {{tcolor|Fire|FFF}}
| colspan="4" style="background:#{{water color}}" | {{tcolor|Water|FFF}}
|- style="background:#{{kanto color light}}"
| colspan=2 | {{ArtP|002|Ivysaur}}
| colspan=2 | {{pcolor|Ivysaur|{{kanto color dark}}}}
| colspan=3 | {{ArtP|005|Charmeleon}}
| colspan=3 | {{pcolor|Charmeleon|{{kanto color dark}}}}
| colspan=2 | {{ArtP|008|Wartortle}}
| colspan=2 | {{pcolor|Wartortle|{{kanto color dark}}}}
|-
{{typetable2|Grass}}
{{typetable2|Poison}}
| colspan="6" style="background:#{{fire color}}" | {{tcolor|Fire|FFF}}
| colspan="4" style="background:#{{water color}}" | {{tcolor|Water|FFF}}
|- style="background:#{{kanto color light}}"
| colspan=2 | {{ArtP|003|Venusaur}}
| colspan=2 | {{pcolor|Venusaur|{{kanto color dark}}}}
| colspan=3 | {{ArtP|006|Charizard}}
| colspan=3 | {{pcolor|Charizard|{{kanto color dark}}}}
| colspan=2 | {{ArtP|009|Blastoise}}
| colspan=2 | {{pcolor|Blastoise|{{kanto color dark}}}}
|-
{{typetable2|Grass}}
{{typetable2|Poison}}
| colspan="3" style="background:#{{fire color}}" | {{tcolor|Fire|FFF}}
| colspan="3" style="background:#{{flying color}}" | {{tcolor|Flying|FFF}}
| colspan="4" style="background:#{{water color}}" | {{tcolor|Water|FFF}}
|- style="background:#{{kanto color light}}"
| {{ArtP|003|Venusaur|form=-Mega}}
| <small>{{color2|{{kanto color dark}}|Mega Evolution|Mega}}</small><br>{{pcolor|Venusaur|{{kanto color dark}}}}
| {{ArtP|003|Venusaur|form=-Gigantamax}}
| <small>{{color2|{{kanto color dark}}|Gigantamax}}</small><br>{{pcolor|Venusaur|{{kanto color dark}}}}
| {{ArtP|006|Charizard|form=-Mega X}}
| <small>{{color2|{{kanto color dark}}|Mega Evolution|Mega}}</small><br>{{pcolor|Charizard|{{kanto color dark}}|Charizard X}}
| {{ArtP|006|Charizard|form=-Mega Y}}
| <small>{{color2|{{kanto color dark}}|Mega Evolution|Mega}}</small><br>{{pcolor|Charizard|{{kanto color dark}}|Charizard Y}}
| {{ArtP|006|Charizard|form=-Gigantamax}}
| <small>{{color2|{{kanto color dark}}|Gigantamax}}</small><br>{{pcolor|Charizard|{{kanto color dark}}|Charizard}}
| {{ArtP|009|Blastoise|form=-Mega}}
| <small>{{color2|{{kanto color dark}}|Mega Evolution|Mega}}</small><br>{{pcolor|Blastoise|{{kanto color dark}}}}
| {{ArtP|009|Blastoise|form=-Gigantamax}}
| <small>{{color2|{{kanto color dark}}|Gigantamax}}</small><br>{{pcolor|Blastoise|{{kanto color dark}}}}
|-
| style="background:#{{grass color}}; {{roundybl|5px}}" | {{tcolor|Grass|FFF}}
{{typetable|Poison}}
{{typetable|Grass}}
{{typetable|Poison}}
{{typetable|Fire}}
{{typetable|Dragon}}
{{typetable|Fire}}
{{typetable|Flying}}
{{typetable|Fire}}
{{typetable|Flying}}
{{typetable2|Water}}
| colspan="2" style="background:#{{water color}}; {{roundybr|5px}}" | {{tcolor|Water|FFF}}
|}


The player's {{ga|Blue|rival}} will then pick the type-advantageous starter Pokémon, and the remaining Pokémon will sit in its {{i|Poké Ball}} on Oak's desk for the rest of the game.
Historically, these Pokémon were known as "starter Pokémon", or "starters", though these terms were rarely used in the {{pkmn|games}} and used occasionally during the second through fourth series of ''[[Pokémon the Series]]''. From ''[[Pokémon the Series: XY]]'' onward, "starter Pokémon" was no longer used in the {{pkmn|animated series}}. [[Tom Wayland]], then-voice director of the English dub, stated at PokéCon 2015 that "starter Pokémon" is "an unofficial term now".<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4EuH-5Fv87g&t=1608s PokéCon 2015 - Tom Wayland on How He Creates Pokémon Voices]: Wayland: "''Chespin is the... your Grass-type starter in XY. Even though "starter" is an unofficial term now.''"<br>Audience: "''I think it's always been an unofficial term.''"<br>Wayland: "''Nope. They used to say it in the show, now they don't.''"</ref> In 2019, Sonja Hammes, then a social media associate at [[The Pokémon Company International|TPCi]],<ref>[https://www.linkedin.com/in/sonja-hammes-1a1aa087/ Sonja Hammes on LinkedIn]</ref> stated that official social media accounts were authorized to use "starter Pokémon" with specific formatting restrictions.<ref>[https://twitter.com/novemberalice/status/1103070703904018433 Sonja Hammes on Twitter:] "''P.S. We can call them starter on social now''"</ref><ref>[https://twitter.com/novemberalice/status/1103262076707979265 Sonja Hammes on Twitter:] "''Of course, there are RULES. It’s “starter Pokémon”. No capital S. No “starters”. Gotta keep the standards!''"</ref>


In FireRed and LeafGreen, the choice of starter Pokémon also determines which of the [[Legendary beasts]] will roam the Kanto region after defeating [[Team Rocket]] in the [[Sevii Islands]]—if the player chooses Bulbasaur, {{p|Entei}} will appear, {{p|Suicune}} will appear to those who chose Charmander, and {{p|Raikou}} will appear to those that went with Squirtle.
In Japanese, no consistent term is used to refer to first partner Pokémon. The most common term is 「パートナー」 (''partner''), but occasionally 相棒 (''partner'') is also used. These terms, along with ポケモン (''Pokémon''), are typically paired with 最初の or 初めての (both meaning ''first''). Phrases like 最初に選んだ or はじめに選んだ (both meaning ''that was chosen first'') are also used. Among Japanese fans, 御三家 (''the big three'') is commonly used to refer to the {{t|Grass}}, {{t|Fire}}, and {{t|Water}} trios.


Professor Oak offers one of this trio of Pokémon to the player in {{game|HeartGold and SoulSilver|s}} after the player has defeated {{ga|Red}}, making reference to the fact that he gives them out as starter Pokémon in Kanto-based games, suggesting the player will be able to make it to [[Viridian City|the next town]] with one of these Pokémon by their side.
==Grass, Fire, and Water trios==
Most marketing refers exclusively to the standard trios of {{t|Grass}}-, {{t|Fire}}-, and {{type|Water}} Pokémon that can be chosen at the start of most [[core series]] games.


[[Professor Sycamore]] will let the player choose one of these three Pokémon after meeting him in person and beating his team of Kanto starters in {{pkmn|battle}}. After making their choice, Professor Sycamore will give the player a [[Mega Stone]] corresponding to the chosen starter's final evolution; [[Venusaurite]] for {{p|Bulbasaur}}, [[Charizardite X]]{{sup/6|X}}/[[Charizardite Y]]{{sup/6|Y}} for {{p|Charmander}}, and [[Blastoisinite]] for {{p|Squirtle}}. The middle stages of the starters can be found in the [[Friend Safari]].
The Grass, Fire, and Water types handily illustrate the type effectiveness mechanics of [[Pokémon battle]]s: Fire "beats" Grass (a Fire-type [[move]] deals double damage when attacking a Grass-type Pokémon, but a Fire-type Pokémon takes half damage from a Grass-type move), Water beats Fire, and Grass beats Water. This "rock, paper, scissors" relationship was illustrated in the instruction booklet of the original games.<ref>[https://archive.org/details/pokemon-blue-nintendogameboy-hiresscans/Pokemon%20Blue%20-%20Manual/page/n33/mode/2up Pokémon Red Version instruction booklet, pg. 32], archived on Internet Archive</ref>


In {{g|Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon}}, the Kanto starters can be caught in the wild via {{DL|QR Scanner|Island Scan}} on [[Melemele Island]].
The 27 Grass-, Fire-, and Water-type first partner Pokémon are listed below. In {{g|Legends: Arceus}}, the [[Hisui first partner Pokémon]] consist of a mix of Pokémon from previous regions: {{p|Rowlet}}, {{p|Cyndaquil}}, and {{p|Oshawott}}.


In {{g|Sword and Shield}}, the player receives a Charmander as a gift from [[Leon]] in [[Postwick]] after surpassing him as Champion, which will be capable of [[Gigantamax|Gigantamaxing]] when fully evolved.
{{Flexheader|gap=20px}}<!-- flex OPEN -->


In [[The Isle of Armor]], [[Honey (Galar)|Honey]] will let the player choose either Bulbasaur or Squirtle after completing the Master Dojo's first trial. Once fully evolved, these Pokémon will be capable of [[Gigantamax|Gigantamaxing]]. Honey will keep the Pokémon not chosen by the player, and use it on her team.
{{Flexitem|class=roundy c|extra-style=padding: 5px|border=3px solid #{{Kanto color light}}|content=<!-- trio box OPEN -->
<div style="font-weight: bold;">{{color2|000|Kanto first partner Pokémon}}</div>
<div><!-- Pokémon list OPEN -->
{{PokeSum|0001|Bulbasaur|Grass|Poison}}
{{PokeSum|0004|Charmander|Fire}}
{{PokeSum|0007|Squirtle|Water}}
</div><!-- Pokémon list CLOSE -->
}}<!-- trio box CLOSE -->


In [[The Crown Tundra]], Ivysaur, Charmeleon, and Wartortle can be found in Dynamax Adventures.
{{Flexitem|class=roundy c|extra-style=padding: 5px|border=3px solid #{{Johto color light}}|content=<!-- trio box OPEN -->
<div style="font-weight: bold;">{{color2|000|Johto first partner Pokémon}}</div>
<div><!-- Pokémon list OPEN -->
{{PokeSum|0152|Chikorita|Grass}}
{{PokeSum|0155|Cyndaquil|Fire}}
{{PokeSum|0158|Totodile|Water}}
</div><!-- Pokémon list CLOSE -->
}}<!-- trio box CLOSE -->


In {{g|Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl}}, the Kanto starters can be caught in the [[Grand Underground]] after obtaining the [[National Pokédex]].
{{Flexitem|class=roundy c|extra-style=padding: 5px|border=3px solid #{{Hoenn color light}}|content=<!-- trio box OPEN -->
<div style="font-weight: bold;">{{color2|000|Hoenn first partner Pokémon}}</div>
<div><!-- Pokémon list OPEN -->
{{PokeSum|0252|Treecko|Grass}}
{{PokeSum|0255|Torchic|Fire}}
{{PokeSum|0258|Mudkip|Water}}
</div><!-- Pokémon list CLOSE -->
}}<!-- trio box CLOSE -->


In {{game|Yellow}}, due to being based on the {{pkmn|anime}}, Oak instead gives out:
{{Flexitem|class=roundy c|extra-style=padding: 5px|border=3px solid #{{Sinnoh color light}}|content=<!-- trio box OPEN -->
<div style="font-weight: bold;">{{color2|000|Sinnoh first partner Pokémon}}</div>
<div><!-- Pokémon list OPEN -->
{{PokeSum|0387|Turtwig|Grass}}
{{PokeSum|0390|Chimchar|Fire}}
{{PokeSum|0393|Piplup|Water}}
</div><!-- Pokémon list CLOSE -->
}}<!-- trio box CLOSE -->


{| style="margin:auto; width:auto; text-align:center; background:#{{kanto color dark}}; font-size:85%; {{roundy}}; border:5px solid #{{kanto color}}"
{{Flexitem|class=roundy c|extra-style=padding: 5px|border=3px solid #{{Unova color light}}|content=<!-- trio box OPEN -->
|-
<div style="font-weight: bold;">{{color2|000|Unova first partner Pokémon}}</div>
! style="width:80px; background:#{{kanto color light}}; {{roundytop|5px}}" | {{ArtP|025|Pikachu|form=_Y|size=100px}}<br>{{color2|{{kanto color dark}}|Red's Pikachu (game)|Pikachu}}
<div><!-- Pokémon list OPEN -->
|-
{{PokeSum|0495|Snivy|Grass}}
| style="background:#{{electric color}}; {{roundybottom|5px}}" | {{tcolor|Electric|FFF}}
{{PokeSum|0498|Tepig|Fire}}
|}
{{PokeSum|0501|Oshawott|Water}}
</div><!-- Pokémon list CLOSE -->
}}<!-- trio box CLOSE -->


In [[Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee!]], players will start with {{p|Pikachu}} or {{p|Eevee}}, depending on which version of the game they are playing. These Pikachu and Eevee are considered special, separate forms commonly referred to by the game as {{ga|Partner Pokémon}}.
{{Flexitem|class=roundy c|extra-style=padding: 5px|border=3px solid #{{Kalos color light}}|content=<!-- trio box OPEN -->
<div style="font-weight: bold;">{{color2|000|Kalos first partner Pokémon}}</div>
<div><!-- Pokémon list OPEN -->
{{PokeSum|0650|Chespin|Grass}}
{{PokeSum|0653|Fennekin|Fire}}
{{PokeSum|0656|Froakie|Water}}
</div><!-- Pokémon list CLOSE -->
}}<!-- trio box CLOSE -->


{| style="margin:auto; width:auto; text-align:center; background:#{{kanto color dark}}; font-size:85%; {{roundy}}; border:5px solid #{{kanto color}}"
{{Flexitem|class=roundy c|extra-style=padding: 5px|border=3px solid #{{Alola color light}}|content=<!-- trio box OPEN -->
|-
<div style="font-weight: bold;">{{color2|000|Alola first partner Pokémon}}</div>
! style="width:80px; background:#{{kanto color light}}; {{roundytl|5px}}" | {{ArtP|025|Pikachu|form=_LG|size=100px}}<br><small>{{color2|{{kanto color dark}}|Partner Pokémon (game)|Partner}}</small><br>{{pcolor|Pikachu|{{kanto color dark}}}}{{sup/7|P}}
<div><!-- Pokémon list OPEN -->
! style="width:80px; background:#{{kanto color light}}; {{roundytr|5px}}" | {{ArtP|133|Eevee|form=_LG|size=100px}}<br><small>{{color2|{{kanto color dark}}|Partner Pokémon (game)|Partner}}</small><br>{{pcolor|Eevee|{{kanto color dark}}}}{{sup/7|E}}
{{PokeSum|0722|Rowlet|Grass|Flying}}
|-
{{PokeSum|0725|Litten|Fire}}
| style="background:#{{electric color}}; {{roundybl|5px}}" | {{tcolor|Electric|FFF}}
{{PokeSum|0728|Popplio|Water}}
| style="background:#{{normal color}}; {{roundybr|5px}}" | {{tcolor|Normal|FFF}}
</div><!-- Pokémon list CLOSE -->
|}
}}<!-- trio box CLOSE -->


=====[[Johto]]=====
{{Flexitem|class=roundy c|extra-style=padding: 5px|border=3px solid #{{Galar color light}}|content=<!-- trio box OPEN -->
In {{game5|Gold|Silver|Crystal|HeartGold|SoulSilver}}, [[Professor Elm]] will have an errand for the player to run, and will give them one of the following for protection on this errand, which they will then keep after completion:
<div style="font-weight: bold;">{{color2|000|Galar first partner Pokémon}}</div>
<div><!-- Pokémon list OPEN -->
{{PokeSum|0810|Grookey|Grass}}
{{PokeSum|0813|Scorbunny|Fire}}
{{PokeSum|0816|Sobble|Water}}
</div><!-- Pokémon list CLOSE -->
}}<!-- trio box CLOSE -->


{| style="margin:auto; width:auto; text-align:center; background:#{{johto color dark}}; font-size:85%; {{roundy}}; border:5px solid #{{johto color}}"
{{Flexitem|class=roundy c|extra-style=padding: 5px|border=3px solid #{{Paldea color light}}|content=<!-- trio box OPEN -->
|-
<div style="font-weight: bold;">{{color2|000|Paldea first partner Pokémon}}</div>
! style="width:80px; background:#{{johto color light}}; {{roundytl|5px}}" colspan="2" | {{ArtP|152|Chikorita|size=100px}}<br>{{pcolor|Chikorita|{{johto color dark}}}}
<div><!-- Pokémon list OPEN -->
! style="width:80px; background:#{{johto color light}}" colspan="2" | {{ArtP|155|Cyndaquil|size=100px}}<br>{{pcolor|Cyndaquil|{{johto color dark}}}}
{{PokeSum|0906|Sprigatito|Grass}}
! style="width:80px; background:#{{johto color light}}; {{roundytr|5px}}" colspan="2" | {{ArtP|158|Totodile|size=100px}}<br>{{pcolor|Totodile|{{johto color dark}}}}
{{PokeSum|0909|Fuecoco|Fire}}
|-
{{PokeSum|0912|Quaxly|Water}}
{{typetable2|Grass}}
</div><!-- Pokémon list CLOSE -->
{{typetable2|Fire}}
}}<!-- trio box CLOSE -->
{{typetable2|Water}}
|- style="background:#{{johto color light}}"
| {{ArtP|153|Bayleef}}
| {{pcolor|Bayleef|{{johto color dark}}}}
| {{ArtP|156|Quilava}}
| {{pcolor|Quilava|{{johto color dark}}}}
| {{ArtP|159|Croconaw}}
| {{pcolor|Croconaw|{{johto color dark}}}}
|-
{{typetable2|Grass}}
{{typetable2|Fire}}
{{typetable2|Water}}
|- style="background:#{{johto color light}}"
| {{ArtP|154|Meganium}}
| {{pcolor|Meganium|{{johto color dark}}}}
| {{ArtP|157|Typhlosion}}
| {{pcolor|Typhlosion|{{johto color dark}}}}
| {{ArtP|160|Feraligatr}}
| {{pcolor|Feraligatr|{{johto color dark}}}}
|-
| colspan="2" style="background:#{{grass color}}; {{roundybl|5px}}" | {{tcolor|Grass|FFF}}
{{typetable2|Fire}}
| colspan="2" style="background:#{{water color}}; {{roundybr|5px}}" | {{tcolor|Water|FFF}}
|}


After the player meets with [[Mr. Pokémon]] and receives a [[Pokédex]] from [[Professor Oak]], Professor Elm will call the player to tell them that {{ga|Silver|a thief}} has taken a Pokémon. As the player returns to [[New Bark Town]], they will encounter the thief, who will have the stolen Pokémon with the type advantage over the player's own. From this point onward, the thief will be the player's rival, while Professor Elm keeps the Pokémon that was left behind by the thief on his desk for the remainder of the game (in {{2v2|HeartGold|SoulSilver}}, the last Pokémon mysteriously disappears at some point).
{{Flexfooter}}<!-- flex CLOSE -->


In Generation II, the Pokémon will be holding a {{i|Berry}} when received from Elm, though the rival's stolen starter Pokémon will not.
The Kalos first partners also have a more broadly defined triangle in the secondary types of their final evolutions. They all still deal 2× damage offensively, and most still receive ½× damage defensively, but while Dark does not technically resist Psychic, it is still defensively advantaged since it is immune.


In {{game|Emerald}}, after the player has caught all Pokémon in the [[List of Pokémon by Hoenn Pokédex number (Generation III)|Hoenn Pokédex]] with the exception of {{p|Jirachi}} and {{p|Deoxys}}, [[Professor Birch]] will offer one of these Pokémon as a reward.
==Other first partners==
Aside from the regional trios, a few other Pokémon have been explicitly referred to as first partner Pokémon.


In [[Pokémon Colosseum]], the middle stages of the Johto starters are caught as [[Shadow Pokémon]] from a Mystery Troop member. Only one is available for the player to obtain during the main game, while the other two are only available during the post-game. The color of the outfit for the corresponding Mystery Troop member is the same as the type for the Johto starter they have.
:''For a list of other Pokémon who are Trainers' first Pokémon, see [[list of characters' first Pokémon]].''


In {{Pokémon XD}}, after the player has cleared the entirety of [[Mt. Battle]] without touching a [[PC]] or retiring, [[Battlus]] will offer one of these Pokémon as a reward. The player can obtain all three Pokémon with consecutive challenges.
===Player's first Pokémon===
{{p|Pikachu}} and {{p|Eevee}} are given out as first partner Pokémon in [[Kanto]] by [[Professor Oak]] in some media. {{OBP|Pikachu|Yellow}} is the first Pokémon given to the player in {{game|Yellow}}, while {{ga|Blue}} gets an Eevee. The {{OBP|partner Pokémon|Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee!|partner}} Pikachu and Eevee are the first Pokémon caught by the player in {{LGPE}}, respectively, while Oak gives {{ga|Trace}} a standard Eevee in Let's Go, Pikachu! and a standard Pikachu in Let's Go, Eevee!


In {{g|Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire}}, after the player first enters the [[Hall of Fame]] and meets [[Zinnia]], Professor Birch can be found being chased by a {{p|Shroomish}} on {{rt|101|Hoenn}} and the player will be allowed to choose one of the Johto starters.
These Pokémon are never referred to as first partner Pokémon in-game; they are typically referred to as {{OBP|partner Pokémon|Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee!}} instead. However, in one instance on the official website for the games, and on the [[Pokémon.com]] page for the games, they are referred to as first partner Pokémon.<ref>[https://pokemonletsgo.pokemon.com/en-us/story/ Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and Pokémon: Let's Go, Eevee! | Experience the World of Pokémon]: "Of course, your first partner Pokémon will be either Pikachu or Eevee, depending on which version you get, but the types and rarities of the wild Pokémon that you encounter also differ between the two games."</ref><ref>[https://www.pokemon.com/us/pokemon-video-games/pokemon-lets-go-pikachu-and-pokemon-lets-go-eevee Pokémon: Let’s Go, Pikachu! and Pokémon: Let’s Go, Eevee! | Video Games & Apps]: "In addition to determining your first partner Pokémon, your choice of Pokémon: Let’s Go, Pikachu! or Pokémon: Let’s Go, Eevee! also affects the species of Pokémon you encounter and the rate at which you encounter them."</ref>


In {{g|Sun and Moon}}, the Johto starters can be caught in the wild via {{DL|QR Scanner|Island Scan}} on [[Melemele Island]].
{{Flexheader|gap=20px}}<!-- flex OPEN -->


In {{g|Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl}}, the Johto starters can be caught in the [[Grand Underground]] after obtaining the [[National Pokédex]].
{{Flexitem|class=roundy c|extra-style=padding: 5px|border=3px solid #{{electric color light}}|
{{PokeSum|0025|Pikachu|Electric}}
}}


=====[[Hoenn]]=====
{{Flexitem|class=roundy c|extra-style=padding: 5px|border=3px solid #{{normal color light}}|
In {{game|Ruby and Sapphire|s}}, {{v2|Emerald}}, {{pkmn|Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire}}, after [[Professor Birch]] is rescued from a {{p|Poochyena}}{{sup/3|RS}}{{sup/6|ORAS}} or {{p|Zigzagoon}}{{sup/3|E}}, he allows the player to keep the Pokémon they chose to rescue him with, either:
{{PokeSum|0133|Eevee|Normal}}
}}


{| style="margin:auto; width:auto; text-align:center; background:#{{hoenn color dark}}; font-size:85%; {{roundy}}; border:5px solid #{{hoenn color}}"
{{Flexfooter}}<!-- flex CLOSE -->
|-
! style="width:80px; background:#{{hoenn color light}}; {{roundytl|5px}}" colspan="2" | {{ArtP|252|Treecko|size=100px}}<br>{{pcolor|Treecko|{{hoenn color dark}}}}
! style="width:80px; background:#{{hoenn color light}}" colspan="2" | {{ArtP|255|Torchic|size=100px}}<br>{{pcolor|Torchic|{{hoenn color dark}}}}
! style="width:80px; background:#{{hoenn color light}}; {{roundytr|5px}}" colspan="2" | {{ArtP|258|Mudkip|size=100px}}<br>{{pcolor|Mudkip|{{hoenn color dark}}}}
|-
{{typetable2|Grass}}
{{typetable2|Fire}}
{{typetable2|Water}}
|- style="background:#{{hoenn color light}}"
| {{ArtP|253|Grovyle}}
| {{pcolor|Grovyle|{{hoenn color dark}}}}
| {{ArtP|256|Combusken}}
| {{pcolor|Combusken|{{hoenn color dark}}}}
| {{ArtP|259|Marshtomp}}
| {{pcolor|Marshtomp|{{hoenn color dark}}}}
|-
{{typetable2|Grass}}
{{typetable|Fire}}
{{typetable|Fighting}}
{{typetable|Water}}
{{typetable|Ground}}
|- style="background:#{{hoenn color light}}"
| {{ArtP|254|Sceptile}}
| {{pcolor|Sceptile|{{hoenn color dark}}}}
| {{ArtP|257|Blaziken}}
| {{pcolor|Blaziken|{{hoenn color dark}}}}
| {{ArtP|260|Swampert}}
| {{pcolor|Swampert|{{hoenn color dark}}}}
|-
{{typetable2|Grass}}
{{typetable|Fire}}
{{typetable|Fighting}}
{{typetable|Water}}
{{typetable|Ground}}
|- style="background:#{{hoenn color light}}"
| {{ArtP|254|Sceptile|form=-Mega}}
| <small>{{color2|{{hoenn color dark}}|Mega Evolution|Mega}}</small><br>{{pcolor|Sceptile|{{hoenn color dark}}}}
| {{ArtP|257|Blaziken|form=-Mega}}
| <small>{{color2|{{hoenn color dark}}|Mega Evolution|Mega}}</small><br>{{pcolor|Blaziken|{{hoenn color dark}}}}
| {{ArtP|260|Swampert|form=-Mega}}
| <small>{{color2|{{hoenn color dark}}|Mega Evolution|Mega}}</small><br>{{pcolor|Swampert|{{hoenn color dark}}}}
|-
| style="background:#{{grass color}}; {{roundybl|5px}}" | {{tcolor|Grass|FFF}}
{{typetable|Dragon}}
{{typetable|Fire}}
{{typetable|Fighting}}
{{typetable|Water}}
| style="background:#{{ground color}}; {{roundybr|5px}}" | {{tcolor|Ground|FFF}}
|}


The player's neighbor, {{ga|Brendan}} or {{ga|May}}, already has their starter Pokémon, which is always the one with the type advantage. What happens to the starter not selected is unknown. By the end of Ruby, Sapphire, and Emerald, it seems that the player's nominal rival, the son/daughter of Professor Birch, has stopped being a Trainer, and Wally is actually the true rival, facing the player before they can leave {{ho|Victory Road}} and staying there to have [[rematch]]es with the player later. In Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire, Brendan or May's role as an [[Non-player character|NPC]] is slightly expanded, acting as a post-credits battle in which they gain access to Mega Evolution for their starter Pokémon.
===Other references===
{{rf|Alolan}} {{p|Meowth}} is given out by [[Nanu]] as a first partner on [[Ula'ula Island]] in [[Alola]]. It is implied that [[Island kahuna|kahunas]] are responsible for giving out first partners on their respective islands, so it is possible the other kahunas give out different Pokémon to the standard Alolan first partner Pokémon given by Hala.


In {{game|HeartGold and SoulSilver|s}}, [[Steven Stone]] offers one of these Pokémon to the player after they have defeated {{ga|Red}}.
{{p|Poipole}}'s [[Pokédex]] entry in {{pkmn|Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon|Pokémon Ultra Sun}} refers to it as a popular first partner in its world.  


In {{g|Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon}}, the middle stages of the Hoenn starters can be caught in the wild via {{DL|QR Scanner|Island Scan}} on [[Akala Island]].
{{Flexheader|gap=20px}}<!-- flex OPEN -->


In {{g|Sword and Shield}}, both the middle and final stages can be caught in [[Dynamax Adventures]] in the [[Crown Tundra]].
{{Flexitem|class=roundy c|extra-style=padding: 5px|border=3px solid #{{dark color light}}|
{{PokeSum|0052|Meowth|Dark|form=-Alola|formname=Alolan}}
}}


In {{g|Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl}}, the Hoenn starters can be caught in the [[Grand Underground]] after obtaining the [[National Pokédex]].
{{Flexitem|class=roundy c|extra-style=padding: 5px|border=3px solid #{{poison color light}}|
{{PokeSum|0803|Poipole|Poison}}
}}


=====[[Sinnoh]]=====
{{Flexfooter}}<!-- flex CLOSE -->
In {{game|Diamond and Pearl|s}} and {{game|Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl|s}}, when two {{p|Starly}} attack the player and rival at [[Lake Verity]], to which they travel upon hearing reports of a [[Shiny Pokémon|red]] {{p|Gyarados}}, they will choose one of the following from [[Professor Rowan]]'s briefcase, which he left at the lake:


{| style="margin:auto; width:auto; text-align:center; background:#{{sinnoh color dark}}; font-size:85%; {{roundy}}; border:5px solid #{{sinnoh color}}"
==In the games==
|-
[[File:Pokémon HOME Wallpaper Sinnoh Partners.png|thumb|200px|The Sinnoh first partner trio wallpaper in {{g|HOME}}]]
! style="width:80px; background:#{{sinnoh color light}}; {{roundytl|5px}}" colspan="2" | {{ArtP|387|Turtwig|size=100px}}<br>{{pcolor|Turtwig|{{sinnoh color dark}}}}
===Core series===
! style="width:80px; background:#{{sinnoh color light}}" colspan="2" | {{ArtP|390|Chimchar|size=100px}}<br>{{pcolor|Chimchar|{{sinnoh color dark}}}}
In the core series games, a [[rival]] character often picks the Pokémon that is strong against the one the player chose, nominally setting them up for challenging battles going forward.
! style="width:80px; background:#{{sinnoh color light}}; {{roundytr|5px}}" colspan="2" | {{ArtP|393|Piplup|size=100px}}<br>{{pcolor|Piplup|{{sinnoh color dark}}}}
|-
{{typetable2|Grass}}
{{typetable2|Fire}}
{{typetable2|Water}}
|- style="background:#{{sinnoh color light}}"
| {{ArtP|388|Grotle}}
| {{pcolor|Grotle|{{sinnoh color dark}}}}
| {{ArtP|391|Monferno}}
| {{pcolor|Monferno|{{sinnoh color dark}}}}
| {{ArtP|394|Prinplup}}
| {{pcolor|Prinplup|{{sinnoh color dark}}}}
|-
{{typetable2|Grass}}
{{typetable|Fire}}
{{typetable|Fighting}}
{{typetable2|Water}}
|- style="background:#{{sinnoh color light}}"
| {{ArtP|389|Torterra}}
| {{pcolor|Torterra|{{sinnoh color dark}}}}
| {{ArtP|392|Infernape}}
| {{pcolor|Infernape|{{sinnoh color dark}}}}
| {{ArtP|395|Empoleon}}
| {{pcolor|Empoleon|{{sinnoh color dark}}}}
|-
| style="background:#{{grass color}}; {{roundybl|5px}}" | {{tcolor|Grass|FFF}}
{{typetable|Ground}}
{{typetable|Fire}}
{{typetable|Fighting}}
{{typetable|Water}}
| style="background:#{{steel color}}; {{roundybr|5px}}" | {{tcolor|Steel|FFF}}
|}
 
The player's friend and rival {{ga|Barry}} will choose the starter Pokémon that has a type advantage against the player's choice, and the [[non-player character|NPC]] who is the other-gender choice ({{ga|Lucas}}/{{ga|Dawn}}) will have the Pokémon weak to the player's choice, and therefore strong against Barry's. After fighting off the two Starly at the lake and returning the briefcase to Rowan, the professor will allow the player and {{ga|Barry}} to keep the Pokémon they used.
 
In {{game|Platinum}}, the player and the rival are stopped by Professor Rowan just as they are about to run through tall grass to get to Sandgem Town to ask the Professor for Pokémon. After some questions about the player and the rival's love for Pokémon, he decides to entrust them with one starter Pokémon each.
 
In {{g|Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire}}, after the player enters the [[Hall of Fame]] for the second time, Professor Birch can be found being chased by his wife on {{rt|101|Hoenn}} and the player will be allowed to choose one of the Sinnoh starters.
 
In {{g|Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon}}, the middle stages of the Sinnoh starters can be caught in the wild via {{DL|QR Scanner|Island Scan}} on [[Ula'ula Island]].
 
In {{g|Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl}}, the Sinnoh starters are not only offered at the beginning of the game, but can also be caught in the [[Grand Underground]] after obtaining the [[National Pokédex]].
 
In {{g|Legends: Arceus}}, the Sinnoh starters' first stages, and more rarely the middle stages, can be caught in certain locations, and the final stages spawn as [[Alpha Pokémon]].
 
=====[[Unova]]=====
In {{game|Black and White|s}}, [[Professor Juniper]] leaves a gift with the player's {{OBP|Mom|Black and White}} in [[Nuvema Town]] to give to them, containing the following three Pokémon:
 
{| class="roundy" style="margin:auto; width:auto; text-align:center; background:#{{Unova color dark}}; font-size:85%; border:5px solid #{{Unova color}}"
|-
! style="width:80px; background:#{{Unova color light}}; {{roundytl|5px}}" colspan="2" | {{ArtP|495|Snivy|size=100px}}<br>{{pcolor|Snivy|{{Unova color dark}}}}
! style="width:80px; background:#{{Unova color light}}" colspan="2" | {{ArtP|498|Tepig|size=100px}}<br>{{pcolor|Tepig|{{Unova color dark}}}}
! style="width:80px; background:#{{Unova color light}};{{roundytr|5px}}" colspan="2" | {{ArtP|501|Oshawott|size=100px}}<br>{{pcolor|Oshawott|{{Unova color dark}}}}
|-
{{typetable2|Grass}}
{{typetable2|Fire}}
{{typetable2|Water}}
|- style="background:#{{Unova color light}}"
| {{ArtP|496|Servine}}
| {{pcolor|Servine|{{Unova color dark}}}}
| {{ArtP|499|Pignite}}
| {{pcolor|Pignite|{{Unova color dark}}}}
| {{ArtP|502|Dewott}}
| {{pcolor|Dewott|{{Unova color dark}}}}
|-
{{typetable2|Grass}}
{{typetable|Fire}}
{{typetable|Fighting}}
{{typetable2|Water}}
|- style="background:#{{Unova color light}}"
| {{ArtP|497|Serperior}}
| {{pcolor|Serperior|{{Unova color dark}}}}
| {{ArtP|500|Emboar}}
| {{pcolor|Emboar|{{Unova color dark}}}}
| {{ArtP|503|Samurott}}
| {{pcolor|Samurott|{{Unova color dark}}}}
|-
| colspan="2" style="background:#{{grass color}}; {{roundybl|5px}}" | {{tcolor|Grass|FFF}}
{{typetable|Fire}}
{{typetable|Fighting}}
| colspan="2" style="background:#{{water color}}; {{roundybr|5px}}" | {{tcolor|Water|FFF}}
|}
 
The player's friend [[Cheren]] will choose the Pokémon that is strong against the player's choice, while the player's other friend [[Bianca]] will choose the one weak to the player's choice. The choice of starter Pokémon affects which of the [[Gym Leader]]s of [[Striaton City]] will be battled; players who chose Snivy will face [[Chili]], a {{type|Fire}} specialist, players who chose Tepig will face [[Cress]], a {{type|Water}} specialist, and players who chose Oshawott will face [[Cilan]], a {{type|Grass}} specialist. Also, the choice affects the [[Elemental monkeys|Pokémon]] given to the player in the [[Dreamyard]]. Choosing Snivy gives the player a {{p|Panpour}}, Tepig a {{p|Pansage}}, and Oshawott a {{p|Pansear}}.
 
In {{game|Black and White|s|Pokémon Black 2 and White 2|2}}, Bianca takes three starter Pokémon to [[Aspertia City]] on Professor Juniper's behalf and offers one of them to the player. The player's friend, [[Hugh]], will have the Pokémon that is strong against the player's choice, having raised it from an {{pkmn|Egg}}. The player character not chosen will have the starter that is weak to the player's choice, but only seen in its second form.
 
In {{g|Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire}}, after the [[Delta Episode]] is completed, Professor Birch can be found being chased by a {{p|Machoke}} on {{rt|101|Hoenn}} and the player will be allowed to choose one of the Unova starters.
 
In {{g|Sun and Moon}}, the Unova starters' final forms can be caught in the wild via {{DL|QR Scanner|Island Scan}} on [[Poni Island]].
 
=====[[Kalos]]=====
In [[Pokémon X and Y]], the player, [[Shauna]], and {{ga|Serena}}/{{ga|Calem}} receive their starter Pokémon in [[Aquacorde Town]] from [[Tierno]], who was asked by [[Professor Sycamore]] to deliver them.
 
{| class="roundy" style="margin:auto; width:auto; text-align:center; background:#{{kalos color dark}}; font-size:85%; border:5px solid #{{kalos color}}"
|-
! style="width:80px; background:#{{kalos color light}}; {{roundytl|5px}}; vertical-align:bottom" colspan="2" | {{ArtP|650|Chespin|size=100px}}<br>{{pcolor|Chespin|{{kalos color dark}}}}
! style="width:80px; background:#{{kalos color light}}; vertical-align:bottom" colspan="2" | {{ArtP|653|Fennekin|size=100px}}<br>{{pcolor|Fennekin|{{kalos color dark}}}}
! style="width:80px; background:#{{kalos color light}};{{roundytr|5px}}; vertical-align:bottom" colspan="2" | {{ArtP|656|Froakie|size=100px}}<br>{{pcolor|Froakie|{{kalos color dark}}}}
|-
{{typetable2|Grass}}
{{typetable2|Fire}}
{{typetable2|Water}}
|- style="background:#{{kalos color light}}"
| {{ArtP|651|Quilladin}}
| {{pcolor|Quilladin|{{kalos color dark}}}}
| {{ArtP|654|Braixen}}
| {{pcolor|Braixen|{{kalos color dark}}}}
| {{ArtP|657|Frogadier}}
| {{pcolor|Frogadier|{{kalos color dark}}}}
|- style="background:#{{kalos color light}}"
{{typetable2|Grass}}
{{typetable2|Fire}}
{{typetable2|Water}}
|- style="background:#{{kalos color light}}"
| {{ArtP|652|Chesnaught}}
| {{pcolor|Chesnaught|{{kalos color dark}}}}
| {{ArtP|655|Delphox}}
| {{pcolor|Delphox|{{kalos color dark}}}}
| {{ArtP|658|Greninja}}
| {{pcolor|Greninja|{{kalos color dark}}}}
|-
| style="background:#{{grass color}}; {{roundybl|5px}}" | {{tcolor|Grass|FFF}}
{{typetable|Fighting}}
{{typetable|Fire}}
{{typetable|Psychic}}
{{typetable|Water}}
| style="background:#{{dark color}}; {{roundybr|5px}}" | {{tcolor|Dark|FFF}}
|}
 
The player's friend [[Shauna]] will choose the Pokémon with a type disadvantage to the player's choice, while the player's other friend {{ga|Serena}}/{{ga|Calem}} will choose the one with a type advantage to the player's choice. The choice of starter Pokémon affects which Pokémon Shauna will [[In-game trade|trade]] with the player after the player enters in the [[Hall of Fame]]. Shauna will trade the unevolved form of her starter Pokémon, having received it as an {{pkmn|Egg}}. The choice of starter Pokémon also determines which of the [[Legendary birds]] will [[Roaming Pokémon|roam]] the [[Kalos]] region after defeating the [[Pokémon League]]—if the player chooses Chespin, {{p|Articuno}} will appear, {{p|Zapdos}} will appear to those who chose Fennekin, and {{p|Moltres}} will appear to those that went with Froakie. The middle stages of the starters can be found in the [[Friend Safari]].
 
In {{g|Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon}}, the Kalos starters' final forms can be caught in the wild via {{DL|QR Scanner|Island Scan}} on [[Poni Island]].
 
=====[[Alola]]=====
In [[Pokémon Sun and Moon]], the player receives their starter Pokémon in [[Iki Town]] from [[Hala]] and [[Professor Kukui]]. In [[Pokémon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon]], the player receives one from the Professor on {{rt|1|Alola}}. The player's friend [[Hau]] will choose the Pokémon with a type disadvantage to the player's choice. Teacher Emily in the Trainer's School will use the starter that has a type advantage over the player's choice.
 
{| class="roundy" style="margin:auto; width:auto; text-align:center; background:#{{alola color dark}}; font-size:85%; border:5px solid #{{alola color}}"
|-
! style="width:80px; background:#{{alola color light}}; {{roundytl|5px}}; vertical-align:bottom" colspan="2" | {{ArtP|722|Rowlet|size=100px}}<br>{{pcolor|Rowlet|{{alola color dark}}}}
! style="width:80px; background:#{{alola color light}}; vertical-align:bottom" colspan="2" | {{ArtP|725|Litten|size=100px}}<br>{{pcolor|Litten|{{alola color dark}}}}
! style="width:80px; background:#{{alola color light}};{{roundytr|5px}}; vertical-align:bottom" colspan="2" | {{ArtP|728|Popplio|size=100px}}<br>{{pcolor|Popplio|{{alola color dark}}}}
|-
{{typetable|Grass}}
{{typetable|Flying}}
{{typetable2|Fire}}
{{typetable2|Water}}
|- style="background:#{{alola color light}}"
| {{ArtP|723|Dartrix}}
| {{pcolor|Dartrix|{{alola color dark}}}}
| {{ArtP|726|Torracat}}
| {{pcolor|Torracat|{{alola color dark}}}}
| {{ArtP|729|Brionne}}
| {{pcolor|Brionne|{{alola color dark}}}}
|- style="background:#{{alola color light}}"
{{typetable|Grass}}
{{typetable|Flying}}
{{typetable2|Fire}}
{{typetable2|Water}}
|- style="background:#{{alola color light}}"
| {{ArtP|724|Decidueye}}
| {{pcolor|Decidueye|{{alola color dark}}}}
| {{ArtP|727|Incineroar}}
| {{pcolor|Incineroar|{{alola color dark}}}}
| {{ArtP|730|Primarina}}
| {{pcolor|Primarina|{{alola color dark}}}}
|-
| style="background:#{{grass color}}; {{roundybl|5px}}" | {{tcolor|Grass|FFF}}
{{typetable|Ghost}}
{{typetable|Fire}}
{{typetable|Dark}}
{{typetable|Water}}
| style="background:#{{fairy color}}; {{roundybr|5px}}" | {{tcolor|Fairy|FFF}}
|}
 
During the player's first battle against [[Ilima]], his {{p|Smeargle}} will know a basic [[move]] with a type advantage against their starter; {{m|Ember}}, {{m|Water Gun}}, or {{m|Leafage}}. During the player's Champion{{sup/7|SM}} and Title Defense battles, Professor Kukui will use the final evolution of the starter Pokémon with the type advantage to the player's choice. [[Gladion]]'s {{p|Silvally}} will also be holding the [[memory]] of the type the player's starter is weak to. Hau's {{p|Eevee}} will evolve into the [[Eeveelution]] whose type has the advantage to the player's choice. Gladion, in his [[Pokémon League (Alola)/Title Defense|Title Defense]] battle in [[Pokémon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon]], will have a fully evolved Kanto Starter whose type is the same as the player's starter.
 
In [[The Isle of Armor]], once the player has found 100 of the Hiker's {{rf|Alolan}} {{p|Diglett}}, he will give the player the starter Pokémon that is the same type as the player's starter. This Pokémon has its {{Hidden Ability}}.
 
=====[[Galar]]=====
In [[Pokémon Sword and Shield]], the player and [[Hop]] receive their starter Pokémon in [[Postwick]] from [[Leon]], the {{pkmn|Champion}} of Galar.
 
{| class="roundy" style="margin:auto; width:auto; text-align:center; background: #{{galar color dark}}; font-size:85%; border: 5px solid #{{galar color}}"
|-
! style="width:80px; background:#{{galar color light}}; {{roundytl|5px}}; vertical-align:bottom" colspan=2 | {{ArtP|810|Grookey|size=100px}}<br>{{pcolor|Grookey|{{galar color dark}}}}
! style="width:80px; background:#{{galar color light}}; vertical-align:bottom" colspan=2 | {{ArtP|813|Scorbunny|size=100px}}<br>{{pcolor|Scorbunny|{{galar color dark}}}}
! style="width:80px; background:#{{galar color light}};{{roundytr|5px}}; vertical-align:bottom" colspan=2 | {{ArtP|816|Sobble|size=100px}}<br>{{pcolor|Sobble|{{galar color dark}}}}
|-
{{typetable2|Grass}}
{{typetable2|Fire}}
{{typetable2|Water}}
|- style="background:#{{galar color light}}"
| {{ArtP|811|Thwackey}}
| {{pcolor|Thwackey|{{galar color dark}}}}
| {{ArtP|814|Raboot}}
| {{pcolor|Raboot|{{galar color dark}}}}
| {{ArtP|817|Drizzile}}
| {{pcolor|Drizzile|{{galar color dark}}}}
|- style="background:#{{galar color light}}"
{{typetable2|Grass}}
{{typetable2|Fire}}
{{typetable2|Water}}
|- style="background:#{{galar color light}}"
| {{ArtP|812|Rillaboom}}
| {{pcolor|Rillaboom|{{galar color dark}}}}
| {{ArtP|815|Cinderace}}
| {{pcolor|Cinderace|{{galar color dark}}}}
| {{ArtP|818|Inteleon}}
| {{pcolor|Inteleon|{{galar color dark}}}}
|-
{{typetable2|Grass}}
{{typetable2|Fire}}
{{typetable2|Water}}
|- style="background:#{{galar color light}}"
| {{ArtP|812|Rillaboom|form=-Gigantamax}}
| <small>{{color2|{{galar color dark}}|Gigantamax}}</small><br>{{pcolor|Rillaboom|{{galar color dark}}}}
| {{ArtP|815|Cinderace|form=-Gigantamax}}
| <small>{{color2|{{galar color dark}}|Gigantamax}}</small><br>{{pcolor|Cinderace|{{galar color dark}}}}
| {{ArtP|818|Inteleon|form=-Gigantamax}}
| <small>{{color2|{{galar color dark}}|Gigantamax}}</small><br>{{pcolor|Inteleon|{{galar color dark}}}}
|-
| colspan=2 style="background:#{{Grass color}}; {{roundybl|5px}}" | {{tcolor|Grass|FFF}}
{{typetable2|Fire}}
| colspan=2 style="background:#{{Water color}}; {{roundybr|5px}}" | {{tcolor|Water|FFF}}
|}
 
The player's friend [[Hop]] will choose the Pokémon with a type disadvantage to the player's choice. Leon takes the remaining Pokémon into his care, eventually using its final form in the Championship Match against the player.
 
In the [[Isle of Armor]], the player has the option of giving their final form starter Pokémon {{DL|Master Dojo|Max Soup}}, giving them a {{DL|Gigantamax|Gigantamax Factor}} and allowing them to enter their Gigantamax form in battle. Hop will use his starter's Gigantamax form in the [[Galarian Star Tournament]].
 
=====[[Hisui]]=====
In {{g|Legends: Arceus}}, which takes place in [[Hisui]], the land the Sinnoh region was once known as, the player is given a starter Pokémon from another region by [[Professor Laventon]], being {{p|Rowlet}}, {{p|Cyndaquil}}, or {{p|Oshawott}}. These are also the first starters whose final evolutions have [[regional form]]s.
{| style="margin:auto; width:auto; text-align:center; background:#{{legends arceus color dark}}; font-size:85%; {{roundy}}; border:5px solid #{{legends arceus color}}"
|-
! style="width:80px; background:#{{legends arceus color light}}; {{roundytl|5px}}" colspan="2" | {{ArtP|722|Rowlet|size=100px}}<br>{{pcolor|Rowlet|{{legends arceus color dark}}}}<br>
! style="width:80px; background:#{{legends arceus color light}}" colspan="2" | {{ArtP|155|Cyndaquil|size=100px}}<br>{{pcolor|Cyndaquil|{{legends arceus color dark}}}}<br>
! style="width:80px; background:#{{legends arceus color light}}; {{roundytr|5px}}" colspan="2" | {{ArtP|501|Oshawott|size=100px}}<br>{{pcolor|Oshawott|{{legends arceus color dark}}}}
|-
{{typetable|Grass}}
{{typetable|Flying}}
{{typetable2|Fire}}
{{typetable2|Water}}
|- style="background:#{{legends arceus color light}}"
| {{ArtP|723|Dartrix}}
| {{pcolor|Dartrix|{{legends arceus color dark}}}}
| {{ArtP|156|Quilava}}
| {{pcolor|Quilava|{{legends arceus color dark}}}}
| {{ArtP|502|Dewott}}
| {{pcolor|Dewott|{{legends arceus color dark}}}}
|-
{{typetable|Grass}}
{{typetable|Flying}}
{{typetable2|Fire}}
{{typetable2|Water}}
|- style="background:#{{legends arceus color light}}"
| {{ArtP|724|Decidueye|form=-Hisui}}
| <small>{{color2|{{legends arceus color dark}}|Regional form#Hisui|Hisuian}}</small><br>{{pcolor|Decidueye|{{legends arceus color dark}}}}
| {{ArtP|157|Typhlosion|form=-Hisui}}
| <small>{{color2|{{legends arceus color dark}}|Regional form#Hisui|Hisuian}}</small><br>{{pcolor|Typhlosion|{{legends arceus color dark}}}}
| {{ArtP|503|Samurott|form=-Hisui}}
| <small>{{color2|{{legends arceus color dark}}|Regional form#Hisui|Hisuian}}</small><br>{{pcolor|Samurott|{{legends arceus color dark}}}}
|-
| style="background:#{{Grass color}}; {{roundybl|5px}}" | {{tcolor|Grass|FFF}}
{{typetable|Fighting}}
{{typetable|Fire}}
{{typetable|Ghost}}
{{typetable|Water}}
| style="background:#{{Dark color}}; {{roundybr|5px}}" | {{tcolor|Dark|FFF}}
|}
 
After completing the main story, Professor Laventon gives the player the two starters they did not pick, and all three stages of the starters can be caught in [[Space-time distortion]]s. Starting in [[Pokémon Legends: Arceus#Version history|the Daybreak update]], {{ga|Rei}}/{{ga|Akari}} will begin using the Sinnoh starter with a disadvantage to the player's initial starter choice. Additionally, all three Sinnoh starters (along with their evolutionary relatives) can be found in the wild as rare spawns in certain areas.
 
=====[[Paldea]]=====
In [[Pokémon Scarlet and Violet]], the player receives their starter Pokémon in [[Cabo Poco]] from [[Clavell]], the director of [[Naranja Academy|Naranja]]{{sup/9|S}}/[[Uva Academy]]{{sup/9|V}}. [[Nemona]], a {{pkmn|Champion}}-ranked Trainer, chooses the starter weak to the player's choice to raise for herself. Clavell uses the starter Pokémon with the type advantage to the player's choice.
 
{| style="margin:auto; width:auto; text-align:center; background:#{{paldea color dark}}; font-size:85%; {{roundy}}; border:5px solid #{{paldea color}}"
|-
! style="width:80px; background:#{{paldea color light}}; {{roundytl|5px}}" colspan="2" | {{ArtP|906|Sprigatito|size=100px}}<br>{{pcolor|Sprigatito|{{paldea color dark}}}}
! style="width:80px; background:#{{paldea color light}}" colspan="2" | {{ArtP|909|Fuecoco|size=100px}}<br>{{pcolor|Fuecoco|{{paldea color dark}}}}
! style="width:80px; background:#{{paldea color light}}; {{roundytr|5px}}" colspan="2" | {{ArtP|912|Quaxly|size=100px}}<br>{{pcolor|Quaxly|{{paldea color dark}}}}
|-
{{typetable2|Grass}}
{{typetable2|Fire}}
{{typetable2|Water}}
|- style="background:#{{paldea color light}}"
| {{ArtP|907|Floragato}}
| {{pcolor|Floragato|{{paldea color dark}}}}
| {{ArtP|910|Crocalor}}
| {{pcolor|Crocalor|{{paldea color dark}}}}
| {{ArtP|913|Quaxwell}}
| {{pcolor|Quaxwell|{{paldea color dark}}}}
|-
{{typetable2|Grass}}
{{typetable2|Fire}}
{{typetable2|Water}}
|- style="background:#{{paldea color light}}"
| {{ArtP|908|Meowscarada}}
| {{pcolor|Meowscarada|{{paldea color dark}}}}
| {{ArtP|911|Skeledirge}}
| {{pcolor|Skeledirge|{{paldea color dark}}}}
| {{ArtP|914|Quaquaval}}
| {{pcolor|Quaquaval|{{paldea color dark}}}}
|-
| style="background:#{{grass color}}; {{roundybl|5px}}" | {{tcolor|Grass|FFF}}
{{typetable|Dark}}
{{typetable|Fire}}
{{typetable|Ghost}}
{{typetable|Water}}
| style="background:#{{fighting color}}; {{roundybr|5px}}" | {{tcolor|Fighting|FFF}}
|}
 
====Other notable in-game starters====
* The rival of {{game|Yellow}}, {{ga|Blue}}, starts with an {{p|Eevee}} originally intended for the player. The Eevee will evolve into a {{p|Vaporeon}} if the player loses against the rival at [[Professor Oak's Laboratory|the lab]], {{p|Jolteon}} if the player wins against the rival at both the lab and {{rt|22|Kanto}}, and {{p|Flareon}} if the player wins against the rival at the lab, and loses or skips the other battle.
* [[Wally]], with the help of the player and [[Norman|their father]], will catch a {{p|Ralts}}.
* The player character not chosen in {{game|HeartGold and SoulSilver|s}}, {{ga|Ethan}} or {{ga|Lyra}}, will have a {{p|Marill}}.
* In [[Pokémon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon|Pokémon Ultra Sun]], the [[Pokédex]] identifies the [[Ultra Beast]] {{p|Poipole}} as a common choice for a starter Pokémon in [[Ultra Megalopolis|its own world]].
* [[Hop]] has a {{p|Wooloo}} that he has owned since before the start of the game, and uses it in his first battle against the player. Over the course of the story, it evolves into {{p|Dubwool}}.
* [[Bede]]'s starter Pokémon, as revealed in conversations in ''[[The Isle of Armor]]'', is his {{p|Hatterene}}, which he received as a {{p|Hatenna}} when he met Chairman [[Rose]].
* [[Marnie]]'s starter Pokémon is her {{p|Morpeko}}, which she received as a gift when she was five from her brother, [[Piers]].
 
====Base stat comparison====
{{Quartetstats|kanto|001|Bulbasaur|grass|45|49|49|65|65|45|004|Charmander|fire|39|52|43|60|50|65|007|Squirtle|water|44|48|65|50|64|43|025|Pikachu|electric|35|55|40|50|50|90}}
 
{{duostats|kanto|025|Pikachu|Electric|form1=&nbsp;LG|45|80|50|75|60|120|133|Eevee|form2=&nbsp;LG|Normal|65|75|70|65|85|75}}
 
{{triostats|johto|152|Chikorita|grass|45|49|65|49|65|45|155|Cyndaquil|fire|39|52|43|60|50|65|158|Totodile|water|50|65|64|44|48|43}}
 
{{triostats|hoenn|252|Treecko|grass|40|45|35|65|55|70|255|Torchic|fire|45|60|40|70|50|45|258|Mudkip|water|50|70|50|50|50|40}}
 
{{triostats|sinnoh|387|Turtwig|grass|55|68|64|45|55|31|390|Chimchar|fire|44|58|44|58|44|61|393|Piplup|water|53|51|53|61|56|40}}
 
{{triostats|unova|495|Snivy|grass|45|45|55|45|55|63|498|Tepig|fire|65|63|45|45|45|45|501|Oshawott|water|55|55|45|63|45|45}}
 
{{triostats|kalos|650|Chespin|grass|56|61|65|48|45|38|653|Fennekin|fire|40|45|40|62|60|60|656|Froakie|water|41|56|40|62|44|71}}
 
{{triostats|alola|722|Rowlet|grass|68|55|55|50|50|42|725|Litten|fire|45|65|40|60|40|70|728|Popplio|water|50|54|54|66|56|40}}
 
{{triostats|galar|810|Grookey|grass|50|65|50|40|40|65|813|Scorbunny|fire|50|71|40|40|40|69|816|Sobble|water|50|40|40|70|40|70}}


{{triostats|legends arceus|722|Rowlet|grass|68|55|55|50|50|42|155|Cyndaquil|fire|39|52|43|60|50|65|501|Oshawott|water|55|55|45|63|45|45}}
The Pokémon in the regional first partner trios have several common characteristics, both among each other and between generations. The most obvious commonality is their reliable typing. They all have an [[Ability]] that boosts their main type when their [[HP]] becomes low: the Grass types have {{a|Overgrow}}, Fire types have {{a|Blaze}}, and Water types have {{a|Torrent}}. They also all have a [[gender]] ratio of seven males to one female, generally making {{pkmn|breeding}} them slightly inconvenient. When obtained at the start of a game, they are always level 5 and they start out knowing a {{type|Normal}} [[physical move]] ({{m|Pound}}, {{m|Scratch}}, or {{m|Tackle}}) and a stat-altering [[status move]] ({{m|Growl}}, {{m|Leer}}, or {{m|Tail Whip}}); since [[Generation VI]] (with the exception of [[Generation VIII]]), they also have an attacking move that matches their main type.


{{triostats|paldea|906|Sprigatito|grass|40|61|54|45|45|65|909|Fuecoco|fire|67|45|59|63|40|36|912|Quaxly|water|55|65|45|50|45|50}}
The table below shows the Pokémon that are selectable at the start of each core series game, and which other games they can also be obtained in. A notation of '''{{color2|{{grass color}}|Grass (type)|G}}''', '''{{color2|{{fire color}}|Fire (type)|F}}''', or '''{{color2|{{water color}}|Water (type)|W}}''' above the game's title indicates that only the first partner Pokémon in the trio that corresponds to that type is obtainable in that game. For availability in games outside of the core series, refer to the "Game locations" heading of the Pokémon's respective page for its species.
 
{| class="roundy" style="margin: auto; background-color: #{{bulba color}}; border: 3px solid #{{bulba color dark}};"
====Base stat comparison when fully evolved====
! style="background-color: #{{bulba color light}}; {{roundytl|5px}}" | Game(s)
{{Quartetstats|kanto|003|Venusaur|grass|80|82|83|100|100|80|006|Charizard|fire|78|84|78|109|85|100|009|Blastoise|water|79|83|100|85|105|78|025|Pikachu|electric|35|55|30|50|50|90}}
! style="background-color: #{{bulba color light}}; padding: 0px 5px;" | First partners
 
! style="background-color: #{{bulba color light}}; {{roundytr|5px}}" | Also obtainable in
{{duostats|kanto|025|Pikachu|Electric|form1=&nbsp;LG|45|80|50|75|60|120|133|Eevee|form2=&nbsp;LG|Normal|65|75|70|65|85|75}}
|- style="background-color: #FFF;"
 
| {{gameabbrev1|RGB}}/{{gameabbrev1|RB}}, {{gameabbrev3|FRLG}}
{{triostats|johto|154|Meganium|grass|80|82|100|83|100|80|157|Typhlosion|fire|78|84|78|109|85|100|160|Feraligatr|water|85|105|100|79|83|78}}
| {{MSP|0001|Bulbasaur}} {{MSP|0004|Charmander}} {{MSP|0007|Squirtle}}
 
| {{gameabbrev1|Y}}, {{gameabbrev4|HGSS}}, {{gameabbrev6|XY}}, {{gameabbrev7|USUM}}, {{gameabbrev7|PE}}, {{gameabbrev8|SwSh}}'''<sup>{{color2|{{fire color}}|Fire (type)|F}}</sup>''' ({{gameabbrev8|IA}})'''<sup>{{color2|{{grass color}}|Grass (type)|G}}</sup><sup>{{color2|{{water color}}|Water (type)|W}}</sup>''', {{gameabbrev8|BDSP}}, {{gameabbrev9|SV}} ({{gameabbrev9|ID}})
{{triostats|hoenn|254|Sceptile|grass|70|85|65|105|85|120|257|Blaziken|fire|80|120|70|110|70|80|260|Swampert|water|100|110|90|85|90|60}}
|- style="background-color: #FFF;"
 
| {{gameabbrev1|Y}}
{{triostats|sinnoh|389|Torterra|grass|95|109|105|75|85|56|392|Infernape|fire|76|104|71|104|71|108|395|Empoleon|water|84|86|88|111|101|60}}
| {{MS|0025|Pikachu (Yellow)}}
 
| Regular Pikachu are obtainable in all games except {{gameabbrev1|Y}}, {{gameabbrev5|BW}}, and {{gameabbrev5|B2W2}}.
{{triostats|unova|497|Serperior|grass|75|75|95|75|95|113|500|Emboar|fire|110|123|65|100|65|65|503|Samurott|water|95|100|85|108|70|70}}
|- style="background-color: #FFF;"
 
| {{gameabbrev2|GSC}}, {{gameabbrev4|HGSS}}
{{triostats|kalos|652|Chesnaught|grass|88|107|122|74|75|64|655|Delphox|fire|75|69|72|114|100|104|658|Greninja|water|72|95|67|103|71|122}}
| {{MSP|0152|Chikorita}} {{MSP|0155|Cyndaquil}} {{MSP|0158|Totodile}}
 
| {{gameabbrev3|E}}, {{gameabbrev6|ORAS}}, {{gameabbrev7|SM}}, {{gameabbrev8|BDSP}}, {{gameabbrev9|SV}} ({{gameabbrev9|ID}})
{{triostats|alola|724|Decidueye|grass|78|107|75|100|100|70|727|Incineroar|fire|95|115|90|80|90|60|730|Primarina|water|80|74|74|126|116|60}}
|- style="background-color: #FFF;"
 
| {{gameabbrev3|RSE}}, {{gameabbrev6|ORAS}}
{{triostats|galar|812|Rillaboom|grass|100|125|90|60|70|85|815|Cinderace|fire|80|116|75|65|75|119|818|Inteleon|water|70|85|65|125|65|120}}
| {{MSP|0252|Treecko}} {{MSP|0255|Torchic}} {{MSP|0258|Mudkip}}
 
| {{gameabbrev4|HGSS}}, {{gameabbrev7|USUM}}, {{gameabbrev8|SwSh}} ({{gameabbrev8|IA}}), {{gameabbrev8|BDSP}}, {{gameabbrev9|SV}} ({{gameabbrev9|ID}})
{{triostats|legends arceus|724|Decidueye|form1=-Hisui|grass|88|112|80|95|95|60|157|Typhlosion|form2=-Hisui|fire|73|84|78|119|85|95|503|Samurott|form3=-Hisui|water|90|108|80|100|65|85}}
|- style="background-color: #FFF;"
 
| {{gameabbrev4|DPPt}}, {{gameabbrev8|BDSP}}
{{triostats|paldea|908|Meowscarada|grass|76|110|70|81|70|123|911|Skeledirge|fire|104|75|100|110|75|66|914|Quaquaval|water|85|120|80|85|75|85}}
| {{MSP|0387|Turtwig}} {{MSP|0390|Chimchar}} {{MSP|0393|Piplup}}
 
| {{gameabbrev6|ORAS}}, {{gameabbrev7|USUM}}, {{gameabbrev8|BDSP}}, {{gameabbrev8|LA}}, {{gameabbrev9|SV}} ({{gameabbrev9|TM}}, {{gameabbrev9|ID}})
====Base stat comparison when [[Mega Evolution|Mega Evolved]]====
|- style="background-color: #FFF;"
{{quartetstats|kanto|003|Venusaur|form1=-Mega|grass|80|100|123|122|120|80|006|Charizard|form2=-Mega X|fire|78|130|111|130|85|100|006|Charizard|form3=-Mega Y|fire|78|104|78|159|115|100|009|Blastoise|form4=-Mega|water|79|103|120|135|115|78}}
| {{gameabbrev5|BW}}, {{gameabbrev5|B2W2}}
 
| {{MSP|0495|Snivy}} {{MSP|0498|Tepig}} {{MSP|0501|Oshawott}}
{{triostats|hoenn|254|Sceptile|form1=-Mega|grass|70|110|75|145|85|145|257|Blaziken|form2=-Mega|fire|80|160|80|130|80|100|260|Swampert|form3=-Mega|water|100|150|110|95|110|70}}
| {{gameabbrev6|ORAS}}, {{gameabbrev7|SM}}, {{gameabbrev9|SV}} ({{gameabbrev9|ID}})
 
|- style="background-color: #FFF;"
====Side series====
| {{gameabbrev6|XY}}
=====[[Orre]]=====
| {{MSP|0650|Chespin}} {{MSP|0653|Fennekin}} {{MSP|0656|Froakie}}
In {{g|Colosseum}}:
| {{gameabbrev7|USUM}}, {{gameabbrev9|SV}} ({{gameabbrev9|ID}})
 
|- style="background-color: #FFF;"
{| style="margin:auto; width:auto; text-align:center; background:#{{colo color dark}}; font-size:85%; {{roundy}}; border:5px solid #{{colo color}}"
| {{gameabbrev7|SMUSUM}}
|-
| {{MSP|0722|Rowlet}} {{MSP|0725|Litten}} {{MSP|0728|Popplio}}
! style="width:80px; background:#{{colo color light}}; {{roundytl|5px}}" | [[File:196Espeon Colo.png|x100px]]<br>{{pcolor|Espeon|{{colo color dark}}}}
| {{gameabbrev8|SwSh}} ({{gameabbrev8|IA}}), {{gameabbrev9|SV}} ({{gameabbrev9|ID}})
! style="width:80px; background:#{{colo color light}}; {{roundytr|5px}}" | [[File:197Umbreon Colo.png|x100px]]<br>{{pcolor|Umbreon|{{colo color dark}}}}♂
|- style="background-color: #FFF;"
| {{gameabbrev7|P}}
| [[File:0025Pikachu-Partner.png|48px|link=Partner Pokémon (Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee!)]]
| ''None''
|- style="background-color: #FFF;"
| {{gameabbrev7|E}}
| [[File:0133Eevee-Partner.png|48px|link=Partner Pokémon (Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee!)]]
| ''None''
|- style="background-color: #FFF;"
| {{gameabbrev8|SwSh}}
| {{MSP|0810|Grookey}} {{MSP|0813|Scorbunny}} {{MSP|0816|Sobble}}
| {{gameabbrev9|SV}} ({{gameabbrev9|ID}})
|- style="background-color: #FFF;"
| rowspan="3" | {{gameabbrev8|LA}}
| {{MSP|0722|Rowlet}}
| {{gameabbrev7|SM}}, {{gameabbrev7|USUM}}, {{gameabbrev8|SwSh}} ({{gameabbrev8|IA}}), {{gameabbrev9|SV}} ({{gameabbrev9|ID}})
|- style="background-color: #FFF;"
| {{MSP|0155|Cyndaquil}}
| {{gameabbrev3|E}}, {{gameabbrev6|ORAS}}, {{gameabbrev7|SM}}, {{gameabbrev8|BDSP}}, {{gameabbrev9|SV}} ({{gameabbrev9|ID}})
|- style="background-color: #FFF;"
| {{MSP|0501|Oshawott}}
| {{gameabbrev6|ORAS}}, {{gameabbrev7|SM}}, {{gameabbrev9|SV}} ({{gameabbrev9|ID}})
|- style="background-color: #FFF;"
| {{gameabbrev9|SV}}
| {{MSP|0906|Sprigatito}} {{MSP|0909|Fuecoco}} {{MSP|0912|Quaxly}}
| ''None''
|-
|-
| style="background:#{{psychic color}}; {{roundybl|5px}}" | {{tcolor|Psychic|FFF}}
!
| style="background:#{{dark color}}; {{roundybr|5px}}" | {{tcolor|Dark|FFF}}
|}
|}


A first for the Pokémon games, these starter Pokémon come as a pair as to represent the [[Double Battle]] system, and are also different in that they are in the player's possession right at the start of play. Umbreon is at level 26, knowing the [[TM]] moves {{m|Taunt}} and {{m|Snatch}}, as well as {{m|Bite}} which is otherwise only available through {{pkmn|breeding}} at such a level. Espeon is at level 25, knowing the TM moves {{m|Return}} (while also starting with maximum [[friendship]]) and {{m|Reflect}}. Both are always male.
===Other games===
 
{{main|List of the player's first Pokémon}}
In [[Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness]]:
Other games may use one of the classic first partner Pokémon, with {{p|Pikachu}} being fairly common; but many games give the player other Pokémon as their first Pokémon.
 
{| style="margin:auto; width:auto; text-align:center; background:#{{xd color dark}}; font-size:85%; {{roundy}}; border:5px solid #{{xd color}}"
|-
! colspan="10" align="center" style="width:80px; background:#{{xd color light}}; {{roundytop|5px}}" | [[File:133Eevee XD.png|x100px]]<br>{{pcolor|Eevee|{{xd color dark}}}}
|-
| colspan="10" style="background:#{{normal color}}" | {{tcolor|Normal|FFF}}
|- style="background:#{{xd color light}}"
| {{MSP/XD|134|Vaporeon}}
| {{pcolor|Vaporeon|{{xd color dark}}}}
| {{MSP/XD|135|Jolteon}}
| {{pcolor|Jolteon|{{xd color dark}}}}
| {{MSP/XD|136|Flareon}}
| {{pcolor|Flareon|{{xd color dark}}}}
| {{MSP/XD|196|Espeon}}
| {{pcolor|Espeon|{{xd color dark}}}}
| {{MSP/XD|197|Umbreon}}
| {{pcolor|Umbreon|{{xd color dark}}}}
|-
| colspan="2" style="background:#{{water color}}; {{roundybl|5px}}" | {{tcolor|Water|FFF}}
{{typetable2|Electric}}
{{typetable2|Fire}}
{{typetable2|Psychic}}
| colspan="2" style="background:#{{dark color}}; {{roundybr|5px}}" | {{tcolor|Dark|FFF}}
|}


This starter Pokémon is in the player's possession right at the beginning of the game. It is at level 10 and knows {{m|Bite}}, which Eevee does not normally know at this level without {{pkmn|breeding}}. At an early point in the game, the player is offered one of five evolutionary items—[[Water Stone]], [[Thunder Stone|Thunderstone]], [[Fire Stone]], [[Sun Shard]], and [[Moon Shard]]—to allow the Eevee to evolve into any of its [[Eeveelution|evolutions]] that existed in [[Generation III]].
==In animation==
:''For a list of other Pokémon who are Trainers' first Pokémon, see [[list of characters' first Pokémon]].''
:''For a list of characters who own first partner Pokémon, see [[List of characters with first partner Pokémon]].''
===Pokémon animated series===
[[File:Liko Roy Dot Paldean first partners.png|thumb|250px|The Paldea first partner Pokémon with [[Roy]], [[Liko]], and [[Dot]] in ''[[Pokémon Horizons: The Series]]'']]
In ''[[Pokémon the Series]]'', upon their tenth birthday, youths can register for a [[Pokédex]] and pick up a first partner Pokémon from the local [[Pokémon Professor]] or [[Pokémon Center]] free of charge. First partner Pokémon are usually raised specifically to be easy to train.


In Pokémon XD, if the player completes the [[Mt. Battle]] challenge and defeats all 100 Trainers without quitting or switching Pokémon, [[Battlus]] will give one of the Johto starter Pokémon as a reward.
Like in the games, the specific first partner Pokémon available vary from region to region but are the same in each region as the games. That is, Kanto Trainers can only choose Bulbasaur, Charmander, or Squirtle; Johto Trainers can only choose Chikorita, Cyndaquil, or Totodile; and so on.


=====[[Pokétopia]]=====
In ''[[AG025|A Mudkip Mission]]'', it was shown where first partner Pokémon come from. Each region has special, secret breeding grounds run by a [[Pokémon Breeder]] for first partner Pokémon. The [[Pokémon League]] sends these Breeders the Pokémon Eggs for them to hatch at the breeding grounds. The breeders then hatch, care for, and raise the young Pokémon until they are ready to be proper first partner Pokémon for new Trainers. As these young ones are virtually defenseless, the locations of breeding grounds (or even the knowledge of their existence) is a secret unknown to most in the [[Pokémon world]]. This is likely to guard against unscrupulous individuals or groups (such as [[Team Rocket]]) from poaching the young Pokémon.
In [[Pokémon Battle Revolution]], the player's starter Pokémon are determined by the gender specified on their [[Rental Pass]] or [[Custom Pass]]. They are all at level 50.


Male players start out with the following Pokémon:
However, not all first partner Pokémon are raised at these special breeding grounds, with [[Professor Birch]] said to catch and raise his own first partner Pokémon for Trainers. <!--from AG025 as well-->
 
{| style="margin:auto; width:auto; text-align:center; background:#{{pbr color dark}}; font-size:85%; {{roundy}}; border:5px solid #{{pbr color}}"
|-
! style="width:80px; background:#{{pbr color light}}; {{roundytl|5px}}" | {{ArtP|388|Grotle|size=100px}}<br>{{pcolor|Grotle|{{pbr color dark}}}}
! style="width:80px; background:#{{pbr color light}}" colspan=2 | {{ArtP|391|Monferno|size=100px}}<br>{{pcolor|Monferno|{{pbr color dark}}}}
! style="width:80px; background:#{{pbr color light}}" | {{ArtP|394|Prinplup|size=100px}}<br>{{pcolor|Prinplup|{{pbr color dark}}}}
! style="width:80px; background:#{{pbr color light}}" | {{ArtP|404|Luxio|size=100px}}<br>{{pcolor|Luxio|{{pbr color dark}}}}
! style="width:80px; background:#{{pbr color light}}" colspan=2 | {{ArtP|444|Gabite|size=100px}}<br>{{pcolor|Gabite|{{pbr color dark}}}}
! style="width:80px; background:#{{pbr color light}}; {{roundytr|5px}}" colspan=2 | {{ArtP|397|Staravia|size=100px}}<br>{{pcolor|Staravia|{{pbr color dark}}}}
|-
| style="background:#{{grass color}}; {{roundybl|5px}}" | {{tcolor|Grass|FFF}}
{{typetable|Fire}}
{{typetable|Fighting}}
{{typetable|Water}}
{{typetable|Electric}}
{{typetable|Dragon}}
{{typetable|Ground}}
{{typetable|Normal}}
| style="background:#{{flying color}}; {{roundybr|5px}}" | {{tcolor|Flying|FFF}}
|}
 
Female players start out with the following Pokémon:
 
{| style="margin:auto; width:auto; text-align:center; background:#{{pbr color dark}}; font-size:85%; {{roundy}}; border:5px solid #{{pbr color}}"
|-
! style="width:80px; background:#{{pbr color light}}; {{roundytl|5px}}" colspan=2 | {{ArtP|002|Ivysaur|size=100px}}<br>{{pcolor|Ivysaur|{{pbr color dark}}}}
! style="width:80px; background:#{{pbr color light}}" | {{ArtP|005|Charmeleon|size=100px}}<br>{{pcolor|Charmeleon|{{pbr color dark}}}}
! style="width:80px; background:#{{pbr color light}}" | {{ArtP|008|Wartortle|size=100px}}<br>{{pcolor|Wartortle|{{pbr color dark}}}}
! style="width:80px; background:#{{pbr color light}}" | {{ArtP|148|Dragonair|size=100px}}<br>{{pcolor|Dragonair|{{pbr color dark}}}}
! style="width:80px; background:#{{pbr color light}}" colspan=2 | {{ArtP|111|Rhyhorn|size=100px}}<br>{{pcolor|Rhyhorn|{{pbr color dark}}}}
! style="width:80px; background:#{{pbr color light}}; {{roundytr|5px}}" colspan=2 | {{ArtP|018|Pidgeot|size=100px}}<br>{{pcolor|Pidgeot|{{pbr color dark}}}}
|-
| style="background:#{{grass color}}; {{roundybl|5px}}" | {{tcolor|Grass|FFF}}
{{typetable|Poison}}
{{typetable|Fire}}
{{typetable|Water}}
{{typetable|Dragon}}
{{typetable|Ground}}
{{typetable|Rock}}
{{typetable|Normal}}
| style="background:#{{flying color}}; {{roundybr|5px}}" | {{tcolor|Flying|FFF}}
|-
|}
 
=====[[Pasio]]=====
In [[Pokémon Masters EX]], the player themselves starts with a {{p|Pikachu}}. Upon starting the game, {{mas|Brock}} and {{mas|Misty}} join the player's roster with their sync partners, {{TP|Brock|Onix}} and {{TP|Misty|Starmie}}, to form a team of three.
 
{| style="margin:auto; width:auto; text-align:center; background:#{{orange color dark}}; font-size:85%; {{roundy}}; border:5px solid #{{orange color}}"
|-
! style="width:80px; background:#{{orange color light}}; {{roundytl|5px}}" | [[File:Masters025.png|100px]]<br>{{pcolor|Pikachu|{{orange color dark}}}}
! style="width:80px; background:#{{orange color light}}" | [[File:Masters095.png|100px]]<br>{{color2|{{orange color dark}}|Brock's Onix|Onix}}
! style="width:80px; background:#{{orange color light}}; {{roundytr|5px}}" | [[File:Masters121.png|100px]]<br>{{color2|{{orange color dark}}|Misty's Starmie|Starmie}}
|-
| style="background:#{{electric color}}; {{roundybl|5px}}" | {{tcolor|Electric|FFF}}
{{typetable|Rock}}
| style="background:#{{water color}}; {{roundybr|5px}}" | {{tcolor|Water|FFF}}
|}
 
=====[[Pokémon GO]]=====
In Pokémon GO, when the player starts the game, {{p|Bulbasaur}}, {{p|Charmander}}, and {{p|Squirtle}} will appear nearby. If the player battles and captures one of them, the others will disappear.
 
If the player walks away from them, they will reappear near their new location. If they do this four times, {{p|Pikachu}} will appear in addition to the Kanto starter Pokémon.
 
{| style="margin:auto; width:auto; background:#{{night color dark}}; text-align:center; font-size:85%; {{roundy}}; border:5px solid #{{night color}}"
|-
! style="width:80px; background:#{{night color light}}; {{roundytl|5px}}" colspan="2" | {{MSP/GO|001|Bulbasaur|size=100px}}<br>{{pcolor|Bulbasaur|{{night color dark}}}}
! style="width:80px; background:#{{night color light}}" colspan="2" | {{MSP/GO|004|Charmander|size=100px}}<br>{{pcolor|Charmander|{{night color dark}}}}
! style="width:80px; background:#{{night color light}}" colspan="2" | {{MSP/GO|007|Squirtle|size=100px}}<br>{{pcolor|Squirtle|{{night color dark}}}}
! style="width:80px; background:#{{night color light}}; {{roundytr|5px}}" colspan="2" | {{MSP/GO|025|Pikachu|size=100px}}<br>{{pcolor|Pikachu|{{night color dark}}}}
|-
{{typetable|Grass}}
{{typetable|Poison}}
{{typetable2|Fire}}
{{typetable2|Water}}
{{typetable2|Electric}}
|- style="background:#{{night color light}}"
| {{MSP/GO|002|Ivysaur}}
| {{pcolor|Ivysaur|{{night color dark}}}}
| {{MSP/GO|005|Charmeleon}}
| {{pcolor|Charmeleon|{{night color dark}}}}
| {{MSP/GO|008|Wartortle}}
| {{pcolor|Wartortle|{{night color dark}}}}
| {{MSP/GO|026|Raichu}}
| {{pcolor|Raichu|{{night color dark}}}}
|-
{{typetable|Grass}}
{{typetable|Poison}}
{{typetable2|Fire}}
{{typetable2|Water}}
| colspan="2" style="background:#{{electric color}}; {{roundybr|5px}}" | {{tcolor|Electric|FFF}}
|- style="background:#{{night color light}}"
| {{MSP/GO|003|Venusaur}}
| {{pcolor|Venusaur|{{night color dark}}}}
| {{MSP/GO|006|Charizard}}
| {{pcolor|Charizard|{{night color dark}}}}
| {{MSP/GO|009|Blastoise}}
| {{pcolor|Blastoise|{{night color dark}}}}
|-
{{typetable|Grass}}
{{typetable|Poison}}
{{typetable|Fire}}
{{typetable|Flying}}
{{typetable2|Water}}
|- style="background:#{{night color light}}"
| rowspan=3 | {{MSP/GO|003M|Venusaur}}
| rowspan=3 | <small>{{color2|{{night color dark}}|Mega Evolution|Mega}}</small><br>{{pcolor|Venusaur|{{night color dark}}}}
| {{MSP/GO|006MX|Charizard}}
| <small>{{color2|{{night color dark}}|Mega Evolution|Mega}}</small><br>{{pcolor|Charizard|{{night color dark}}|Charizard X}}
| rowspan=3 | {{MSP/GO|009M|Blastoise}}
| rowspan=3 | <small>{{color2|{{night color dark}}|Mega Evolution|Mega}}</small><br>{{pcolor|Blastoise|{{night color dark}}}}
|-
{{typetable|Fire}}
{{typetable|Dragon}}
|- style="background:#{{night color light}}"
| {{MSP/GO|006MY|Charizard}}
| <small>{{color2|{{night color dark}}|Mega Evolution|Mega}}</small><br>{{pcolor|Charizard|{{night color dark}}|Charizard Y}}
|-
| style="background:#{{grass color}}; {{roundybl|5px}}" | {{tcolor|Grass|FFF}}
{{typetable|Poison}}
{{typetable|Fire}}
{{typetable|Flying}}
| colspan="2" style="background:#{{water color}}; {{roundybr|5px}}" | {{tcolor|Water|FFF}}
|}
 
===Starting Pokémon===
While not actually starter Pokémon, these are the first Pokémon available in each of these games.
 
====Pokémon Mystery Dungeon series====
{{main|Player character#Pokémon Mystery Dungeon series|Player character → Pokémon Mystery Dungeon series}}
 
====Pokémon Ranger series====
{{main|Partner Pokémon (Ranger)}}
 
====Pokémon Rumble series====
{{main|Player character#Pokémon Rumble series|Player character → Pokémon Rumble series}}
 
====PokéPark series====
{{main|Player character#PokéPark series|Player character → PokéPark series}}
 
====[[Pokémon Conquest]]====
{| align="center" style="background:#cdbc6c; text-align:center; font-size:85%; {{roundy}}; border:5px solid #807544"
|-
! colspan="14" align="center" style="width:80px; background:#f9e586; {{roundytop|5px}}" | [[File:PCP133.png|100px]]<br>{{pcolor|Eevee|807544}}
|-
| colspan="14" style="background:#{{normal color}}" | {{tcolor|Normal|FFF}}
|- style="background:#f9e586"
| [[File:134CFS.png|link=Vaporeon (Pokémon)]]
| {{pcolor|Vaporeon|807544}}
| [[File:135CFS.png|link=Jolteon (Pokémon)]]
| {{pcolor|Jolteon|807544}}
| [[File:136CFS.png|link=Flareon (Pokémon)]]
| {{pcolor|Flareon|807544}}
| [[File:196CFS.png|link=Espeon (Pokémon)]]
| {{pcolor|Espeon|807544}}
| [[File:197CFS.png|link=Umbreon (Pokémon)]]
| {{pcolor|Umbreon|807544}}
| [[File:470CFS.png|link=Leafeon (Pokémon)]]
| {{pcolor|Leafeon|807544}}
| [[File:471CFS.png|link=Leafeon (Pokémon)]]
| {{pcolor|Glaceon|807544}}
|-
| colspan="2" style="background:#{{water color}}; {{roundybl|5px}}" | {{tcolor|Water|FFF}}
{{typetable2|Electric}}
{{typetable2|Fire}}
{{typetable2|Psychic}}
{{typetable2|Dark}}
{{typetable2|Grass}}
| colspan="2" style="background:#{{ice color}}; {{roundybr|5px}}" | {{tcolor|Ice|FFF}}
|}
 
====[[Pokédex 3D]]====
In [[Pokédex 3D]], all players begin with these Pokémon.
{| align="center" style="background:#{{Unova color dark}}; text-align:center; font-size:85%; {{roundy}}; border:5px solid #{{Unova color}}"
|-
! style="width:80px; background:#{{Unova color light}}; {{roundytl|5px}}" | {{ArtP|495|Snivy|size=100px}}<br>{{pcolor|Snivy|{{Unova color dark}}}}
! style="width:80px; background:#{{Unova color light}}" | {{ArtP|496|Servine|size=100px}}<br>{{pcolor|Servine|{{Unova color dark}}}}
! style="width:80px; background:#{{Unova color light}}" | {{ArtP|497|Serperior|size=100px}}<br>{{pcolor|Serperior|{{Unova color dark}}}}
! style="width:80px; background:#{{Unova color light}}" | {{ArtP|498|Tepig|size=100px}}<br>{{pcolor|Tepig|{{Unova color dark}}}}
! style="width:80px; background:#{{Unova color light}}" | {{ArtP|499|Pignite|size=100px}}<br>{{pcolor|Pignite|{{Unova color dark}}}}
! style="width:80px; background:#{{Unova color light}}" | {{ArtP|500|Emboar|size=100px}}<br>{{pcolor|Emboar|{{Unova color dark}}}}
! style="width:80px; background:#{{Unova color light}}" | {{ArtP|501|Oshawott|size=100px}}<br>{{pcolor|Oshawott|{{Unova color dark}}}}
! style="width:80px; background:#{{Unova color light}}; {{roundytr|5px}}" | {{ArtP|502|Dewott|size=100px}}<br>{{pcolor|Dewott|{{Unova color dark}}}}
|-
! style="width:80px; background:#{{Unova color light}}; {{roundybl|5px}}" | {{ArtP|503|Samurott|size=100px}}<br>{{pcolor|Samurott|{{Unova color dark}}}}
! style="width:80px; background:#{{Unova color light}}" | {{ArtP|531|Audino|size=100px}}<br>{{pcolor|Audino|{{Unova color dark}}}}
! style="width:80px; background:#{{Unova color light}}" | {{ArtP|559|Scraggy|size=100px}}<br>{{pcolor|Scraggy|{{Unova color dark}}}}
! style="width:80px; background:#{{Unova color light}}" | {{ArtP|572|Minccino|size=100px}}<br>{{pcolor|Minccino|{{Unova color dark}}}}
! style="width:80px; background:#{{Unova color light}}" | {{ArtP|587|Emolga|size=100px}}<br>{{pcolor|Emolga|{{Unova color dark}}}}
! style="width:80px; background:#{{Unova color light}}" | {{ArtP|590|Foongus|size=100px}}<br>{{pcolor|Foongus|{{Unova color dark}}}}
! style="width:80px; background:#{{Unova color light}}" | {{ArtP|610|Axew|size=100px}}<br>{{pcolor|Axew|{{Unova color dark}}}}
! style="width:80px; background:#{{Unova color light}}; {{roundybr|5px}}" | {{ArtP|635|Hydreigon|size=100px}}<br>{{pcolor|Hydreigon|{{Unova color dark}}}}
|-
|}
 
==In the anime==
===Main series===
[[File:Sinnoh Starter Pokémon.png|thumb|350px|The Sinnoh starter Pokémon in [[Professor Rowan]]'s laboratory]]
Upon their tenth birthday, youths can register for a [[Pokédex]] and pick up a starter Pokémon from the local [[Pokémon Professor]] or [[Pokémon Center]] free of charge. Starter Pokémon are usually raised specifically to be easy to train.
 
Like in the games, the specific starter Pokémon available vary from region to region but are the same in each region as the games. That is, Kanto Trainers can only choose Bulbasaur, Charmander, or Squirtle; Johto Trainers can only choose Chikorita, Cyndaquil, or Totodile; and so on.
 
In ''[[AG025|A Mudkip Mission]]'', it was shown where starter Pokémon come from. Each region has special, secret breeding grounds run by a [[Pokémon Breeder]] for starter Pokémon. The [[Pokémon League]] sends these Breeders the Pokémon Eggs for them to hatch at the breeding grounds. The breeders then hatch, care for, and raise the young Pokémon until they are ready to be proper starter Pokémon for new Trainers. As these young ones are virtually defenseless, the locations of breeding grounds (or even the knowledge of their existence) is a secret unknown to most in the [[Pokémon world]]. This is likely to guard against unscrupulous individuals or groups (such as [[Team Rocket]]) from poaching the young Pokémon.
 
However, not all starter Pokémon are raised at these special breeding grounds, with [[Professor Birch]] said to catch and raise his own starter Pokémon for Trainers. <!--from AG025 as well-->


Other rookie Trainers may receive their first Pokémon from a friend or relative instead. Others, on the other hand, may befriend a Pokémon in the wild. These mean that Trainers can, in fact, start with any Pokémon.
Other rookie Trainers may receive their first Pokémon from a friend or relative instead. Others, on the other hand, may befriend a Pokémon in the wild. These mean that Trainers can, in fact, start with any Pokémon.


<gallery perrow=6>
<gallery widths="200px" class="center">
File:Starter Pokemon poster.png|A poster on Ash Ketchum's bedroom wall, depicting the Kanto starter Pokémon
File:Cerise Kanto first partners.png|The Kanto first partner Pokémon in [[Professor Cerise]]'s laboratory
File:LoT starters.png|[[Vincent]], {{jo|Marina}}, and {{jo|Jimmy}} with their Johto starter Pokémon
File:Johto first partners anime.png|The Johto first partner Pokémon owned by {{Ash}}
File:Hoenn starters anime.png|The Hoenn starter Pokémon; owned by Brock, Ash, and May from left to right
File:Hoenn first partners anime.png|The Hoenn first partner Pokémon, owned by {{an|Brock}}, Ash, and {{an|May}}
File:Sinnoh Starters.png|A postcard from Professor Rowan, depicting the Sinnoh starter Pokémon
File:Sinnoh first partners anime.png|The Sinnoh first partner Pokémon in [[Professor Rowan]]'s laboratory
File:Unova starters anime.png|The Unova region starter Pokémon in [[Professor Juniper]]'s laboratory
File:Unova first partners anime.png|The Unova region first partner Pokémon in [[Professor Juniper]]'s laboratory
File:Kalos starters anime.png|The Kalos region starter Pokémon in [[Professor Sycamore]]'s laboratory
File:Kalos first partners anime.png|The Kalos region first partner Pokémon in {{an|Professor Sycamore}}'s laboratory
File:SM016.png|The Alola region starter Pokémon owned by Ash and Lana
File:Alola first partners anime.png|The Alola first partner Pokémon, owned by Ash and {{an|Lana}}
File:Galar starters anime.png|The Galar region starter Pokémon in the anime, owned by [[Goh]]
File:Galar first partners anime.png|The Galar region first partner Pokémon
File:Hisuian Starters anime.png|The Hisui region starter Pokémon in the anime
File:Hisuian first partners anime.png|The Hisui region first partner Pokémon
File:Paldea first partners anime.png|The Paldea first partner Pokémon, owned by [[Liko]], [[Dot]], and [[Roy]]
</gallery>
</gallery>
====List of starter Pokémon in the main series====
{{spoilers}}
[[File:Dawn choosing Piplup.png|thumb|220px|Dawn choosing Piplup as her starter]]
* {{Ash}} started with a {{AP|Pikachu}}, which he received from {{an|Professor Oak}}. In ''[[Pokémon Journeys: The Series]]'', he was revealed to be able to [[Gigantamax]] into a Gigantamax Pikachu.
* {{an|Misty}} started with {{TP|Misty|Goldeen}}, {{TP|Misty|Staryu}}, and {{TP|Misty|Starmie}}. However, it's unknown how she got them, or which one she acquired first.
* {{an|Brock}} started with an {{p|Onix}}, which he received from {{ka|Flint|his father}} and for some time stayed with his brother, [[Forrest]], with whom it evolved into a {{TP|Brock|Steelix}}. In ''[[Pokémon the Series: Sun and Moon]]'', it was revealed to be able [[Mega Evolution|Mega Evolve]] into a Mega Steelix.
* [[Jessie]] started with an {{p|Ekans}}, which she received for {{wp|chūgen}} (a [[birthday]] present in the dub), and who later evolved into an {{TP|Jessie|Arbok}}. In ''[[Pokémon the Series: Ruby and Sapphire]], she formally released it back into the wild.
* [[James]] started with his pet {{p|Growlithe}}, [[Growlie]]; however, he left it at home when he ran away.
* {{an|May}} started with a {{p|Torchic}}, which she received from [[Professor Birch]] and who later evolved into a {{TP|May|Blaziken}}.
* [[Max]] intends to begin his journey with the {{p|Ralts}} he met in ''[[AG109|Do I Hear a Ralts?]]''.
* {{an|Dawn}} started with a {{TP|Dawn|Piplup}}, which she received from [[Professor Rowan]].
* {{an|Iris}} started with a {{p|Drilbur}}, which she saved from falling off a cliff when she was a little girl, who later evolved into an {{TP|Iris|Excadrill}}.
* {{an|Cilan}} started with a {{TP|Cilan|Pansage}}, which he has had since childhood.
* {{an|Serena}} started with a {{p|Fennekin}}, which she received from [[Professor Sycamore]], which has since evolved into {{TP|Serena|Delphox}}.
* {{an|Kiawe}} started with a {{TP|Kiawe|Charizard}}, which he received from his grandfather.
* {{an|Lillie}} started with an {{rf|Alolan}} {{p|Vulpix}} that hatched from an {{pkmn|Egg}}. She nicknamed it [[Snowy]].
* {{an|Sophocles}} started with a {{TP|Sophocles|Togedemaru}}.
* {{an|Mallow}} started with a {{p|Bounsweet}}, which she received in the forest behind the [[Pokémon School]] from her [[Mallow's mother|late mother]]. She has since evolved into a {{TP|Mallow|Tsareena}}.
* [[Goh]] initially wanted his starter Pokémon to be a {{p|Mew}} like the one he met when he was six, but he changed his mind after befriending a wild {{p|Scorbunny}} in [[Galar]], choosing it as his partner instead. It has since evolved into a {{TP|Goh|Cinderace}}.
* {{Gary}} started with a {{p|Squirtle}}, which he received from Professor Oak and who later [[evolution|evolved]] into a {{TP|Gary|Blastoise}}.
* {{an|Casey}} started with a {{p|Chikorita}}, which she received from [[Professor Elm]] and who later evolved into a {{TP|Casey|Meganium}}.
* [[Sakura]] started with an {{p|Eevee}}, which later evolved into an {{TP|Sakura|Espeon}}.
* {{Jo|Jimmy}} (''[[The Legend of Thunder!]]'') started with a {{p|Cyndaquil}}, which he received from Professor Elm and who later evolved into a {{TP|Jimmy|Typhlosion}}.
* {{Jo|Marina}} started with a {{p|Totodile}}, which she received from Professor Elm and nicknamed [[Wani-Wani]], and which later evolved into a {{p|Feraligatr}}.
* [[Vincent]] started with a {{p|Chikorita}}, which he received from Professor Elm and who later evolved into a {{TP|Vincent|Meganium}}.
* {{Jo|Harrison}} started with a {{p|Torchic}}, which he received from [[Professor Birch]] and who later evolved into a {{TP|Harrison|Blaziken}}.
* [[Nicholai]] started with a {{p|Mudkip}}, which later evolved into a {{p|Marshtomp}}.
* {{OBP|Jimmy|AG092}} (''[[AG092|Judgment Day!]]'') started with a {{p|Squirtle}}, which later evolved into a {{p|Blastoise}}.
* [[Yuzo]] said that he started his [[Pokémon journey]] with a {{p|Starly}}.
* [[Paul]] started with a {{p|Turtwig}}, which later evolved into {{TP|Paul|Torterra}}.
* [[Zoey]] started with a {{TP|Zoey|Glameow}}, which she raised after it was abandoned.
* {{Si|Kenny}} started with a {{p|Piplup}}, which later evolved into an {{TP|Kenny|Empoleon}}.
* {{an|Cynthia}} started with a {{p|Gible}} that she hatched from an Egg as a child, which has since evolved into a {{TP|Cynthia|Garchomp}}.
* {{an|Barry}}'s first Pokémon is currently unknown, but it was hinted in ''[[DP122|Stopped in the Name of Love!]]'' that his first Pokémon might be his {{TP|Barry|Empoleon}}, which he received as a {{p|Piplup}}.
* {{an|Lyra}} started with a {{p|Chikorita}}.
* [[Khoury]] started with a {{p|Totodile}}, which later evolved into a {{TP|Khoury|Croconaw}}.
* [[Volkner]] started with a {{p|Pikachu}}, which later evolved into a {{p|Raichu}}.
* [[Trip]] started with a {{p|Snivy}}, which he received from [[Professor Juniper]], who later evolved into a {{TP|Trip|Serperior}}.
* {{an|Bianca}} started with a {{p|Tepig}}, which later evolved into an {{TP|Bianca|Emboar}}.
* [[Burgundy]] started with an {{p|Oshawott}}, which later evolved into a {{p|Dewott}}.
* [[Virgil]] started with an {{p|Eevee}}, which later evolved into an {{TP|Virgil|Umbreon}}.
* [[Alain]] started with a {{p|Charmander}}, which he received from Professor Sycamore, and which evolved into {{TP|Alain|Charizard}}. It can [[Mega Evolution|Mega Evolve]] into a {{me|Charizard}} X.
* [[Mairin]] started with a {{p|Chespin}}, which she received from Professor Sycamore. She nicknamed it [[Chespie]].
* {{an|Tierno}} started with a {{p|Squirtle}}, which he received from Professor Sycamore and later evolved into {{TP|Tierno|Blastoise}}.
* {{an|Shauna}} started with a {{p|Bulbasaur}}, which she received from Professor Sycamore, which evolved into {{TP|Shauna|Ivysaur}}.
* {{an|Trevor}} started with a {{p|Charmander}}, which he received from Professor Sycamore, which evolved into {{TP|Trevor|Charizard}}. It can [[Mega Evolution|Mega Evolve]] into a {{me|Charizard}} Y.
* [[Sawyer]] started with a {{p|Treecko}}, which he received from [[Professor Birch]] and later evolved into {{TP|Sawyer|Sceptile}}. It can [[Mega Evolution|Mega Evolve]] into a {{me|Sceptile}}.
* {{an|Professor Kukui}} started with a {{p|Litten}} that he received from his parents. It has since evolved into an {{TP|Professor Kukui|Incineroar}}.
* {{an|Gladion}} started with an {{p|Eevee}}, which later evolved into an {{TP|Gladion|Umbreon}}.
* [[Chloe]] started with an {{TP|Chloe|Eevee}} that can't evolve, which she caught outside of [[Cerise Laboratory]].
* [[Zackie]] (''[[EP130|A Bout With Sprout]]'') started with a {{p|Bellsprout}}, which he accidentally caught in [[Violet City]] when trying to catch [[Ash's Pikachu]], which he thought was a [[wild Pokémon]].
* {{OBP|Tommy|AG032}} (''[[AG032|Abandon Ship!]]'') started with a {{p|Mudkip}}, which later evolved into a {{p|Swampert}}.
* {{OBP|Stephanie|AG034}} (''[[AG034|Having a Wailord of a Time]]'') started with a {{p|Mudkip}}, which she received from Nurse Joy at the [[Slateport City]] [[Pokémon Center]].
** [[Stephanie's father]] started with a {{p|Treecko}}, which he received at the same time.
* {{OBP|Gilbert|HS14}} (''[[HS14|Journey to the Starting Line!]]'') started with a {{p|Bulbasaur}}, which he received from Professor Oak.
* [[Zander]]'s (''[[AG142|Caterpie's Big Dilemma]]'') {{p|Caterpie}} was implied to be his starter Pokémon in the episode, as he mentioned that his Caterpie was his first Pokémon, albeit it was "not caught".
* [[Tyler]] (''[[DP080|The Thief That Keeps on Thieving!]]'') started with a {{p|Piplup}}, which he nicknamed "Pippy", who he received from an unknown location in eastern [[Sinnoh]].
* [[Emmy]] (''[[BW027|The Dragon Master's Path!]]'') started with her {{p|Druddigon}}, which she received from her father when she started her journey.
* [[Nanette]] (''[[BW109|New Places...Familiar Faces!]]'') started with a {{p|Tepig}}, which she received from Professor Juniper.
======Caught in the wild instead======
* Ash caught a {{AP|Bulbasaur}}, a {{p|Charmander}}, and a {{AP|Squirtle}} in quick succession in the [[Kanto]] region. Of the three, only Charmander evolved, becoming a {{p|Charmeleon}}, and later a {{AP|Charizard}}, being ''very'' disobedient to Ash in both forms until [[EP105|an incident]] in the [[Orange Archipelago]], after which he served Ash as he had when he was a Charmander. Bulbasaur was also going to evolve, but decided itself against becoming an {{p|Ivysaur}} in ''[[EP051|Bulbasaur's Mysterious Garden]]''.
** In the alternate continuity of ''[[M20|I Choose You!]]'', {{OBP|Ash Ketchum|M20|Ash}} only caught a Charmander, which also went on to evolve.
* Ash also caught the three [[Johto]] region starter Pokémon, {{p|Chikorita}}, {{p|Cyndaquil}}, and {{AP|Totodile}}, of which Chikorita and Cyndaquil evolved into {{AP|Bayleef}} and {{AP|Quilava}}, respectively.
* Ash caught a {{AP|Treecko}} in [[Hoenn]], while Brock captured a {{TP|Brock|Mudkip}}. Treecko evolved twice, becoming {{AP|Sceptile}} before Ash left it at Professor Oak's lab, while Brock's Mudkip evolved into {{TP|Brock|Marshtomp}}. Along with May's {{TP|May|Torchic}}, the traveling trio had the three starter Pokémon of Hoenn.
* {{an|May}} caught a Bulbasaur midway through her journey in Hoenn, and was given a {{TP|May|Squirtle}} by Professor Oak when she journeyed to Kanto. Bulbasaur evolved all the way into {{TP|May|Venusaur}} and Squirtle evolved into {{TP|May|Wartortle}} during May's travels through Johto.
* In [[Sinnoh]], Ash repeated himself by catching {{AP|Turtwig}}, who has since evolved into a {{AP|Torterra}}. His rival, [[Paul]], owned a Chimchar that was confirmed to be caught in the wild. He was released, recaught by Ash, and is now an {{AP|Infernape}}.
* Dawn {{pkmn|Egg|hatched}} a {{p|Cyndaquil}} during her journey in Sinnoh. It later evolved into {{TP|Dawn|Quilava}}.
* Like in the [[original series]], Ash caught all of [[Unova]]'s starter Pokémon, {{AP|Oshawott}}, {{AP|Tepig}}, and {{AP|Snivy}}. However, this time around, he caught them in reverse of the Pokédex order, and Oshawott was a starter Pokémon that Professor Juniper allowed Ash to have after he ran away to be with him. Of the three, only Tepig has evolved, becoming a {{p|Pignite}}.
* [[Gary Oak]] had an {{p|Eevee}} at least since Ash was traveling in the Orange Archipelago. As it was revealed to be under his ownership before his Blastoise, it caused many to hearken back to {{game|Yellow}}, where the player starts with {{p|Pikachu}}, like Ash, and the rival starts with Eevee. Either way, it was disproven that this was the case when Gary finally revealed his Blastoise to Ash. His Eevee eventually evolved into {{TP|Gary|Umbreon}}.
* Ash caught a {{p|Froakie}} in [[Kalos]], which used to belong to several other Trainers before being abandoned or abandoning the Trainer. It has since evolved into a {{TP|Ash|Greninja}}.
* {{an|Clemont}} obtained a {{TP|Clemont|Chespin}} in Kalos. It originally belonged to Professor Sycamore as a starting Pokémon for new Trainers.
* {{an|Lana}} is revealed to have caught a {{TP|Lana|Popplio}} in [[Alola]]. Popplio was rescued from being abused by members of [[Team Skull]]. It has since then evolved into {{TP|Lana|Primarina}}.
* While Ash was in Alola, he caught a {{AP|Rowlet}} who was living in a flock of {{p|Pikipek}}, a {{p|Trumbeak}}, and a {{p|Toucannon}}. Ash also encountered a {{p|Litten}} a few times before finally earning its trust and capturing it. Litten has since evolved into an {{AP|Incineroar}}.
* During his second visit to Wyndon, Goh caught a {{TP|Goh|Sobble}}. It has since evolved all the way into {{TP|Goh|Inteleon}}.
* A {{TP|Goh|Grookey}} belonging to [[Team Rocket]] decided to [[release]] itself while in [[Vermilion City]] in order to join Goh.
* {{an|Leon}} started with a Charmander, which evolved into Charizard.
===Alternate movie continuity===
''[[M20|I Choose You!]]'', a movie that started a continutity separate from the main anime series, focused on the developing friendship between {{OBP|Ash Ketchum|M20|Ash}} and the {{OBP|Ash's Pikachu|M20|Pikachu}} he received from {{an|Professor Oak}}. In this continuity, Gary also started with a {{TP|Gary|Squirtle}}, while the Oak's Bulbasaur and Charmander were revealed to have been picked by alternate versions of {{OBP|Marina|EP091}} and {{an|Tierno}}, respectively.
In ''[[M21|The Power of Us]]'', Ash and Pikachu helped [[Risa]] catch a {{pkmn2|wild}} {{p|Eevee}} that eventually became her starter Pokémon.


===Pokémon Black 2 and White 2 Animated Trailer===
===Pokémon Black 2 and White 2 Animated Trailer===
[[File:Rosa Serperior Animated Trailer.png|thumb|250px|Rosa and Serperior in the [[Pokémon Black Version 2 and Pokémon White Version 2 Animated Trailer|Black 2 and White 2 Animated Trailer]]]]
[[File:Rosa Serperior Animated Trailer.png|thumb|left|250px|Rosa and Serperior in the [[Pokémon Black Version 2 and Pokémon White Version 2 Animated Trailer|Black 2 and White 2 Animated Trailer]]]]
In the [[Pokémon Black Version 2 and Pokémon White Version 2 Animated Trailer|Black 2 and White 2 Animated Trailer]], {{ga|Nate}} is shown to have picked a {{p|Tepig}}, which appears as an {{p|Emboar}} throughout the trailer. Following the game's logic, [[Hugh]] is seen with a {{p|Samurott}}, which has a type advantage over Emboar. In the extended version of the trailer, {{ga|Rosa}} is also seen using {{p|Serperior}} to battle [[Cheren]]'s {{p|Stoutland}}.
[[File:May Blaziken ORAS Trailer.png|thumb|250px|Brendan and May and their first partner Pokémon in the [[Pokémon Omega Ruby and Pokémon Alpha Sapphire Animated Trailer|Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire Animated Trailer]]]]
 
The [[Pokémon Black Version 2 and Pokémon White Version 2 Animated Trailer|Black 2 and White 2 Animated Trailer]]'s extended cut features all three of [[Unova]]'s first partner Pokémon: {{ga|Nate}} is shown with an {{p|Emboar}}, [[Hugh]] is seen with a {{p|Samurott}} (having picked the opposing type, like most [[rival]]s do in the games), and {{ga|Rosa}} uses a {{p|Serperior}} to battle [[Cheren]]'s {{p|Stoutland}}.
===Pokémon Origins===
[[File:Red and Charizard PO.png|thumb|left|250px|{{OBP|Red|Origins}} and {{TP|Red|Charizard}} in [[Pokémon Origins]]]]
In [[Pokémon Origins]], {{OBP|Red|Origins}}'s main Pokémon is his starter, a {{TP|Red|Charmander}} he received from [[Professor Oak]]. It eventually evolves into {{TP|Red|Charizard}} and becomes able to [[Mega Evolution|Mega Evolve]] into Mega Charizard X through a [[Key Stone]] and [[Charizardite X]] Red received as a thank-you gift from [[Mr. Fuji]].


===Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire Animated Trailer===
===Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire Animated Trailer===
In the [[Pokémon Omega Ruby and Pokémon Alpha Sapphire Animated Trailer]], {{ga|Brendan}} is shown to have picked a {{p|Treecko}}, while {{ga|May}} has both a {{p|Torchic}} and {{p|Mudkip}}. All three Pokémon are seen in their middle, final, and [[Mega Evolution|Mega Evolved]] forms.
The [[Pokémon Omega Ruby and Pokémon Alpha Sapphire Animated Trailer]] also features all three of [[Hoenn]]'s first partner Pokémon, in all forms including their [[Mega Evolution]]s. {{ga|Brendan}} is shown to have picked a {{p|Treecko}}, while {{ga|May}} has both a {{p|Torchic}} and {{p|Mudkip}}.
{{-}}


===Pokémon Generations===
==In the manga==
* In ''[[PG01|The Adventure]]'', {{ga|Red}} is shown to have a {{p|Bulbasaur}}.
:''For a list of other Pokémon who are Trainers' first Pokémon, see [[list of characters' first Pokémon]].''
* In ''[[PG03|The Challenger]]'', {{ga|Blue}} is shown to have a {{p|Blastoise}}.
:''For a list of characters who own first partner Pokémon, see [[List of characters with first partner Pokémon]].''
* In ''[[PG07|The Vision]]'', {{ga|Brendan}} is shown to have a {{p|Sceptile}}.
===Pokémon Adventures===
* In ''[[PG18|The Redemption]]'', {{ga|Calem}} is shown to have a {{p|Chesnaught}} and a {{p|Charizard}}.
In [[Pokémon Adventures]], the first partner Pokémon featured in the games are reserved for the few people who hold a Pokédex. {{adv|Professor Oak}} produces three Pokédexes for each region, and gives out the three first partner Pokémon in each region along with the Pokédex to Trainers he thinks are talented. He has colleagues and friends like Professor Birch do this for him in regions in which he isn't present. In the Unova region, two sets of first partner Pokémon are given out to six Trainers, but still with only three Pokédexes. Professor Oak also gave [[Pika|Red's Pikachu]] as a special first partner to {{adv|Yellow}}.


===Pokémon: Twilight Wings===
===Pokémon Pocket Monsters===
''[[TW03|Buddy]]'' focuses on [[Hop]] and his starter Pokémon, {{p|Wooloo}}, before the events of {{g|Sword and Shield}}.
In [[Pokémon Pocket Monsters]], {{PPM|Professor Oak}} is depicted offering one of three first partner Pokémon&mdash;{{p|Bulbasaur}}, {{p|Charmander}}, or {{p|Squirtle}}&mdash;to Pokémon Trainers as they begin their journeys, much like in other media. {{PPM|Green}} chooses {{TP|Green|Charmander}} as his first Pokémon, and while {{PPM|Red}} was offered the choice as well, he decided to keep a {{TP|Red|Clefairy}} that he met on his way to Professor Oak's lab as his first Pokémon instead.
 
===POKÉTOON===
In ''[[PT03|Blossom's Dream]]'', {{OBP|Blossom|POKÉTOON}} sought to catch her own starter Pokémon. Eventually, this Pokémon ended up being the {{p|Nidoran♂}} she bonded with through the episode.
 
==In the manga==
===Be the Best! Pokémon B+W===
[[File:Cheren and Unova starters PBW.png|thumb|200px|The fully evolved Unova starter Pokémon in Be the Best! Pokémon B+W]]
[[Monta]], [[Bianca]], and [[Cheren]] received a {{TP|Monta|Snivy}}, {{TP|Bianca|Oshawott}}, and Tepig respectively as their first Pokémon. They ended up evolving into their final stages later on.


===The Electric Tale of Pikachu===
===The Electric Tale of Pikachu===
In [[The Electric Tale of Pikachu]], unlike the anime from which the manga was based on, new Pokémon Trainers do not appear to be given any sort of starter Pokémon. {{an|Professor Oak}} is not shown residing at [[Professor Oak's Laboratory|his laboratory]] handing out starter Pokémon to new Trainers, as in the anime, rather, he travels the [[Kanto]] region conducting research, often accompanied by [[Bill]]. Trainers in The Electric Tale of Pikachu must obtain a license before they can purchase [[Poké Ball]]s or otherwise capture and train Pokémon. {{OBP|Ash Ketchum|EToP|Ash}} found {{AP|Pikachu|Pikachu (EToP)}} under the floorboards of his home, keeping it as his first Pokémon. It is not currently known what [[Gary Oak]]'s first Pokémon was in the manga, although he is at one point seen owning a {{p|Venusaur}}.
In [[The Electric Tale of Pikachu]], unlike the [[Pokémon the Series|animated series]] from which the manga was based on, new Pokémon Trainers do not appear to be given any sort of first partner Pokémon. {{an|Professor Oak}} is not shown residing at [[Professor Oak's Laboratory|his laboratory]] handing out first partner Pokémon to new Trainers, as in the animated series, rather, he travels the [[Kanto]] region conducting research, often accompanied by [[Bill]]. Trainers in The Electric Tale of Pikachu must obtain a license before they can purchase [[Poké Ball]]s or otherwise capture and train Pokémon. {{OBP|Ash Ketchum|EToP|Ash}} found {{AP|Pikachu|Pikachu (EToP)}} under the floorboards of his home, keeping it as his first Pokémon. It is not currently known what [[Gary Oak]]'s first Pokémon was in the manga, although he is at one point seen owning a {{p|Venusaur}}.


===Pokémon Adventures===
===Pokémon Zensho===
In [[Pokémon Adventures]], the starter Pokémon featured in the games are reserved for the few people who hold a Pokédex. {{adv|Professor Oak}} produces three Pokédexes for each region, and gives out the three starter Pokémon in each region along with the Pokédex to Trainers he thinks are talented. He has colleagues and friends like Professor Birch do this for him in regions in which he isn't present. In the Unova region, two sets of starter Pokémon are given out to six Trainers, but still with only three Pokédexes. Professor Oak also gave Red's Pikachu as a special starter to Yellow.
In [[Pokémon Zensho]], much like in the {{game|Red and Green|s}} games on which the manga was based, [[Professor Oak]] offers {{Zensho|Satoshi}} and {{Zensho|Shigeru}} their choice of one out of three first partner Pokémon: {{p|Bulbasaur}}, {{p|Charmander}}, or {{p|Squirtle}}. Satoshi chooses Charmander, while Shigeru chooses Squirtle, leaving Bulbasaur with Professor Oak.
 
Most characters in the manga do not start out with one of the Pokédex-related starter Pokémon. Instead, they usually have a Pokémon they were given by their parents when they were infants that they use as their starter Pokémon. Occasionally, it is not directly stated which Pokémon was their starter Pokémon in the manga, but in profiles of their teams, their starter Pokémon is marked with a star and is among the highest level in the party, even if they acquired more than one Pokémon at first.
 
====List of starter Pokémon in Pokémon Adventures====
* {{adv|Red}}'s first Pokémon was a [[Poli]]wag he had since his childhood, which has evolved into a {{p|Poliwrath}}. His "starter Pokémon" was a [[Saur|Bulbasaur]] given to him by Professor Oak, which he nicknamed "Saur". He became a '''{{p|Venusaur}}''' in his travels.
* {{adv|Blue}}'s first Pokémon was a [[Blue's Scizor|Scyther]], now a {{p|Scizor}}, he took to the training with [[Chuck]]. His "starter Pokémon" was a {{TP|Blue|Charmander}} given to him by his grandfather, which evolved twice into a '''{{p|Charizard}}'''.
* {{adv|Green}}'s first Pokémon was a [[Jiggly]]puff, now a {{p|Wigglytuff}}, she received from the [[Masked Man]]. Her "starter Pokémon" was a [[Blasty|Squirtle]] she stole from Professor Oak, which she nicknamed "Blasty". He later evolved into a '''{{p|Blastoise}}'''.
* {{adv|Yellow}}'s first Pokémon was a [[Ratty|Rattata]] that Red taught her to catch, which has evolved into a {{p|Raticate}}. Later, she borrowed Red's '''[[Pika]]chu''', and after Red took him back, caught her "starter Pokémon", a '''[[Chuchu|female Pikachu]]''' for herself which she nicknamed "Chuchu". Like the Pikachu in {{v2|Yellow}}, neither evolved.
* {{adv|Gold}}'s first Pokémon was his [[Aibo|Aipom]], now an {{p|Ambipom}}, that his mother gave him. He borrowed his "starter Pokémon", a [[Exbo|Cyndaquil]], from Professor Elm, and was later allowed to keep the Cyndaquil which he nicknamed "Exbo". He later becomes a '''{{p|Typhlosion}}''' alongside the other two Johto starter Pokémon.
* {{adv|Silver}}'s first Pokémon was the [[Silver's Weavile|Sneasel]], now a {{p|Weavile}}, that {{adv|Giovanni}} gave to him as a child. He later stole his "starter Pokémon", a {{TP|Silver|Totodile|Feraligatr}} from Professor Elm, as well as the first Pokédex of [[Johto]]. His starter Pokémon evolved twice into a '''{{p|Feraligatr}}'''.
* {{adv|Crystal}}'s first Pokémon is officially her {{p|Smoochum}}, although she acquired many wild Pokémon that lived as a family while she was in the wild. [[Megaree|Chikorita]] later ran away from Professor Elm to go with her, and became her "starter Pokémon" nicknamed "Megaree". He became a '''{{p|Meganium}}''' midway into their journey.
[[File:Ruby and his starters.png|thumb|200px|{{adv|Ruby}} and his first Pokémon from the left to the right: [[Rara]], [[Kiki]] and [[Nana]]]]
* {{adv|Ruby}}'s first Pokémon were the [[Nana|Poochyena]], [[Kiki|Skitty]] and [[Rara|Ralts]] that he received from his father, all of them having evolved into {{p|Mightyena}}, {{p|Delcatty}} and {{p|Gardevoir}} respectively. Later, he got his "starter Pokémon" from Professor Birch; a [[Mumu|Mudkip]] which he nicknamed "Mumu". He evolved into a '''{{p|Swampert}}''' from the battles he underwent.
* {{adv|Sapphire}}'s first Pokémon was the [[Rono|Aron]], now an {{p|Aggron}} her father gave her. Later, he gave her her "starter Pokémon", a [[Chic|Torchic]], which she nicknamed "Chic". She has since evolved twice under her Trainer's care into a '''{{p|Blaziken}}'''.
* When {{adv|Emerald}} arrived in the {{gdis|Battle Frontier|III}}, he had no Pokémon on hand. Then he challenged the {{gdis|Battle Factory|III}} using only [[rental Pokémon]], nearly at the end of the challenge, he noticed something suspicious about a '''{{TP|Emerald|Sceptile}}''' so he decided to steal him from the facility and kept him afterward, it is later is revealed that the Sceptile was supposed to be his in the first place, making him his "starter Pokémon". He evolved from his {{p|Grovyle}} stage in the wild, after evolving once in Wally's care. Except for Sceptile, the first Pokémon he captured were {{TP|Emerald|Sudowoodo}} and {{TP|Emerald|Dusclops}}.
* {{adv|Diamond}}'s first was his {{adv|Lax|Munchlax}}, and later he received his "starter Pokémon", a [[Tru|Turtwig]] from Platinum because of a misunderstanding. He has since evolved to '''{{p|Torterra}}''' alongside the others.
* {{adv|Pearl}}'s first was his [[Chatler|Chatot]], and later he received his "starter Pokémon", a [[Chimler|Chimchar]] from Platinum. The Chimchar has since evolved twice into an '''{{p|Infernape}}'''.
* {{adv|Platinum}}'s first Pokémon was her [[Platinum's Rapidash|Ponyta]], now a Rapidash, and later she received her "starter Pokémon", a [[Platinum's Empoleon|Piplup]] from Professor Rowan. She has since become an '''{{p|Empoleon}}''' under her care.
* {{adv|Black}} started with a [[Brav|Rufflet]] that he captured with the help of a wild [[Musha|Munna]] he had befriended, and later acquired his "starter Pokémon", a [[Bo|Tepig]] from [[Professor Juniper]] which later evolved into an '''{{p|Emboar}}'''. Initially, he was nicknamed "Tep", but the nickname was changed to "Nite" and eventually "Bo", making Black the only main character so far to change his Pokémon's nickname.
* {{adv|White}}'s first Pokémon was a Tepig named [[Gigi]]. She later acquires her "starter Pokémon", a {{adv|Amanda|Servine}}, which later evolved into a '''{{p|Serperior}}'''. This Servine, which White nicknamed "Amanda", was with [[N]] until Gigi decided to leave White to follow N. It was later revealed that Amanda was a Snivy that was going to be given out to new Trainers by Professor [[Cedric Juniper]] but was liberated by N. Except for Gigi and Amanda, her first Pokémon she captured was {{P|Deerling}}.
* {{adv|Blake}}'s first known Pokémon is a '''{{TP|Blake|Dewott}}''', given to him by the [[International Police|International Police Headquarters]] so he would have a partner Pokémon.
* {{adv|Whitley}}'s first known Pokémon is a [[Foongy|Foongus]], given to her by [[Team Plasma]]'s [[Anthea and Concordia]], who allowed Whitley to pick the Pokémon she felt closest to. She later received her "starter Pokémon", a '''{{TP|Whitley|Delphox}}''', from {{adv|Trevor}}.
* {{adv|X}}'s first known Pokémon is a [[Kanga and Li'l Kanga|Kangaskhan]]. He later got a [[Marisso|Chespin]], nicknamed "Marisso", as his "starter Pokémon" after he accepted him as a member of his team. He has since become a '''{{p|Chesnaught}}''' under his care.
* {{adv|Y}}'s first known Pokémon is a [[Fletchy|Fletchling]]. She later got a [[Croaky|Froakie]], nicknamed "Croaky", as her "starter Pokémon" after she accepted him as a member of her team. He has since become a '''{{p|Greninja}}''' under her care.
* {{adv|Sun}}'s first known Pokémon is an Alolan [[Cent|Meowth]], previously owned by his [[Sun's great-grandfather|great-grandfather]]. He is immediately shown as well with a {{p|Litten}} named {{adv|Dollar}} as his "starter Pokémon" that he got from [[Professor Kukui]]. He has since become an '''{{p|Incineroar}}'''.
* {{adv|Moon}}'s first Pokémon is unknown, as she caught a {{p|Grubbin}}, {{rf|Alolan}} {{p|Grimer}}, and {{p|Mareanie}} around the same time. She is later given a {{p|Rowlet}} as her "starter Pokémon" from Professor Kukui. He has since become a '''{{p|Decidueye}}'''.
* [[Henry Sword|Henry]]'s first Pokémon is a {{rf|Galarian}} [[Lancelot|Farfetch'd]]. He is immediately shown as well with a {{p|Grookey}} named [[Twiggy]] as his "starter Pokémon" that he got from [[Professor Magnolia]]. He has since become a '''{{p|Thwackey}}'''.
* [[Casey Shield|Casey]]'s first Pokémon is unknown, as she was shown owning an {{p|Arrokuda}}, {{p|Toxtricity}}, {{p|Falinks}}, Galarian {{p|Stunfisk}}, and {{p|Eiscue}} prior to her introduction. She is immediately shown as well with a {{p|Scorbunny}} as her "starter Pokémon". It has since become a '''{{p|Raboot}}''' and is named [[Bit]].


===Pokémon Gold & Silver: The Golden Boys===
===Pokémon Gold & Silver: The Golden Boys===
In [[Pokémon Gold & Silver: The Golden Boys]], much like {{game|Gold and Silver|s}}, {{GnB|Gold}} is offered the choice of one of the three [[Johto]] starter Pokémon &ndash; {{p|Chikorita}}, {{p|Cyndaquil}} or {{p|Totodile}} &ndash; to borrow so that he may run an errand for [[Professor Elm]]. Gold chooses Totodile, which Elm allows him to keep after the errand is completed. Also, like in the games, {{GnB|Black}}, who is based on {{ga|Silver}}, steals a Chikorita from Elm's lab while Gold is away on his errand.
In [[Pokémon Gold & Silver: The Golden Boys]], much like {{game|Gold and Silver|s}}, {{GnB|Gold}} is offered the choice of one of the three [[Johto]] first partner Pokémon&mdash;{{p|Chikorita}}, {{p|Cyndaquil}} or {{p|Totodile}}&mdash;to borrow so that he may run an errand for [[Professor Elm]]. Gold chooses Totodile, who Elm allows him to keep after the errand is completed. Also, like in the games, {{GnB|Black}} (who is based on {{ga|Silver}}) steals a Chikorita from Elm's lab while Gold is away on his errand.
 
===Pokémon Pocket Monsters===
In [[Pokémon Pocket Monsters]], {{PPM|Professor Oak}} is depicted distributing the choice of one out of three starter Pokémon - {{p|Bulbasaur}}, {{p|Charmander}} or {{p|Squirtle}} - to Pokémon Trainers as they begin their journeys, much like in other media. {{PPM|Green}} chooses {{TP|Green|Charmander}} as his starter Pokémon, and while {{PPM|Red}} was offered the choice as well, he decided to keep a {{TP|Red|Clefairy}} that he met on his way to Professor Oak's lab as his starter instead.
 
===Pokémon Zensho===
In [[Pokémon Zensho]], much like in the {{game|Red and Green|s}} games on which the manga was based, [[Professor Oak]] offers {{Zensho|Satoshi}} and {{Zensho|Shigeru}} their choice of one out of three starter Pokémon - {{p|Bulbasaur}}, {{p|Charmander}} or {{p|Squirtle}}. Satoshi chooses Charmander, while Shigeru chooses Squirtle, leaving Bulbasaur with Professor Oak.


==Trivia==
==Trivia==
* In interviews with [[Junichi Masuda]] during 2009, he stated that starter Pokémon are the Pokémon from each game that the most work goes into, and usually take significantly more time than other Pokémon in each generation.
* The only two first partner Pokémon that are dual-type in their initial form, {{p|Bulbasaur}} and {{p|Rowlet}}, are both {{type|Grass}}.
* The only two Starter Pokémon that are dual-type in their initial form, {{p|Bulbasaur}} and {{p|Rowlet}}, are both {{type|Grass}}.
* Each one of the Alola first partners' final evolutions has an immunity. {{p|Decidueye}}'s Ghost type is immune to Normal and Fighting; {{p|Incineroar}}'s Dark type is immune to Psychic; and {{p|Primarina}}'s Fairy type is immune to Dragon.
 
** Coincidentally, this also gives them advantages against {{p|Necrozma}}'s Ultra form: Decidueye and Incineroar are super effective against Ultra Necrozma's Psychic typing, while Primarina is strong against Ultra Necrozma's Dragon typing.
===In the games===
* As of [[Generation IX]], the only sets of first partners without secondary types in any of their final evolutions are the [[Johto]] first partners and the [[Galar]] first partners.
* All starter Pokémon in the [[core series]] besides Pikachu have a [[gender]] ratio of seven males to one female.
** If regional forms are included, the Galar first partners are the only set in which all of the final evolutions have only one type.
** Due to this, as well as the way in which gender and Shininess were determined, it was impossible to have a {{Shiny}} female starter Pokémon in [[Generation II]], as the lowest Attack {{IV}} a Shiny Pokémon could have was 2, while the highest Attack IV a female Pokémon in that gender group could have was 1.
** By contrast, the first partners of [[Sinnoh]] (including [[Hisui]]), [[Kalos]], [[Alola]], and [[Paldea]] all have a secondary type present in their final evolutions.
* [[Kanto]]'s starter Pokémon are the only ones to appear in more than one [[regional Pokédex]]: [[List of Pokémon by Kanto Pokédex number|Kanto]]'s, [[List of Pokémon by Johto Pokédex number|Johto]]'s, and [[List of Pokémon by Kalos Pokédex number|Kalos]]'s.
* Both Kanto and Hoenn first partners are the only set of first partners capable of [[Mega Evolution]].
** Additionally, both Kanto and Galar first partners are the only set of first partners capable of [[Gigantamax]]ing.
*** This makes the Kanto first partners the only set of first partners that can both Mega Evolve and Gigantamax.
* In [[Generation II]], it was not possible to have a {{Shiny}} female first partner Pokémon, due to the mechanics of how [[gender]] and Shininess were determined. The lowest Attack {{IV}} a Shiny Pokémon could have was 2, while the highest Attack IV that a female Pokémon in their gender group could have was 1.
* [[Kanto]]'s first partner Pokémon are the only partner Pokémon where all of the members appear in more than one [[regional Pokédex]]: [[List of Pokémon by Kanto Pokédex number|Kanto]]'s, [[List of Pokémon by Johto Pokédex number|Johto]]'s, and [[List of Pokémon by Kalos Pokédex number|Kalos]]'s.
** The {{p|Charmander}} line also appears alone in the [[List of Pokémon by Galar Pokédex number|Galar]] regional Pokédex, while the {{p|Bulbasaur}} and {{p|Squirtle}} lines appear in the [[Isle of Armor]] regional Pokédex.
** The {{p|Charmander}} line also appears alone in the [[List of Pokémon by Galar Pokédex number|Galar]] regional Pokédex, while the {{p|Bulbasaur}} and {{p|Squirtle}} lines appear in the [[Isle of Armor]] regional Pokédex.
* In the core series, when a starter Pokémon is first obtained, all are at level 5. Each knows one {{type|Normal}} [[physical move]] (either {{m|Tackle}}, {{m|Scratch}}, or {{m|Pound}}) and a stat-altering [[status move]] at this level, except for {{p|Pikachu}}, which has {{m|Thunder Shock}} instead of a Normal-type move. In Generation VI and VII, the starters also have an attacking move of their type at level 5.
* {{p|Fennekin}} is the only unevolved first partner Pokémon with a unique base stat total.
* All Grass-type starter Pokémon have the Ability {{a|Overgrow}}, the Fire-type starters have {{a|Blaze}}, and the Water-type starters have {{a|Torrent}}. Starter Pokémon may have differing Hidden Abilities.
* The lowest base stat of a non-Mega Evolved fully evolved first partner Pokémon is {{p|Torterra}}'s {{stat|Speed}}, at 56. The highest base stat of a non-Mega Evolved fully evolved first partner Pokémon is {{p|Primarina}}'s {{stat|Special Attack}}, at 126.
* {{p|Fennekin}} is the only unevolved starter Pokémon with a unique base stat total.
* The Pikachu featured in Pokémon Yellow & Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and the Eevee in Pokémon: Let's Go, Eevee! are the only first partner Pokémon that cannot evolve in the game in which they are first partner Pokémon.
* The lowest base stat of a non-Mega Evolved fully evolved starter Pokémon is {{p|Torterra}}'s {{stat|Speed}}, at 56. The highest base stat of a non-Mega Evolved fully evolved starter Pokémon is {{p|Primarina}}'s {{stat|Special Attack}}, at 126.
** Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee!'s respective first partners are also the only ones that cannot be traded to other games.
* Since both starter Pokémon in [[Pokémon Colosseum]] are always male, this had the outcome of preventing players from obtaining {{p|Eevee}} in [[Generation III]] (by [[trade|trading]] with {{game|Ruby and Sapphire|s}} and [[breeding]]) until the release of {{game|FireRed and LeafGreen|s}}.
* {{p|Charmander}} is the only Fire-type first partner Pokémon that is not a member of the {{egg3|Field}}.
* The Pikachu featured in Pokémon Yellow & Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and the Eevee in Pokémon: Let's Go, Eevee! are the only starter Pokémon that cannot evolve in the game in which they are starter Pokémon.
* {{p|Oshawott}} is the only Water-type first partner Pokémon that is not a member of the {{egg3|Water 1}}.
** Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee!'s respective starters are also the only ones that cannot be traded to other games.
* With the exception of Hisuian Decidueye having a higher base stat total than Hisuian Samurott, no fully evolved Grass-type first partner Pokémon has a higher base stat total than either of its two counterparts.
* {{p|Charmander}} is the only Fire-type starter Pokémon that is not a member of the {{egg3|Field}}.
** By contrast, with the exception of Blaziken having a lower base stat total than Swampert, no fully evolved Fire-type first partner Pokémon has a lower base stat total than either of its two counterparts.
* {{p|Oshawott}} is the only Water-type starter Pokémon that is not a member of the {{egg3|Water 1}}.
** Contrarily, no unevolved Grass-type first partner Pokémon besides {{p|Chespin}} has a lower base stat total than either of its two counterparts.
* The Kalos starter Pokémon's secondary types in their final forms ({{t|Fighting}}, {{t|Psychic}}, and {{t|Dark}}) almost form another type-advantage triangle (where one type deals 2× damage to and receives ½× damage from another type), only being broken by the Dark-type being completely immune to rather than resistant to the Psychic-type.
** Similarly, no unevolved Fire-type first partner has a higher base stat total than either its counterparts and no fully evolved Fire-type first partner besides {{p|Blaziken}} has a lower one.
** Both the primary and secondary types, however, fit a more generally defined triangle that only requires one type to be offensively and defensively advantaged against another. For example, just as Water has the offensive and defensive advantage against Fire, so does Dark against Psychic.
* As of Generation IX, all fully evolved Water-type first partners can learn the HM move {{m|Surf}}.
** Interestingly enough, a similar pattern can be seen with the Hisuian starter Pokémon's secondary types in their final forms, though the main difference is that the {{type|Fire}} starter's secondary typing is {{t|Ghost}} instead of {{t|Psychic}}; while the Ghost type does not deal additional damage to the {{t|Fighting}} type, thus breaking the offensive triangle advantages, it is still immune against its attacks so the defensive advantages are retained here.
* In [[DP001]] of ''[[Pokémon the Series: Diamond and Pearl]]'', [[Professor Oak's Big Pokémon Encyclopedia]] is about the first partner Pokémon of Sinnoh. He writes this {{wp|senryū}} about them: 「シンオウで たびがはじまる ポケモンと」 ''"In [[Sinnoh]], a journey begins with Pokémon."''
** Paldea's fully evolved starter Pokémon follow a similar pattern but with the secondary typings providing advantages and disadvantages in an opposite direction; {{p|Meowscarada}}'s Dark type beats {{p|Skeledirge}}'s Ghost type, Skeledirge's Ghost type provides no offensive advantage but is immune to {{p|Quaquaval}}'s Fighting type, and Quaquaval's Fighting type beats Meowscarada's Dark type. This pattern contrasts Kalos and Hisui's starters whose secondary typings gave them another advantage over the Pokémon whose primary typing they already had an advantage over.
* In [[BW003]] of ''[[Pokémon the Series: Black & White]]'', [[Professor Oak's Pokémon Holo Caster]] is about the first partner Pokémon of Unova. He writes this senryū about them: 「パートナー みず・くさ・ほのお まよっちゃう」 ''"Partner, {{t|Water}}, {{t|Grass}}, {{t|Fire}}, I can't decide."''
* It is stated in its Ultra Sun Pokédex entry that {{p|Poipole}} is a common starter Pokémon in [[Ultra Megalopolis]].
* Like the {{OBP|Pikachu|Yellow}} in {{game|Yellow}}, in [[Pokémon Adventures]] {{adv|Red}}'s {{p|Pikachu}}, [[Pika]], and {{adv|Yellow}}'s Pikachu, [[Chuchu]], never evolved.
* No fully evolved Grass-type starter Pokémon has a higher base stat total than either of its two counterparts.
** Contrarily, no unevolved Grass-type starter Pokémon besides {{p|Chespin}} has a lower base stat total than either of its two counterparts.
** Similarly, no unevolved Fire-type starter has a higher base stat total than either its counterparts and no fully evolved Fire-type starter besides {{p|Blaziken}} has a lower one.
* Each one of the Alola starters' final evolutions has an immunity. {{p|Decidueye}}, being part Ghost-type, is immune to Normal and Fighting; {{p|Incineroar}}, being part Dark-type, is immune to Psychic; and {{p|Primarina}}, being part Fairy-type, is immune to Dragon.
** Interestingly, this gives each fully-evolved Alolan starter Pokémon a type advantage against {{p|Necrozma}}'s Ultra form with their secondary typings; Decidueye's Ghost typing and Incineroar's Dark typing have advantages against Ultra Necrozma's Psychic typing while Primarina's Fairy typing has advantages against Ultra Necrozma's Dragon typing.
* As of [[Generation IX]], the only sets of starters without secondary types in any of their final evolutions are the [[Johto]] starters and the [[Galar]] starters.
** By contrast, the starters of [[Sinnoh]] (including [[Hisui]]), [[Kalos]], [[Alola]], and [[Paldea]] all have a secondary type present in their final evolutions.
* All fully evolved Water-type starters can learn the HM moves {{m|Surf}}, {{m|Dive}}, and {{m|Waterfall}}.
* Both Kanto and Hoenn starters are the only set of starters capable of [[Mega Evolution]].
** Additionally, both Kanto and Galar starters are the only set of starters capable of [[Gigantamax|Gigantamaxing]].
*** This makes the Kanto starters the only set of starters that can both Mega Evolve and Gigantamax.
 
===In the anime===
* For [[DP001]], [[Professor Oak's Big Pokémon Encyclopedia]] is about the starter Pokémon of Sinnoh. He writes this {{wp|senryū}} about them: 「シンオウで たびがはじまる ポケモンと」 ''"In [[Sinnoh]], a journey begins with Pokémon."''
* For [[BW003]], [[Professor Oak's Pokémon Holo Caster]] is about the starter Pokémon of Unova. He writes this senryū about them: 「パートナー みず・くさ・ほのお まよっちゃう」 ''"Partner, {{t|Water}}, {{t|Grass}}, {{t|Fire}}, I can't decide."''
* Ash has owned all but two of the Grass-type starter Pokémon: {{AP|Bulbasaur}}, {{AP|Chikorita}}, {{AP|Treecko}}, {{AP|Turtwig}}, {{AP|Snivy}}, and {{AP|Rowlet}}. The Grass-type starter from Kalos, {{TP|Clemont|Chespin}}, is instead owned by {{an|Clemont}}, and the Grass-type starter from Galar, {{TP|Goh|Grookey}}, is instead owned by [[Goh]].
* Each {{type|Water}} starter Pokémon obtained by a main character was not battled: [[Ash's Squirtle]], {{AP|Oshawott}}, and {{AP|Froakie}} chose to join his team, while Ash fought and won against Misty for his {{AP|Totodile}}. Brock's {{TP|Brock|Mudkip}} chose to join him. May received her {{TP|May|Squirtle}} from [[Professor Oak]], Dawn received her {{TP|Dawn|Piplup}} from [[Professor Rowan]], Lana rescued her {{TP|Lana|Popplio}} from Team Skull, and Goh caught his {{TP|Goh|Sobble}} without battling it.
* The Hoenn Starter set is the first set in which all three Pokémon evolve under the care of the main characters who own them.
* Since ''[[Pokémon the Series: Black & White]]'', no Grass-type starter Pokémon owned by a main character has evolved, as Snivy, Chespin, Rowlet, and Grookey all remain in their basic forms.
* {{p|Squirtle}} and {{p|Turtwig}} are both based on turtles and were the starter Pokémon of two of Ash's rivals, {{Gary}} and [[Paul]].
* {{p|Torchic}} and {{p|Piplup}} are both based on birds (chicken, penguin). They were also both owned by the anime's resident [[Pokémon Coordinator]]s.
* Both May and Dawn have a second starter Pokémon from a previous generation with a type disadvantage to their first. These starter Pokémon are both from two generations prior to their owner's introduction and featured in the anime likely due to the same-generation [[remake]]s.
* In the ''Diamond and Pearl'' series, there have been two major appearances of each fully evolved starter introduced in [[Generation IV]]: Ash and Paul's Torterra, Ash and Flint's Infernape, and Barry and Kenny's Empoleon.
* Every Fire-type starter obtained by a main character has evolved at least once.
* {{AP|Froakie|Greninja}} is the only Water-type starter that has ever evolved under Ash's ownership.
* The Kanto starters are the only ones to have all been owned by both Ash and one of his friends at some point in their evolutionary lines: May owns a {{TP|May|Venusaur}} and a {{TP|May|Wartortle}}, while Kiawe owns a {{TP|Kiawe|Charizard}}.
* The Johto starter set is the only full starter set that Ash has obtained where none of the members were previously owned by another Trainer or a Pokémon Professor, as all of them were caught in the wild.
** Conversely, the Kanto starter set is the only full starter set that Ash has obtained where every member was owned by a previous Trainer (excluding Professors).
* The Galar starter set is the only full starter set from which Ash owns none of its members.


==In other languages==
==In other languages==
<div style="display: inline-block">
;''First partner Pokémon''
{{langtable|color={{Arceus color}}|bordercolor={{Arceus color dark}}
|zh_yue=搭檔寶可夢 ''{{tt|Daapdong Bóuhómuhng|Partner Pokémon}}'' {{tt|*|Scarlet and Violet official website}}<br>最初的夥伴 ''{{tt|Jeuichō dīk fóbuhn|First partner}}'' {{tt|*|Sword and Shield League Card, HOME}}
|zh_cmn=搭檔寶可夢 / 搭档宝可梦 ''{{tt|Dādàng Bǎokěmèng|Partner Pokémon}}'' {{tt|*|Scarlet and Violet official website}}<br>最初的夥伴 / 最初的伙伴 ''{{tt|Zuìchū de huǒbàn|First partner}}'' {{tt|*|Sword and Shield League Card, HOME}}
|da=første Pokémon-partner ([[JN001]])<br>første Pokémon-makker ([[JN049]]&ndash;)
|fi=Ensikumppani-Pokémon
|fr=Pokémon de départ{{tt|*|Scarlet and Violet official website}}<br>Premier Pokémon{{tt|*|Sword and Shield League Card}}<br>Premier partenaire{{tt|*|HOME}}
|de=Erstes Partner-Pokémon
|it=Primo compagno d'avventura{{tt|*|Scarlet and Violet official website, HOME}}<br>Pokémon iniziale{{tt|*|Sword and Shield League Card}}
|es=Pokémon inicial{{tt|*|Scarlet and Violet official website}}<br>Primer compañero{{tt|*|Sword and Shield League Card, HOME}}
|ko=파트너 포켓몬 ''Partner Pokémon'' {{tt|*|Scarlet and Violet official website}}<br>첫 파트너 ''{{tt|Cheot|First}} partner''{{tt|*|Sword and Shield League Card, HOME}}
}}
</div>
<div style="display: inline-block">
;''Starter Pokémon''
{{langtable|color={{Arceus color}}|bordercolor={{Arceus color dark}}
{{langtable|color={{Arceus color}}|bordercolor={{Arceus color dark}}
|cs=Startovní Pokémon
|cs=Startovní Pokémon
Line 1,097: Line 339:
|it=Pokémon iniziale
|it=Pokémon iniziale
|no=Førstegangs-Pokémon
|no=Førstegangs-Pokémon
|ko=파트너 포켓몬 ''Partner Pokémon''
|pl=Pokémon Starter
|pl=Pokémon Starter
|pt_br=Pokémon inicial<br>Pokémon iniciante ([[BW116]])
|pt_br=Pokémon inicial<br>Pokémon iniciante ([[BW116]])
Line 1,104: Line 345:
|es=Pokémon inicial
|es=Pokémon inicial
|sv=Nybörjar-Pokémon
|sv=Nybörjar-Pokémon
|th=โปเกมอนเริ่มต้น ''Pokémon Beginning''
|th=โปเกมอนเริ่มต้น ''Pokémon Roemton''
|vi=Pokémon khởi đầu<br>Pokémon khởi hành
|vi=Pokémon khởi đầu<br>Pokémon khởi hành
|tr=Başlangıç Pokémon'u
|tr=Başlangıç Pokémon'u
}}
}}
{{-}}
</div>
{{Starter Pokémon|Arceus}}
 
==See also==
* [[List of characters with first partner Pokémon]]
* [[List of the player's first Pokémon]]
* [[List of characters' first Pokémon]]
* [[Game mascot]]
 
==References==
{{reflist}}
 
{{First partner trios|Pokemon}}


[[Category:Terminology]]
[[Category:Terminology]]
[[Category:Starter Pokémon|*]]
[[Category:First partner Pokémon|**]]
[[Category:Anime starter Pokémon|*]]
[[Category:First Pokémon]]
[[Category:Adventures starter Pokémon|*]]
[[Category:Pokémon groupings]]


[[de:Starter-Pokémon]]
[[de:Erste Partner-Pokémon]]
[[es:Pokémon inicial]]
[[es:Pokémon inicial]]
[[fr:Pokémon de départ]]
[[fr:Pokémon de départ]]

Latest revision as of 00:02, 13 September 2024

Red picking his first partner Pokémon

A first partner Pokémon, also referred to informally as a starter Pokémon, is the first Pokémon that a Trainer owns at the start of their Pokémon journey. This primarily refers to Grass-, Fire-, or Water-type Pokémon given to players by a Pokémon Professor or other mentor at the beginning of the core series Pokémon games, as well as Pikachu in Pokémon Yellow and Pikachu or Eevee in Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee!. However, the term can sometimes be used to refer to any Pokémon that was the first one owned by a Trainer.

In the games, the player's first partner will be used to battle the first wild Pokémon they encounter. Once another Pokémon is caught, their first partner may be retired, but it is often with this Pokémon that Trainers learn friendship and trust. As such, even advanced Trainers may still use their first partner Pokémon, and they will often be the most powerful Pokémon on their respective teams.

It is said that the first partner Pokémon are extremely rare in the wild, accounting for their uniqueness in each game.

In the creative process, first partner Pokémon are the Pokémon from each game that the most work goes into, and usually take significantly more time than other Pokémon in each generation.[1]

Terminology

Promotional image for The Indigo Disk using the term "first partner Pokémon"[2]
Main article: Terminology of first partner Pokémon

Since Generation VI, "first partner Pokémon", sometimes shortened to "first partner", has become the primary term used to describe these Pokémon across official media. It is sometimes shortened to simply "first partner". Occasionally, other Pokémon have been referred to as first partner Pokémon, such as Poipole in Pokémon Ultra Sun and various Pokémon in Pokémon Masters EX. Krysta Yang, a former public relations manager at Nintendo of America, has claimed that the phrase "partner Pokémon" is preferred in official communication due to "starter Pokémon" implying that the player will "be rid of them" later in the game.[3]

Historically, these Pokémon were known as "starter Pokémon", or "starters", though these terms were rarely used in the games and used occasionally during the second through fourth series of Pokémon the Series. From Pokémon the Series: XY onward, "starter Pokémon" was no longer used in the animated series. Tom Wayland, then-voice director of the English dub, stated at PokéCon 2015 that "starter Pokémon" is "an unofficial term now".[4] In 2019, Sonja Hammes, then a social media associate at TPCi,[5] stated that official social media accounts were authorized to use "starter Pokémon" with specific formatting restrictions.[6][7]

In Japanese, no consistent term is used to refer to first partner Pokémon. The most common term is 「パートナー」 (partner), but occasionally 相棒 (partner) is also used. These terms, along with ポケモン (Pokémon), are typically paired with 最初の or 初めての (both meaning first). Phrases like 最初に選んだ or はじめに選んだ (both meaning that was chosen first) are also used. Among Japanese fans, 御三家 (the big three) is commonly used to refer to the Grass, Fire, and Water trios.

Grass, Fire, and Water trios

Most marketing refers exclusively to the standard trios of Grass-, Fire-, and Water-type Pokémon that can be chosen at the start of most core series games.

The Grass, Fire, and Water types handily illustrate the type effectiveness mechanics of Pokémon battles: Fire "beats" Grass (a Fire-type move deals double damage when attacking a Grass-type Pokémon, but a Fire-type Pokémon takes half damage from a Grass-type move), Water beats Fire, and Grass beats Water. This "rock, paper, scissors" relationship was illustrated in the instruction booklet of the original games.[8]

The 27 Grass-, Fire-, and Water-type first partner Pokémon are listed below. In Pokémon Legends: Arceus, the Hisui first partner Pokémon consist of a mix of Pokémon from previous regions: Rowlet, Cyndaquil, and Oshawott.

The Kalos first partners also have a more broadly defined triangle in the secondary types of their final evolutions. They all still deal 2× damage offensively, and most still receive ½× damage defensively, but while Dark does not technically resist Psychic, it is still defensively advantaged since it is immune.

Other first partners

Aside from the regional trios, a few other Pokémon have been explicitly referred to as first partner Pokémon.

For a list of other Pokémon who are Trainers' first Pokémon, see list of characters' first Pokémon.

Player's first Pokémon

Pikachu and Eevee are given out as first partner Pokémon in Kanto by Professor Oak in some media. Pikachu is the first Pokémon given to the player in Pokémon Yellow, while Blue gets an Eevee. The partner Pikachu and Eevee are the first Pokémon caught by the player in Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee!, respectively, while Oak gives Trace a standard Eevee in Let's Go, Pikachu! and a standard Pikachu in Let's Go, Eevee!

These Pokémon are never referred to as first partner Pokémon in-game; they are typically referred to as partner Pokémon instead. However, in one instance on the official website for the games, and on the Pokémon.com page for the games, they are referred to as first partner Pokémon.[9][10]

Other references

Alolan Meowth is given out by Nanu as a first partner on Ula'ula Island in Alola. It is implied that kahunas are responsible for giving out first partners on their respective islands, so it is possible the other kahunas give out different Pokémon to the standard Alolan first partner Pokémon given by Hala.

Poipole's Pokédex entry in Pokémon Ultra Sun refers to it as a popular first partner in its world.

In the games

The Sinnoh first partner trio wallpaper in Pokémon HOME

Core series

In the core series games, a rival character often picks the Pokémon that is strong against the one the player chose, nominally setting them up for challenging battles going forward.

The Pokémon in the regional first partner trios have several common characteristics, both among each other and between generations. The most obvious commonality is their reliable typing. They all have an Ability that boosts their main type when their HP becomes low: the Grass types have Overgrow, Fire types have Blaze, and Water types have Torrent. They also all have a gender ratio of seven males to one female, generally making breeding them slightly inconvenient. When obtained at the start of a game, they are always level 5 and they start out knowing a Normal-type physical move (Pound, Scratch, or Tackle) and a stat-altering status move (Growl, Leer, or Tail Whip); since Generation VI (with the exception of Generation VIII), they also have an attacking move that matches their main type.

The table below shows the Pokémon that are selectable at the start of each core series game, and which other games they can also be obtained in. A notation of G, F, or W above the game's title indicates that only the first partner Pokémon in the trio that corresponds to that type is obtainable in that game. For availability in games outside of the core series, refer to the "Game locations" heading of the Pokémon's respective page for its species.

Game(s) First partners Also obtainable in
RGB/RB, FRLG Bulbasaur Charmander Squirtle Y, HGSS, XY, USUM, PE, SwShF (IA)GW, BDSP, SV (ID)
Y 0025 Regular Pikachu are obtainable in all games except Y, BW, and B2W2.
GSC, HGSS Chikorita Cyndaquil Totodile E, ORAS, SM, BDSP, SV (ID)
RSE, ORAS Treecko Torchic Mudkip HGSS, USUM, SwSh (IA), BDSP, SV (ID)
DPPt, BDSP Turtwig Chimchar Piplup ORAS, USUM, BDSP, LA, SV (TM, ID)
BW, B2W2 Snivy Tepig Oshawott ORAS, SM, SV (ID)
XY Chespin Fennekin Froakie USUM, SV (ID)
SMUSUM Rowlet Litten Popplio SwSh (IA), SV (ID)
P 0025Pikachu-Partner.png None
E 0133Eevee-Partner.png None
SwSh Grookey Scorbunny Sobble SV (ID)
LA Rowlet SM, USUM, SwSh (IA), SV (ID)
Cyndaquil E, ORAS, SM, BDSP, SV (ID)
Oshawott ORAS, SM, SV (ID)
SV Sprigatito Fuecoco Quaxly None

Other games

Main article: List of the player's first Pokémon

Other games may use one of the classic first partner Pokémon, with Pikachu being fairly common; but many games give the player other Pokémon as their first Pokémon.

In animation

For a list of other Pokémon who are Trainers' first Pokémon, see list of characters' first Pokémon.
For a list of characters who own first partner Pokémon, see List of characters with first partner Pokémon.

Pokémon animated series

The Paldea first partner Pokémon with Roy, Liko, and Dot in Pokémon Horizons: The Series

In Pokémon the Series, upon their tenth birthday, youths can register for a Pokédex and pick up a first partner Pokémon from the local Pokémon Professor or Pokémon Center free of charge. First partner Pokémon are usually raised specifically to be easy to train.

Like in the games, the specific first partner Pokémon available vary from region to region but are the same in each region as the games. That is, Kanto Trainers can only choose Bulbasaur, Charmander, or Squirtle; Johto Trainers can only choose Chikorita, Cyndaquil, or Totodile; and so on.

In A Mudkip Mission, it was shown where first partner Pokémon come from. Each region has special, secret breeding grounds run by a Pokémon Breeder for first partner Pokémon. The Pokémon League sends these Breeders the Pokémon Eggs for them to hatch at the breeding grounds. The breeders then hatch, care for, and raise the young Pokémon until they are ready to be proper first partner Pokémon for new Trainers. As these young ones are virtually defenseless, the locations of breeding grounds (or even the knowledge of their existence) is a secret unknown to most in the Pokémon world. This is likely to guard against unscrupulous individuals or groups (such as Team Rocket) from poaching the young Pokémon.

However, not all first partner Pokémon are raised at these special breeding grounds, with Professor Birch said to catch and raise his own first partner Pokémon for Trainers.

Other rookie Trainers may receive their first Pokémon from a friend or relative instead. Others, on the other hand, may befriend a Pokémon in the wild. These mean that Trainers can, in fact, start with any Pokémon.

Pokémon Black 2 and White 2 Animated Trailer

Rosa and Serperior in the Black 2 and White 2 Animated Trailer
Brendan and May and their first partner Pokémon in the Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire Animated Trailer

The Black 2 and White 2 Animated Trailer's extended cut features all three of Unova's first partner Pokémon: Nate is shown with an Emboar, Hugh is seen with a Samurott (having picked the opposing type, like most rivals do in the games), and Rosa uses a Serperior to battle Cheren's Stoutland.

Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire Animated Trailer

The Pokémon Omega Ruby and Pokémon Alpha Sapphire Animated Trailer also features all three of Hoenn's first partner Pokémon, in all forms including their Mega Evolutions. Brendan is shown to have picked a Treecko, while May has both a Torchic and Mudkip.

In the manga

For a list of other Pokémon who are Trainers' first Pokémon, see list of characters' first Pokémon.
For a list of characters who own first partner Pokémon, see List of characters with first partner Pokémon.

Pokémon Adventures

In Pokémon Adventures, the first partner Pokémon featured in the games are reserved for the few people who hold a Pokédex. Professor Oak produces three Pokédexes for each region, and gives out the three first partner Pokémon in each region along with the Pokédex to Trainers he thinks are talented. He has colleagues and friends like Professor Birch do this for him in regions in which he isn't present. In the Unova region, two sets of first partner Pokémon are given out to six Trainers, but still with only three Pokédexes. Professor Oak also gave Red's Pikachu as a special first partner to Yellow.

Pokémon Pocket Monsters

In Pokémon Pocket Monsters, Professor Oak is depicted offering one of three first partner Pokémon—Bulbasaur, Charmander, or Squirtle—to Pokémon Trainers as they begin their journeys, much like in other media. Green chooses Charmander as his first Pokémon, and while Red was offered the choice as well, he decided to keep a Clefairy that he met on his way to Professor Oak's lab as his first Pokémon instead.

The Electric Tale of Pikachu

In The Electric Tale of Pikachu, unlike the animated series from which the manga was based on, new Pokémon Trainers do not appear to be given any sort of first partner Pokémon. Professor Oak is not shown residing at his laboratory handing out first partner Pokémon to new Trainers, as in the animated series, rather, he travels the Kanto region conducting research, often accompanied by Bill. Trainers in The Electric Tale of Pikachu must obtain a license before they can purchase Poké Balls or otherwise capture and train Pokémon. Ash found Pikachu under the floorboards of his home, keeping it as his first Pokémon. It is not currently known what Gary Oak's first Pokémon was in the manga, although he is at one point seen owning a Venusaur.

Pokémon Zensho

In Pokémon Zensho, much like in the Pokémon Red and Green games on which the manga was based, Professor Oak offers Satoshi and Shigeru their choice of one out of three first partner Pokémon: Bulbasaur, Charmander, or Squirtle. Satoshi chooses Charmander, while Shigeru chooses Squirtle, leaving Bulbasaur with Professor Oak.

Pokémon Gold & Silver: The Golden Boys

In Pokémon Gold & Silver: The Golden Boys, much like Pokémon Gold and Silver, Gold is offered the choice of one of the three Johto first partner Pokémon—Chikorita, Cyndaquil or Totodile—to borrow so that he may run an errand for Professor Elm. Gold chooses Totodile, who Elm allows him to keep after the errand is completed. Also, like in the games, Black (who is based on Silver) steals a Chikorita from Elm's lab while Gold is away on his errand.

Trivia

  • The only two first partner Pokémon that are dual-type in their initial form, Bulbasaur and Rowlet, are both Grass-type.
  • Each one of the Alola first partners' final evolutions has an immunity. Decidueye's Ghost type is immune to Normal and Fighting; Incineroar's Dark type is immune to Psychic; and Primarina's Fairy type is immune to Dragon.
    • Coincidentally, this also gives them advantages against Necrozma's Ultra form: Decidueye and Incineroar are super effective against Ultra Necrozma's Psychic typing, while Primarina is strong against Ultra Necrozma's Dragon typing.
  • As of Generation IX, the only sets of first partners without secondary types in any of their final evolutions are the Johto first partners and the Galar first partners.
    • If regional forms are included, the Galar first partners are the only set in which all of the final evolutions have only one type.
    • By contrast, the first partners of Sinnoh (including Hisui), Kalos, Alola, and Paldea all have a secondary type present in their final evolutions.
  • Both Kanto and Hoenn first partners are the only set of first partners capable of Mega Evolution.
    • Additionally, both Kanto and Galar first partners are the only set of first partners capable of Gigantamaxing.
      • This makes the Kanto first partners the only set of first partners that can both Mega Evolve and Gigantamax.
  • In Generation II, it was not possible to have a Shiny female first partner Pokémon, due to the mechanics of how gender and Shininess were determined. The lowest Attack IV a Shiny Pokémon could have was 2, while the highest Attack IV that a female Pokémon in their gender group could have was 1.
  • Kanto's first partner Pokémon are the only partner Pokémon where all of the members appear in more than one regional Pokédex: Kanto's, Johto's, and Kalos's.
  • Fennekin is the only unevolved first partner Pokémon with a unique base stat total.
  • The lowest base stat of a non-Mega Evolved fully evolved first partner Pokémon is Torterra's Speed, at 56. The highest base stat of a non-Mega Evolved fully evolved first partner Pokémon is Primarina's Special Attack, at 126.
  • The Pikachu featured in Pokémon Yellow & Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and the Eevee in Pokémon: Let's Go, Eevee! are the only first partner Pokémon that cannot evolve in the game in which they are first partner Pokémon.
    • Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee!'s respective first partners are also the only ones that cannot be traded to other games.
  • Charmander is the only Fire-type first partner Pokémon that is not a member of the Field Egg Group.
  • Oshawott is the only Water-type first partner Pokémon that is not a member of the Water 1 Egg Group.
  • With the exception of Hisuian Decidueye having a higher base stat total than Hisuian Samurott, no fully evolved Grass-type first partner Pokémon has a higher base stat total than either of its two counterparts.
    • By contrast, with the exception of Blaziken having a lower base stat total than Swampert, no fully evolved Fire-type first partner Pokémon has a lower base stat total than either of its two counterparts.
    • Contrarily, no unevolved Grass-type first partner Pokémon besides Chespin has a lower base stat total than either of its two counterparts.
    • Similarly, no unevolved Fire-type first partner has a higher base stat total than either its counterparts and no fully evolved Fire-type first partner besides Blaziken has a lower one.
  • As of Generation IX, all fully evolved Water-type first partners can learn the HM move Surf.
  • In DP001 of Pokémon the Series: Diamond and Pearl, Professor Oak's Big Pokémon Encyclopedia is about the first partner Pokémon of Sinnoh. He writes this senryū about them: 「シンオウで たびがはじまる ポケモンと」 "In Sinnoh, a journey begins with Pokémon."
  • In BW003 of Pokémon the Series: Black & White, Professor Oak's Pokémon Holo Caster is about the first partner Pokémon of Unova. He writes this senryū about them: 「パートナー みず・くさ・ほのお まよっちゃう」 "Partner, Water, Grass, Fire, I can't decide."
  • Like the Pikachu in Pokémon Yellow, in Pokémon Adventures Red's Pikachu, Pika, and Yellow's Pikachu, Chuchu, never evolved.

In other languages

First partner Pokémon
Language Title
Chinese Cantonese 搭檔寶可夢 Daapdong Bóuhómuhng *
最初的夥伴 Jeuichō dīk fóbuhn *
Mandarin 搭檔寶可夢 / 搭档宝可梦 Dādàng Bǎokěmèng *
最初的夥伴 / 最初的伙伴 Zuìchū de huǒbàn *
Denmark Flag.png Danish første Pokémon-partner (JN001)
første Pokémon-makker (JN049–)
Finland Flag.png Finnish Ensikumppani-Pokémon
France Flag.png French Pokémon de départ*
Premier Pokémon*
Premier partenaire*
Germany Flag.png German Erstes Partner-Pokémon
Italy Flag.png Italian Primo compagno d'avventura*
Pokémon iniziale*
South Korea Flag.png Korean 파트너 포켓몬 Partner Pokémon *
첫 파트너 Cheot partner*
Spain Flag.png Spanish Pokémon inicial*
Primer compañero*
Starter Pokémon
Language Title
The Czech Republic Flag.png Czech Startovní Pokémon
Denmark Flag.png Danish Begynder-Pokémon
The Netherlands Flag.png Dutch Starter Pokémon
Finland Flag.png Finnish Aloitus-Pokémon
France Flag.png French Pokémon de départ
Germany Flag.png German Starter-Pokémon
Hungary Flag.png Hungarian Kezdő Pokémon
Italy Flag.png Italian Pokémon iniziale
Norway Flag.png Norwegian Førstegangs-Pokémon
Poland Flag.png Polish Pokémon Starter
Portuguese Brazil Flag.png Brazil Pokémon inicial
Pokémon iniciante (BW116)
Portugal Flag.png Portugal Pokémon inicial
Russia Flag.png Russian Стартовый покемон Startovy Pokémon
Spain Flag.png Spanish Pokémon inicial
Sweden Flag.png Swedish Nybörjar-Pokémon
Thailand Flag.png Thai โปเกมอนเริ่มต้น Pokémon Roemton
Turkey Flag.png Turkish Başlangıç Pokémon'u
Vietnam Flag.png Vietnamese Pokémon khởi đầu
Pokémon khởi hành

See also

References

  1. How Pokemon are born | GamesRadar+, by Michael Grimm, published 20 March 2009
  2. Pokémon Scarlet and Pokémon Violet | Familiar First Partner Pokémon.
  3. Nintendo's Big Announcement Season EXPLAINED - EP81 Kit & Krysta Podcast | Kit & Krysta on YouTube — Krysta Yang: "They did start using 'partner Pokémon' a couple of years back, but it's been hard for them to get people to catch on to this official terminology because people like to say 'starter Pokémon.' ... I think there was something about how, if you call it a 'starter Pokémon,' you're basically saying that you will be rid of them. ...That was one of the reasons, I believe, is that if you call it a 'starter Pokémon,' it's like, oh, you're only just going to start the game with it, and then you ditch it for your, like, shinies and your legendaries. ... So then the 'partner Pokémon' became the phrasing that they liked better because it's like, 'this is your partner for your whole adventure,' like you really want to get attached to this character, this Pokémon that you start your game with, but it's not just who you start your game with..."
  4. PokéCon 2015 - Tom Wayland on How He Creates Pokémon Voices: Wayland: "Chespin is the... your Grass-type starter in XY. Even though "starter" is an unofficial term now."
    Audience: "I think it's always been an unofficial term."
    Wayland: "Nope. They used to say it in the show, now they don't."
  5. Sonja Hammes on LinkedIn
  6. Sonja Hammes on Twitter: "P.S. We can call them starter on social now"
  7. Sonja Hammes on Twitter: "Of course, there are RULES. It’s “starter Pokémon”. No capital S. No “starters”. Gotta keep the standards!"
  8. Pokémon Red Version instruction booklet, pg. 32, archived on Internet Archive
  9. Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and Pokémon: Let's Go, Eevee! | Experience the World of Pokémon: "Of course, your first partner Pokémon will be either Pikachu or Eevee, depending on which version you get, but the types and rarities of the wild Pokémon that you encounter also differ between the two games."
  10. Pokémon: Let’s Go, Pikachu! and Pokémon: Let’s Go, Eevee! | Video Games & Apps: "In addition to determining your first partner Pokémon, your choice of Pokémon: Let’s Go, Pikachu! or Pokémon: Let’s Go, Eevee! also affects the species of Pokémon you encounter and the rate at which you encounter them."