Pokemon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl: Which Starter to Choose

Pokemon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl are almost here. Whether players are visiting Sinnoh for the first time or returning to challenge the region once more, the choice of starter to begin with is a decision that’s tricky for any player. Here’s what each starter has to offer.

Everyone who has played the original games knows that Chimchar, Turtwig, and Piplup are the starting Pokemon. Keeping with the tradition of every mainline Pokemon game, these three starters allow the player the choice of having a Fire, Water, or a Grass-type to begin with, and the choice made here can determine what kind of difficulty the player receives over the course of their game. While most players may pick a starter because they like the Pokemon, some players choose carefully based on their strengths and weaknesses.

Pokemon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl: Which Starter to Choose

Chimchar is the Sinnoh region’s Fire-type starter. This fire monkey is a good choice for players who want a challenge right out of the gate, but want to ease into an easier late game. Its final evolution, Infernape, is a speedy Fire/Fighting-type that can keep foes on their toes. Teach it some speedy moves and Infernape will deliver every time. 

Piplup is the Sinnoh region’s Water-type starter. This water penguin is for players who generally want a balanced playthrough of the entire game. Piplup may be delicate at first, but its final form, Empoleon, is a Water/Steel-typed force to be reckoned with. Teach it Iron Defense and it can become an unstoppable opponent to all who stand before this Emperor. 

Turtwig is the Sinnoh region’s Grass-type starter. This grass turtle is great for trainers who want to have a good start, as it’s a great Pokemon for taking on the first four gyms with. Its final form, Torterra, is a Grass/Ground-type behemoth that can withstand all kinds of moves. Teach Torterra Solar Beam and it will make even the toughest of Pokemon kneel.

At the end of the day, all three Pokemon are good choices for any trainer. When choosing a starter, take everything into account. The gyms, the evolutions, the battles, and the eventual battle with Sinnoh’s champion. But in the end, the choice is up to the Trainer. After all, they are the ones who will be embarking on their journeys. 

Pokemon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl release Nov. 19.