Pokémon Scarlet Starters: Everything You Need to Know About Your First Teams

If you’ve recently caught your first Pokémon in Pokémon Scarlet, you’re likely eager to build a starter team that suits your playstyle. In Pokémon Scarlet, Niantic’s vibrant open-world RPG brings a fresh twist to traditional starter Pokémon selection, offering unique species, bold designs, and deep customization. This article dives into everything you need to know about the Scarlet starter Pokémon—what they are, how to choose wisely, and how to maximize their potential.

What Are the Pokémon Scarlet Starters?

Understanding the Context

In Pokémon Scarlet, the Starter Pokémon are the initial set of four unique Pokémon you train to support your journey. Unlike previous mainline titles, Scarlet replaces traditional gender-specific starters and instead introduces Pokémon with distinct traits, evolution paths, and battlefield roles—ready to grow with your team. These starters reflect the game’s diverse regional ecosystem and emphasize a more personalized approach to team-building.

The Official Scarlet Starter Pokémon Set

While Pokémon Scarlet introduced starter Pokémon, Niantic expanded the lineup in Pokémon Scarlet and Pokémon Violet with three standout starter choices:

  • Rayquaza (Fire/Ice || Dragon) — The majestic Sky Dragon, slowly evolving from Rayquaza (linked to its lore as a mythical celestial bird, tying into regional legends).
  • Kilowatt (Electric) — A vibrant, high-energy Pokémon electric in nature, known for its powerful attacks and bold color palette.
  • Bot remedy starter Pokémon Pokémon Scarlet and Pokémon Violet offer multiple starter options beyond Rayquaza, Kilowatt, and Lucario, including Grookey (Water/Fighting), Galtain (Unclassified), and more—allowing players to experiment with distinct builds.

Key Insights

Note: Though Rayquaza, Kilowatt, and Lucario appear prominently, Scarlet’s flexible starter mechanics let you mix and match based on strategy and team synergy.

Why Your Starters Matter in Pokémon Scarlet

Starter Pokémon are critical to your early game success. In Scarlet’s open-world design, where exploration and battle strategy go hand-in-hand, choosing the right starters impacts:

  • Playstyle Flexibility: Different starters offer varied typing advantages—Fire/Ice excels against Grass and Psychic-types, Electric dominates Steel and Fighting types, while Water/Steel balances dry ground coverage.
  • Evolution Paths: Many Scarlet starters evolve or hybridize with moves and teaching, expanding your options during exploration.
  • Team Synergy: Starting 4 Pokémon with complementary roles creates a cohesive team ready for any challenge.

Choosing Your Scarlet Starter: Tips for New Trainers

Final Thoughts

To pick the best starters for your journey in Pokémon Scarlet, consider:

  1. Match Your Playstyle:

    • If you love fast, aggressive fights—start Kilowatt or Rayquaza for explosive priority hits.
    • If you prefer adaptive, strategic play—Bot like Grookey (Water/Fighting) or even strategic choices like Shinx (Bug/Steel) offer versatility.
  2. Explore Typing and Move Sets:

    • Rayquaza’s Fire/Ice Type combos well with Water and Stealth types.
    • Lucario brings strong Special Attack, ideal for crucial low-hitcuts.
    • Galtain enables unique coverage with typing like Water/Unкоб, useful against Flying and Psychic threats in certain regions.
  3. Use the Field and Story Links:

    • Many starters appear first in key story zones—catching them early builds momentum and narrative connection.
    • The game’s regions hint at Pokémon regional lore; starting with culturally rich Pokémon (like Rayquaza, steeped in legend) deepens immersion.

Maximizing Your Starters: Beyond the Initial Choose

Scarlet’s open-world system lets you customize your team beyond the initial four. As you explore, encounter Rare, Evolvable, and Ultra Beasts to expand your roster:

  • Evolving Young Pokémon: Some starter evolutions require specific condition (like displaying “drop” velvet), but Scarlet eggs that evolve automatically post-evolution.
  • Batch Training and Teaching: Starter Pokémon can strengthen friendships via Batch Training, unlocking better moves and deeper bonds.
  • Explore Hidden Discovery Zones: Many powerful regional Pokémon appear in hidden areas—seek them out to diversify your team beyond standard starters.

Final Thoughts: Build Your Scarlet Legacy

The Pokémon Scarlet starters are more than just your first team—they’re the foundation for your entire journey. By understanding each starter’s strengths, evolution potential, and role in battle, you’ll craft a resilient, personalized team ready for any challenge from the highlands of Paldea to beyond.

Dive into the world, explore, experiment with moves and connections, and let your Scarlet starters guide your adventure. With the right choices, your first team could become the heart of unforgettable battles and stories in Pokémon Scarlet.