Hey everyone! Today, let's dive deep—pun intended—into the wonderful world of Water-type Starter Pokémon. These aquatic allies are where many trainers begin their journeys, and picking the right one can set the tone for your entire adventure. We're not just listing them; we're ranking them! So, whether you're a seasoned pro or a newbie just dipping your toes into the Pokémon universe, get ready to explore the best Water Starter Pokémon.

Why Water Starters Rule

Water-type Pokémon are known for their versatility. Offensively, they're super effective against common types like Fire, Ground, and Rock, making them invaluable early in the game. Defensively, they resist Water, Ice, Steel, and Fire, granting them excellent staying power. But beyond type matchups, Water Starters often boast fantastic designs, compelling backstories, and unique movesets that make them fan favorites. Choosing a Water Starter means opting for a reliable companion that can navigate various challenges throughout your journey.

Plus, who doesn't love the ocean? Water Pokémon often evoke a sense of adventure, exploration, and the mysteries of the deep sea. From adorable tadpoles to majestic sea serpents, the range of Water Starters is as diverse as the ocean itself. So, let's get started with our ranking, counting down to the very best!

Ranking the Best Water Starter Pokémon

Honorable Mention: Totodile (and its evolutions)

Before we dive into the main list, let's give a shout-out to Totodile. This Gen 2 Starter is a pure Water-type, evolving into the powerful Feraligatr. What holds it back from being higher on the list? Its movepool. While Feraligatr hits hard physically, its limited move options in the early generations make it somewhat predictable. However, its sheer power and cool factor earn it a spot as an honorable mention. Plus, who can resist that adorable, chomping face?

7. Sobble (and its evolutions)

Sobble, the Water Lizard Pokémon from Gen 8, starts off as an anxious and shy creature. Its final evolution, Inteleon, takes a sharp turn, becoming a sleek and sophisticated secret agent. While Inteleon has impressive Speed and Special Attack, its design is somewhat divisive. Some fans love the James Bond aesthetic, while others find it a bit too humanoid and disconnected from its earlier forms. Furthermore, its movepool, while decent, doesn't always capitalize on its strengths as effectively as other Water Starters.

6. Froakie (and its evolutions)

Froakie, from Gen 6, evolves into the Ninja Pokémon Greninja. Greninja is undoubtedly popular, thanks to its unique typing (Water/Dark) and incredible Speed. However, its Special Attack stat holds it back from truly dominating. While it can still pack a punch, it often relies on its ability, Protean, to change its type and maximize damage. Its popularity and unique design keep it from being lower on the list, but its somewhat underwhelming stats prevent it from climbing higher.

5. Oshawott (and its evolutions)

Oshawott, the Gen 5 Water Starter, evolves into the noble Samurott. Samurott has a cool design, resembling a samurai warrior, and boasts a decent Attack stat. However, its Speed is somewhat lacking, leaving it vulnerable to faster opponents. Its unique movepool, including moves like Razor Shell, gives it some versatility, but it often struggles to stand out compared to other Water Starters with more specialized roles. Still, its design and lore make it a solid choice for any trainer.

4. Piplup (and its evolutions)

Piplup, the Gen 4 Water Starter, evolves into the elegant Empoleon. Empoleon is unique for its Water/Steel typing, granting it numerous resistances and a powerful STAB (Same-Type Attack Bonus) combination. Its Special Attack and Special Defense are also quite impressive, making it a formidable special attacker and wall. However, its weaknesses to common types like Electric and Fighting can be problematic. Despite this, its unique typing and strong stats make it a top-tier Water Starter.

3. Squirtle (and its evolutions)

Squirtle, the original Water Starter from Gen 1, evolves into the iconic Blastoise. Blastoise is a well-rounded Pokémon with solid defenses and a decent Special Attack stat. Its Mega Evolution further boosts its stats and grants it the Mega Launcher ability, enhancing moves like Water Pulse and Aura Sphere. While it may not be the flashiest Water Starter, its reliability and iconic status make it a perennial favorite. Plus, who can forget the Squirtle Squad?

2. Mudkip (and its evolutions)

Mudkip, the Gen 3 Water Starter, evolves into the mighty Swampert. Swampert is a powerhouse, boasting a high Attack stat and the unique Water/Ground typing, making it immune to Electric attacks. Its only weakness is Grass, which can be easily countered with the right strategy. Swampert is a reliable and hard-hitting Pokémon that can carry you through many battles. Its popularity and competitive viability make it a top contender for the best Water Starter.

1. Popplio (and its evolutions)

And finally, at the top of our list is Popplio, the Gen 7 Water Starter that evolves into the stunning Primarina. Primarina is a Special Attack beast, with a high Special Attack stat and the Water/Fairy typing, granting it access to powerful moves like Moonblast. Its design is elegant and captivating, and its lore is deeply connected to the ocean. Primarina's versatility, power, and unique typing make it the best Water Starter Pokémon. Its ability to handle a wide range of threats and its captivating design solidify its place at the top of our list.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a Water Starter Pokémon is a personal decision, and each one brings something unique to the table. Whether you prefer the reliability of Blastoise, the power of Swampert, or the elegance of Primarina, there's a Water Starter out there for everyone. So, next time you start a new Pokémon adventure, consider giving one of these aquatic allies a chance. You might just find your new favorite companion! Remember to consider your play style and what you value in a Pokémon when making your choice. Happy training, and may your journey be filled with fun and adventure!