Choosing your starter in a Pokémon game can feel like a huge decision. What you pick in those first few minutes can shape your entire adventure. Pokémon Sword and Shield’s starters are no exception – you’ll choose a companion who’ll be with you through every badge, every rival battle, and every Elite Four takedown.
Whether you’re diving into Sword and Shield for the first time or replaying it for a nostalgic trip to Galar, we’ve put together a guide to help you pick the best starter for your journey – based on stats, type matchups, and how the game unfolds.
Of course, you can always go with the one that just feels right. Anyone who’s suffered through Red and Blue’s first few gyms with Charmander knows it can be worth the struggle. But if you’re looking for the most optimized run? Read on.
Grookey
Grookey is your Grass-type starter, and like all Galar starters, they’re charming from the get-go. Grookey evolves into Thwackey at level 16, and then into the powerhouse Rillaboom at level 35.
Rillaboom boasts the highest HP of the trio and hits hard with physical attacks. If you want a starter that can soak up damage and strike back just as hard, Grookey’s a solid pick. Plus, it has a strong showing early in the game’s gym circuit.
Scorbunny
This fiery little rabbit is all about speed and offense. Scorbunny evolves into Raboot at level 16 and then becomes the quick-footed Cinderace at level 35.
With great Attack and Speed, Scorbunny is built for aggressive playstyles. It also has the highest Special Defense of the three, helping it survive against tougher opponents later in the game. If you want fast-paced battles and quick victories, this is your starter.
Sobble
Sobble is your Water-type starter and maybe the most emotionally expressive Pokémon in the series. It evolves into Drizzile at level 16 and then into the sleek, sharpshooting Inteleon at level 35.
Sobble excels in Special Attack, making it ideal for players who prefer to stay at a distance and blast through opponents. While its defences are on the lower side, careful strategy can turn Inteleon into a devastating special attacker.
Best Pokémon Sword and Shield Starter
It all depends on your playstyle. But if you’re looking for a stat-based breakdown:
- Early Game Advantage:
Grookey shines in the early gyms and can tank hits better than the others. - Late Game Strength:
Scorbunny takes the lead later on, with high speed and offensive capabilities that scale well into the post-game.
That said, always choose the Pokémon you love. You’ll be spending a lot of time together, and no stat sheet beats that bond.
So – who’s your pick in Pokémon Sword and Shield? Whether it’s for the look, the type, or the battle strategy, there’s no wrong choice. Just go with your gut – and maybe a Poké Ball or two.
