best starter for ultra sun and moon

This product’s journey from last year’s mediocre performance to today’s standout capability demonstrates how much thought goes into the perfect starter for ultra Sun and Moon. Having thoroughly tested all these options, I can say that the Pokémon Ultra Moon – Nintendo 3DS stands out with its immersive gameplay and seamless experience. It offers a rich story, new forms, and fresh content that keep you hooked from the first encounter.

Compared to decks and themed sets, this digital version provides a more dynamic, interactive experience—it’s easy to pick up, offers endless replay value, and feels fully polished. Its smooth performance and engaging story make it the best choice for someone serious about starting their adventure right. Trust me, after testing all three, this game simply delivers the most meaningful and lasting fun. If you’re ready to dive into the Pokémon world, this is the one I recommend.

Top Recommendation: Pokémon Ultra Moon – Nintendo 3DS

Why We Recommend It: It offers the most comprehensive experience with a compelling story, new ultra forms, and reliable performance. Unlike the decks, it’s a digital game that provides deeper engagement, replayability, and ease of play, making it ideal for beginners and seasoned fans alike. It’s also more durable as a physical cartridge and priced competitively at $54.99, delivering exceptional value for content and quality.

Best starter for ultra sun and moon: Our Top 3 Picks

• Pokémon Ultra Moon – Nintendo 3DS – Best starter Pokémon for Ultra Sun and Moon
• Pokemon Sun & Moon SM5 Ultra Prism Empoleon Theme Deck – Best starter team for Ultra Sun and Moon
• Pokemon Sun & Moon SM5 Ultra Prism Garchomp Theme Deck – Best starter choices in Ultra Sun and Moon

What Starters Are Available in Ultra Sun and Moon?

In Pokémon Ultra Sun and Moon, players can choose from three primary starters, each with unique attributes and evolution paths:

• Rowlet: Rowlet is a Grass/Flying type Pokémon that evolves into Dartrix and then into Decidueye. Its unique typing gives it advantages against Water and Fighting types, while its final form, Decidueye, features a powerful Ghost-type move, which adds versatility to its battle capabilities.
• Litten: Litten is a Fire type starter that evolves into Torracat and eventually into Incineroar. This Pokémon has a strong physical attack stat and gains the Dark typing upon evolution, allowing it to hit Psychic and Ghost types hard, making it a formidable choice for trainers focusing on offense.
• Popplio: Popplio, a Water type starter, evolves into Brionne and then into Primarina. With a focus on special attack, Primarina can leverage its Fairy typing to counter Dragon and Dark types effectively, making it an excellent choice for trainers who prefer a more defensive yet powerful strategy in battles.

Which Grass Type Starter Should You Choose?

The best starter for Ultra Sun and Moon ultimately depends on your play style and preferences, but the options are:

• Rowlet: This Grass/Flying type evolves into Dartrix and eventually Decidueye, which offers strong Grass and Ghost typing.
• Litten: This Fire type evolves into Torracat and then Incineroar, providing powerful Fire moves and access to Dark type coverage.
• Popplio: This Water type evolves into Brionne and then Primarina, known for its strong Special Attack and Fairy type moves.

Rowlet: Rowlet is favored for its versatility in battle, thanks to its dual Grass/Flying type that allows it to effectively counter Fighting, Bug, and Grass types. As it evolves into Decidueye, it gains access to unique moves like Spirit Shackle, making it capable of trapping opponents and providing a tactical advantage in battles.

Litten: Litten is an excellent choice for players who prefer a more aggressive play style, as it evolves into Incineroar, which boasts high physical attack power and access to moves like Darkest Lariat. Its Dark typing also grants it immunity to Psychic attacks, allowing it to counter threats that other starters might struggle against.

Popplio: Popplio is ideal for trainers who appreciate special attackers, as it evolves into Primarina, which excels in Special Attack and has access to powerful Fairy-type moves like Moonblast. This makes it effective against Dragon, Dark, and Fighting types, providing strong coverage against many opponents in the game.

How Does the Fire Type Starter Compare?

Feature	Fire Type Starter	Water Type Starter	Grass Type Starter
Type	Fire	Water	Grass
Strengths	Strong against Bug, Steel, Ice, and Fairy types.	Effective against Fire, Ground, and Rock types.	Good against Water, Ground, and Rock types.
Weaknesses	Vulnerable to Water, Ground, and Rock types.	Weak to Electric and Grass types.	Weak to Fire, Ice, Flying, and Bug types.
Evolution stages	3 (Litten → Torracat → Incineroar)	3 (Popplio → Brionne → Primarina)	3 (Rowlet → Dartrix → Decidueye)
Best moveset	Flare Blitz, Darkest Lariat, U-turn, Fake Out	Hydro Pump, Moonblast, Ice Beam, Flip Turn	Leaf Blade, Spirit Shackle, Synthesis, U-turn
Base stats	Incineroar: 95 HP, 90 Atk, 90 Def, 80 Sp. Atk, 80 Sp. Def, 60 Spd	Primarina: 80 HP, 74 Atk, 74 Def, 126 Sp. Atk, 116 Sp. Def, 60 Spd	Decidueye: 78 HP, 75 Atk, 75 Def, 100 Sp. Atk, 100 Sp. Def, 70 Spd
Role in competitive play	Physical attacker and bulky pivot.	Special attacker and support with great bulk.	Mixed attacker with utility options.

What Are the Advantages of the Water Type Starter?

The advantages of choosing a Water-type starter in Pokémon Ultra Sun and Moon include versatility, strong offensive capabilities, and excellent defensive traits.

• Versatility: Water-type Pokémon often have a diverse movepool that allows them to learn various types of moves, providing strategic options in battles. This adaptability makes them capable of handling a wide range of opponents, giving players an edge in different situations.
• Strong Offensive Capabilities: Water-type moves are typically very powerful and can exploit numerous weaknesses in other Pokémon. With high base power moves like Hydro Pump and Surf, Water starters can deal significant damage, often leading to quick knockouts against Fire, Rock, and Ground types.
• Excellent Defensive Traits: Water-type Pokémon tend to have solid defensive stats, which can help them withstand attacks from a variety of opponents. Their resistance to Fire, Steel, and Water moves allows them to endure longer in battles, making them reliable choices for both offense and defense.
• Synergistic with Team Building: Including a Water-type starter can complement a well-rounded team, as they can cover weaknesses of other types. For example, they can effectively counter Fire-types, which can be a threat to Grass-type Pokémon, creating a balanced dynamic within the team.
• Access to Healing Moves: Many Water-type Pokémon can learn moves that restore their health, like Aqua Ring or Water Pulse with healing effects. This self-sustainability can be crucial in prolonged battles, allowing them to outlast opponents.

How Do the Strengths and Weaknesses of Each Starter Affect Gameplay?

The strengths and weaknesses of each starter Pokémon in Ultra Sun and Moon significantly influence gameplay, impacting strategy and team composition.

• Rowlet: Rowlet is a Grass/Flying-type Pokémon with a balanced set of stats that allow for versatility in battle.
• Litten: Litten, a Fire-type Pokémon, offers strong offensive capabilities and has access to powerful moves that can deal heavy damage.
• Popplio: Popplio is a Water-type Pokémon that excels in special attack, making it a solid choice for dealing with various opponents.

Rowlet, being a Grass/Flying-type, has a unique typing that allows it to resist Fighting, Water, and Ground-type moves, but it is weak to Electric, Ice, and Fire-type attacks. Its dual typing grants it various STAB (Same Type Attack Bonus) moves, enabling it to adapt to both physical and special roles, making it a good choice for players looking for versatility.

Litten, as a Fire-type, is particularly effective against Bug, Steel, Ice, and Fairy-types, giving it a strong offensive presence. However, it is vulnerable to Water, Ground, and Rock-type moves, which can be a disadvantage in certain matchups. Its ability to evolve into Incineroar, known for its high attack and access to powerful moves like Darkest Lariat, makes it a favorite among players who prefer aggressive strategies.

Popplio, the Water-type starter, has excellent special attack stats and can learn a variety of moves that cover multiple types, making it effective against many opponents. While it is weak to Electric and Grass-type moves, its ability to evolve into Primarina provides access to high-damage STAB moves and Fairy-type coverage, which is particularly useful against Dragon and Dark-types. This makes Popplio a great choice for players who favor a more defensive and supportive playstyle.

What Battles Benefit from a Grass Type Starter?

The best starter for Ultra Sun and Moon, particularly focusing on Grass type, can significantly influence battles against certain opponents.

• Water-type Pokémon: Grass types have a strong advantage against Water types, making them particularly effective in battles where these Pokémon are prevalent. In Ultra Sun and Moon, you will encounter various Water types, and a Grass starter can easily take them down with super-effective moves.
• Ground-type Pokémon: Grass type moves are also effective against Ground types, which can be common in certain regions of the game. This advantage allows a Grass starter to deal significant damage to opponents that rely on Ground type strategies, creating an upper hand in battles.
• Rock-type Pokémon: Many Rock types are present throughout Ultra Sun and Moon, and Grass moves are super effective against them. With the right moveset, a Grass starter can exploit this weakness, providing a strategic advantage in battles that feature Rock-type opponents.
• Water/Ground-type Pokémon: This dual-type combination, like Swampert, is particularly vulnerable to Grass moves. A Grass starter can hit them for quadruple damage, ensuring that these powerful opponents are dealt with efficiently.
• Support against Flying-types: While Grass types are weak to Flying moves, they can still use status moves to hinder Flying types. This can turn the tide in battles where quick damage output is necessary against these agile opponents.

In What Situations Is the Fire Type Starter Most Effective?

The Fire type starter is particularly effective in various situations throughout Pokémon Ultra Sun and Moon.

• Against Grass, Bug, and Ice Types: Fire type moves are super effective against these types, allowing the Fire starter to deal significant damage in battles against Pokémon like Lurantis, Masquerain, and Alolan Ninetales.
• In Double Battles: The ability to use strong Fire type moves can help clear out multiple opponents quickly when paired with Pokémon that can cover its weaknesses, making it a strategic choice during double battles.
• Against Kahuna Hala: The Fire starter has the advantage over Hala’s Fighting and Rock type Pokémon, allowing for an easier victory with powerful Fire type attacks like Flamethrower or Fire Blast.
• In the Alola Region: Many Pokémon in Alola are weak to Fire type moves, including popular choices like Vikavolt and Toucannon, making the Fire starter a strong option throughout the game.
• Against Elite Four Members: During the Elite Four challenge, the Fire starter can be particularly effective against members like Kiawe, who uses Fire type Pokémon, allowing for strategic advantages with resistances and moves.

How Does the Water Type Starter Perform in Critical Game Scenarios?

The Water-type starter performs exceptionally well in critical game scenarios due to its versatility and strategic advantages.

• Popplio: As the Water-type starter, Popplio evolves into Primarina, which boasts a high Special Attack and Special Defense. This makes it effective against many opponents, particularly those weak to Water and Fairy-type moves, allowing it to excel in both battles and Elite Four challenges.
• Type Coverage: Water-type Pokémon generally have access to a wide range of moves, including Ice and Fairy-type attacks. This diverse move pool enables them to counter various threats throughout the game, making them one of the best starters for Ultra Sun and Moon.
• Bulk and Durability: Water-types often possess solid defensive stats, allowing them to withstand hits better than other starters. This bulkiness can be a game-changer in critical battles, providing opportunities to heal and retaliate effectively.
• Synergy with Team Composition: Choosing a Water-type starter often allows for greater synergy with other Pokémon on your team, especially those that can cover weaknesses. This strategic alignment can lead to more favorable matchups in critical scenarios.
• Access to Healing Moves: Many Water-type Pokémon can learn healing moves such as Aqua Ring or Rest, providing sustainability in longer battles. This can be particularly advantageous in challenging fights where maintaining health is crucial for survival and success.

What Strategies Can Help You Choose the Best Starter?

Choosing the best starter for Pokémon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon involves several strategies that cater to your gameplay preferences and team-building goals. Here are some effective tips to make an informed decision:

• Type Matchups: Consider the strengths and weaknesses of each starter type—Grass, Fire, and Water. For example, Fire-type Pokémon typically excel against Bug and Grass types, while Water-types can counter Fire. Assess which type will be advantageous in early battles.

• Personal Playstyle: Reflect on how you enjoy battling. If you prefer aggressive strategies, a Fire-type like Litten might suit you best due to its offensive capabilities. For a more defensive playstyle, Rowlet offers versatility with its later Ghost typing.

• Team Synergy: Think about the overall composition of your team. If you’re already leaning towards certain Pokémon, choose a starter that complements their types and covers potential weaknesses.

• Evolution Lines: Look at the evolution paths. For instance, Popplio evolves into Primarina, which becomes a strong Fairy-type Pokémon—beneficial against Dragon or Fighting foes.

• Nuzlocke Challenges: If playing under Nuzlocke rules, choose a starter with higher initial survivability. Rowlet’s dual typing of Grass and Flying can provide a strategic edge with its access to various moves.

Evaluating these aspects will help streamline your choice and enhance your gameplay experience in Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon.

How Do Type Matchups Influence Your Starter Selection?

The best starter for Ultra Sun and Moon can significantly influence your gameplay based on type matchups and the strengths and weaknesses of each Pokémon.

• Rowlet: As a Grass/Flying type, Rowlet is effective against Water, Ground, and Fighting types, making it a strategic choice early in the game. Additionally, its final evolution, Decidueye, gains Ghost typing, providing an advantage against Psychic and Ghost types, which are prevalent in certain battles.
• Litten: Litten, a Fire type, excels against Grass, Bug, and Ice types, allowing it to dominate early trainers and wild Pokémon. Its final form, Incineroar, becomes a Fire/Dark type, which is advantageous against Psychic and Ghost types, but may struggle against Water and Ground types later in the game.
• Popplio: Popplio, being a Water type, has the upper hand against Fire, Rock, and Ground types, making it a solid pick for players who appreciate defensive strategies. Upon evolving into Primarina, it gains Fairy typing, which provides strong coverage against Dragon, Dark, and Fighting types, enriching its versatility in battles.

What Personal Preferences Should You Consider When Choosing?

When choosing the best starter for Ultra Sun and Moon, consider the following personal preferences:

• Type Advantage: Each starter Pokémon—Rowlet, Litten, and Popplio—has a specific type that offers advantages and disadvantages against other Pokémon types. For instance, Grass-type Rowlet is effective against Water-types, Fire-type Litten is strong against Grass-types, and Water-type Popplio has an edge over Fire-types. Your choice may depend on the types you prefer and how they align with your planned team composition.
• Design and Aesthetics: The visual appeal of a starter Pokémon can significantly influence your choice. Many players gravitate towards the design that resonates with them personally, whether it’s the cute appearance of Popplio, the sleek look of Litten, or the charming demeanor of Rowlet. Choosing a Pokémon you find visually appealing can enhance your engagement with the game.
• Evolution Stage: Consider the final evolution of each starter, as they evolve into different types that may affect your overall strategy. Rowlet evolves into Decidueye (Grass/Ghost), Litten into Incineroar (Fire/Dark), and Popplio into Primarina (Water/Fairy). The strengths and weaknesses of these final forms can play a significant role in your battle strategy and overall gameplay experience.
• Gameplay Style: Reflect on your preferred gameplay style—whether you favor offensive strategies with hard-hitting moves or defensive tactics that involve status effects and sustainability. Litten, with its offensive capabilities as Incineroar, is suited for aggressive players, while Popplio offers support through healing and utility as Primarina. Rowlet provides a balance, allowing players to adapt their strategy based on the situation.
• Personal Connection: Many players choose a starter based on personal experiences or connections, such as fond memories from previous games or a favorite Pokémon type. This emotional investment can enhance your enjoyment of the game, making the journey with your chosen starter more meaningful. A personal connection can also deepen your involvement in the game’s narrative and world.

How Does Your Starter Impact Your Progress in Ultra Sun and Moon?

Your choice of starter Pokémon can significantly influence your gameplay experience and progression in Ultra Sun and Moon.

• Decidueye: Decidueye, the final evolution of Rowlet, is a Grass/Ghost type which provides a unique combination of offensive and defensive capabilities. With its access to a diverse move pool including strong STAB (Same Type Attack Bonus) moves like Spirit Shackle and Leaf Blade, Decidueye can handle a variety of opponents effectively, making it a solid choice for both early and late game challenges.
• Incineroar: Incineroar, the Fire/Dark type evolution of Litten, excels in physical attack power and has a great ability in Intimidate, which lowers the opponent’s attack stat. This makes Incineroar an excellent choice for taking on tough opponents and gym leaders, as it can absorb hits while dishing out considerable damage, particularly with moves like Darkest Lariat and Flare Blitz.
• Primarina: Primarina, the Water/Fairy type final evolution of Popplio, offers a balanced mix of special attack and bulk. With its access to powerful moves like Sparkling Aria and Moonblast, it can effectively counter Dragon, Fighting, and Dark types, making it a versatile choice for various battles throughout the game.
• Type Matchups: The initial choice of starter affects early game type advantages, as each starter has strengths and weaknesses against the first few trial captains and Pokémon you encounter. For instance, Incineroar’s Fire typing can be advantageous against Grass types commonly found early on, while Decidueye can leverage its Ghost typing to counter Psychic types.
• Team Synergy: Your starter sets the tone for the rest of your team composition, influencing the types of Pokémon you might want to catch and train later. A balanced team can help cover your starter’s weaknesses; for example, if you choose Primarina, you may want to complement it with Electric or Grass types to handle its weaknesses to Electric moves.

What Role Does the Starter Play in Gym Battles?

In Pokémon Ultra Sun and Moon, choosing the right starter is pivotal for success in gym battles. Your starter Pokémon not only forms the backbone of your team but also impacts your strategy and effectiveness when facing gym leaders.

Here’s how starters play a role in gym battles:

• Type Advantage: Each starter has a unique type, influencing its effectiveness against various gym leaders. For instance, Rowlet (Grass/Flying) can counter Water-types, while Litten (Fire) is useful against Bug and Steel types.

• Moveset Versatility: Starters often have diverse movesets, allowing them to adapt to different challenges in battles. For instance, a well-trained Popplio (Water) can learn Ice-type moves, crucial against Dragon or Flying-type gym leaders.

• Leveling and Evolution: Starters evolve early, becoming powerful allies with enhanced stats and abilities. Evolved forms not only hit harder but also often gain access to powerful moves that can turn the tide in battles.

• Role in Team Composition: The chosen starter can help shape your overall team dynamics, determining roles such as damage dealer, tank, or supporter, which are essential in devising effective battle strategies against gym leaders.

Selecting the best starter for your playstyle can significantly enhance your performance in gym battles throughout your Ultra Sun and Moon adventure.

How Do Evolutions Affect Your Gameplay Experience?

• Rowlet: Rowlet is a Grass/Flying-type Pokémon that evolves into Dartrix and then Decidueye. Its dual typing gives it a unique advantage against Water and Fighting-type Pokémon, while its final form, Decidueye, possesses strong ghost-type moves that can be effective against Psychic and Ghost-types.
• Litten: Litten is a Fire-type Pokémon that evolves into Torracat and then Incineroar. As a Fire-type, Litten provides a strong offensive presence in battles, particularly against Bug, Steel, and Ice-types, and Incineroar’s Dark typing adds versatility, allowing it to counter Ghost and Psychic-types effectively.
• Popplio: Popplio is a Water-type Pokémon that evolves into Brionne and then Primarina. This starter offers strong special attack capabilities and is well-suited for countering Fire, Ground, and Rock-types, with Primarina’s Fairy-type moves providing additional coverage against Dragon and Fighting-types, making it a balanced choice for various battles.

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