Pokemon Sun and Moon Best Starter: Litten vs Popplio vs Rowlet

November 23, 2016







In typical Pokemon fashion, you have a choice between three starter Pokemon in Sun & Moon. Although most players simply choose what they think looks cutest, each choice is drastically different and will have a significant impact on your experience.





Below we'll go over all the crucial elements so you make an informed decision.



Litten





Type: Fire / Dark





Evolves Into: Torracat -> Incineroar





Move List:

Level 1: Scratch, Ember
Level 4: Growl
Level 8: Lick
Level 11: Leer
Level 15: Fire Fang
Level 19: Roar
Level 24: Bite
Level 28: Swagger
Level 33: Fury Swipes
Level 37: Thrash
Level 42: Flamethrower
Level 46: Scary Face
Level 51: Flare Blitz
Level 55: Outrage

Strength: Physical damage. This Pokemon will serve as a very competent fighter throughout the game due to its high attack. Its special attack is above average, allowing it to hit hard with its entire move set.

Weakness: Slow speed. This Pokemon will almost always go second, which can be frustrating.

Best For: The average player.

Popplio

Type: Water / Fairy

Evolves Into: Brionne -> Primarina

Move List:

Level 1: Pound, Water Gun
Level 4: Growl
Level 8: Disarming Voice
Level 11: Baby-Doll Eyes
Level 15: Aqua Jet
Level 18: Encore
Level 22: Bubble Beam
Level 25: Sing
Level 29: Double Slap
Level 32: Hyper Voice
Level 36: Moonblast
Level 39: Captivate
Level 43: Hydro Pump
Level 46: Misty Terrain

Strength: High defense. This Pokemon can survive lots of hits while setting up Burn combos. In regards to Burn combos, you will need to bring along a Pokemon capable of inflicting burn to get the most out of Popplio's evolved form.

Weakness: Low speed. This is another slow Pokemon.

Best For: Players who intend to invest in a burn combo.

Rowlet

Type: Grass / Flying

Evolves Into: Dartrix -> Decideye

Move List:

Level 1: Tackle, Lea***e
Level 4: Growl
Level 8: Peck
Level 11: Astonish
Level 15: Razor Leaf
Level 18: Foresight
Level 22: Pluck
Level 25: Synthesis
Level 29: Fury Attack
Level 32: Sucker Punch
Level 36: Leaf Blade
Level 39: Feather Dance
Level 43: Brave Bird
Level 46: Nasty Plot

Strength: Special attacks. This Pokemon can inflict enemies with various ailments and make their life tough.

Weakness: A nuanced Pokemon. This Pokemon is the most niche of the three, fulfilling a very specific role that isn't always useful.

Best For: Advanced players who want a unique Pokemon.

Although Jonathan Leack began covering the gaming industry in 2009, his earliest roots date back to 2004 when he wrote his first of many reviews to come. Equipped with a B.S. in Computer Information Systems and several information technology certifications, he provides a unique perspective that is technological and business conscious. Having acquired the role of Executive Editor in 2016, his mission is to make GameRevolution a gaming site that thoughtfully considers the consumer perspective, and has a knowledgeable presence of PC gaming, console, hardware, and eSports coverage.