Guide: Pokemon Ultra Sun Starting Pokemon Choice + Tips!

The initial partner selection in the seventh generation enhanced titles presents players with a choice between Rowlet (a Grass/Flying-type), Litten (a Fire-type), and Popplio (a Water-type). These Pokmon serve as the foundational members of a trainer’s team, shaping early game strategies and influencing subsequent gameplay experiences. The selection is a permanent decision, impacting the availability of particular moves and type matchups throughout the adventure.

The significance of this pivotal choice lies in its long-term ramifications. A player’s decision affects not only early gym battles and island challenges, but also shapes the composition and overall effectiveness of their team as they progress through the Alola region. Moreover, the unique Z-Moves and potential for Mega Evolution associated with certain Pokmon can complement and amplify the strengths of the originally chosen creature, leading to a deeply personalized and rewarding gameplay experience.

Detailed analyses of each option, including their evolutionary lines, movepools, strengths, and weaknesses, are essential for informed decision-making. Further explorations of team building strategies, counter picks against common adversaries, and optimal training regimens are warranted to maximize the potential of each selected partner during a playthrough.

Essential Guidance for Alola’s Beginner Trainers

Selecting an appropriate companion to initiate the Alolan journey is crucial for optimal success. Careful consideration of each candidate’s strengths, weaknesses, and long-term potential is warranted.

Tip 1: Type Advantage Assessment: Prior to selection, research the type matchups of early challenges. Litten may prove advantageous against Grass-types, while Rowlet holds an edge against Water-types. Popplio provides coverage against Rock-types.

Tip 2: Movepool Evaluation: Review the learnsets of each candidate’s evolutionary line. Diverse movepools provide strategic flexibility in various combat scenarios. Consider access to status moves, coverage moves, and powerful STAB (Same Type Attack Bonus) attacks.

Tip 3: Z-Move Compatibility: Investigate the Z-Moves available to each potential choice’s final evolution. These powerful, one-time-use attacks can dramatically shift the tide of battle. Decidueye, Incineroar, and Primarina each possess unique Z-Moves worth considering.

Tip 4: Team Synergy Planning: Consider the overall composition of the planned team. Select a partner that complements other preferred Pokmon, covering potential weaknesses and amplifying strengths. Avoid type overlap that could lead to vulnerabilities.

Tip 5: Nuzlocke Considerations: For players undertaking a Nuzlocke challenge, careful deliberation is paramount. A robust partner with strong defensive capabilities can improve survivability and mitigate early-game risks.

Tip 6: Item Utilization: Leverage held items strategically to enhance the capabilities of the selected companion. Berries that restore HP or cure status conditions, or items that boost specific stats, can provide a competitive edge.

Selecting the appropriate initial partner significantly influences the early game experience and shapes the strategic foundation for future battles. Thorough assessment of type advantages, movepools, Z-Move compatibility, and team synergy ensures a well-rounded and successful journey through the Alola region.

Subsequent sections will address advanced training techniques and strategies for optimizing the potential of the chosen Alolan partner.

1. Type Matchups

Type matchups are a foundational element in the strategic deployment of the initially selected creature. The effectiveness of attacks and the vulnerability to opposing moves are directly determined by the complex web of elemental relationships inherent in the battle system. A critical evaluation of the initial challenges and dominant types within the Alola region allows trainers to select a partner that offers an early strategic advantage. For example, choosing Litten mitigates early encounters with Grass-type adversaries, streamlining progress through the initial phases of the game. Conversely, a poor type matchup can lead to increased resource consumption (Potions, Revives) and potential setbacks, especially in encounters with challenging Totem Pokmon.

The practical significance of understanding type matchups extends beyond initial battles. The ability to anticipate and exploit type weaknesses forms the basis of effective team building and strategic decision-making throughout the entire Alolan journey. A trainer who neglects to account for type matchups is significantly disadvantaged in trainer battles, Island Challenges, and the Elite Four. For example, selecting a team predominantly weak to Electric-type attacks will create a significant vulnerability against trainers specializing in Electric-type Pokmon, necessitating careful strategic planning and item utilization to compensate.

In conclusion, type matchups are not merely a superficial consideration in the selection of the starting Pokemon; they are an integral component that shapes early game dynamics and informs long-term strategic planning. Mastering type matchups is essential for optimizing combat effectiveness and ensuring a more successful and efficient Alolan adventure. Overlooking this fundamental aspect can lead to unnecessary challenges and hinder overall progress.

2. Movepool Breadth

Movepool breadth, the diversity of learnable attacks, is a critical factor influencing the long-term viability and strategic utility of the initial Alolan partner. A wide movepool allows for greater adaptability to diverse combat scenarios and team compositions, directly impacting the effectiveness of the chosen creature throughout the game.

• Coverage Options

  Coverage moves enable a single Pokemon to effectively counter a wider range of types. For example, a Fire-type with access to Ground-type moves can threaten Rock, Electric and other Fire-type opponents, providing a crucial advantage. The absence of sufficient coverage forces reliance on other team members, potentially creating strategic vulnerabilities if those allies are unavailable or incapacitated. Litten’s evolution into Incineroar, with potential access to moves like Earthquake, demonstrates the value of coverage in this context.

• Status Affliction Potential

  The ability to inflict status conditions such as paralysis, burn, or poison can significantly alter the dynamics of battle. Status moves can cripple opposing threats, reducing their offensive capabilities or hindering their speed. A Pokemon with access to reliable status moves adds a layer of control to the battle, allowing for a more strategic and calculated approach. For instance, a Rowlet utilizing moves like Sleep Powder early on can debilitate stronger opponents.

• STAB (Same Type Attack Bonus) Versatility

  While STAB moves are naturally powerful, relying solely on them can become predictable. Access to a variety of STAB moves allows for tactical flexibility in situations where specific opposing Pokemon may resist certain attacks. This versatility prevents the starting Pokemon from becoming a one-dimensional attacker, maintaining its relevance throughout the entirety of the adventure. A Popplio evolving into Primarina might benefit from diverse Water and Fairy-type STAB options to handle various threats.

• Utility and Support Moves

  Beyond offensive capabilities, access to utility moves such as stat boosts, healing, or defensive support enhances the partner’s survivability and team synergy. These moves are invaluable for outlasting challenging opponents, supporting the team in extended battles, and adapting to unexpected situations. A starting Pokemon with access to these moves becomes a more versatile and valuable asset to the team. Feather Dance, potentially learned by Rowlet, exemplifies a supporting move.

The availability of diverse move options directly correlates with the potential of the “pokemon ultra sun starting pokemon” to adapt to evolving challenges, contribute meaningfully to diverse team compositions, and remain a valuable asset throughout the Alolan journey. Consequently, trainers should rigorously evaluate the movepool breadth of each candidate, recognizing that this factor extends beyond simple offensive power.

3. Evolutionary Stats

The cumulative statistical attributes of a creature across its developmental stages are critical when evaluating the long-term potential of the “pokemon ultra sun starting pokemon”. These statistics, encompassing Hit Points (HP), Attack, Defense, Special Attack, Special Defense, and Speed, fundamentally dictate its combat effectiveness and role within a team composition.

• Base Stat Total (BST) Progression

  The Base Stat Total represents the sum of all individual stats and provides a general indication of overall power. A higher BST generally translates to greater combat aptitude. The starting creatures potential for BST growth across its evolutionary line is paramount, as a low initial BST can be compensated by significant stat increases upon evolution. Litten, for example, exhibits a notable BST increase upon evolving into Incineroar, rendering it a formidable offensive presence.

• Stat Distribution Skews

  The distribution of stats is as important as the total itself. A creature with a balanced stat distribution may perform adequately in various roles, while a creature with a skewed distribution is optimized for a specific function. Rowlet, for example, displays a more balanced distribution across Attack and Special Attack, whereas Popplio exhibits a stronger inclination towards Special Attack and Special Defense. These skews inform strategic decision-making regarding move selection and team role assignment.

• Impact on Combat Roles

  Evolutionary stats directly dictate the combat role that the selected partner can effectively fulfill. High Attack and Speed statistics typically suit offensive sweepers, while high Defense and HP favor defensive tanks. Incineroar’s high Attack and Defense suggest a bruiser role, capable of dealing significant damage while withstanding considerable punishment. Understanding these relationships is essential for building a well-rounded team capable of addressing diverse threats.

• Synergy with Held Items and Abilities

  Evolutionary stats interact synergistically with held items and inherent abilities to further enhance combat capabilities. An item like Choice Band significantly amplifies the Attack stat of a physical attacker, while an ability like Intimidate can reduce the opponent’s Attack stat, enhancing survivability. These synergistic effects must be considered when planning the development and deployment of the initial partner to maximize its impact on battle outcomes. Careful analysis of stat-item-ability combinations unlocks hidden potential and optimizes performance.

The evolutionary stats, therefore, represent a fundamental consideration in the strategic selection of the “pokemon ultra sun starting pokemon”. A comprehensive understanding of BST progression, stat distribution, combat role implications, and synergistic effects with items and abilities ensures the development of a powerful and versatile team member capable of thriving in the Alolan region.

4. Z-Move Access

The availability of Z-Moves, unique and exceptionally powerful attacks, significantly elevates the strategic importance of the initial Alolan partner selection. The Z-Crystals required to unleash these moves are obtained throughout the game, making access to compatible Z-Moves a compelling consideration for prospective trainers.

• Exclusive Z-Moves and Evolutionary Lines

  Each evolutionary line stemming from the initial choices possesses an exclusive Z-Move. Decidueye has Sinister Arrow Raid, Incineroar has Malicious Moonsault, and Primarina has Oceanic Operetta. These exclusive moves provide a considerable offensive advantage and shape the late-game battling strategy for each respective line. The power and utility of these exclusive moves warrant careful consideration during the initial selection phase.

• Strategic Timing and Deployment

  Z-Moves can only be utilized once per battle, necessitating careful planning and strategic execution. The trainer must analyze the battlefield conditions, opponent’s team composition, and potential counter-strategies before committing to a Z-Move. This strategic element adds a layer of complexity to battles and increases the value of tactical foresight. For instance, using Oceanic Operetta to break through a defensive wall at a critical juncture can swing the momentum of a battle.

• Type Coverage and Damage Output

  The type and damage output of the Z-Move are pivotal. While some Z-Moves align with the Pokmon’s primary typing, others offer broader coverage. This coverage is invaluable for overcoming type disadvantages and maximizing damage potential against a wider range of opponents. Evaluating the type matchups and base power of each Z-Move ensures informed decision-making during critical battle moments.

• Animation Priority and Visual Spectacle

  Although not directly influencing strategic gameplay, the Z-Move animations offer a visually engaging experience. These elaborate animations are unique to each Z-Move and contribute to the overall immersive quality of the game. While the animation does not impact combat mechanics, the visual spectacle enhances the sense of accomplishment and strategic impact associated with unleashing a Z-Move.

The integration of Z-Moves into the combat system transforms the initial selection into a long-term strategic commitment. The power, exclusivity, and tactical considerations associated with Z-Move access warrant thorough examination. As a core element of the battle mechanics, effective utilization of Z-Moves is essential for success within the Alolan region, making it a critical consideration for trainers seeking to optimize their gameplay experience.

5. Team Synergy

The integration of the initially selected creature within a cohesive team structure is paramount for achieving optimal strategic efficacy within the Alolan region. The chosen partner should complement existing strengths, mitigate weaknesses, and contribute to a synergistic whole that transcends the capabilities of individual members.

• Type Coverage Optimization

  A well-balanced team provides comprehensive type coverage, minimizing vulnerabilities to specific elemental attacks. The selection of the initial partner should address any gaps in type coverage present within the pre-determined team composition. For instance, if the trainer anticipates utilizing several Fire-type Pokmon, the initial choice could prioritize Water or Ground-type coverage to counter potential weaknesses against Water and Rock-type threats, respectively. The objective is to create a resilient team with answers to a diverse array of opponents.

• Role Diversification and Specialization

  Effective teams incorporate a range of specialized roles, including offensive sweepers, defensive walls, supportive pivots, and strategic disruptors. The starting choice should contribute to this role diversification. If the pre-planned team lacks a reliable physical attacker, choosing Litten could fulfill that specific niche. Conversely, if the team requires a dedicated special attacker, Popplio may prove the more appropriate selection. This targeted approach ensures that the initial partner fulfills a specific function within the overall team strategy.

• Status Condition Application and Mitigation

  The ability to inflict and mitigate status conditions is crucial for maintaining control of the battlefield. The initial selection can either bolster the team’s capacity to apply status effects or provide resistance to common ailments. For example, choosing Rowlet could introduce access to moves like Sleep Powder, while selecting a Pokmon with the ability to learn moves like Aromatherapy can cleanse the team of existing status conditions. This emphasis on status management contributes significantly to overall team resilience.

• Movepool Interconnectivity and Combinations

  Certain moves synergize exceptionally well with other team members’ abilities or movepools. The initial choice can introduce opportunities for synergistic combinations. For example, selecting Popplio can enable the use of Water-type attacks that synergize with Drizzle abilities provided by other team members, amplifying damage output. Recognizing and exploiting these interconnectivities maximizes the overall strategic impact of the team.

Therefore, the initial partner choice must be evaluated not in isolation, but within the context of the entire team’s composition and strategic objectives. Careful consideration of type coverage, role diversification, status management, and movepool interconnectivity allows trainers to forge a synergistic team capable of overcoming the challenges presented within the Alolan region. A cohesive and well-coordinated team significantly enhances the strategic efficacy of the “pokemon ultra sun starting pokemon” and ultimately increases the likelihood of success.

6. Nuzlocke Viability

The concept of Nuzlocke viability directly impacts the strategic importance of the starting creature selection. A Nuzlocke challenge imposes strict rules, primarily prohibiting the use of more than one Pokemon per route and enforcing a permanent death rule upon fainting. Consequently, the initial partner’s ability to survive and contribute significantly to early-game battles dictates the potential success of the entire run. A starting Pokemon with favorable type matchups against early gyms and routes, combined with a robust movepool and decent bulk, dramatically improves Nuzlocke prospects.

The practical application of Nuzlocke viability manifests in several ways. Rowlet, for instance, benefits from its Flying typing providing immunity to Ground-type moves common in early encounters. Litten’s offensive prowess can quickly eliminate early threats, minimizing the risk of critical hits. Popplio’s access to Water-type attacks provides coverage against Rock and Ground types found frequently early in the game. However, vulnerability to common typings or a limited movepool significantly hampers the chances of success. Example: Choosing a Pokmon with low defenses and a weakness to Electric attacks early on could lead to a quick and decisive end due to the Totem Lurantis trial. Careful evaluation of potential threats and the resilience of the initial selection is crucial. Item usage becomes even more critical, and strategies must be adapted for survival instead of simply overpowering opponents.

In conclusion, Nuzlocke viability is a cornerstone consideration in the choice of the starting Alolan partner. The strategic selection process must prioritize survivability, type coverage, and movepool utility above all else. While offensive power is valuable, the ability to withstand damage and strategically outmaneuver opponents is paramount in a Nuzlocke context. Overlooking the implications of Nuzlocke rules can result in swift and devastating defeat, underscoring the practical significance of this strategic element.

Frequently Asked Questions

The following addresses frequently encountered queries and misconceptions regarding the selection of an initial partner within the Alola region of Pokmon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon.

Question 1: What is the most advantageous starting partner for Pokmon Ultra Sun?

No singular ‘best’ partner exists. Advantage is contingent upon the player’s strategic style, preferred team composition, and tolerance for early-game challenges. Litten offers an aggressive start, Rowlet boasts versatile early coverage, and Popplio demonstrates potential as a specialized attacker. Each has strengths and weaknesses.

Question 2: Does the chosen starting partner significantly impact late-game viability?

While the initial partner sets the tone for the early game, strategic team building and training can mitigate any inherent disadvantages. Evolutionary lines offer unique strengths that can be leveraged effectively throughout the entire game. Late-game viability is primarily determined by team synergy and optimized movepools.

Question 3: How important are type matchups in the decision-making process?

Type matchups are critical, particularly in the early game, where limited resources can amplify the impact of unfavorable confrontations. Prioritizing a partner that provides coverage against early gym leaders and common adversaries minimizes potential setbacks. Knowledge of elemental relationships is fundamental to strategic success.

Question 4: What role do Z-Moves play in the assessment of starting partners?

The Z-Moves unique to each evolutionary line present a considerable strategic advantage. These powerful, one-time-use attacks can significantly alter the course of battle. Evaluating the type and power of each Z-Move allows for informed decision-making regarding late-game offensive capabilities. The potential for these Z-Moves influence long-term partner effectiveness.

Question 5: Can the initially selected partner be effectively utilized in competitive battling?

While the Alolan starting Pokmon can be competitively viable, optimization is essential. Careful breeding, training, and strategic move selection are required to maximize their potential in a competitive environment. Team synergy and strategic counter-picks are crucial for overcoming inherent limitations.

Question 6: How does the Nuzlocke challenge affect the choice of starting partner?

The Nuzlocke challenge imposes stricter conditions, placing a higher premium on survivability and strategic planning. The selected partner should possess a favorable type matchup against early encounters, robust defensive stats, and a movepool conducive to mitigating risks. Nuzlocke runs prioritize safety and consistency above all else.

The initial partner selection serves as a foundational decision, influencing the early stages and shaping the strategic trajectory of the Alolan adventure. Understanding the nuances of type matchups, evolutionary potential, and long-term team synergy is crucial for maximizing the effectiveness of the chosen companion.

Subsequent sections address advanced training techniques and strategies for optimizing the potential of the chosen Alolan partner.

Concluding Assessment

The examination of “pokemon ultra sun starting pokemon” demonstrates the profound influence of this initial choice on the ensuing gameplay experience. Consideration of type matchups, movepool breadth, evolutionary stats, Z-Move access, team synergy, and Nuzlocke viability reveals the multifaceted nature of this decision. Each starting option presents unique strengths and weaknesses, demanding careful deliberation and strategic foresight.

The long-term implications of the selection extend beyond immediate combat effectiveness, shaping team composition, battle strategies, and overall success within the Alola region. A comprehensive understanding of these factors empowers trainers to make informed choices, optimizing their gameplay experience and maximizing the potential of their chosen partner. Continued exploration of advanced strategies and team-building techniques is encouraged to further enhance mastery of the game.