Pokémon Sapphire is a role-playing video game developed by Game Freak and published by Nintendo for the Game Boy Advance. It is part of the third generation of the Pokémon video game series and was first released in 2002 in Japan.
The game takes place in the Hoenn region, a fictional area based on the real-life island of Kyushu in Japan. The player controls a young trainer who sets out on a journey to collect and train Pokémon creatures, and ultimately compete in battles against other trainers to become the Pokémon League Champion.
One of the key features of Pokémon Sapphire is the introduction of new Pokémon species, bringing the total number of Pokémon up to 386. The game also features new gameplay mechanics, including double battles, where two Pokémon are used at the same time, and Pokémon Contests, which allow players to compete in beauty and talent contests with their Pokémon.
Pokemon Sapphire Starters
In Pokémon Sapphire, players are given a choice of three starter Pokémon at the beginning of the game. The three starters available in Sapphire are:
- Treecko: a Grass-type Pokémon that evolves into Grovyle and eventually Sceptile. Treecko is known for its speed and agility, making it a great choice for players who prefer a nimble, hit-and-run style of play.
- Torchic: a Fire-type Pokémon that evolves into Combusken and eventually Blaziken. Torchic is known for its high attack and special attack stats, making it a great choice for players who prefer a more aggressive playstyle.
- Mudkip: a Water-type Pokémon that evolves into Marshtomp and eventually Swampert. Mudkip is known for its high defense and special defense stats, making it a great choice for players who prefer a more defensive playstyle.
Pokemon Sapphire Starters Pokedex
| Pokémon | Type | Pokédex Number | Pokédex Entry |
|---|---|---|---|
| Treecko | Grass | #252 | A grass lizard Pokémon that is full of vitality. Its small body contains nutrients that it absorbs from its surroundings. |
| Torchic | Fire | #255 | A fire chick Pokémon that has a flame sac in its belly. Torchic uses its flames to maintain its body temperature. |
| Mudkip | Water | #258 | A mud fish Pokémon that can live on land or in water. Mudkip uses its finned tail to move through water with great agility. |
Pokemon Sapphire Starters Stats
| Pokémon | Type | HP | Attack | Defense | Special Attack | Special Defense | Speed |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Treecko | Grass | 40 | 45 | 35 | 65 | 55 | 70 |
| Torchic | Fire | 45 | 60 | 40 | 70 | 50 | 45 |
| Mudkip | Water | 50 | 70 | 50 | 50 | 50 | 40 |
Pokemon Sapphire Starters Evolution
| Starter Pokemon | First Evolution | Second Evolution |
|---|---|---|
| Treecko | Evolves into Grovyle at level 16 | Evolves into Sceptile at level 36 |
| Torchic | Evolves into Combusken at level 16 | Evolves into Blaziken at level 36 |
| Mudkip | Evolves into Marshtomp at level 16 | Evolves into Swampert at level 36 |
Pokemon Sapphire Starters Comparison
| Starter Pokemon | Type | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Treecko | Grass | Strong against Water, Ground, and Rock types | Weak against Fire, Ice, Poison, Flying, and Bug types |
| Torchic | Fire | Strong against Grass, Ice, Bug, and Steel types | Weak against Water, Ground, and Rock types |
| Mudkip | Water | Strong against Fire, Ground, and Rock types | Weak against Grass and Electric types |
Best Pokemon Sapphire Starters
The choice of the best starter Pokemon in Pokemon Sapphire ultimately depends on personal preference and playstyle. However, here are some factors that may influence your decision:
- Treecko: if you prefer a fast and agile Pokemon that can take advantage of its high speed to deal damage and avoid attacks. Its final evolution, Sceptile, has a diverse movepool and a unique type combination of Grass/Dragon.
- Torchic: if you prefer a strong and aggressive Pokemon that can deal heavy damage with its powerful Fire-type moves. Its final evolution, Blaziken, has an excellent Attack stat and access to a wide range of moves, including Fighting-type moves.
- Mudkip: if you prefer a resilient and versatile Pokemon that can withstand hits and adapt to various situations. Its final evolution, Swampert, has an impressive combination of Water/Ground types, which grants it a great defensive typing and access to powerful STAB moves.
Ultimately, all three starters have their own unique strengths and weaknesses, so you should choose the one that best fits your playstyle and preferences.
Also see Pokemon Ruby Starters
