Pokémon Gen 7 starters, Rowlet, Litten, and Popplio, burst onto the scene with captivating designs and unique abilities, leaving an indelible mark on the Pokémon world. Join us as we delve into their physical characteristics, evolutions, type matchups, movepools, and cultural impact.
From their initial forms to their final evolutions, these starters offer a diverse range of playstyles and strategies, making them popular choices among competitive players and casual fans alike. Get ready to discover the secrets behind these beloved Pokémon and their impact on the Pokémon franchise.
Introduction
Pokémon Generation VII, introduced in 2016, marked a significant chapter in the Pokémon franchise. Along with the new region of Alola, came three captivating starter Pokémon: Rowlet, Litten, and Popplio. Each starter possesses unique characteristics and abilities, making them a crucial part of the Generation VII experience.
Physical Characteristics and Evolutions
Rowlet, the Grass-type starter, resembles an owl with its large, round eyes and feathered body. It evolves into Dartrix at level 17, gaining a more avian appearance with wings and a leaf-shaped collar. Finally, at level 34, Rowlet evolves into Decidueye, a tall, archer-like Pokémon with a spectral arrow.
Litten, the Fire-type starter, is a fiery feline with a playful personality. It evolves into Torracat at level 17, gaining a more muscular build and fiery mane. At level 34, Litten evolves into Incineroar, a wrestling-inspired Pokémon with a powerful physique and a signature move, Darkest Lariat.
Popplio, the Water-type starter, is an adorable seal with a cheerful disposition. It evolves into Brionne at level 17, gaining a more humanoid form and a bubble wand. Finally, at level 34, Popplio evolves into Primarina, an elegant and powerful Pokémon with a beautiful singing voice.
Type Matchups and Abilities
The type matchups of the three starters play a crucial role in their effectiveness in battle. Rowlet’s Grass-type gives it an advantage over Water and Ground-types, while it is weak against Fire and Flying-types. Litten’s Fire-type gives it an advantage over Grass and Ice-types, while it is weak against Water and Rock-types.
Popplio’s Water-type gives it an advantage over Fire and Rock-types, while it is weak against Grass and Electric-types.
Each starter also possesses unique abilities. Rowlet’s Overgrow ability increases the power of its Grass-type moves when its HP is low. Litten’s Blaze ability increases the power of its Fire-type moves when its HP is low. Popplio’s Torrent ability increases the power of its Water-type moves when its HP is low.
Movepool and Signature Moves
| Pokémon | Movepool | Signature Move |
|---|---|---|
| Rowlet | Leafage, Tackle, Astonish, Synthesis, Razor Leaf, Aerial Ace, Brave Bird | Leaf Storm |
| Litten | Scratch, Ember, Bite, Flamethrower, Fire Fang, Crunch, Darkest Lariat | Inferno Overdrive |
| Popplio | Water Gun, Growl, Disarming Voice, Bubble Beam, Hydro Pump, Moonblast, Sparkling Aria | Hydro Vortex |
The signature moves of each starter are powerful and unique. Leaf Storm is a powerful Grass-type move that deals damage based on the user’s Special Attack stat. Inferno Overdrive is a powerful Fire-type move that deals damage based on the user’s Attack stat.
Hydro Vortex is a powerful Water-type move that deals damage based on the user’s Special Attack stat.
Popularity and Usage
The popularity of the Generation VII starters is evident in their usage in competitive play and among fans. Rowlet is often chosen as a starter due to its balanced stats and access to strong Grass-type moves. Litten is a popular choice for its powerful Fire-type moves and physical prowess.
Popplio is less commonly used competitively, but its unique Water/Fairy typing and access to powerful moves like Hydro Vortex make it a viable option.
In terms of fan popularity, Rowlet and Litten are generally considered the most popular of the three starters. Their adorable designs and strong competitive viability have made them favorites among fans.
Cultural Impact and Merchandise
The Generation VII starters have had a significant cultural impact, appearing in a wide range of merchandise, including plush toys, figurines, and trading cards. They have also been featured in animated shorts and other media, further solidifying their popularity among fans.
The different types of merchandise available include:
- Plushies
- Figurines
- Trading cards
- T-shirts
- Hats
- Backpacks
Fan Theories and Speculation: Pokémon Gen 7 Starters
The Generation VII starters have inspired numerous fan theories and speculation. One popular theory is that Rowlet is based on the Hawaiian owl, the pueo. Another theory is that Litten is based on the Hawaiian bobcat, the ‘ilima. Popplio is often speculated to be based on the Hawaiian monk seal, the ‘ilio holo i ka uaua.
These theories are based on the similarities between the starters’ designs and the animals they are believed to be based on. While these theories are not confirmed by the Pokémon Company, they have gained traction among fans and added to the cultural impact of the Generation VII starters.
FAQ Overview
What are the type matchups of the Pokémon Gen 7 starters?
Rowlet is Grass/Flying, Litten is Fire, and Popplio is Water.
Which Pokémon Gen 7 starter has the highest base Attack stat?
Litten, with a base Attack stat of 65.
What is the signature move of Rowlet’s final evolution, Decidueye?
Spirit Shackle, a powerful Ghost-type move that ignores the target’s stat changes.