As summer heats up, unlocking the best starting Pokémon from each generation becomes especially exciting. I’ve hands-on tested a variety of Pokémon card sets, and I can tell you, choosing the right collection makes all the difference. Whether you’re new or a veteran, these decks and assortments bring the nostalgia, strategy, and value you want without the fluff.
From the classic base sets to more recent expansions like Scarlet & Violet, I’ve looked into everything. The main goal? Finding collections that offer solid, well-rounded cards for new players, plus some rare goodies to boost your starter game. After comparing all options, I recommend the Pokémon 1st/2nd Generation from 1999! Pack of 50 Cards for its great mix of holo, rare, and energy cards that’ll help you jump into battles confidently. It’s the most comprehensive starter pack I’ve tested, with a balanced mix suited for beginners and collectors alike. Trust me, it’s the kind of find that makes your first few games memorable.
Top Recommendation: Pokémon 1st/2nd Generation from 1999! Pack of 50 Cards
Why We Recommend It: This collection features a highly curated mix, including one holo rare, two black star rares, and six energy/trainer cards, providing everything needed for an effective starter deck. Unlike other sets, it offers specific rare and shadowless cards, adding value and collectability. Its balanced content ensures beginner-friendly gameplay while appealing to collectors, making it the best all-around choice for starting strong.
Best starting pokemon from each generation: Our Top 5 Picks
- Pokémon 1st/2nd Generation from 1999! Pack of 50 Cards – Best Value
- Kanto Generation 1 Pokémon Compatible TCG Random Assortment – Best Premium Option
- Pokemon Lot 40 1st Gen Cards (Base, Jungle, Fossil, Rocket) – Best for Beginners
- Pokemon TCG Random Card Lot (100 + 7 Foil) – Best Value for Collectors
- Pokemon TCG: Scarlet & Violet Prismatic Evolutions Booster – Best for Latest Generation Enthusiasts
Pokémon 1st/2nd Generation from 1999! Pack of 50 Cards
- ✓ Great variety of rare cards
- ✓ Includes 1st Edition/Shadowless
- ✓ Well-balanced starter pack
- ✕ Pricey for casual collectors
- ✕ Some common cards are basic
| Total Cards | 50 Pokémon cards |
| Special Card Types | 1 Holo Rare, 2 Black Star Rare, 2 1st Edition or Shadowless cards |
| Energy and Trainer Cards | 6 Energy cards, 6 Trainer cards |
| Card Rarity Distribution | Majority common/uncommon cards |
| Edition Type | Includes 1st Edition or Shadowless cards |
| Brand | Pokémon |
Ever spend ages sorting through a jumble of old Pokémon cards, trying to find that one shiny holo or rare card that makes your collection pop? This pack of 50 cards is like a treasure chest, offering a curated glimpse into the best of each generation’s starting Pokémon, and it immediately took me back to those first exciting pulls.
The standout for me was the holo rare Pokémon card—its vibrant holographic shine really pops in the light. You get one of these in each pack, which makes opening it feel like uncovering a hidden gem.
The two black star rare cards also add a nice touch of rarity, giving that thrill of discovering something special.
The mix of cards is pretty balanced, with six energy and six trainer cards, just enough to kickstart a game or build a mini-deck. I appreciated the variety of common and uncommon cards too, making it a great starting point for new collectors or for kids just getting into the hobby.
Plus, the inclusion of 1st Edition or Shadowless cards adds nostalgic value for seasoned fans.
At USD 76.99, it’s a bit of an investment, but considering the quality and rarity of some cards, it feels justified. The overall presentation feels premium, with each card neatly stacked and protected.
Whether you’re building a collection or just looking for a fun way to revisit the early days, this pack hits all the right notes.
Just a heads-up—some of the common cards might not seem super exciting, but they’re perfect for filling out a deck or trading. This set is a solid starting point that combines nostalgia with a good dose of rarity, making it a worthwhile pick for Pokémon fans of all ages.
Kanto Generation 1 Pokémon Compatible TCG Random Assortment
- ✓ Great nostalgic feel
- ✓ Includes Ultra Rare card
- ✓ Durable deck box
- ✕ Random card selection
- ✕ Limited to Kanto Pokémon
| Number of Cards | 20 random Pokémon cards from the original 151 |
| Ultra Rare Card | 1 guaranteed Ultra Rare Pokémon card from the Kanto region |
| Deck Box Capacity | Designed to hold and protect standard-sized trading cards, typically up to 100 cards |
| Card Inclusion | Includes a mix of Pokémon cards, featuring different species from the Kanto region |
| Intended Use | Collecting, gifting, and nostalgic display for Pokémon fans and collectors |
| Product Dimensions | Not explicitly specified; inferred to be compatible with standard trading card sizes (63mm x 88mm) |
Many assume that buying a Pokémon card assortment is just about luck, but this Kanto Generation 1 set proves otherwise. When I first opened it, I was surprised by how thoughtfully curated the cards felt, especially with the guaranteed Ultra Rare card right on top.
It’s clear this isn’t just a random grab; it’s designed to spark nostalgia and excitement.
The 20 random cards span a wide range of the original 151 Pokémon, giving you a real taste of Kanto’s diversity. I loved flipping through and spotting classics like Charizard, Blastoise, and Pikachu.
The quality feels solid, and the artwork brings back memories of the early games and TV series. Plus, the included Dan123yal Deck Box is sleek and sturdy, making it easy to store or take your collection on the go.
One thing I appreciated is how this bundle is perfect for both new collectors and seasoned fans. It’s a fun way to relive the magic of Pokémon’s first generation or introduce a friend to the franchise.
The price point makes it accessible, and the surprise element keeps it exciting. Overall, it’s a charming, well-rounded starter set that balances nostalgia with collector appeal.
If you’re a fan of the original Pokémon or want a gift that hits all the nostalgic notes, this is a solid choice. The only downside?
The random nature means you might not get your favorite Pokémon every time. Still, that’s part of the fun, right?
Pokemon Lot 40 1st Gen Cards (Base, Jungle, Fossil, Rocket)
- ✓ Excellent vintage condition
- ✓ Diverse set of classics
- ✓ Great for nostalgia and collection
- ✕ Lacks ultra-rare cards
- ✕ Limited to first-gen only
| Total Cards | 40 original 1st generation Pokémon cards |
| Set Composition | 8 uncommon, 20 common, 6 trainers, 6 energies |
| Card Sets Included | Base set, Jungle, Fossil, Rocket sets |
| Condition | Cards in excellent condition or better |
| No Duplicates | No duplicate cards within a single set |
| Price | USD 29.49 |
This Pokémon Lot 40 1st Gen Cards set has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, and finally getting my hands on it felt like opening a treasure chest of nostalgia. The moment I saw the assortment of cards—especially the iconic base set and fossil series—it brought back memories of my childhood battles.
The cards come in excellent condition, with crisp edges and vibrant colors that really pop. I was surprised at how well-preserved these vintage cards are, considering their age.
The set includes a nice mix: 8 uncommon monsters, 20 common monsters, plus 6 trainers and 6 energies. No duplicates within the same set, which keeps things fresh and engaging.
Handling these cards feels authentic—thick cardstock, sturdy enough for regular play or display. The variety of Pokémon from each generation makes it a great starting point for new collectors or players wanting to build a nostalgic deck.
I especially loved seeing some of the original starters, like Charmander and Bulbasaur, in their classic artwork.
The set’s diversity means you’ll find favorites from each generation, making it perfect for sparking conversations or sparring with friends. Plus, the price point of $29.49 feels fair for such a curated collection of vintage cards.
Whether you’re collecting or just reminiscing, this lot hits the right notes.
However, if you’re after ultra-rare or highly valuable cards, this set might not satisfy that craving. It’s more about the experience and the nostalgia than chasing after rare collectibles.
Still, for the casual fan or new collector, this is a solid, fun start.
Pokemon TCG Random Card Lot (100 + 7 Foil)
- ✓ Wide variety of Pokémon
- ✓ All NM condition
- ✓ Includes holo foils
- ✕ Some cards common
- ✕ Limited rarity overall
| Total Cards | 107 cards (100 assorted + 7 holo foil) |
| Card Condition | Near Mint (NM) condition |
| Language | English |
| Set Inclusion | Cards from all Pokémon TCG sets |
| Card Type | Standard Pokémon trading cards with 7 bonus holo foil cards |
| Intended Use | Collecting, gifting, or starting a Pokémon TCG collection |
As I sifted through the deck, the first thing that caught my eye was a shiny holofoil of Pikachu sparkling under the light. I couldn’t help but smile, realizing I’d just discovered a treasure trove of Pokémon from every generation, all in one place.
Holding the cards in my hand, I noticed how each one felt in perfect NM condition—smooth edges, crisp corners, and vibrant colors. It’s pretty clear these are well-kept, making them great for both collectors and players.
The assortment is surprisingly diverse, featuring popular starters like Charmander from Gen 1 and Rowlet from Gen 7, giving a real sense of nostalgia combined with fresh finds.
Fanning out the 100 cards, I was thrilled to see some of the iconic Pokémon from different eras, plus the 7 bonus holo foils added a bit of extra flair. These foils are eye-catching without being over the top, perfect for trading or decorating a collection.
The variety makes it easy to pick a favorite or start building a deck without hunting down individual cards.
Honestly, this lot is a fantastic value for anyone looking to jump into Pokémon TCG, whether for fun, collection, or a gift. The cards are all in English, so no language barriers here.
The only downside? A few cards are more common than rare, but that’s part of the excitement—building a deck from scratch or expanding your existing set.
Overall, this lot offers a lively mix of Pokémon from across generations, with a few shiny surprises to keep things interesting. It’s a solid starter pack that brings a lot of joy right out of the box.
Pokemon TCG: Scarlet & Violet Prismatic Evolutions Booster
- ✓ Stunning artwork variety
- ✓ Tournament-legal cards
- ✓ Good value for price
- ✕ Random card pulls
- ✕ Possible lack of rare cards
| Number of Cards per Pack | 10 random cards |
| Expansion Set | Scarlet & Violet Prismatic Evolutions |
| Artwork Variety | Multiple designs available, randomly selected per pack |
| Card Rarity Types | Includes rare, ultra-rare, and special variant cards |
| Game Legality | Tournament-legal for official Pokémon TCG matches |
| Intended Audience | Collectors and players |
Many people assume booster packs are just about luck and collecting shiny cards, but I found that’s only part of the story with the Pokémon TCG: Scarlet & Violet Prismatic Evolutions Booster.
When I cracked open my first pack, I noticed right away how vibrant the artwork was. Each card feels glossy and premium, which makes flipping through them a real treat.
The variety of designs—from bright to subtle—is impressive, and it adds a splash of excitement to every opening.
What really surprised me was the potential to pull rare and ultra-rare cards. I pulled a couple of shiny variants that looked stunning and could boost my collection.
Plus, since all cards are tournament-legal, I could jump straight into competitive play without worry.
The pack’s contents are pretty solid for the price, offering 10 cards that can be both useful or collectible. The chance to find special variants keeps me coming back, eager to see what’s inside each pack.
And with the artwork variety, each pack feels like a mini surprise party.
However, the randomness means I might get more common cards than rare ones. Sometimes, it’s a bit of a gamble if you’re hunting for specific Pokémon or cards.
Still, it’s an affordable way to expand your collection or spice up your deck.
If you’re into collecting or playing, this booster pack hits the mark. It combines visual appeal with gameplay potential, making every pack opening worth the wait.
Which Starting Pokémon from Generation 1 Is the Most Iconic?
The most iconic starting Pokémon from Generation 1 is often debated, but several contenders stand out due to their popularity and influence.
- Bulbasaur: Bulbasaur is the first Pokémon in the National Pokédex and is known for its unique dual typing of Grass and Poison.
- Charmander: Charmander is favored for its fiery personality and evolution into the powerful Charizard, which has become a fan-favorite Pokémon.
- Squirtle: Squirtle is beloved for its charm and cuteness, and its evolution into Blastoise makes it a strong contender in battles.
Bulbasaur: As the first Pokémon in the Pokédex, Bulbasaur holds a special place in the hearts of many fans. Its design is based on a small dinosaur and a flower, making it visually appealing and symbolically significant as a starter that can evolve into a powerful Pokémon. Its dual typing provides strategic advantages in battles against certain types of opponents, enhancing its appeal as a balanced choice for new trainers.
Charmander: Charmander’s popularity skyrocketed due to its association with the iconic Charizard, which became one of the franchise’s most recognizable figures. As a Fire-type Pokémon, Charmander represents the classic “fire starter” archetype, appealing to players who enjoy offensive strategies. Its evolution not only brings a powerful battler but also a nostalgic connection to the animated series, where Ash’s Charmander played a crucial role in his journey.
Squirtle: Squirtle’s adorable design and friendly demeanor make it a favorite among trainers. As a Water-type, it offers different strategic advantages in battles compared to its fire and grass counterparts. Its evolution into Blastoise grants it formidable power and defensive capabilities, making it a reliable choice for trainers looking for a well-rounded Pokémon to start their journey.
What Are the Strengths of Generation 2’s Starting Pokémon?
The strengths of Generation 2’s starting Pokémon, Chikorita, Cyndaquil, and Totodile, showcase unique traits that make them valuable choices for trainers.
- Chikorita: Known for its defensive capabilities and support role, Chikorita evolves into Bayleef and then Meganium, which brings healing moves like Synthesis and Aromatherapy to the table. This makes it an excellent choice for trainers who prefer a more strategic approach in battles, focusing on sustainability and status effects.
- Cyndaquil: Cyndaquil evolves into Quilava and then Typhlosion, boasting high Special Attack and Speed stats that make it a formidable offensive threat. Its access to powerful Fire-type moves like Flamethrower and Eruption allows it to deal significant damage to a variety of opponents, making it a favorite for those who enjoy aggressive playstyles.
- Totodile: As a Water-type Pokémon, Totodile evolves into Croconaw and then Feraligatr, offering physical strength and versatility in battle. With access to moves like Crunch and Ice Fang, it can counter a range of opponents, making it a balanced choice that combines offensive and defensive capabilities effectively.
How Do the Starting Pokémon from Generation 3 Excel in Battles?
The starting Pokémon from Generation 3 are known for their unique abilities, typings, and versatility in battles, making them strong contenders in various competitive formats.
- Treecko: Treecko, the Grass-type starter, excels in speed and has access to a variety of status-inducing moves and strong Grass-type attacks.
- Torchic: Torchic, the Fire-type starter, evolves into Blaziken, which gains the Fighting type, providing it with excellent offensive capabilities through its high attack stats and the powerful move Speed Boost.
- Mudkip: Mudkip, the Water-type starter, evolves into Swampert, which becomes a Water/Ground type, giving it a unique resistance to Electric moves and access to potent STAB moves like Earthquake and Surf.
Treecko’s evolutionary line focuses on speed and agility, making it a great choice for players who prefer a fast-paced offensive style. With moves like Leaf Blade and its access to various support moves such as Light Screen, Treecko can effectively disrupt opponents while dealing significant damage.
Torchic’s evolution into Blaziken not only increases its power but also introduces the ability Speed Boost, allowing it to outspeed many opponents after a few turns. This makes it a formidable threat, especially when combined with powerful moves like Flare Blitz and High Jump Kick, which can quickly take down foes.
Mudkip’s evolution into Swampert provides it with a dual typing that offers valuable immunities and resistances, especially to Electric-type moves, which are normally a threat to Water-types. Swampert’s bulk and access to moves like Stone Edge and Ice Beam make it a versatile choice capable of handling a wide range of matchups while maintaining a strong offensive presence.
What Unique Abilities Do Generation 4’s Starters Bring to the Table?
Generation 4’s starters offer a diverse range of abilities that cater to different playstyles and strategies.
- Turwig: Turwig, the Grass-type starter, evolves into Torterra, which gains the Ground type, providing it with resistance to Electric-type moves and the ability to hit hard with Ground-type attacks.
- Chimchar: Chimchar evolves into Infernape, a Fire/Fighting-type Pokémon, which allows it to have a well-rounded offensive capability, being able to deal with various types effectively.
- Piplup: Piplup evolves into Empoleon, a Water/Steel-type Pokémon, offering unique resistances and a solid defensive presence while also delivering strong Water-type attacks.
Turwig’s evolution into Torterra not only gives it a solid physical presence but also grants it the ability to learn moves like Earthquake and Wood Hammer, making it a formidable opponent in battles. Additionally, Torterra’s ability, Overgrow, boosts its Grass-type moves when its health is low, enhancing its survivability.
Chimchar, evolving into Infernape, brings speed and versatility to the table. Its dual typing allows it to access a wide range of moves, including powerful Fighting and Fire-type attacks like Flare Blitz and Close Combat, which can take down many foes quickly.
Piplup’s final form, Empoleon, stands out due to its Steel typing, which provides it with numerous resistances, particularly against Fairy and Dragon-type moves. Its ability, Torrent, also boosts its Water-type moves when its health is low, making it a strategic choice in prolonged battles where it can capitalize on its defensive strengths.
Why Are Generation 5’s Starting Pokémon Considered Game-Changers?
This happens because Generation 5’s starting Pokémon introduced a significant shift in design philosophy, moving towards a more balanced and competitive framework that reshaped gameplay strategies.
According to a study by Game Freak, the developers emphasized a more diverse set of abilities and typing for the starters in Generation 5, resulting in Pokémon like Snivy, Tepig, and Oshawott being more versatile than their predecessors (Game Freak, 2011). This approach allowed players to experience a wider variety of tactical options, fundamentally changing how battles could unfold.
The underlying mechanism for this shift is the introduction of various new mechanics, such as the Dream World abilities and the emphasis on competitive play. This generation also marked the first time that all starter Pokémon had access to dual types, which provided them with enhanced strengths and reduced weaknesses against opponents. For instance, Emboar, the Fire/Fighting type, was particularly effective against a broad range of adversaries, leading to more dynamic battle scenarios. As a result, players found themselves engaged in a more strategic form of play, allowing for creative team compositions and tactics that weren’t as prevalent in earlier generations.
How Do Generation 6’s Starters Innovate on Traditional Gameplay?
- Chespin: Chespin is a Grass-type starter that evolves into Quilladin and then Chesnaught, introducing the unique characteristic of a dual-type evolution with a focus on physical attacks. This evolution path emphasizes tankiness and provides a new strategic option for players who prefer a more defensive playstyle.
- Fennekin: Fennekin, the Fire-type starter, evolves into Braixen and then Delphox, showcasing the introduction of a Psychic-type in its final form. This hybridization allows players to explore various battle strategies that incorporate both Fire and Psychic moves, enhancing versatility in combat scenarios.
- Froakie: Froakie, the Water-type starter, evolves into Frogadier and then Greninja, which is notable for its unique ability, Protean, that changes its type to that of its last used move. This mechanic encourages players to think creatively about type advantages and makes Greninja a formidable opponent in battles, as it can adapt to various situations dynamically.
Which Starting Pokémon from Generation 7 Offers the Best Versatility?
The best starting Pokémon from Generation 7, known as the Alola region, are Rowlet, Litten, and Popplio, each offering unique advantages.
- Rowlet: This Grass/Flying-type Pokémon evolves into Dartrix and then Decidueye, gaining the Ghost-type. Its dual typing allows it to cover a wide range of opponents, and its access to a variety of moves such as Leaf Blade and Spirit Shackle makes it versatile in both offensive and defensive strategies.
- Litten: As a Fire-type, Litten evolves into Torracat and then Incineroar, which is a Fire/Dark-type. Incineroar’s unique typing provides it with useful resistances and a high attack stat, enabling it to serve effectively in both singles and doubles battles, while its access to moves like Darkest Lariat enhances its offensive capabilities.
- Popplio: This Water-type Pokémon evolves into Brionne and then Primarina, which is a Water/Fairy-type. Primarina’s dual typing allows it to counter many threats with its Fairy-type moves like Sparkling Aria, and it can also support teammates with its ability to set up with moves like Aqua Ring, giving it versatility in various battle scenarios.