The initial trio of Pokmon available in the fifth generation games, Pokmon Black and Pokmon White, consists of Snivy (Grass-type), Tepig (Fire-type), and Oshawott (Water-type). These represent the foundational choice players make that significantly impacts their early gameplay experience and team composition. They each possess unique evolutionary lines and statistical strengths, influencing strategic approaches within the Unova region.
The selection of these introductory creatures offers players diverse offensive and defensive capabilities. Their impact extends beyond immediate combat encounters; they contribute substantially to the overall narrative progression. The initial selection shapes the player’s journey through the game. The designs of these Pokmon were influenced by a variety of sources, blending traditional Pokmon aesthetics with distinct Unova characteristics.
The following sections will explore the individual characteristics of each option, including their strengths and weaknesses, evolutionary paths, and potential roles in a competitive setting. A detailed analysis aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the strategic considerations when selecting one of these partner Pokmon.
Frequently Asked Questions
The following addresses common inquiries regarding the initial Pokmon choices in Pokmon Black and Pokmon White. The information provided aims to clarify aspects related to their strengths, weaknesses, and selection considerations.
Question 1: What are the primary differences between Snivy, Tepig, and Oshawott?
The core distinction lies in their elemental typing. Snivy is a Grass-type, Tepig is a Fire-type, and Oshawott is a Water-type. This typing influences their effectiveness against different enemy Pokmon and determines their susceptibility to various attacks. Their stat distributions also vary, leading to differing strategic roles within a team.
Question 2: Which of the three is considered the “best” choice for beginners?
There is no objectively “best” choice. Tepig is often cited as an easier option due to the relative scarcity of Fire-type Pokmon in the early game and its advantageous matchups against certain early Gym Leaders. However, all three are viable, and personal play style should be considered.
Question 3: Do the evolutionary paths of each Pokmon significantly alter their viability?
Yes, the evolutions substantially impact their combat effectiveness. Snivy evolves into Servine and Serperior, retaining the Grass-type. Tepig evolves into Pignite (Fire/Fighting) and Emboar (Fire/Fighting). Oshawott evolves into Dewott and Samurott (Water). The secondary typing of Emboar introduces new strengths and weaknesses.
Question 4: Are there any consequences to selecting a specific starter regarding in-game events or narrative progression?
The selection of the starter does not alter the core narrative. However, the chosen Pokmon will influence the player’s team composition and strategic approach to various challenges within the game.
Question 5: Can the other two starter Pokmon be obtained within the game?
The remaining starter Pokmon are not obtainable within the standard Pokmon Black and Pokmon White gameplay. Trading with other players or transferring Pokmon from other games are the only methods of acquiring them.
Question 6: What is the final evolution’s movepool like for each of these starter Pokmon?
Serperior learns a variety of Grass-type moves and support moves. Emboar has access to powerful Fire and Fighting-type attacks. Samurott can learn a diverse range of Water-type and coverage moves, including those of the Dark and Ice types.
In summary, the choice among Snivy, Tepig, and Oshawott presents a foundational decision with lasting implications for gameplay. Careful consideration of their individual strengths, weaknesses, and evolutionary paths is crucial for a successful playthrough of Pokmon Black and Pokmon White.
The subsequent sections will delve into the individual strengths and weaknesses of each starter Pokmon, providing a more detailed analysis of their strategic potential.
Strategic Guidance for Pokmon Black and White Starter Selection
This section provides strategic recommendations regarding the selection of the initial Pokmon partner in Pokmon Black and Pokmon White. The tips outlined below focus on optimizing early-game progression and long-term team composition.
Tip 1: Analyze Gym Leader Weaknesses: Prior to initiating the game, review the typings of the Gym Leaders in the Unova region. Selecting a starter with a type advantage against early Gyms can significantly ease initial progression. Tepig, for example, proves advantageous against the first Gym.
Tip 2: Consider Coverage Moves: Examine the learnsets of each starter and its evolutions. Select a Pokmon capable of learning diverse moves to address type matchups beyond its primary type. Oshawott’s evolution, Samurott, can learn powerful Ice-type moves, providing coverage against Grass-types.
Tip 3: Evaluate Stat Distributions: Stat distribution influences a Pokmon’s role in battle. Snivy’s evolution, Serperior, possesses higher Speed. Tepig’s evolution, Emboar, has high attack. Oshawott’s evolution, Samurott, stat is well rounded. Assessing these attributes helps determine if a Pokmon fits a preferred playstyle.
Tip 4: Understand Secondary Typing: The secondary typing of the evolved forms introduces new strengths and weaknesses. Tepigs evolution, Emboar, gains a Fighting-type, making it vulnerable to Psychic-type attacks, but also granting access to powerful Fighting-type moves.
Tip 5: Account for Type Deficiencies: Every type has weaknesses. Consider how the chosen starter’s weaknesses can be mitigated by other Pokmon in the team. A team built around Snivy may benefit from a Pokmon that covers its weakness to Fire and Flying types.
Tip 6: Optimize for the long game: The Unova region has many strong water, grass and fire type pokemons. So take your time for final team composition, to complement type match ups with your initial starter.
Tip 7: Team Synergy is paramount: Choosing a starter is just step one. Be prepared to explore the region and catch other Pokemon that complement your starting pokemon with good type coverages.
Careful planning based on these considerations optimizes both the immediate and long-term viability of the chosen starter Pokmon. The ultimate goal is creating a balanced team capable of addressing a wide range of challenges within the Unova region.
The next section will provide a detailed comparison of the three choices, incorporating the tips mentioned, so players can create a starting playstyle and team build that will be most helpful for their gameplay.
Conclusion
The selection of Pokmon Black and White starters represents a critical juncture in the gameplay experience. The preceding analysis has outlined the strategic considerations, individual strengths and weaknesses, and evolutionary paths associated with Snivy, Tepig, and Oshawott. Careful assessment of these factors allows players to make informed decisions aligned with their preferred playstyle and team-building strategies.
Mastery of Pokmon hinges on understanding nuanced type matchups and strategic team composition. As players embark on their journey through the Unova region, continued research and adaptive team building will be crucial for overcoming challenges. The journey begins with an initial companion, and the choices made thereafter define the trainer’s success.
