Who’s your starter Pokemon in Sword and Shield?

Sobble for life

Some people don’t like to pick out a starter Pokémon until they know dang well what they’re in for further down the evolutionary line. Well, you don’t have to wait any longer – a big (and entirely expected) leak happened less than two weeks before Sword and Shield launch on Nintendo Switch.

If you care to spoil the newcomers, the starter evolutions, the regional variants, and even the entire Galar Pokédex, you can do exactly that, though I’d advise caution before you go wild. I saw too much.

That said, I now know my starter selection. I’m glad I took a peek at those specific spoilers.

I originally leaned toward Sobble, the Water-type starter, when Sword and Shield were first getting underway. With only one exception – Popplio – I’ve never strayed from that course, so it felt right. Having now seen what the timid lizard grows into, I’m doubling down on my gut reaction. It’s done.

But what are you thinking? Sobble (“A somewhat timid Water Lizard Pokémon that shoots out attacks as it hides itself in the water”), Scorbunny (“A Rabbit Pokémon that is always running about, bursting with energy”), or Grookey (“A mischievous Chimp Pokémon that is full of boundless curiosity”)?

Appearances aren’t everything. This lore might help you decide your starter:

• Grookey’s “green fur creates energy from sunlight. Wilted flowers and leaves have been seen to regain their color when Grookey drums with its stick near them.”
• “Scorbunny has a fire sac in its chest, which contains viscous fire energy. If Scorbunny is able to increase its heart rate and body temperature by running around and warming up properly, the true power of its fire energy will be awakened and its physical capabilities will greatly increase.”
• “Sobble’s tears are capable of making others cry. This effect is so strong, it is said that its tears are as potent as 100 onions. If Sobble feels threatened, it will start to bawl and spread its tears around the area, causing everyone around it to start crying uncontrollably. Sobble will then use this distraction as a chance to escape.”

The trivia spouted in the Pokédex is out-of-control bonkers. You can’t convince me otherwise.