4. Piplup
Piplup really did approach mascot status for a little bit, huh? The Sinnoh region’s water-type starter was such a megastar during Generation IV that it sometimes feels as recognizable as Pokémon like Pikachu and Eevee, and has had a bit of a moment more recently thanks to the Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl remakes and Pokémon Legends: Arceus giving the Sinnoh region another moment in the public eye. But this penguin is so recognizable for a reason, and that’s not just because Dawn had one in the anime for a few years. It’s because Piplup strikes that perfect balance of cute, fierce, and friendly that makes a starter Pokémon great. It’s so beloved because it’s perfect for everything you want from a first friend in a new place. Piplup is almost the best water-type starter in the whole series…except, well…
