Grookey's final evolution: Rillaboom

Poke Start Evo Rilla

Grookey's final form is this big ol' boy, the drum-wielding Rillaboom. Despite acquiring a natty new instrument once Thwackey hits level 35, Rillaboom is still a pure Grass-type Pocket Monster with all the weaknesses and strengths therein (so, weak against Bug-, Fire-, Flying-, Ice- and Poison-; strong against Ground-, Rock- and Water-).

Scorbunny's final evolution: Cinderace

Poke Start Evo Cind

When Raboot reaches level 35 it's evolution time, with the result being the humanoid rabbit hybrid Cinderace. Still a Fire type only, Cinderace is weak against Bug-, Fire-, Flying-, Ice- and Poison-type moves and Pokémon and strong against Ground-, Rock- and Water-type moves and Pokémon.

Fans of natty shorts will certainly want to pick Scorbunny as their starter.

Sobble's final evolution: Inteleon

Poke Start Evo Intel

The cousin of Randall from Monsters, Inc., Ineleon is a sleek-looking Pocket Monster who'll appear once Drizzle hits level 35. As you've probably realised by now, none of the starters gain additional types or change types through evolution, so Inteleon is effective against Fire-, Ground- and Rock-type Pokémon but not effective against Electric-, Grass- and Dragon-type Pokémon.

Inteleon does, however, look exceptionally slick, so if style is important to you when it comes to starter Pokémon, Sobble may be a better choice than you first though.


So, there you have it. Grookey is obviously and objectively the best Pokémon word and Shield starter! (JOKE ALERT! JOKE ALERT! CALM DOWN!)

Overall, Scorbunny gives you a minor early game advantage in the first gym, while Sobble turns into one smooth-operating lizard. Ultimately, though, Sword and Shield isn't the most taxing game in the series (we've got tips if you want to up the challenge for yourself), so we recommend going for the one you like the look of best - you can't go too far wrong. Choose wisely, though, because you'll be spending a lot of time with your starter Pokémon.

If you're interested to know which of the starter Pokémon from across all eight Gens are the most popular, check out the results of our recent polls to find out the best three Pokémon starters from all Gens. Otherwise, good luck in the Galar region, Poké Trainers!