Starter Pokémon are the first creatures you choose in every Pokémon game. In the TCG, their final evolutions rank among the most popular and powerful cards. From Charizard to Greninja, from Mega Charizard X ex to Charizard ex SIR: a complete guide to the most sought-after starter cards in 2026.
Starter Pokémon and their TCG cards by generation
Each Pokémon generation offers three Fire, Water and Grass starters. In the TCG, their final evolutions are consistently among the most impressive cards in every set. Here's the full rundown of starters and their most sought-after TCG cards.
Generation I — Kanto: Bulbasaur, Charmander, Squirtle
- Charizard (Fire) — the priciest starter card in history. 1st Edition Charizard Holo can reach $400,000. Charizard ex SIR (sv3) is worth €50–150.
- Venusaur (Grass) — Venusaur ex is available in recent sets with collector artwork.
- Blastoise (Water) — Blastoise ex has SIR versions beloved by nostalgic fans.
Generation II — Johto: Chikorita, Cyndaquil, Totodile
- Meganium (Grass) — rare cards in older sets, less represented in recent releases.
- Typhlosion (Fire) — Typhlosion ex appears in some Scarlet & Violet sets and is highly popular.
- Feraligatr (Water) — Feraligatr ex has powerful Water energy acceleration cards.
Generation III — Hoenn: Treecko, Torchic, Mudkip
- Sceptile (Grass) — Sceptile ex has VMAX versions and beautifully crafted illustrations.
- Blaziken (Fire) — Blaziken ex is a sought-after Fire/Fighting starter for offensive combos.
- Swampert (Water) — Swampert ex has solid competitive cards across several sets.
Generation IV — Sinnoh: Turtwig, Chimchar, Piplup
- Torterra (Grass) — nostalgic rare cards; Torterra ex is available in Scarlet & Violet sets.
- Infernape (Fire) — Infernape ex is popular for its recent Illustration Rare cards.
- Empoleon (Water) — Empoleon ex has stunning SIR cards in Sinnoh-themed sets.
Generation V — Unova: Snivy, Tepig, Oshawott
- Serperior (Grass) — Serperior ex is available in recent Black Bolt sets.
- Litten (Fire) — Incineroar ex is a highly sought-after card among Unova fans.
- Samurott (Water) — Samurott ex has very popular Illustration Rare versions.
Generation VI — Kalos (Mega Evolution): Chespin, Fennekin, Froakie
Kalos starters are especially important in 2026 because their region sits at the heart of the Mega Evolution TCG series and Pokémon Legends: Z-A. Mega Charizard X ex (ME02) is a must-have for any collection.
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Generation IX — Paldea: Sprigatito, Fuecoco, Quaxly
Paldea starters (Pokémon Scarlet and Violet) are the newest. Meowscarada ex (Grass), Skeledirge ex (Fire) and Quaquaval ex (Water/Fighting) all have ex cards and SIR versions in Scarlet & Violet sets. Meowscarada ex is especially played competitively for its fast attacks.
Which starter Pokémon has the most expensive card?
Without question: Charizard (Kanto's Fire starter) dominates every generation. PSA 10 1st Edition Charizard Holo remains the most iconic and expensive starter Pokémon card. In the modern format, Charizard ex SIR from Obsidian Flames (sv3) is the most valuable current-generation starter card.
Pokémon TCG starters guide: generations and value
Pokémon TCG starters guide: generations and value
| Starter line | Era | 2026 play interest | Collection interest |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bulbasaur / Ivysaur / Venusaur | Base → SV | Variable (modern ex) | Strong vintage holo |
| Charmander / Charmeleon / Charizard | All eras | Meta-dependent ex | Very strong (icon) |
| Squirtle / Wartortle / Blastoise | Base → SV | Variable | Strong vintage + modern SIR |
| 2026 retail starter deck | ME / SV | Strong for beginners | Low unless promo |
Starter lines by era — play vs collect.
FAQ
What counts as a starter card in Pokémon TCG?
Historically Base Set BASIC starters; today also starter deck promos, Bulbasaur/Charmander/Squirtle lines from beginner boxes, and « starter » ex from preconstructed decks.
Which starters hold collector value in 2026?
Base Set holo starters (PSA), 151 nostalgia promos, and modern SIRs of regional starters. Recent common starter cards stay cheap — focus on rarity and condition.
Buy a starter deck or starter singles?
Deck for immediate play. Singles to snipe a specific card (e.g. chase Bulbasaur ex). Do not confuse 15 € retail decks with graded vintage copies.
How do you authenticate old starter cards?
Check thickness, ink, holo pattern, and weight. Base Set starters are heavily faked — grading or trusted sellers recommended above 100 €.
Calculate your pull rates
Search any Pokémon card on rateTCG to estimate pull rates per product and compare Amazon prices.
