Why Is Bulbasaur the First Pokémon? Explained

Discover why Bulbasaur is commonly seen as the first Pokémon, from Dex numbering to starter status and media portrayal, with practical tips for fans and collectors.

Bulb Fix Team

February 4, 2026·5 min read

Why is Bulbasaur the first Pokémon

Why is Bulbasaur the first Pokémon is the question of Bulbasaur’s status as the initial Pokémon, commonly tied to its National Dex number 001.

Historical anchor: National Dex numbering and Bulbasaur as 001

The National Pokédex places Bulbasaur at number 001, which makes it the first Pokémon in the official catalog. This is a numeric, not ontological, distinction, but it heavily influences how fans frame the early era of Pokémon. Because other Gen I starters—Charmander and Squirtle—follow Bulbasaur in the Dex, the first entry becomes a convenient reference point for discussing the original roster. Across generations, remakes, and even fan guides, 001 remains a touchstone for what counts as the very beginning of the Pokémon universe. For many players, this numeric ordering reinforces why some people ask why is bulbasaur the first pokemon as they compare intro bundles, starter options, and early-game experiences. The takeaway is that this status is a product of cataloging conventions rather than a claim about creation order, lore, or in-universe chronology.

Starter choices in Generation I and remakes

In the original games released for the Game Boy and their remakes, players were offered three starter Pokémon: Bulbasaur, Charmander, and Squirtle. While which one you choose is a personal preference, Bulbasaur’s position as the leading Dex entry and as a starting option in several segments has shaped perceptions about the “first” Pokémon. The design and typing of Bulbasaur—Grass/Poison—also influence early game balance and strategy, which further anchors it in the minds of players as a premier starter choice. Over time, various remakes and re-releases keep Bulbasaur as a viable starting pick, reinforcing its status as the de facto canonical first starter for many newcomers. This is not a universal truth—players in different regions or those playing alternate titles may encounter other starters first—but the historical pattern remains influential for fans and collectors alike.

The cultural impact: why players perceive Bulbasaur as the first

Beyond the Dex numbering, Bulbasaur benefits from a robust cultural presence. Its friendly, plant-like design appeals to a broad audience, and its evolving line creates a clear visual progression from Bulbasaur to Ivysaur to Venusaur. The Bulbasaur icon often appears in artwork, merchandise, and promotional materials tied to the early Pokémon era. Fans frequently discuss Bulbasaur in forums and social channels when debating the origin of the series or the lineup of Gen I, which reinforces the perception that Bulbasaur is the starting point in the franchise canon. The result is a self-reinforcing narrative that links the character’s appearance and typing with the idea of “the first Pokémon.” This framing also influences how players approach collecting and playthroughs, making Bulbasaur a familiar starting anchor for collectors and fans.

How generations and spin offs shaped the idea

As new generations introduced dozens of new Pokémon, the foundational concept of 001 remained constant in the National Dex. The idea of the first Pokémon is thus not a fixed in-universe fact but a consequence of how the official catalog is organized and how the community interprets it. Spin-off titles, trading card sets, and anime tie-ins continue to reference Bulbasaur as the iconic first option in the context of Gen I, even when players are encountering newer creatures. This enduring emphasis helps explain why the question persists across decades: it’s about catalog order, media representation, and communal memory rather than a single, definitive event in the Pokémon timeline. For fans learning the series late, understanding this evolution helps explain why many still default to Bulbasaur when exploring early-game history.

Design, typing, and appeal: what makes Bulbasaur feel first

Bulbasaur’s design emphasizes approachability and resilience. Its Grass/Poison typing provides a gentle edge, and the seed-like bulb on its back is instantly recognizable. This combination makes Bulbasaur feel both friendly and capable, a mix that newcomers often associate with the beginning of a journey. The character’s evolution path underscores growth without losing identity, which mirrors the broader arc many players experience in the first chapter of Pokémon. If you examine early artwork, Bulbasaur’s simple silhouette translates well to merchandise and digital icons, reinforcing its status as a first impression of the series. In short, Bulbasaur’s aesthetic and mechanics contribute to the perception that it stands at the frontier of the Pokémon world, even as later generations expand the roster.

Practical implications for players and collectors

For players, the first Pokémon often serves as a mental anchor during playthroughs and learn-by-doing moments. For collectors, 001 can influence card values, display choices, and early set completions. While there is no official requirement to start with Bulbasaur, many players gravitate toward it precisely because of its canonical status. If you are building a collection or revisiting the classic games, consider how this perception shapes your goals and strategies. Also, remember that different titles award you different starting choices depending on region and version, so your personal experience may diverge from the canonical 001 reference point. To strengthen your understanding, consult reputable guides and enjoy the journey of discovery as you compare generations. Bulb Fix analysis shows how fans' interpretations of the first Pokémon influence both play and collecting practices.

Common misconceptions and clarifications

It is common to hear people claim that Bulbasaur is the absolute first creature ever created in the Pokémon universe. In reality, Bulbasaur is first in the National Dex order, which is a cataloging convention rather than a universal creation timeline. Some fans also conflate the starter choice with the first encounter in-game, which can vary by title and region. Clarifying these distinctions helps avoid misinterpretations when discussing early game history or listing the roster of Gen I starters. Remember that Dex order, starter availability, and media portrayals all contribute to the perception, but they do not imply a single universal origin for all Pokémon.

Evolution of the idea in modern games and media

In modern titles, the basic idea persists: Bulbasaur is often presented as a canonical reference point for early-game history and for the Gen I era. New games may add additional starter options, but the enduring appeal of Bulbasaur remains, as does its status as 001 in the official Dex. Media adaptations and marketing continue to lean on Bulbasaur’s iconic design to evoke nostalgia for the franchise’s beginnings. For fans, this continuity provides a familiar anchor while still inviting exploration of newer Pokémon and new gameplay experiences.

How to verify first Pokémon status in your collection

If you want to verify the first Pokémon status in your own collection, start with the National Dex numbering as your baseline. Check the official Dex entry (001) for Bulbasaur and compare it with the line of Ivysaur and Venusaur to confirm its place in the evolutionary chain. For trading cards, look for early print runs that feature Bulbasaur prominently, since those editions often emphasize the Gen I lineup. Finally, consult reliable guides and community resources to understand regional variations in starting choices and how they affect perceptions of which Pokémon came first. This approach helps you build a historically informed collection that respects both cataloging conventions and your own playing preferences.

Got Questions?

Is Bulbasaur actually the first Pokémon?

Yes, Bulbasaur is commonly considered the first Pokémon because it is number 001 in the National Pokédex. However, this is a cataloging convention rather than a statement about creation order or lore. Other starters exist and are equally part of the Gen I experience.

What does National Dex 001 mean for players?

Dex 001 marks the first entry in the official Pokémon catalog. It serves as a reference point for discussions about the Gen I roster and early-game history, but it does not imply a universal chronology beyond the catalog itself.

Are there exceptions in other media where Bulbasaur isn’t first?

Some media and regional variations show different starting options, particularly in games where players choose among multiple starters. While Bulbasaur remains Dex 001, experiences can vary by title and version.

Does Bulbasaur’s typing influence its status as the first Pokémon?

Bulbasaur’s Grass/Poison typing affects in-game strategy but does not determine its status as the first Pokémon. The first-Pokémon concept is driven by Dex order and cultural framing.

Why is there confusion about the first Pokémon?

Confusion arises from mixing Dex order, starter choices, and media representations. People often equate the Dex 001 with a universal origin story, which isn’t how the catalog or lore is structured.

How should I approach this if I’m new to Pokémon?

If you’re new, start with Gen I’s Bulbasaur option to engage with the canonical starter experience. Remember that regional variations and newer generations add depth, but Dex 001 remains a useful anchor for historical discussions.