Generation II
Best Team for Pokémon Gold
Pokemon Gold opens into Johto with 100 new Pok\emon and a massive postgame in Kanto, this was groundbreaking when the game released! Having a full second region to explore gave players a taste of the original games, with some slight changes. This team covers all sixteen badges without requiring any trades.
Recommended Team
Starter Comparison
Feraligatr
WaterMediumStruggles against Bugsy (and be cautious of Jasmine's Magnemites!), learns some interesting moves via level up (like ice fang) that can carry it through most gyms without too much difficulty.
It's possible to beat the game with just this Pokemon due to high-power moves like Slash, Crunch, Ice Fang, and more. A gator pokemon is familiar to a lot of folks, and at the end of the day it just looks cool.
Typhlosion
FireEasyGreat typing for nearly all gyms, be cautious of Mahogany (Pryce) and Blackthorn due to water weakness.
Cyndaquil -> Typhlosion is a great intro pick for people just picking up the game. Fire pokemon tend to be fan-favorites, and this line is no exception. Access to fighting moves really puts Typhlosion above the other starters, but be aware it's more powerful with regular attack moves vs special attack (like flamethrower!)
Meganium
GrassHardStruggles against Falkner/Bugsy/Whitney, but picks up once you get a few more moves learned
Chikorita is a difficult pokemon to start with, as it has an immediate weakness to the first gym. Seasoned players will take Chikorita for more of a challenge, and choosing it will require you to make a more diverse team. Great choice for kids that want to expand their depth of pokemon knowledge and teambuilding abilities!
Tips & Notes
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Espeon requires friendship + daytime leveling. Keep Eevee at the front spot in your party and go for a (very) long walk, fighting trainers as you go. Be sure to get haircuts in the Goldenrod City underground!
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Heracross is only available via Headbutt; talk to the man in Azalea Town to learn Headbutt, then hit trees on Route 33. Heracross is a complete package, I highly highly recommend you pick one up.
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Gold has exclusive Pokémon like Growlithe and Mankey that aren't in Silver — Arcanine is a strong Fire alternative if you don't want Typhlosion. Fun fact, Arcanine was nearly a legendary Pokemon in the first generation!!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best team for Pokémon Gold?
The recommended team for Pokémon Gold is: Typhlosion, Ampharos, Gyarados, Heracross, Espeon, Quagsire. Pokemon Gold opens into Johto with 100 new Pok\emon and a massive postgame in Kanto, this was groundbreaking when the game released! Having a full second region to explore gave players a taste of the original games, with some slight changes. This team covers all sixteen badges without requiring any trades.
What starter should I choose in Pokémon Gold?
Typhlosion (Fire — Starter): Cyndaquil's fast level-up curve and Typhlosion's high Special Attack make it the strongest Johto starter for a first playthrough.
What tips should I know for Pokémon Gold?
Espeon requires friendship + daytime leveling. Keep Eevee at the front spot in your party and go for a (very) long walk, fighting trainers as you go. Be sure to get haircuts in the Goldenrod City underground! Heracross is only available via Headbutt; talk to the man in Azalea Town to learn Headbutt, then hit trees on Route 33. Heracross is a complete package, I highly highly recommend you pick one up. Gold has exclusive Pokémon like Growlithe and Mankey that aren't in Silver — Arcanine is a strong Fire alternative if you don't want Typhlosion. Fun fact, Arcanine was nearly a legendary Pokemon in the first generation!!
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