Have you ever wondered who the best initial gym leader is in the Pokemon franchise? Well we here at The Game Haus have and decided to put together a tier list for who we think is the best. Here is a Pokemon Tier List where we are ranking the Best 1st Gym Leader in the franchise.
This Ranking of the Best 1st Pokemon Gym Leader will be a tier list starting at the bottom and ending with the best one. There are 12 different 1st Gym Leaders so far through Pokemon Scarlet and Violet.
Viola
Viola’s Bug-type team, consisting of Surskit and Vivillon, fails to make a significant impression. The battle feels underwhelming and lacks the challenge and personality of other first gym leaders.
Falkner
Falkner’s Flying-types—Pidgey and Pidgeotto—are serviceable but unremarkable. The lack of a standout strategy or challenge keeps him firmly in C-tier.
Ilima
Ilima’s trial lacks the impact of a traditional gym battle. His Totem Pokémon, like Alolan Raticate, can be challenging but doesn’t leave a lasting impression.
Cress
Cress, the Water-type member of the Striaton trio, is the least memorable. His Panpour is decent but lacks the strategic depth of his brothers’ Pokémon.
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Katy
Katy’s Bug-types offer a fresh take on first gym battles. Her Nymble and Teddiursa, especially with Teddiursa’s unexpected Tera typing, keep players on their toes without overwhelming them.
Roark
Roark’s Rock-types—Geodude, Onix, and Cranidos—set a strong tone for Sinnoh’s gym battles. His use of Cranidos, with its high Attack stat, adds a layer of difficulty.
Chili
Chili, the fiery member of the Striaton trio, is more memorable than his Water-type sibling Cress but slightly less strategic than Cilan. His Pansear provides a solid early-game challenge, especially against Grass-heavy teams.
Cilan
As part of the Striaton City trio, Cilan represents Grass types. His focus on matchups makes his battle both educational and fun. His personality and connection to his brothers enhance his role as a gym leader.
Roxanne
Roxanne’s Rock-type gym is a solid introduction to the Hoenn region. Her Geodude and Nosepass pose a fair challenge, especially for players starting with Torchic. Roxanne’s academic background and school-themed gym design set her apart.
Milo
Milo’s Grass-type team, led by Gossifleur and Eldegoss, provides an engaging early challenge in the Galar region. His Dynamax strategy adds a unique twist, making his gym battle exciting without being overwhelming.
Brock
The original first gym leader, Brock, is a classic. With Geodude and Onix, he introduces players to the importance of type matchups and strategic planning. Players starting with Charmander face an uphill battle, making his gym a memorable challenge.
Cheren
Cheren stands above all as the best first gym leader in Pokémon history. His Normal-type team, featuring Patrat and Lillipup, provides a balanced challenge with strategic elements, like Lillipup’s Work Up. Cheren’s presence as a mentor who’s grown from his role as a rival adds depth to his character. His gym serves as both a tutorial and a meaningful early test, making him the clear standout.
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