At the beginning of every Pokémon game, players must make a Sohpie’s Choice-like decision to ally themselves with a single, cuddly fighting animal. While their stable will undoubtedly expand, it is that creature who will be their intimate companion on the long road to becoming the very best. Like no one ever was.

Today’s formal debate brings three Pokémon experts to the fore, including Polygon’s Allegra Frank and Ryan Gilliam as well as The Verge’s Megan Farokhmanesh. They will each make their case for one of the three iconic starting Pokémon: Charmander, Squirtle, and Bulbasaur.

Later this week, Polygon will also publish passionate analyses of each of these starting Pokémon. Then, next week on our official Twitter account, you will be able to make your voices heard with a final vote.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices