Pokemon Scarlet and Violet: What Gen 9 Starters Could Be Based On

gamerant.com:

Following the successful launch of Pokemon Legends: Arceus just a few weeks ago, Game Freak hasn’t wasted any time announcing where the franchise is heading to next. During the latest annual Pokemon Day stream, the studio marked the franchise's 26th anniversary with the surprising unveiling of Pokemon Scarlet and Violet. Fans now know that the 9th generation will launch on the Nintendo Switch towards the end of 2022. Elements like the new starter Pokemon and the region that they’re indigenous to, have already been revealed for fans to speculate on as well.

Despite the fact that players will probably have to wait until later in the year to see each starter's final evolution, it's already possible to speculate what they might be based on from the details provided. Thanks to several factors like their portmanteau names, and the apparent Iberian Peninsula-inspired map that Pokemon Scarlet and Violet is bringing to life, there's already some handy evidence out there. Unsurprisingly, Sprigatito, Fuecoco, and Quaxly, all seem to be heavily inspired by real-world animals, objects, and themes from the real-life region.

Pokemon Scarlet and Violet Combine What's Working Best for the Series

For Pokemon Scarlet and Violet, Game Freak has stuck to the franchise’s traditional trio starter dynamic. Players will subsequently be able to pick either a fire, water, or grass type companion at the start of their upcoming adventures. While each Pokemon will have its own passionate fan base, like those that have come before them, the latest grass type starter is arguably the one that’s most directly connected to the land that the games are inspired by.

At just a quick glance, it’s readily apparent that Sprigatito's physical appearance is based on a