There is no established best starter-partner duo in Pokémon Super Mystery Dungeon. For a first playthrough, choose the Pokémon you like most; if you are torn, compare the pair’s types and starting moves. The available guide evidence supports personal preference rather than a single objectively superior combination.
How to choose your starter and partner
Nintendo’s manual says you answer questions to help decide which Pokémon represents you and which becomes your partner. Nintendo describes a roster of 20 Pokémon to choose from, in a game built around turn-based movement and attacks, dungeon hazards, and team attacks called Alliances. Nintendo’s UK game listing provides that overview; the Nintendo manual explains the quiz-based selection.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
![Pokemon Mystery Dungeon: Explorers of Time [video game]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/517OSayzIsL._SL160_.jpg)
|
Pokemon Mystery Dungeon: Explorers of Time [video game] | $39.45 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
|
Nintendo Pokemon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX | $64.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
|
Pokémon Alpha Sapphire - Nintendo 3DS | $68.77 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |
|
Super Smash Bros. - Nintendo 3DS (Renewed) | $26.47 | Buy on Amazon |
A GameFAQs walkthrough argues that no starter has a clear gameplay advantage or disadvantage that makes it the winner, and suggests accepting the quiz result or choosing a favorite. That is the guide author’s judgment, not an official ranking or controlled comparison. The evidence does not establish a mandatory or objectively optimal duo.
Use type coverage and starting moves as tie-breakers
If you have two or more favorites, compare the pair’s types and the moves listed for them at the start. These differences can help you choose a play style, but they do not prove that one duo performs best overall. Serebii’s starter reference lists the Pokémon, their types, and their initial moves; the walkthrough also summarizes type advantages and weaknesses.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
#1 Best Overall
- Rescue friends in trouble or send your own SOS messages through Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection.
- 16 available playable Pokemon including several fourth-generation creatures, such as Chimarchar, Munchlax and Piplup and also several mainstays from previous Pokemon titles including Pikachu, Squirtle and Charmander
- Non-repeating dungeons and over 490 Pok mon ensure infinite exploration.
Example: Treecko and Riolu
Treecko’s listed starting moves include Absorb and Dragon Breath, while Riolu’s include Bite and Vacuum Wave. That makes them a useful example of different starting toolkits—not a proven strongest combination. You can check the starter Pokémon reference when comparing options.
Can you choose a different partner from the quiz result?
A community-maintained Project Pokémon guide reports that players can override the quiz result and choose their player Pokémon and a partner of a different type. If the exact override steps matter to your choice, confirm them in your own game; the detailed behavior is not established by Nintendo’s manual description alone. Project Pokémon’s guide documents the community-reported option.
Rank #2
- 0045496426057
Is the game still available to buy?
Pokémon Super Mystery Dungeon is a Nintendo 3DS game. Nintendo UK lists its European release date as 19 February 2016 and says Nintendo 3DS eShop purchases ended on 27 March 2023. Those dates and the eShop notice apply to Nintendo’s UK information; availability through physical listings depends on territory and current stock. Check compatibility and listing condition before buying. Nintendo UK’s listing has the platform and regional availability details.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- This renewed game will not come with the original case or manual; cartridge only. It has been cleaned, tested, and is in nice condition.
Rank #3
- Games in 2D. Some areas also playable in 3D. For Nintendo 3DS systems, use Parental Controls to restrict 3D mode for children 6 and under.
- Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) Content Description: Suitable_for_all_users
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
