One of the lesser-known mediums in the Pokémon franchise, the comics offer a whole new experience to fans hungry enough to look for it. Tackling much deeper and darker subjects that the games or show, they also deliver the richest characters. Not limited to a schedule or gameplay, creators can really flesh out the personalities fans have been playing for years.
Also having the added benefit of mixing generations, players get to see all the main protagonists and side characters converge into one dramatic storyline. Comparing how each figure acts in the array of situations they all end up in, it’s easy to see how devoted followers are split amongst the cast. Delving deeper than ever before, see which of the roster stands out amongst the crowd.
9 Silver
Probably the biggest transformation of a character, Silver goes from Gold’s pokémon stealing rival to one of his closest friends. Being one of the most patient characters in the series, he learns to deal with all the hot-headed trainers without making enemies.
Silver has a very strong moral code, even if it doesn’t line up with the rest of the groups. Accepting the consequences of his actions, even as far as being arrested, if he feels it’s the right thing to do. Knowing his twisted backstory only makes it more impressive that he turned out as friendly as he did.
8 Blaine
In the Adventures manga, Blaine is the one responsible for the creation of Mewtwo. Leaving Team Rocket and turning over a new leaf, he eventually ends up training Mewtwo as his own. Further exploring the 2s complex relationship is one of the most interesting parts of the series.
Blaine’s turn to the good side ends up a permanent one, fighting with the good guys and slowly unlocking Mewtwo’s potential. Even when their bond is severed for a period of time, Blaine takes command of another legendary pokémon, Entei.
7 Gold
Taking some notes from the original protagonist, Gold embodies the hero role. Though he adds some twists and quirks to keep it interesting, his inappropriate timing brings many comical moments. On top of humour, he’s also rescued every protagonist in the series and become the most accomplished main character in the series.
A quick-tempered character, Gold isn’t a great planner and so ends up in precarious situations throughout. Luckily, he has the skills to navigate the issues solo, further proving his incredible talent as a trainer. There’s rarely a dull moment following this free-spirit through the pokémon world.
6 Ruby
With one the worst starting points in the series, Ruby rubbed a lot of fans the wrong way, at least in the beginning. He has all the skills to be one of the best trainers around, yet he’d rather design a costume for a Pokémon Contest than battle.
His resistance to battling only lasts so long, being forced to engage and take on some of the biggest threats out there. Changing and slowly becoming one of the most impressive trainers to come out of the comic, Ruby is a star example of character progression.
5 X
The ultimate edgy teen, X gained a distaste for training and adults early on, winning the junior’s tournament and being hounded by press constantly. Leaving him completely isolated, it was only when his hometown was attacked and pokémon injured that he set on his adventure.
His combination starter pokémon of Kanga and Li’l Kanga is one of the most endearing in the series, travelling around in a tent and camping out with them each night. He also comes out of the gates with a mega evolution of his Kanghaskan, maybe the most epic opening in the comic.
Yellow
One of the many characters in media that has a magical hat disguise, Yellow is one of the most unique characters to come out of the books. Growing up in the Viridian Forest, she developed psychic powers that let her communicate with a pokémons spirit.
Not only does she frequently get the main protagonist, Red, out of trouble, Yellow has some of the most impressive moments under her belt too. From battling inside of a volcano to riding an electric surfboard, she has firmly cemented her place among the best characters.
4 Lance
Another product of Viridian Forest, Lance has the ability to heal Pokémon with a touch. If that’s not cool enough, he’s also the dragon master of the elite four, possibly the most impressive title out there. Even though he serves as the villain in the Yellow arc, his abilities are nothing to be overlooked.
Even when he serves as the enemy, fans are forced to admit to his awesome power. A power that doesn’t end at him, Lance’s pokémon have incredible talents and show some serious loyalty to him. His respect for pokémon overshadows his respect for people and ultimately makes him a tip of the spear trainer.
3 Green
Being kidnapped by a Ho-Oh and trained for years by a villain isn’t the happiest backstory but it did make Green a force to be reckoned with. Channelling those years in the wrong way and becoming a conwoman, stealing her first Squirtle from Professor Oak.
She finally combined forces with Red and becomes a vital role in taking down Team Rocket, ending her lonely ways and joining a team. Her battle abilities are highly creative, using her Ditto to solo take down an entire team of Pokémon. Her deviation from the moral straight line in the series makes her a breath of fresh air.
2 Diamond
Diamond is the much needed comic relief that fans often connect to, transforming from incompetent dope into one of the best trainers around in front of fans’ eyes. His starting point is much more relatable than most protagonists, constantly eating and grasping at straws.
Though his character is played off a little light, his accomplishments speak for themselves. For one, he’s the only one that’s been able to pull off keeping a Legendary pokémon, something fans of the series have been waiting for. In the end, the warm-hearted and well intention antics are what win people over, luckily having Pearl to balance him out.
1 Wally
Wally is a sympathetic character, he has an unknown illness that prevents him from chasing his goals and all the will to achieve them. That’s why it’s so satisfying as Wally gets stronger throughout the series, slowly building both his body and training skills.
Entering some serious training with Ruby’s father, Norman, he becomes incredibly strong and even forces Norman to sweat during their battle. From here, Wally is tasked with awakening Rayquaza, one of the most powerful Pokémon in the series, staying conscious just long enough to see it through.
NEXT: The 8 Best Legendary Pokemon And The 7 Worst
