Squirtle has always been a fan-favorite, and in Pokémon Legends: Z-A, it’s no different. Its balanced stats make it a solid pick for players who want a dependable Water-type that can contribute both offensively and defensively. But with so many moves to choose from, figuring out the best set for your team can feel a bit overwhelming. In this guide, I’ll break down Squirtle’s most effective moves for balanced team compositions, along with some practical tips to get the most out of this classic starter Pokémon.

Why Squirtle Works Well on Balanced Teams

Squirtle’s defensive capabilities are surprisingly solid for a first-stage starter. With decent HP and Defense, it can take a hit while dishing out reliable Water-type attacks. It also has access to a few versatile moves that allow it to cover multiple threats, which is key if you’re building a team without glaring weaknesses. For newer players, Squirtle’s simplicity makes it easy to manage, while seasoned trainers can tweak its moveset to complement more specialized teammates.

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Recommended Moves for a Balanced Approach

Here are some of the moves I’ve found most effective for Squirtle in balanced team setups:

1. Water Gun / Bubble

Both moves are basic but reliable Water-type options. Water Gun offers consistent damage, while Bubble has the added benefit of potentially lowering your opponent’s Speed. For Squirtle, having at least one simple, low-cost Water move ensures you can apply pressure early in fights without draining your PP too quickly.

2. Bite

Adding Bite to Squirtle’s arsenal gives it coverage against Psychic- and Ghost-types, which Water moves alone might struggle with. It’s especially useful when you’re facing a team that’s heavy on special attackers. Squirtle’s physical attack isn’t top-tier, but Bite provides a practical way to surprise opponents while keeping your options balanced.

3. Rapid Spin / Aqua Tail

Rapid Spin is great for utility, especially if you want to remove hazards like Spikes or Stealth Rock. On the other hand, Aqua Tail is a stronger Water-type move that benefits from Squirtle’s Attack stat. Depending on your team composition, you might swap these moves in and out: if your team lacks hazard control, Rapid Spin is invaluable; if you need more raw damage, Aqua Tail is the way to go.

4. Protect / Toxic

Having a defensive move like Protect or Toxic can be a game-changer in longer battles. Protect lets you scout your opponent’s moves and stall for turns to heal or recharge, while Toxic can whittle down bulky opponents over time. On balanced teams, it’s always nice to have a move that isn’t just about direct damage.

Pairing Squirtle with the Right Teammates

To get the most out of Squirtle, pair it with teammates that complement its weaknesses. Grass-types can be a problem, so having a Flying or Fire-type on hand helps cover that gap. Squirtle also synergizes well with tanky Pokémon that can soak up hits while it chips away at opponents.

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Personal Tips for Squirtle Players

From my experience, here are a few things that make playing Squirtle more enjoyable and effective:

• Don’t be afraid to switch moves depending on your opponent. For example, swap Rapid Spin out if you don’t anticipate hazards.

• Keep an eye on type coverage. Even a balanced team can crumble if you neglect Squirtle’s Grass-type weakness.

• Leveling Squirtle evenly with your other team members ensures it stays relevant throughout early and mid-game battles.

Squirtle is a versatile and reliable choice for any trainer building a balanced team. Its mix of offensive and defensive options makes it easy to slot into a variety of team compositions, and with the right moveset, it can hold its own against tougher opponents. Whether you catch it naturally or add a shiny version for fun, Squirtle remains a staple starter Pokémon in Pokémon Legends: Z-A.