In Temtem, players begin their journey by choosing one of the three available Temtem starters. Each starter offers unique strengths and weaknesses, making the choice a crucial part of your adventure. In this guide, we’ll explore the three Temtem starters—Crystle, Smazee, and Houchic—helping you understand their types, strengths, weaknesses, and where to find them. While all the Temtem in the game can be obtained eventually, your starter will be a key part of your early battles and will shape your experience. Keep reading to learn more about each starter and make an informed choice for your journey in the world of Temtem.

Crystle: The Defensive Crystal-Type

Type: Crystal
Strengths: Electric, Mental
Weaknesses: Fire, Earth
Found In: Tucma, near Amethyst Barrens

Crystle is a solid choice if you prefer defensive play. With its Crystal typing, it’s strong against Electric and Mental types, meaning it has an advantage over these types in battle. However, its main weaknesses lie in Fire and Earth types, so you’ll need to be cautious when facing these.

Base Stats:

• HP: 27
• Stamina: 22
• Speed: 13
• Attack: 16
• Defense: 17
• Special Attack: 14
• Special Defense: 14

Trait: Amphibian – Increases Speed when hit by Water-type attacks.

Crystle evolves into Tuwirek and then its final form, giving you a strong, versatile Crystal-type Temtem as the game progresses. If you’re looking for a reliable tank with decent special defense and speed, Crystle is a fantastic choice.

Smazee: The Aggressive Melee-Type

Type: Melee
Strengths: Earth, Crystal
Weaknesses: Mental
Found In: Lochburg

Smazee is a powerhouse for those who enjoy aggressive strategies. As a Melee-type Temtem, Smazee excels against Earth and Crystal types, making it an excellent offensive choice in the early game. However, it’s vulnerable to Mental types, so you’ll need to plan your team carefully to cover that weakness.

Base Stats:

• HP: 26
• Stamina: 22
• Speed: 16
• Attack: 17
• Defense: 14
• Special Attack: 13
• Special Defense: 13

Trait: Fever Rush – Boosts Attack when Smazee is affected by a status condition.

Smazee evolves into Babawa and then into its final form. If you prefer an aggressive, fast-paced playstyle, Smazee is the Temtem for you. Its high attack stat and speed make it a formidable opponent in battles.

Houchic: The Tactical Mental-Type

Type: Mental
Strengths: Neutral, Melee
Weaknesses: Crystal
Found In: Properton College

Houchic is the strategic choice for players who prefer special attacks and tactical moves. As a Mental-type, Houchic is strong against Neutral and Melee types. It’s weaker against Crystal types, so you’ll need to watch out for those in battle.

Base Stats:

• HP: 24
• Stamina: 22
• Speed: 16
• Attack: 14
• Defense: 14
• Special Attack: 17
• Special Defense: 15

Trait: Soft Touch – Prevents the target from waking up when attacking a sleeping Temtem.

Houchic evolves into Tuwai and then its final form. If you enjoy using strategic, special attacks that hit hard and with precision, Houchic’s Mental-type moves will serve you well. Its decent speed also allows it to outpace many opponents, making it a versatile addition to your team.

Which Starter Should You Choose?

Consider Your Playstyle

• Crystle: If you prefer a defensive playstyle with the ability to tank damage while providing steady offense, Crystle is an excellent choice. It’s a great option for players who want to build a strong defensive team early in the game and gradually evolve into a more specialized powerhouse.
• Smazee: For those who prefer an aggressive, fast-paced playstyle, Smazee is your go-to. It’s perfect for players who like to get up close and personal with their opponents, taking down enemies quickly with high attack stats.
• Houchic: If you’re a fan of tactical battles and special attacks, Houchic offers the flexibility to counter a wide range of enemies. Its ability to hit hard with Mental-type moves makes it ideal for players who want to take a more strategic, precise approach to combat.

Don’t Worry About Missing Out

While choosing a starter is important early on, it’s worth noting that Temtem allows you to catch all three starters at later stages of the game. So, don’t stress too much over your initial choice. Pick the one that resonates with you most at the start and enjoy the adventure. You’ll be able to obtain the others as you progress through the game, either by trading with other players or catching them in the wild.

Make Your Choice and Start Your Adventure!

Your starter will shape your early Temtem journey, but rest assured that all paths lead to victory. Whether you prefer to tank with Crystle, attack with Smazee, or strategize with Houchic, the world of Temtem is vast, and your team will soon grow to cover all bases.

Now that you know more about the starters, pick your favorite, and head out into the world of the Airborne Islands, where you’ll meet new friends, battle powerful opponents, and, of course, catch even more Temtem!

Check out our guides on Temtem’s Status Effects, catching the Denizn Icarus, and completing the Gone with the Sillaro quest for more tips.

Thoughts on our Temtem Starters guide? Drop them in the comments below.