Question: what is the best starter in pokemon emerald?
Answer: If you think strategically, than pick torchic or mudkip. I will prefer you to go with torchic, because it is the only fire type Pokemon with good base stats in Hoenn. You have the choice to catch a Milotic or Gyarados or Kyogre for a good water type Pokemon and Breloom or Shiftry or Ludicolo for grass type.