Editing Squirtle

{{short description|Pokémon species}}
{{good article}}
{{Infobox character
| name = Squirtle
| image = Pokémon Squirtle art.png
| caption = Squirtle artwork by [[Ken Sugimori]]
| series = [[Pokémon]]
| firstgame = [[Pokémon Red and Blue|''Pokémon Red'' and ''Blue'']] (1996)
| designer = [[Atsuko Nishida]]<ref name="Origin"/>
| voice = [[Eric Stuart]] (English)<br>
[[Michele Knotz]] (English)<br>
[[Rikako Aikawa]] (Japanese)<br>
[[Tomoe Hanba]] (May's, Japanese)
| species = Pokémon
| lbl21 = [[Pokémon types|Type]]
| data21 = Water
}}

'''Squirtle''' ({{IPAc-en|audio=Squirtle Voice Line.ogg|ˈ|s|k|w|ɜːr|t|əl}}), known as {{nihongo|'''Zenigame'''|ゼニガメ|lead=yes}} in [[Japan]], is a [[List of Pokémon|Pokémon species]] in [[Nintendo]] and [[Game Freak]]'s ''[[Pokémon]]'' franchise. It was designed by [[Atsuko Nishida]].<ref name="Origin"/> Its name was changed from Zenigame to Squirtle during the English localization of the series in order to give it a "clever and descriptive name." In animated appearances, Squirtle is voiced in Japanese by [[Rikako Aikawa]] and in English localizations by [[Eric Stuart]], and later [[Michele Knotz]].

In the main series games, Squirtle can evolve into [[Wartortle]], and can then further evolve into [[Blastoise]]. It is one of the three first partner Pokémon obtainable in [[Pokémon Red, Blue and Green (Game Boy)|''Pokémon Red, Blue, and Green'']], the first games in the series. Squirtle has received a mostly positive reception since its debut. A group of specific Squirtle, known as the Squirtle Squad, additionally developed a strong popularity as a result of their appearance in the [[Pokémon (TV series)|''Pokémon'' anime]]. Squirtle has gone on to make playable appearances in ''[[Super Smash Bros. Brawl]]'' and ''[[Super Smash Bros. Ultimate]]''.

==Design and characteristics==
Squirtle is a species of fictional creatures called Pokémon created for the ''[[Pokémon]]'' media franchise. Developed by [[Game Freak]] and published by [[Nintendo]], the Japanese franchise began in 1996 with the video games ''Pokémon Red'' and ''Green'' for the [[Game Boy]], which were later released in North America as [[Pokémon Red and Blue|''Pokémon Red'' and ''Blue'']] in 1998.<ref>{{cite magazine |last=Hilliard |first=Kyle |date=December 25, 2016 |title=''Pokémon Red'' & ''Blue'' – A Look Back At The 20-Year Journey To Catch 'Em All |url=https://www.gameinformer.com/b/features/archive/2016/12/25/pok-233-mon-red-amp-blue-a-look-back-at-the-20-year-journey-to-catch-em-all.aspx |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231001192920/https://www.gameinformer.com/b/features/archive/2016/12/25/pok-233-mon-red-amp-blue-a-look-back-at-the-20-year-journey-to-catch-em-all.aspx |archive-date=October 1, 2023 |access-date=January 22, 2024 |magazine=[[Game Informer]]}}</ref> In these games and their sequels, the player assumes the role of a Trainer whose goal is to capture and use the creatures' special abilities to combat other Pokémon. Some Pokémon can transform into stronger species through a process called [[Gameplay of Pokémon#Pokémon evolution|evolution]] via various means, such as exposure to specific items.<ref name="millenial">{{cite book |last=Allison |first=Anne |title=Millennial Monsters: Japanese Toys and the Global Imagination |date=May 2006 |publisher=[[University of California Press]] |isbn=9780520938991 |pages=192–197}}</ref> Each Pokémon have one or two elemental types, which define its advantages and disadvantages when battling other Pokémon.<ref>{{cite book |title=Pokémon Deluxe Essential Handbook |date=July 28, 2015 |publisher=[[Scholastic Inc.]] |isbn=9780545795661 |page=5}}</ref> A major goal in each game is to complete the [[Pokédex]], a comprehensive Pokémon encyclopedia, by capturing, evolving, and trading with other Trainers to obtain individuals from all Pokémon species.<ref name="millenial" />

Squirtle was designed as one of the starter Pokémon of [[Pokémon Red and Green|''Pocket Monsters Red'' and ''Green'']] by [[Atsuko Nishida]], who based its design on its final form,<ref name="Origin">{{cite web|url=https://www.pokemon.com/us/pokemon-news/creator-profile-the-creators-of-pikachu/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220605013019/https://www.pokemon.com/us/pokemon-news/creator-profile-the-creators-of-pikachu/|archive-date=2022-06-05| title=Creator Profile: The Creators of Pikachu|website=NA website of Pokémon|publisher=The Pokémon Company International|quote=Sugimori: “Bulbasaur, Charmander, and Squirtle were all designed by Ms. Nishida.”; Nishida: “I created the designs for Bulbasaur, Charmander, and Squirtle by working backward from their final forms. I wanted people to be surprised when it evolved into Charizard, so I designed the original Charmander in such a way that Charizard would be unimaginable.”}}</ref> a turtle-esque Pokémon called Blastoise. Squirtle, in the games, can evolve into Wartortle and then into Blastoise.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Rahaman |first=Reyadh |date=2021-04-16 |title=Pokemon: 10 Mistakes Everyone Makes When Training Squirtle |url=https://gamerant.com/pokemon-squirtle-training-tips/ |access-date=2024-06-05 |website=Game Rant |language=en}}</ref> Originally called "Zenigame" in Japanese, Nintendo decided to give the various Pokémon species "cleverly descriptive names" related to their appearance or features when translating the game for western audiences as a means to make the characters more relatable to American children.<ref name="Time">{{cite magazine|url=http://www.time.com/time/asia/magazine/99/1122/cover2.html|title=PokéMania|last=Chua-Euan|first=Howard|date=November 22, 1999|magazine=TIME|access-date=2008-09-15|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080913182631/http://www.time.com/time/asia/magazine/99/1122/cover2.html <!--Added by H3llBot-->|archive-date=2008-09-13}}</ref> Squirtle's English name is a portmanteau of the words "squirt" and "[[turtle]]."<ref name="squirtleign">{{cite web |title=Pokemon Strategy Guide - IGNguides |url=http://guides.ign.com/guides/12045/squirtle.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101027083324/http://guides.ign.com/guides/12045/squirtle.html |archive-date=2010-10-27 |access-date=2011-03-16 |website=IGN}}</ref> The idea to feature Squirtle and the other ''Red'' and ''Blue'' starters in a significant role in [[Pokémon X and Y|''Pokémon X'' and ''Y'']] came about a year and a half into the development of the games. The Mega Evolutions for the three Pokémon's final forms were created, and the designers decided that they should give players an opportunity to receive one of these Pokémon in order to see their Mega Evolved form.<ref>{{cite web |title=Pokemon X/Y: WHY?! Director Masuda himself answers! |url=http://www.gamesradar.com/pokemon-xy-why-director-masuda-himself-answers/ |work=[[GamesRadar]] |last=Betka |first=Zach |date=2013-09-19 |access-date=2014-03-16 |archive-date=2022-12-07 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221207091428/https://www.gamesradar.com/pokemon-xy-why-director-masuda-himself-answers/ |url-status=live }}</ref> [[Eric Stuart]]<ref>{{Cite web |last=Rose |first=Edd |date=2023-01-19 |title=10 Most Iconic Pokémon Cries In The Anime |url=https://www.cbr.com/most-memorable-pokemon-anime-cries-ranked/ |access-date=2024-04-16 |website=CBR |language=en |archive-date=2023-02-23 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230223165938/https://www.cbr.com/most-memorable-pokemon-anime-cries-ranked/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="pccredits">{{cite video game | developer=[[Ambrella]] | title=Pokémon Channel | publisher=[[Nintendo]] | scene=Ending credits, 7:17 in, Cast | year=2003}}</ref><!-- url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o1LuXLYWLTc --> and [[Michelle Knotz]]<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-11-27 |title=Michele Knotz Voice Actor |url=http://micheleknotz.com/resume/ |access-date=2024-04-16 |archive-date=2022-11-27 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221127071957/http://micheleknotz.com/resume/ |url-status=dead }}</ref> have voiced the character in English, while [[Rikako Aikawa]],<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/video-games/Super-Smash-Bros-Ultimate/Squirtle/ |title=Behind the Voice Actors: Squirtle (Super Smash Bros. Ultimate) |access-date=2024-04-16 |archive-date=2023-10-03 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231003033247/https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/video-games/Super-Smash-Bros-Ultimate/Squirtle/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/movies/Pokemon-the-Movie-Mewtwo-Strikes-Back-Evolution/Squirtle-Ashs/ |title=Behind the Voice Actors: Squirtle (Ash's) (Mewtwo Strikes Back: Evolution) |access-date=2024-04-16 |archive-date=2024-04-16 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240416160837/https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/movies/Pokemon-the-Movie-Mewtwo-Strikes-Back-Evolution/Squirtle-Ashs/ |url-status=live }}</ref> and [[Tomoe Hanba]] have voiced the character in Japanese.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://gph.sakura.ne.jp/va_memo/system/vadb.cgi?action=view_ind&value=00337&namecode=5 |title=Tomoe Hanba. ''Voice Artist Database'' (in Japanese). |access-date=2024-04-16 |archive-date=2015-06-06 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150606002208/http://gph.sakura.ne.jp/va_memo/system/vadb.cgi?action=view_ind&value=00337&namecode=5 |url-status=live }}</ref>

==Appearances==
The first video game appearance of Squirtle was in [[Pokémon Red and Blue|''Pokémon Red'' and ''Blue'']], alongside the other two starters [[Charmander]] and [[Bulbasaur]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Newell |first=Joey Carr, Cade Davie, Adam |date=2023-12-02 |title=All Pokémon Starters by Generation |url=https://dotesports.com/pokemon/news/all-pokemon-starters-by-generation |access-date=2024-06-10 |website=Dot Esports |language=en-US}}</ref> It since went on to appear in various games following this, such as ''[[Pokémon X and Y]]'',<ref>{{Cite web |last=Sahdev |first=Ishaan |date=2013-09-04 |title=You'll Get Bulbasaur, Charmander And Squirtle In Pokémon X And Pokémon Y |url=https://www.siliconera.com/youll-get-bulbasaur-charmander-and-squirtle-in-pokemon-x-and-pokemon-y/ |access-date=2024-04-16 |website=Siliconera |language=en-US |archive-date=2023-12-27 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231227010203/https://www.siliconera.com/youll-get-bulbasaur-charmander-and-squirtle-in-pokemon-x-and-pokemon-y/ |url-status=live }}</ref> ''[[Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee!]]'',<ref>{{Cite web |last=Cryer |first=Hirun |date=2023-05-24 |title=How to Get Squirtle in Pokemon Let's Go Pikachu and Eevee |url=https://www.vg247.com/how-to-get-squirtle-in-pokemon-lets-go-pikachu-and-eevee |access-date=2024-04-16 |website=VG247 |language=en |archive-date=2024-04-16 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240416160758/https://www.vg247.com/how-to-get-squirtle-in-pokemon-lets-go-pikachu-and-eevee |url-status=live }}</ref> ''[[Pokémon Sword and Shield]],''<ref>{{Cite web |last=Franey |first=Joel |date=2020-06-17 |title=Pokemon Sword and Shield Isle of Armor DLC: Where to Get Bulbasaur and Squirtle |url=https://www.vg247.com/pokemon-sword-and-shield-isle-of-armor-dlc-where-to-get-bulbasaur-and-squirtle |access-date=2024-04-16 |website=VG247 |language=en |archive-date=2023-04-10 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230410131555/https://www.vg247.com/pokemon-sword-and-shield-isle-of-armor-dlc-where-to-get-bulbasaur-and-squirtle |url-status=live }}</ref> and ''[[Pokémon Scarlet and Violet]]''.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Seong |first=Renri |date=2023-12-30 |title=Pokemon Scarlet & Violet: How to Get Squirtle, Wartortle, and Blastoise (Indigo Disk) |url=https://gamerant.com/pokemon-scarlet-violet-how-to-get-squirtle-location-indigo-disk-wartortle-blastoise/ |access-date=2024-04-16 |website=Game Rant |language=en |archive-date=2024-01-05 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240105220646/https://gamerant.com/pokemon-scarlet-violet-how-to-get-squirtle-location-indigo-disk-wartortle-blastoise/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Outside of the main series, Squirtle appears in a wide variety of spin-offs, such as ''[[Pokémon Snap]]'',<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-11-20 |title=24 years ago, Pokemon Snap gave Charmander, Squirtle, and Bulbasaur unique trading cards – and they just sold for more than the price of my house |url=https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/rare-variants-original-starter-pokemon-174921116.html |access-date=2024-04-16 |website=Yahoo Entertainment |language=en-US |archive-date=2024-04-16 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240416155704/https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/rare-variants-original-starter-pokemon-174921116.html |url-status=live }}</ref> the ''[[Pokémon Stadium]]'' series,<ref>{{Cite web |last=Cardaro |first=Brett |date=2023-04-06 |title=Pokémon Stadium's Switch Online Port Is Missing the Game's Most Important Feature |url=https://www.cbr.com/pokemon-stadium-feature-missing-transfer-nintendo-switch-online/ |access-date=2024-06-03 |website=CBR |language=en}}</ref> the ''[[Pokémon Mystery Dungeon]]'' series,<ref>{{Cite web |last=Dahlberg |first=Hannah (Tyler) |date=2022-10-01 |title=Every Pokemon Game For The Nintendo Wii, Ranked |url=https://gamerant.com/best-pokemon-game-nintendo-wii-metacritic/ |access-date=2024-04-16 |website=Game Rant |language=en |archive-date=2023-12-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231208150808/http://gamerant.com/best-pokemon-game-nintendo-wii-metacritic/ |url-status=live }}</ref> the ''[[Pokémon Rumble]]'' series,<ref>{{Cite web |date=2009-11-18 |title=Review: Pokémon Rumble (WiiWare) |url=https://www.nintendolife.com/reviews/2009/11/pokemon_rumble |access-date=2024-04-16 |website=Nintendo Life |language=en-GB |archive-date=2022-09-30 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220930062349/https://www.nintendolife.com/reviews/2009/11/pokemon_rumble |url-status=live }}</ref> ''[[Pokémon Café Mix]]'',<ref>{{Cite web |last=Kwak |first=Abigail |date=2022-10-01 |title=10 Best Pokemon Designs In Pokemon Cafe Remix |url=https://www.thegamer.com/pokemon-cafe-remix-best-pokemon-designs-look-style/ |access-date=2024-04-16 |website=TheGamer |language=en |archive-date=2024-04-16 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240416155723/https://www.thegamer.com/pokemon-cafe-remix-best-pokemon-designs-look-style/ |url-status=live }}</ref> ''[[Pokémon Masters EX]]'',<ref>{{Cite web |last=Writer |first=Phillip Martinez |date=2020-04-27 |title='Pokémon Masters' Egg Feature Finally Arrives |url=https://www.newsweek.com/pokemon-masters-egg-feature-update-bulbasaur-charmander-squirtle-1500371 |access-date=2024-04-16 |website=Newsweek |language=en |archive-date=2023-04-01 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230401115727/https://www.newsweek.com/pokemon-masters-egg-feature-update-bulbasaur-charmander-squirtle-1500371 |url-status=live }}</ref> ''[[Pokémon Go]]'',<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://screenrant.com/pokemon-go-prepare-squirtle-spotlight-hour/|title=Pokemon Go: How To Prepare For Squirtle Spotlight Hour|date=July 5, 2021|website=ScreenRant|access-date=July 11, 2021|archive-date=November 27, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221127084309/https://screenrant.com/pokemon-go-prepare-squirtle-spotlight-hour/|url-status=live}}</ref> ''[[Pokkén Tournament]]'',<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.polygon.com/2018/1/11/16878218/pokken-tournament-battle-pack-dlc-characters-trailer-release-date|title=Pokkén Tournament DX DLC adds a fan-favorite sad guy and familiar legendaries|first=Allegra|last=Frank|date=January 11, 2018|website=Polygon|access-date=July 11, 2021|archive-date=November 27, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221127084309/https://www.polygon.com/2018/1/11/16878218/pokken-tournament-battle-pack-dlc-characters-trailer-release-date|url-status=live}}</ref> ''[[New Pokémon Snap]]'',<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://screenrant.com/new-pokemon-snap-behaviors-find-guide-hardest/|title=New Pokémon Snap: 10 Behaviors That Are Super Hard To Find|date=June 25, 2021|website=ScreenRant|access-date=July 11, 2021|archive-date=November 27, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221127084308/https://screenrant.com/new-pokemon-snap-behaviors-find-guide-hardest/|url-status=live}}</ref> and ''[[Pokémon UNITE]],''<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pocketgamer.com/articles/085997/pokemon-unite-guide-tips-release-date-everything-we-know/|title=Pokemon Unite - Everything we know about the upcoming mobile MOBA|first=Dann|last=Sullivan|website=www.pocketgamer.com|date=12 March 2021|access-date=11 July 2021|archive-date=1 August 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210801195529/https://www.pocketgamer.com/articles/085997/pokemon-unite-guide-tips-release-date-everything-we-know/|url-status=live}}</ref> among others. In ''[[Super Smash Bros. Brawl]]'', Squirtle is a playable character under the command of the [[List of Pokémon characters#Protagonists|Pokémon Trainer]],<ref name="Dojo">{{cite web |url=http://www.smashbros.com/wii/en_us/characters/pokemon_trainer.html |title=Pokémon Trainer |work=Smash Bros. DOJO!! |publisher=Smashbros.com |access-date=2008-02-03 |archive-date=2013-07-05 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130705015350/http://www.smashbros.com/wii/en_us/characters/pokemon_trainer.html |url-status=live }}</ref> alongside [[Ivysaur]] and [[Charizard]] which must be switched between in order to avoid fatiguing the Pokémon.<ref name="Dojo" /> Squirtle returns as a playable character in ''[[Super Smash Bros. Ultimate]]'' for the [[Nintendo Switch]], once again playable with Ivysaur and Charizard.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://screenrant.com/super-smash-bros-every-pokemon-fighter-ranked/|title=Super Smash Bros.: Every Pokémon Fighter, Ranked|date=June 25, 2021|website=ScreenRant|last=Mourtzanakis|first=Harry|language=en|access-date=July 11, 2021|archive-date=November 27, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221127084308/https://screenrant.com/super-smash-bros-every-pokemon-fighter-ranked/|url-status=live}}</ref>

In the [[Pokémon (anime)|animated series]], [[Ash Ketchum]], [[Brock (Pokémon)|Brock]], and [[Misty (Pokémon)|Misty]] encounter a gang of five Squirtle known as the Squirtle Squad in their debut episode "Here Comes the Squirtle Squad!". They first appear as delinquents, but their interactions with Ash and Co. result in them becoming honorary firefighters of their town.<ref name=":1" /><ref>{{Cite web |last=Liu |first=Stephanie |date=2023-02-03 |title=Squirtle Squad Will Return in Pokemon Anime |url=https://www.siliconera.com/squirtle-squad-will-return-in-pokemon-anime/ |access-date=2024-06-10 |website=Siliconera |language=en-US}}</ref> The squad's leader eventually decides to join Ash and his friends journey throughout the Kanto and Johto regions until reuniting with his squad in the episode "The Fire-ing Squad".<ref>{{cite book |last1=Andreou |first1=Katherine |last2= Dakin |first2=Glenn |title=Pokémon Timelines: A Journey Through the Animated Series |date=2024 |publisher=[[DK (publisher)|DK]] |isbn=978-0-2416-8653-9 |page=28}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Stone |first1=Sam |title=Squirtle Squad: Pokémon's Coolest Team, Explained |url=https://www.cbr.com/pokemon-squirtle-squad-explained/ |access-date=29 March 2019 |work=[[Comic Book Resources]] |date=21 May 2021}}</ref> Ash's second female companion, [[May (Pokémon)|May]], also owned a Squirtle.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Greenall |first=Jonathon |date=2023-07-10 |title=Pokémon's Weirdest Episode (And Why It Should Make More Like It) |url=https://www.cbr.com/pokemon-weird-episode-why-there-should-be-more/ |access-date=2024-04-16 |website=CBR |language=en |archive-date=2023-08-05 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230805010627/https://www.cbr.com/pokemon-weird-episode-why-there-should-be-more/ |url-status=live }}</ref> [[Green (Pokémon)|Green]], the original female protagonist in ''[[Pokémon Adventures]]'', stole a Squirtle from [[Professor Oak]]'s laboratory. It was not seen until Chapter fifteen, "Wartortle Wars", by which point it had evolved into a [[Wartortle]], nicknamed Turtley, which she used as a major member of her team.<ref>Kusaka, Hidenori, & Mato. ''Pokémon Adventures: Legendary Pokémon, Vol. 2''; Chapter 33, Chapter 15, "Wartortle Wars", (pg 7-20) VIZ Media LLC, December 6, 2001. {{ISBN|1-56931-508-6}}.</ref> Squirtle later appeared as background elements in the live action movie ''[[Pokémon Detective Pikachu|Detective Pikachu]]''.<ref>{{Cite web |title='Detective Pikachu': First Look at Bulbasaur, Charmander, and Squirtle |url=https://comicbook.com/gaming/news/detective-pikachu-starter-pokemon/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221127084943/https://comicbook.com/gaming/news/detective-pikachu-starter-pokemon/ |archive-date=2022-11-27 |access-date=2021-07-22 |website=GAMING|date=14 November 2018 }}</ref>

==Promotion and reception==
Squirtle has been featured in several forms of merchandise, including figurines, plush toys, and the ''[[Pokémon Trading Card Game]]''. Squirtle was part of a [[Pokémon Jet|special airplane livery]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=ANA's Pokémon Jet Homepage |url=https://www.ana.co.jp/eng/flights/pokemonjet/design.html |access-date=2024-02-12 |archive-date=2009-02-07 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090207185035/http://www.ana.co.jp/eng/flights/pokemonjet/design.html |url-status=live }}</ref> Squirtle was featured among other Pokémon as part of [[Burger King]] kids' meal cards.<ref>{{cite web |date=14 February 2008 |title=Pokemon 2000 Toys |url=http://www.fastfoodtoys.net/burger%20king%20pokemon%20power%20cards.htm |url-status=bot: unknown |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080214165837/http://www.fastfoodtoys.net/burger%20king%20pokemon%20power%20cards.htm |archive-date=14 February 2008 |access-date=27 August 2016}}</ref> Analysts predicted that Squirtle, along with [[Pikachu]], [[Bulbasaur]], and [[Charmander]], would lead the merchandising of the Pokémon series.<ref>{{cite news |date=1999-04-06 |title=Pokemon The Quest for the Wild |url=http://nl.newsbank.com/nl-search/we/Archives?p_product=SL&p_theme=sl&p_action=search&p_maxdocs=200&p_topdoc=1&p_text_direct-0=0EB05185AA665947&p_field_direct-0=document_id&p_perpage=10&p_sort=YMD_date:D&s_trackval=GooglePM |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131029202002/http://nl.newsbank.com/nl-search/we/Archives?p_product=SL |archive-date=2013-10-29 |access-date=March 16, 2011 |work=St. Louis Post-Dispatch}}</ref>
Squirtle was among eleven Pokémon chosen as Japan's mascots in the [[2014 FIFA World Cup]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Farokhmanesh |first=Megan |date=March 15, 2014 |title=Pikachu is Japan's official mascot for the FIFA 2014 World Cup Brazil |url=https://www.polygon.com/2014/3/15/5512550/pikachu-is-japans-official-mascot-for-the-fifa-2014-world-cup-brazil |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221112151818/https://www.polygon.com/2014/3/15/5512550/pikachu-is-japans-official-mascot-for-the-fifa-2014-world-cup-brazil |archive-date=November 12, 2022 |access-date=July 12, 2021 |website=Polygon}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Bogos |first=Steven |date=2014-03-17 |title=Pikachu Will be Japan's Official Mascot For 2014 Soccer World Cup |url=https://www.escapistmagazine.com/pikachu-will-be-japans-official-mascot-for-2014-soccer-world-cup/ |access-date=2024-06-10 |website=The Escapist |language=en-US}}</ref>

Since it appeared in the ''[[Pokémon]]'' series, Squirtle has received generally positive reception.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Webster |first=Andrew |date=February 27, 2016 |title=The 10 best Pokemon of all time |url=https://www.theverge.com/2016/2/27/11116786/best-pokemon-20th-anniversary-eevee-squirtle-gyarados-nintendo-day |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221127090150/https://www.theverge.com/2016/2/27/11116786/best-pokemon-20th-anniversary-eevee-squirtle-gyarados-nintendo-day |archive-date=November 27, 2022 |access-date=July 9, 2021 |website=The Verge}}</ref> According to ''[[Time (magazine)|Time]]'' magazine, Squirtle was considered one of the "more popular" in the original series,<ref name="Time" /> while ''[[IGN]]'' ranked it the 46th best Pokémon ever, noting that it was "instantly recognisable."''<ref>{{cite web |title=Squirtle - #46 Top Pokémon |url=http://www.ign.com/top/pokemon/46 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140415062441/http://www.ign.com/top/pokemon/46 |archive-date=2014-04-15 |access-date=2014-03-02 |work=[[IGN]] |quote=The Water Type starter from the first Pokémon generation, Squirtle appears as one of Ash’s Pokémon in the anime and is probably instantly recognisable to anyone who has been around an eight year-old at some point in the last 15 years.}}</ref> [[GamesRadar]]'' editor Brett Elston noted that while [[Charizard]] and Bulbasaur get "big props" from ''Pokémon'' players, Squirtle appears to be "more popular" from people who are not fans of the series, suggesting that its appearance may be a part of it.<ref>{{cite web |author=Brett Elston |date=24 August 2007 |title=The complete Pokemon RBY pokedex, part 1, Pokemon Diamond/Pearl DS Features |url=http://www.gamesradar.com/ds/f/the-complete-pokemon-rby-pokedex-part-1/a-200708209459101025/g-2006100415372930075/p-7 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121004152634/http://www.gamesradar.com/the-complete-pokemon-rby-pokedex-part-1/ |archive-date=2012-10-04 |access-date=2011-03-16 |publisher=GamesRadar}}</ref> ''ITmedia'' also ranked Squirtle as the fourth best first partner Pokémon, primarily due to its familiarity even with those not too closely associated with the franchise.<ref name="ITmedia">{{cite web |date=April 24, 2021 |title=「御三家ポケモン」人気No.1が決定！ 「フシギダネ」「ポッチャマ」を上回る1位は？【2021年最新】 |url=https://nlab.itmedia.co.jp/research/articles/177261/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240128154257/https://nlab.itmedia.co.jp/research/articles/177261/ |archive-date=January 28, 2024 |accessdate=January 21, 2024 |work=ITmedia}}</ref>
[[File:Squirtle Squad.webp|thumb|The Squirtle Squad as they appear in the anime. The group have received significant attention since their debut.]]
Ryan Gilliam of ''[[Polygon (website)|Polygon]]'' claimed that Squirtle was the best starter Pokémon, stating that "Squirtle isn’t adorable or fierce like the Charmander line, it doesn’t breed eternal sympathy like Bulbasaur. Instead, Squirtle, Blastoise and even Wartortle are just cool dudes. They’re cool turtles that are just cool together." He highlighted its design in comparison to Bulbasaur and Charmander, praising its simplicity and personality.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.polygon.com/2018/9/28/17876324/best-starter-pokemon-squirtle-gen-one|title=Squirtle doesn't need sunglasses to be the coolest starter ... but they sure help|first=Ryan|last=Gilliam|date=September 28, 2018|website=Polygon|access-date=July 10, 2021|archive-date=November 27, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221127090150/https://www.polygon.com/2018/9/28/17876324/best-starter-pokemon-squirtle-gen-one|url-status=live}}</ref> ''[[San Antonio Express-News]]'' editor Susan Yerkes called Squirtle "disgustingly cute".<ref>{{cite news |url=http://nl.newsbank.com/nl-search/we/Archives?p_product=SAEC&p_theme=saec&p_action=search&p_maxdocs=200&p_topdoc=1&p_text_direct-0=0EAFE8F10B22E691&p_field_direct-0=document_id&p_perpage=10&p_sort=YMD_date:D&s_trackval=GooglePM |title=Poke-mania in the air do you have it? |access-date=March 16, 2011 |first=Susan |last=Yerkes |archive-date=October 23, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121023153923/http://nl.newsbank.com/nl-search/we/Archives?p_product=SAEC&p_theme=saec&p_action=search&p_maxdocs=200&p_topdoc=1&p_text_direct-0=0EAFE8F10B22E691&p_field_direct-0=document_id&p_perpage=10&p_sort=YMD_date:D&s_trackval=GooglePM |url-status=live }}</ref> ''[[GamesRadar]]'' editor Carolyn Gudmundson commented that Squirtle was the "coolest" of the three starting Pokémon in the anime, highlighting its association with the Squirtle Squad in the anime.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.gamesradar.com/f/the-top-7-gut-wrenching-choices/a-2009050410717660001/p-4/c-1?newest |title=The Top 7... gut-wrenching choices |publisher=GamesRadar |author=Charlie Barratt |date=2009-05-04 |access-date=2011-03-16 |archive-date=2012-10-07 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121007085134/http://www.gamesradar.com/the-top-7-gut-wrenching-choices/ |url-status=live }}</ref> 
''[[Pocket Gamer]]'' listed and criticized Squirtle as the worst Pokémon ever, stating that Squirtle is "just a turtle".<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pocketgamer.com/articles/070856/the-7-worst-pokemon-ever/|title=The 7 worst Pokemon ever|first=Oscar|last=Dayus|website=www.pocketgamer.com|date=28 July 2016|access-date=4 July 2021|archive-date=9 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210709183719/https://www.pocketgamer.com/articles/070856/the-7-worst-pokemon-ever/|url-status=live}}</ref> It has been cited as more "boring" than other Pokémon due to its similarities to other Pokémon of the same type as it.<ref>{{cite web |author=Pokémon of the Day Chick |date=December 16, 2002 |title=Pokemon Crystal Version Pokemon of the Day: Squirtle (#7) - IGN FAQs |url=http://faqs.ign.com/articles/380/380366p1.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121009160901/http://faqs.ign.com/articles/380/380366p1.html |archive-date=2012-10-09 |access-date=2011-03-16 |website=IGN}}</ref>

The Squirtle Squad characters have been described as fan favorites,<ref>{{Cite web |author1=Hope Bellingham |date=2023-01-27 |title=Squirtle Squad is about to make a triumphant return to the Pokemon anime |url=https://www.gamesradar.com/squirtle-squad-is-about-to-make-a-triumphant-return-to-the-pokemon-anime/ |access-date=2024-02-12 |website=gamesradar |language=en |archive-date=2024-01-23 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240123001818/https://www.gamesradar.com/squirtle-squad-is-about-to-make-a-triumphant-return-to-the-pokemon-anime/ |url-status=live }}</ref> and have acted as the subject of several ''[[Pokémon Go|Pokémon GO]]'' collaboration events.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Thier |first=Dave |title='Pokémon GO' Community Day: How To Get A Squirtle With Sunglasses |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/davidthier/2018/07/08/pokemon-go-community-day-how-to-get-a-squirtle-with-sunglasses/ |access-date=2024-02-12 |website=Forbes |language=en |archive-date=2024-02-12 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240212190946/https://www.forbes.com/sites/davidthier/2018/07/08/pokemon-go-community-day-how-to-get-a-squirtle-with-sunglasses/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=":0">{{Cite web |last=Silberling |first=Amanda |date=2021-11-19 |title=Ed Sheeran's favorite Pokémon is Squirtle |url=https://techcrunch.com/2021/11/18/ed-sheerans-favorite-pokemon-is-squirtle/ |access-date=2024-02-12 |website=TechCrunch |language=en-US |archive-date=2024-01-23 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240123001826/https://techcrunch.com/2021/11/18/ed-sheerans-favorite-pokemon-is-squirtle/ |url-status=live }}</ref> ''[[Vice (magazine)|Vice]]'' writer Diana Tourjée described the initial episode featuring them as something that scared her as a child, citing that the Squirtle Squad initially appeared terrifying to her. Despite this, she highlighted in a retrospective that the Squirtle Squad's story was a powerful one that resonated with many groups of people. She stated that the attempts of the local police to paint them as a gang showed an unfair prejudice against a group that did not deserve it, and how it built the family dynamic between the Squirtle Squad members.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |last=Tourjée |first=Diana |date=2018-09-20 |title=The Squirtle Squad Was a Chosen Family of Homeless Pokémon |url=https://www.vice.com/en/article/pokemon-squirtle-squad-cold-takes/ |access-date=2024-02-12 |website=Vice |language=en |archive-date=2024-01-23 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240123003322/https://www.vice.com/en/article/59a3j5/pokemon-squirtle-squad-cold-takes |url-status=live }}</ref> ''TheGamer''<nowiki/>'s Khee Hoon Chan cited similar sentiments, stating that despite their initially menacing appearance, the Squad had a powerful backstory and a strong popularity among fans.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Chan |first=Khee Hoon |date=2022-03-01 |title=The Squirtle Squad Is The Coolest Pokemon Gang Of All Time |url=https://www.thegamer.com/the-squirtle-squad-is-the-coolest-pokemon-gang-of-all-time/ |access-date=2024-02-12 |website=TheGamer |language=en |archive-date=2022-03-01 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220301220800/https://www.thegamer.com/the-squirtle-squad-is-the-coolest-pokemon-gang-of-all-time/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

[[Gabriel Boric|Gabriel Boric Font]] received a Squirtle plush just prior to his Inauguration as [[President of Chile]] as a gift from Japan after he stated he was a fan of the series.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-02-12 |title=President-Elect of Chile Receives a Squirtle as Administration's Starter Pokémon |url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/interest/2022-03-10/president-elect-of-chile-receives-a-squirtle-as-administration-starter-pokemon/.183426 |access-date=2024-02-12 |website=Anime News Network |language=en |archive-date=2024-01-23 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240123001820/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/interest/2022-03-10/president-elect-of-chile-receives-a-squirtle-as-administration-starter-pokemon/.183426 |url-status=live }}</ref> During a collaboration event in ''Pokémon GO'' with singer [[Ed Sheeran]], Squirtle was a major focus event, which was stated to be due to Squirtle being Sheeran's favorite.<ref name=":0" />

==References==
{{reflist}}

==External links==
{{Portal|Video games}}
* {{Bulbapedia}}
* [https://www.pokemon.com/us/pokedex/squirtle Squirtle on Pokemon.com]

{{Pokémon Generation 1|state=expanded}}
{{Pokémon directory}}
{{Super Smash Bros.}}

[[Category:Anthropomorphic turtles]]
[[Category:Characters created by Atsuko Nishida]]
[[Category:Pokémon introduced in generation I]]
[[Category:Starter Pokémon]]
[[Category:Super Smash Bros. fighters]]
[[Category:Turtle mascots]]
[[Category:Video game characters introduced in 1996]]
[[Category:Video game characters with water abilities]]

[[ca:Línia evolutiva de Squirtle#Squirtle]]
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[[fr:Carapuce et ses évolutions#Carapuce]]
[[pl:Lista Pokémonów (1-20)#Squirtle]]
[[fi:Luettelo Pokémon-lajeista (1–20)#Squirtle]]