Objectively, what is the best starter in every main series game?

Question

I really want to know which starter does best in every game because I have my opinions and theories, but I'd like to know the facts of the subject.

WE WILL REMOVE ALL ANSWERS THAT DON'T:

1. Answer in terms of which starter makes completing the game most efficient and hassle-free
2. Explain specifically why the others aren't better options
3. Address every main series game
4. Stay on-topic and avoid irrelevant add-ons, like the team you used in your playthrough

Comments

Are gym leaders and the Elite 4 really all that you need to worry about in a playthrough? Rival battles and other significant battles exist, too, but not a single person has mentioned anything other than gym leaders and the Elite 4 in their answers.

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No. I don't think any of the answers are good.

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I'm going to remove all the answers to this question that don't give full explanations.

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This question should be closed as it’s a dupe of this
https://pokemondb.net/pokebase/407355/what-the-best-and-worst-starter-each-region-for-playthroughs
Plus this question has a good answer

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As per https://pokemondb.net/pokebase/meta/82128/question-spans-multiple-generations-questions-situation?show=82132#a82132 I'd say this isn't a dupe question, also mindful it's at 30k views even without an answer.