Caterpie, Caterpie... what a lovely evolutionary line we have for this chapter. 

I better shoutout @ThatGeekKid02 because he really likes Caterpie! And I understand why—there's something so delightful and quaint about this Pokémon, like you might spot it fluttering over a field while you're out on a picnic. 

So without further ado, let's hop right into it!

Type Factor: 

Unfortunately, as sweet as Caterpie is, it doesn't have the best type match up upon its final evolution to Butterfree. Butterfree, being a bug and flying type, has almost double the weaknesses that a plain bug type would face. While bug types have a disadvantage to fire, flying, rock moves, the addition of the flying type means that Butterfree also is weak to electric and ice moves. 

However, Butterfree learns a good amount of flying type moves, meaning that it gains an offensive advantage over fighting types and other bug types. Not to mention, the addition of the flying type makes it immune to ground type moves. 

It's hard to say whether or not this type match up is fully beneficial or detrimental. It seems to me that there are heavy pros and equally heavy cons.

Design Factor: 

As for the design on this Pokémon, I think this is one of the most unique designs this guide has covered thus far. 

Caterpie is adorable, a perfect reminder of a chunky little caterpillar wiggling its way around the world. This image is hugely contrasted by Metapod, who is bizarre and almost sad looking. And then with the final evolution, there is another drastic shift in image as Metapod transforms into an adorably beautiful Butterfree. 

In short, this Pokémon's design is so creative that it almost tells a story of growth and triumph through each evolution!

Lore Factor: 

I think the story of growth and triumph seen in Caterpie's evolutionary design can also be seen in the Pokédex lore. Caterpie's entry states that it eats voraciously, likely in an effort to grow stronger as fast as possible. Metapod's entry says that it remains still in its shell, enduring hardship. 

These Pokédex entries tell stories of perseverance under trials and difficulties. And once Butterfree emerges from the cocoon, the perseverance is rewarded with powerful wings and defensive toxins, allowing Butterfree to live a carefree existence as it flutters around in search of honey. 

To me, these Pokédex entries tell a story of hardship and victory. It's a heartwarming tale that demonstrates how even the weakest of us can endure and become our very best selves.

Stats Factor: 

Butterfree's base stats are no match for the starter Pokémon from previous chapters, but that's not uncommon. Few Pokémon can stand up to the might that a starter Pokémon possesses, but Butterfree makes an honest effort. 

The lowest stat is it's attack, which is abysmally low, but the special attack and special defense are decent, and the speed is close behind. As far as fully evolved Pokémon go, this guy's stats aren't the strongest. However, no need to fear! Butterfree may not be the hard hitter on the team, but that doesn't mean it can't go far. With a good moveset and a sound strategy, Butterfree can make an excellent addition to anyone's team.

Evolutionary Factor: 

I think that based on the other categories discussed, it's pretty evident that Caterpie's evolutionary line is remarkably interesting. The drastic change that the Pokémon undergoes from evolution to evolution is intriguing and tells an encouraging story. This is a Pokémon that is full of surprises!

Conclusions: To wrap things up, I think Caterpie and its line is an excellent choice if used correctly. Trainers will have to be aware of Butterfree's added type disadvantages as well as the relatively weak base stats, but these are factors that any good trainer can plan around. There are plenty of held items, berries, or other things that can be used to shore up any of Butterfree's weaknesses. There's no need to give up on Butterfree, because Butterfree never gave up on itself. That kind of determination and endurance is more than enough to make this Pokémon an irreplaceable partner. 

To my fellow researchers: 

How do you think Butterfree measures up to the competition? Do you think its lower stats make it difficult to use? Or do you have special items, berries, or strategies that make Butterfree a star player? Leave your thoughts in the comments!