8. Silver (Gold/Silver/Crystal)
When you’re trying to decide who the best Pokemon rival was, Silver is certainly worth a mention. He just seemed malicious and cruel in ways that managed to trump even Team Rocket. He steals a Pokemon from Professor Elm’s lab, which through some sort of lucky coincidence, happens to be the exact one that is strong against your starter. You bump into Silver multiple times throughout your quest, and each humbling loss he takes appears to have an effect on him.
By the time you’ve conquered the Elite Four and proven your dominance as the very best (like no one ever was), he is a changed man; introverted, reflective and calm. He at long last realizes that Pokemon are more than tools, and the bond they now share is stronger than ever.
His team is both versatile and tough, and continues the established tradition of the rival using an Alakazam, because apparently they are evil incarnate. This particular battle only occurs on certain days of the week, with Silver choosing to take the weekend off. Rumors suggest that he takes this opportunity to go to TGI Friday’s, but we’re not so sure.
