>>27783666Plan your team with Pokemondb and serebii. There are countless resources to help balance your team.
If you want to see some neat competitive pokmeon, check out PIMPINITE. He doesn't have too much of an ego to care if his unique teams win or lose. Unintentionally, he also tends to come across some amazing move pools for unexpecting Pokemon which slaughter competitive play.
The Anime is okay. Team Rocket, early Kanto League, and episodes with Serena are enjoyable to watch.
It doesn't matter what starter you pick, because the main game is easy to beat with even the shittiest of teams.
Have fun.