Would you be in favor of GF/tPC making alternative forms of the starters, one more natural looking and one more like what they have been since like gen V/VI that have more human themes behind them? I know they won't because one extra (or 2 if you'd rather start it with the 2nd form) design for each starter is just too much work for these fuckers anymore, but still I think it's a compromise for those that dislike the whole human starter thing. Could easily implement it thru something like an easily obtained held item, or just regular item you use, that you give your starter at either the base form or at evo 1. For Cinderace, the iten could be something to do with soccer, or for Rilaboom a drum, etc. Give each alternative starter the same total, maybe change some of the spread, maybe change the ability and the unique move and moveset, etc and likely think of a new name as some of these names won't make sense on a form without the defining characteristic. I think it could be work and be kind of cool.

I just think the whole supposed wild animals evolving into human occupations or roles is dumb without any other influence. I know Pokemon isn't totally realistic, but still think it's dumb. This would give you a choice to have whichever type of starter you prefer.