Just beat CJ. Great game!
I started with Vulpix. Quickly fell in love with the dialogue. That first cop beat me and I had to grind up, loving that I could heal by sleeping with Red's mom. The npc on Route 1 who gives you the potion is probably my favorite character, honestly. Was disappointed about not being able to catch Pokemon I would normally use, but appreciated the challenge and new experience it helped create. After being initially disappointed about no fishing, after frustration at the power plant, I was pleased I could catch Magikarp surfing there. Luck was with me and Dratini was one of the first Pokemon I encountered surfing south of Pallet. Ended up trading out Pidgeot for Aerodactyl since I couldn't have any legendary birds.
Final team:
Gyarados Lv. 63 Bite, Thunderbolt, Hyper Beam, Surf
Ninetales Lv. 43 Flamethrower, Fire Blast, Quick Attack, Iron Tail
Aerodactyl Lv. 53 Wing Attack, Fly, Ancient Power, Bite
Feraligator Lv. 54 Dragon Claw, Surf, Strength, Cut
Hypno Lv. 60 Psychic, Confusion, Hypnosis, Shadow Ball
Dragonite Lv. 74 Wing Attack, Outrage, Shock Wave, Surf
I was pretty much able to guess at the champion's team.