In pursuing a living dex on Gold, I figured I would also try a challenge on Crystal.
I took on Red with a team of L.46 Pokémon and a L.49 Shuckle as my ace. Each played its part in defeating Red's team, but I would say my favourite starter Meganium was the MVP, able to stall out Venusaur 1 v 1 into struggle and then set up with Light Screen into a KO with Magcargo to force Red into bringing in Blastoise, to which I could bring Magneton who has time to set up Zap Cannon thanks to the Light Screen.
Pupitar: Earthquake, Rock Slide, Sandstorm, Screech (Focus Band)
Shuckle: Sleep Talk, Rest, Toxic, Sandstorm (Mint Berry)
Meganium: Synthesis, Light Screen, Razor Leaf, Reflect (Leftovers)
Pidgeot: Whirlwind, Mud-slap, Fly, Return (Pink Ribbon)
Magcargo: Flamethrower, Rock Throw, Toxic, Amnesia (Quick Claw)
Magneton: Zap Cannon, Thundershock, Lock-on, Tri-attack (Magnet)
All in all I had a lot of fun using these Pokémon and making it work at a huge level disadvantage!