Which Starter Should You Choose in Pokemon Legends: Z-A?

Choosing Your Starter in Pokémon Legends: Z-A: A Comprehensive Guide

The Pokémon Company unveiled details about their upcoming title, Pokémon Legends: Z-A, at the February 27th, 2025 Pokémon Presents, including the three exciting starter Pokémon. This guide will help you decide which starter best suits your playstyle.

The Contenders:

• Totodile (Water): A classic Johto starter, Totodile evolves into Croconaw and then Feraligatr. Boasting a respectable base stat total of 314 (second highest among the starters), Feraligatr's final evolution shines with a total of 530, including a robust 100 Defense.

• Chikorita (Grass): Another Johto favorite, Chikorita boasts the highest base stat total among the starters at 318. While its evolutions, Bayleef and Meganium, have slightly lower stats (405 and 525 respectively), its movepool potential is noteworthy.

• Tepig (Fire): Hailing from the Unova region, Tepig's final evolution, Emboar, is a compelling choice. While its initial base stat total of 308 is lower, Emboar's 528 base stat total and dual Fire/Fighting typing offer significant advantages.

The Decision:

While the optimal choice depends on anticipated opponents in Pokémon Legends: Z-A, we'll focus on available information to make an informed decision. The return of Mega Evolutions will undoubtedly impact starter viability, but move sets are crucial. Chikorita learns powerful moves like Solar Beam and Giga Drain; Totodile gains access to Hydro Pump and Superpower; and Tepig can utilize Flare Blitz and Head Smash.

The deciding factor? Dual-typing. Tepig's Emboar evolution is the only starter to gain a dual type, offering resistance to six types: Bug, Steel, Fire, Grass, Ice, and Dark—the most of any starter. While Feraligatr has fewer weaknesses, this advantage makes Emboar a compelling choice.

Therefore, Tepig emerges as the recommended starter for Pokémon Legends: Z-A.

Pokémon Legends: Z-A launches on Nintendo Switch in late 2025.