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 its 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-type): A Johto classic, Totodile evolves into Croconaw and then Feraligatr. Boasting a base stat total of 314 (second highest among the starters), Feraligatr's final evolution shines with a remarkable 530 base stat total, including a hefty 100 Defense.

• Chikorita (Grass-type): Another Johto favorite, Chikorita boasts the highest base stat total among the starters at 318. However, its evolutions, Bayleef and Meganium, have slightly lower stat totals (405 and 525 respectively).

• Tepig (Fire-type): Hailing from the Unova region, Tepig evolves into Emboar, a Fire/Fighting dual-type. While its base stat total of 308 is respectable, Emboar's 528 base stat total and dual typing provide significant advantages.

The Decision:

While the optimal choice depends on anticipated opponents in Pokémon Legends: Z-A, we'll focus on available data to make a recommendation. The return of Mega Evolutions will undoubtedly impact the meta, but move sets are crucial. Chikorita learns powerful moves like Solar Beam and Giga Drain, Totodile utilizes Hydro Pump and Superpower, and Tepig boasts Flare Blitz and Head Smash. All offer potent offensive capabilities.

The deciding factor is dual-typing. Tepig's final evolution, Emboar, is the only starter to gain a dual type, offering resistance to six types (Bug, Steel, Fire, Grass, Ice, and Dark) – the most among the starters. While Feraligatr has fewer weaknesses, Emboar's type advantage provides a significant strategic edge.

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

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