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.
Recommended Videos: All Starters in Pokémon Legends: Z-A
Totodile
The Water-type Totodile, a Johto classic from Pokémon Gold and Silver, evolves into Croconaw (level 18) and Feraligatr (level 30). 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 an impressive 100 Defense.
Chikorita
Chikorita, another Johto starter, possesses the highest base stat total among the Pokémon Legends: Z-A starters at 318. While its evolutions, Bayleef and Meganium, have lower stat totals (405 and 525 respectively), its Grass-type capabilities shouldn't be underestimated.
Tepig
Hailing from the Unova region (Pokémon Black and White), the Fire-type Tepig might not be as immediately popular as other Fire starters, but its 308 base stat total is respectable. Its final evolution, Emboar, is a standout, gaining a Fighting type and boasting a 528 base stat total.
The Optimal Starter Choice
Predicting optimal starter choices without knowing Pokémon Legends: Z-A's opponents is challenging. However, considering available information, several factors stand out: Mega Evolutions are returning, influencing starter potential. Crucially, move sets play a significant role. 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.
Ultimately, Tepig's Emboar evolution offers a decisive advantage: dual typing. Emboar's resistance to six types (Bug, Steel, Fire, Grass, Ice, and Dark) surpasses the other starters. While Feraligatr has fewer weaknesses, type coverage is a key factor to consider.
Therefore, Tepig emerges as the recommended starter for Pokémon Legends: Z-A.
Pokémon Legends: Z-A launches on Nintendo Switch in late 2025.
