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

The Pokémon Company unveiled the three starters for their upcoming title, Pokémon Legends: Z-A, during the February 27th, 2025 Pokémon Presents. This guide analyzes each starter to help you make the best choice.

The Contenders:

• Totodile (Water): A classic Johto starter, 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 strong 100 Defense. Learns powerful moves like Hydro Pump and Superpower.

• Chikorita (Grass): Another Johto favorite, Chikorita boasts the highest base stat total among the starters at 318. However, its evolutions, Bayleef and Meganium, have slightly lower stats (405 and 525 respectively). Its movepool includes heavy hitters like Solar Beam and Giga Drain.

• Tepig (Fire): Hailing from the Unova region, Tepig evolves into Emboar. While its base stat total of 308 is respectable, Emboar's dual-typing (Fire/Fighting) is a significant advantage. Emboar boasts a 528 base stat total and resists six types: Bug, Steel, Fire, Grass, Ice, and Dark – the most resistances among the final evolutions. Learns powerful moves like Flare Blitz and Head Smash.

The Verdict:

While all three starters offer potent move sets and impressive final evolutions, Tepig emerges as the most strategically advantageous choice. Emboar's dual-typing and superior type resistances provide a crucial edge in navigating diverse battles. While Feraligatr possesses fewer weaknesses, Emboar's broader resistance coverage makes it more versatile. The return of Mega Evolutions in Pokémon Legends: Z-A adds another layer of complexity, but type matchups remain a critical factor.

Therefore, Tepig is our recommended starter for Pokémon Legends: Z-A.

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