The Pokémon Company unveiled exciting details about their upcoming title, *Pokémon Legends: Z-A*, during the February 27th, 2025 Pokémon Presents, including the hotly anticipated starter Pokémon. This naturally sparks the age-old question: which starter should you choose?
Recommended Videos: All Starters in Pokémon Legends: Z-A
Totodile
This iconic Johto starter, first seen in *Pokémon Gold* and *Silver*, is a Water-type. Evolving into Croconaw at level 18 and Feraligatr at level 30, Totodile boasts a respectable base stat total of 314. Its final evolution, Feraligatr, shines with a base stat total of 530, including an impressive 100 Defense.
Chikorita
Another Johto native, Chikorita debuted alongside Totodile but often receives less attention. This Grass-type Pokémon boasts the highest base stat total among the *Pokémon Legends: Z-A* starters, with a total of 318. However, its evolutions, Bayleef and Meganium, have slightly lower base stat totals of 405 and 525 respectively.
Tepig
Hailing from the Unova region (*Pokémon Black and White*), Tepig is a Fire-type starter. While perhaps less immediately recognizable than some other Fire-types, Tepig's base stat total of 308 is quite solid. Its final evolution, Emboar, is particularly compelling, with a base stat total of 528 and the added benefit of a Fighting-type.
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Which Starter Should You Choose in Pokémon Legends: Z-A?
Choosing the optimal starter in *Pokémon Legends: Z-A* is challenging without knowing the specific opponents you'll encounter. However, we can analyze the available information to make an informed decision. Mega Evolutions are returning, and the starters will undoubtedly receive new forms, influencing their viability. However, move sets play a crucial 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. All these moves have significant potential. Therefore, another factor tips the scales.
Tepig's final evolution, Emboar, is the only starter to gain dual-typing, providing a significant advantage. Emboar's resistance to six types (Bug, Steel, Fire, Grass, Ice, and Dark) surpasses the other starters. While Feraligatr boasts fewer weaknesses, this alone shouldn't be the deciding factor.
Ultimately, Tepig emerges as the recommended starter in *Pokémon Legends: Z-A*.
Pokémon Legends: Z-A will release on the Nintendo Switch in late 2025.
