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

The Pokémon Company unveiled exciting details about their upcoming title, *Pokémon Legends: Z-A*, at the February 27th, 2025 Pokémon Presents, including the three hotly anticipated starter Pokémon. Choosing your first partner is always a tough decision, so let's break down which starter might give you the edge in *Pokémon Legends: Z-A*.

Totodile

This iconic Johto starter, first seen in *Pokémon Gold* and *Silver*, is a Water-type Pokémon. Evolving into Croconaw at level 18 and Feraligatr at level 30, Totodile boasts a base stat total of 314, making it the second-strongest starter in *Pokémon Legends: Z-A*. Its final evolution, Feraligatr, is even more impressive with a base stat total of 530, including a hefty 100 Defense.

Chikorita

Another Johto classic, Chikorita debuted alongside Totodile but often gets overshadowed. Don't let that fool you—this Grass-type Pokémon has the highest base stat total among the starters at 318. However, its evolutions, Bayleef and Meganium, have slightly less impressive stats, with base stat totals of 405 and 525, respectively.

Tepig

Hailing from the Unova region and first appearing in *Pokémon Black and White*, Tepig is a Fire-type starter that might not have the same name recognition as Charmander or Torchic, but it's still a solid choice. Its base stat total of 308 is respectable, but the real highlight is its final evolution, Emboar. Emboar boasts a base stat total of 528 and gains the Fighting type, adding significant versatility.

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

Predicting the optimal starter without knowing the specific opponents in *Pokémon Legends: Z-A* is tricky. But, let's analyze the available information to make an informed decision. Mega Evolutions are returning, and the starters will likely receive new forms, but move sets are crucial.

Chikorita learns powerful moves like Solar Beam and Giga Drain; Totodile can utilize heavy hitters such as Hydro Pump and Superpower; and Tepig gains access to Flare Blitz and Head Smash. All three have the potential to dominate, so we need another deciding factor.

Tepig's final evolution, Emboar, is the only starter to gain dual-typing, giving it a significant advantage. Emboar's resistance to six types—Bug, Steel, Fire, Grass, Ice, and Dark—is the most of any starter. While Feraligatr has fewer weaknesses, type coverage is a key consideration.

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

Pokémon Legends: Z-A will release on the Nintendo Switch in late 2025.