The Pokémon Company unveiled exciting details about their upcoming title, *Pokémon Legends: Z-A*, at the February 27th, 2025 Pokémon Presents, including the three highly anticipated starter Pokémon. This inevitably sparks the age-old question: which starter should you choose?
Totodile
The iconic Johto Water-type starter, Totodile, first appeared in *Pokémon Gold* and *Silver*. Evolving into Croconaw at level 18 and Feraligatr at level 30, Totodile boasts a base stat total of 314, second only to Chikorita among the *Pokémon Legends: Z-A* starters. Its final evolution, Feraligatr, reigns supreme with a remarkable 530 base stat total, including an impressive 100 Defense.
Chikorita
Another Johto favorite, Chikorita, debuted alongside Totodile but often receives less attention. This Grass-type Pokémon, however, holds the highest base stat total among the *Pokémon Legends: Z-A* starters, clocking in at 318. While its evolutions, Bayleef and Meganium, have lower base stat totals of 405 and 525 respectively, Chikorita's initial advantage is noteworthy.
Tepig
Hailing from the Unova region and featured in *Pokémon Black and White*, Tepig, the Fire-type starter, might not be as instantly recognizable as Charmander or Torchic, but its 308 base stat total is still respectable. The true appeal of Tepig lies in its final evolution, Emboar, which boasts a 528 base stat total and gains the 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, focusing on available information, we can make an informed decision. Mega Evolutions are confirmed to return, significantly impacting the starters' potential. However, move sets play a crucial role.
Chikorita learns powerful moves like Solar Beam and Giga Drain; Totodile can utilize Hydro Pump and Superpower; and Tepig gains access to Flare Blitz and Head Smash. Each starter offers potent moves capable of dominating the game.
The deciding factor? Tepig is the only starter whose final evolution, Emboar, gains 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 has fewer weaknesses, dual-typing offers a considerable strategic edge.
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.
