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 the options to help you decide: Which starter should you choose in *Pokémon Legends: Z-A*?

Totodile

A classic Johto starter, Totodile first splashed onto the scene in Pokémon Gold and Silver. This Water-type Pokémon evolves into Croconaw at level 18 and the formidable Feraligatr at level 30. Boasting a base stat total of 314, Totodile has the second-highest stats among the Pokémon Legends: Z-A starters. Its final evolution, Feraligatr, reigns supreme with a whopping 530 base stats, including an impressive 100 Defense.

Chikorita

Another Johto favorite, Chikorita debuted alongside Totodile but perhaps hasn't received the same level of fanfare. However, this Grass-type Pokémon boasts the highest base stat total among the starters at 318. While its evolutions, Bayleef and Meganium, may not be as statistically impressive (405 and 525 respectively), Chikorita's starting strength is undeniable.

Tepig

Hailing from the Unova region and first appearing in Pokémon Black and White, Tepig rounds out the starter trio. Though perhaps less iconic than Charmander or Torchic, Tepig's 308 base stat total is nothing to scoff at. The real draw, however, is its final evolution, Emboar. Emboar boasts a 528 base stat total and gains the Fighting type, adding significant versatility.

Related: How To Get the Pokémon Day 2025 Special Eevee and Sylveon Promo Cards

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

Choosing the "best" starter is tricky without knowing the specific challenges Pokémon Legends: Z-A presents. However, we can leverage the available information to make an informed decision.

Mega Evolutions are returning in Pokémon Legends: Z-A, and while new forms for the starters will undoubtedly influence the meta, let's focus on move sets. Chikorita learns powerful moves like Solar Beam and Giga Drain; Totodile packs a punch with Hydro Pump and Superpower; and Tepig can unleash Flare Blitz and Head Smash. Each boasts moves capable of dominating a playthrough, making the decision even more difficult.

The deciding factor? Tepig is the only starter to gain dual-typing through its final evolution, giving Emboar a significant advantage. Emboar's resistance to Bug, Steel, Fire, Grass, Ice, and Dark types is unmatched among the starters. While Feraligatr has fewer weaknesses, type coverage is a key consideration.

Therefore, our recommendation is Tepig.

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