At the February 27th, 2025, Pokemon Presents, The Pokemon Company unveiled exciting details about their upcoming title, *Pokemon Legends: Z-A*, including the three starters that players will have the opportunity to choose from. This choice is sure to spark lively debates among fans. Let's dive into the details of each starter and determine which one you should pick for your adventure in *Pokemon Legends: Z-A*.
Totodile
Totodile, the beloved Johto starter, first appeared in *Pokemon Gold* and *Silver*. As a Water type, it evolves into Croconaw at level 18 and then into Feraligatr at level 30. With a base stat total of 314, Totodile boasts the second-highest stats among the *Pokemon Legends: Z-A* starters. Its final evolution, Feraligatr, stands out with a base stat total of 530, including a robust 100 Defense, making it a formidable choice.
Chikorita
Chikorita, another Johto starter introduced alongside Totodile, often flies under the radar but deserves more attention. As a Grass type, it leads the pack with a base stat total of 318. However, its evolutions, Bayleef and Meganium, have base stat totals of 405 and 525, respectively, which might not be as impressive as some other final evolutions.
Tepig
Tepig, hailing from the Unova region and debuting in *Pokemon Black and White*, is the third starter option. While it may not receive the same fanfare as other Fire starters like Charmander or Torchic, Tepig's base stat total of 308 is still respectable. Its final evolution, Emboar, is particularly noteworthy with a base stat total of 528 and the added Fighting type, enhancing its versatility.
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Which Starter Should You Choose in Pokemon Legends: Z-A?
Choosing the right starter in *Pokemon Legends: Z-A* can be challenging without knowing the full roster of opponents. However, let's focus on the available information to make an informed decision.
With Mega Evolutions returning in *Pokemon Legends: Z-A*, the potential new forms for the starters will be a significant factor. Additionally, the move sets of each starter are crucial. Chikorita can learn powerful moves like Solar Beam and Giga Drain, Totodile can wield heavy hitters such as Hydro Pump and Superpower, and Tepig can utilize Flare Blitz and Head Smash. These moves have the potential to dominate your playthrough, but another factor tips the scales.
Tepig stands out as the only starter to gain a dual-typing by its final evolution into Emboar, which adds a strategic advantage. Emboar's resistances to six types—Bug, Steel, Fire, Grass, Ice, and Dark—give it the edge over the other starters. While Feraligatr has fewer weaknesses, the versatility and defensive capabilities of Emboar make Tepig the top choice for *Pokemon Legends: Z-A*.
*Pokemon Legends: Z-A* is set to release on the Nintendo Switch in late 2025, and with Tepig as your starter, you'll be well-equipped to tackle the challenges ahead.
