At the February 27th, 2025, Pokemon Presents, The Pokemon Company unveiled exciting details about their upcoming game, *Pokemon Legends: Z-A*, including the introduction of three new starters: Totodile, Chikorita, and Tepig. These choices are sure to spark lively discussions among fans. So, which starter should you pick for your journey in *Pokemon Legends: Z-A*?
Totodile
This iconic Johto starter, first introduced in *Pokemon Gold* and *Silver*, is a Water-type that 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 starters in *Pokemon Legends: Z-A*. Its final evolution, Feraligatr, stands out with a total base stat of 530, including a robust 100 Defense, making it a formidable choice.
Chikorita
Also hailing from Johto and debuting alongside Totodile, Chikorita is a Grass-type starter. It may not receive as much fanfare as its counterpart, but it leads with the highest base stat total among the starters at 318. However, its evolutions, Bayleef and Meganium, have base stat totals of 405 and 525, respectively, which might not be as impressive.
Tepig
The third starter, Tepig, comes from the Unova region and was first seen in *Pokemon Black and White*. This Fire-type might not be as popular as Charmander or Torchic, but its base stat total of 308 is quite respectable. The real advantage of choosing Tepig lies in its final evolution, Emboar, which has a base stat total of 528 and gains the Fighting type, adding versatility to its arsenal.
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Which Starter Should You Choose in Pokemon Legends: Z-A?
Choosing the best starter in *Pokemon Legends: Z-A* can be challenging without knowing the full roster of opponents you'll face. However, let's dive into the available information to help you make an informed decision.
With the return of Mega Evolutions in *Pokemon Legends: Z-A*, and the potential for new forms for the starters, move sets become a crucial factor. Chikorita can learn powerful moves like Solar Beam and Giga Drain, Totodile can master Hydro Pump and Superpower, while Tepig can unleash Flare Blitz and Head Smash. All these moves have the potential to dominate your playthrough, but there's another key factor to consider.
Tepig is the only starter that gains a dual-typing by its final evolution, evolving into Emboar, which boasts resistances to six types: Bug, Steel, Fire, Grass, Ice, and Dark. This gives Tepig an edge over the other starters. While Feraligatr has fewer weaknesses, resistance to multiple types can be a significant advantage in various battle scenarios.
Therefore, Tepig emerges as the top choice for *Pokemon Legends: Z-A* due to its versatility and robust type advantages.
*Pokemon Legends: Z-A will release on the Nintendo Switch in late 2025.*
