At the February 27th, 2025, Pokemon Presents, The Pokemon Company unveiled exciting details about its upcoming game, *Pokemon Legends: Z-A*, including the introduction of three iconic starters from previous generations. Each of these starters brings unique strengths to the table, sparking a lively debate among fans on which one to choose. Let's dive into the options and see which starter could be your best companion in this new adventure.
Totodile
Totodile, the beloved Water-type starter from the Johto region, first appeared in *Pokemon Gold* and *Silver*. 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 formidable base stat total of 530, including a robust 100 Defense, making it a powerhouse in battle.
Chikorita
Also hailing from Johto, Chikorita is a Grass-type starter that debuted alongside Totodile. Despite often being overshadowed, Chikorita holds the highest base stat total among the starters at 318. Its evolutions, Bayleef and Meganium, have base stat totals of 405 and 525, respectively. While the final forms may not match the raw power of other starters, Chikorita's potential for learning potent moves like Solar Beam and Giga Drain makes it a strategic choice.
Tepig
Rounding out the trio is Tepig, a Fire-type starter from the Unova region, introduced in *Pokemon Black and White*. Although it might not enjoy the same level of fame as other Fire starters, Tepig's base stat total of 308 is still impressive. The true strength of Tepig lies in its final evolution, Emboar, which not only has a high base stat total of 528 but also gains the Fighting type, enhancing its versatility and resistances.
Which Starter Should You Choose in Pokemon Legends: Z-A?
Choosing the right starter for *Pokemon Legends: Z-A* can be a tough call, especially without knowing the specific challenges players will face. However, considering the information available, Tepig emerges as a strong contender. The return of Mega Evolutions in the game suggests that new forms for these starters will be a significant factor, but the move sets each starter can learn are equally important.
Chikorita has access to powerful Grass-type moves like Solar Beam and Giga Drain, while Totodile can unleash devastating attacks such as Hydro Pump and Superpower. Tepig, on the other hand, can use Flare Blitz and Head Smash, making it a formidable force in battle. Yet, what sets Tepig apart is its evolution into Emboar, which gains the Fighting type and boasts resistances to six types: Bug, Steel, Fire, Grass, Ice, and Dark. This dual-typing provides Emboar with a strategic edge over the other starters.
While Feraligatr has fewer weaknesses, the versatility and broader resistance profile of Emboar make Tepig the recommended choice for players looking to maximize their starter's potential in *Pokemon Legends: Z-A*.
*Pokemon Legends: Z-A* is set to launch on the Nintendo Switch in late 2025, promising an exciting new chapter in the Pokemon saga.
