Which Starter Pokémon to Choose in Pokémon Legends: Z-A? A Complete Guide

Pokémon Legends: Z-A takes place in Lumiose City and introduces a unique selection of Starter Pokémon, accompanied by new Mega Evolutions. The choice of a Starter Pokémon influences the early stages of the adventure, although the game allows players to compensate for weaknesses through team composition.

This guide outlines the characteristics, evolutions, and strengths of each available Starter Pokémon to support an informed decision.

Available Starter Pokémon in Pokémon Legends: Z-A

The game offers three classic Starter Pokémon, each representing a different type and a distinct combat style.

Chikorita

• Category: Leaf Pokémon
• Type: Grass
• Height: 0.89 m
• Weight: 6.4 kg

Chikorita is defined by a defensive and tactical approach. It has access to recovery moves such as Leech Seed and Giga Drain, allowing it to sustain prolonged battles. It stands out for having the best defensive stats and Speed among the three, although its offensive power is more limited compared to the other starters.

Tepig

• Category: Fire Pig Pokémon
• Type: Fire
• Height: 0.51 m
• Weight: 9.9 kg

Tepig offers a balanced playstyle, with solid HP and high physical Attack. Its main drawbacks are low Speed and weaker defenses. However, its final evolution features a broad move pool, allowing it to adapt to different combat scenarios.

Totodile

• Category: Big Jaw Pokémon
• Type: Water
• Height: 0.61 m
• Weight: 9.5 kg

Totodile is a Pokémon focused on direct physical combat. It stands out for its high Attack stat and a well-balanced overall stat distribution. It evolves into its final form earlier than the other starters, providing an advantage during the early stages of the game.

Starter Pokémon Evolutions

All three Starter Pokémon evolve along the same evolutionary lines as in their original games, but each gains a new Mega Evolution exclusive to Pokémon Legends: Z-A.

Chikorita Evolution

Chikorita → Bayleef (Level 16) → Meganium (Level 32)

Final type: Grass

Mega Meganium

Type: Grass / Fairy

Mega Meganium introduces a significant defensive improvement. While it remains weak to five types, it gains resistance to six and becomes completely immune to Dragon-type moves. Its Mega Evolution strengthens its role as a support and control Pokémon, with access to long-range attacks such as Solar Beam.

Tepig Evolution

Tepig → Pignite (Level 17) → Emboar (Level 36)

Final type: Fire / Fighting

Mega Emboar

Type: Fire / Fighting

Mega Emboar retains its original typing and receives overall statistical improvements. Its playstyle continues to focus on physical offense, with improved performance due to the increased power and durability provided by its Mega Evolution.

Totodile Evolution

Totodile → Croconaw (Level 18) → Feraligatr (Level 30)

Final type: Water

Mega Feraligatr

Type: Water / Dragon

Mega Feraligatr emerges as the strongest attacker among the three starters. Its Attack stat reaches significantly higher values, and its new typing reduces its weaknesses to only Dragon and Fairy—two relatively uncommon types. This makes it a highly effective offensive and defensive option.

Which is the best Starter Pokémon?

All Starter Pokémon are viable throughout the adventure and can adapt to different playstyles. However, when considering evolution timing, stat balance, and the impact of Mega Evolution, Totodile stands out as the most complete option. Mega Feraligatr excels due to its offensive power and one of the most efficient type combinations in the game.

Chikorita is well-suited for players who prioritize control and durability, while Tepig offers versatility for those who take advantage of its extensive move pool.

The choice of a Starter Pokémon in Pokémon Legends: Z-A ultimately depends on the player’s preferred playstyle, as all three offer complete evolutionary lines and meaningful Mega Evolutions. Totodile stands out for its overall performance, but Chikorita and Tepig remain fully functional options within a well-balanced team. The variety of combinations and strategies ensures that no single choice limits progression through the game.