Pokemon Legends: Arceus Starter Guide

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. This inevitably sparks the age-old question: which starter should you choose?

Totodile

This iconic Johto starter, first seen in *Pokémon Gold* and *Silver*, is a Water-type Pokémon. Evolving into Croconaw at level 18 and Feraligatr at level 30, Totodile boasts a base stat total of 314, second only to Chikorita among the *Pokémon Legends: Z-A* starters. Its final evolution, Feraligatr, reigns supreme with a remarkable 530 base stat total, including an impressive 100 Defense.

Chikorita

Another Johto starter alongside Totodile, Chikorita might be slightly less popular, but its Grass-type prowess shouldn't be overlooked. With a base stat total of 318, it boasts the highest stats among the *Pokémon Legends: Z-A* starters. While its evolutions, Bayleef and Meganium, have lower base stat totals of 405 and 525 respectively, Chikorita's initial advantage is significant.

Tepig

Hailing from the Unova region and debuting in *Pokémon Black and White*, Tepig, the Fire-type starter, may not be as immediately recognizable as some others, but its 308 base stat total is respectable. The real appeal of Tepig lies in its final evolution, Emboar, which packs a punch with a 528 base stat total and the added Fighting type.

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

Choosing the best starter without knowing the specific opponents in *Pokémon Legends: Z-A* is tricky. However, focusing on available information, we can make an informed decision. Mega Evolutions are confirmed to return, influencing starter choices, but move sets are crucial. Chikorita can learn powerful moves like Solar Beam and Giga Drain; Totodile has access to heavy hitters like Hydro Pump and Superpower; and Tepig can utilize Flare Blitz and Head Smash. Each offers potent options.

The key differentiator? Tepig is the only starter to gain dual-typing in its final evolution, giving Emboar a significant advantage. Emboar's resistance to six types (Bug, Steel, Fire, Grass, Ice, and Dark) surpasses the others. While Feraligatr has fewer weaknesses, this shouldn't be the sole deciding factor.

Therefore, based on the available information, Tepig emerges as the recommended starter for *Pokémon Legends: Z-A*.

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