Selecting your initial companion in Pokémon Legends: Z-A dramatically influences your gameplay strategy from the outset. 

This analysis examines combat efficacy across starter options, compares their stat distributions, and evaluates their viability against key adversaries and Mega Evolutions.

From offensive dominance to nostalgic preferences, this breakdown assists players in navigating Lumiose City with confidence.

Optimal Starter Selection

Tepig emerges as the premier choice in Legends: Z-A, offering modernized Fire/Fighting capabilities through its evolutions. Emboar’s combat-ready stat allocation outperforms older-generation starters, particularly in post-mega scenarios.

For balanced playstyles, Totodile’s Water-type durability provides steady progression, though it can’t match Tepig’s explosive damage potential. Chikorita remains a niche pick—ideal for aesthetic enthusiasts or self-imposed difficulty runs.

Evolution Progression Analysis

Starter development adheres to classic patterns: Chikorita transforms at Lv16 and Lv32, Totodile at Lv18/Lv30, and Tepig at Lv17/Lv36. The delayed evolution for Tepig results in heightened final-stage potency within the Z-A ecosystem.

Combat Stat Dynamics

Final forms exhibit specialized roles: Emboar dominates offensive metrics with reduced defenses, Feraligatr maintains balanced physical capabilities, while Meganium prioritizes resilience. Mega Evolutions amplify these traits—Mega Emboar becomes a special-defensive juggernaut, while Mega Meganium gains enhanced support utility.

Training Encounters

Specialist trainers (Vinnie’s Normal-types, Philippe’s Steel teams) highlight type advantage potential. Emboar’s Fighting-type prowess proves critical here, while Water and Grass starters struggle with coverage gaps. Dual-type opponents necessitate flexible team building regardless of initial choice.

Mega Confrontations

Legendary Mega battles feature diverse type combinations from Mega Altaria’s dragon might to Mega Gyarados’ aquatic fury. Emboar’s dual STAB typing resists key threats like Mega Scrafty and Mega Excadrill, while Feraligatr’s bulk counters opposing Water-types. Movepool variations remain crucial—type advantages alone don’t guarantee victory.

Through statistical progression, matchup performance, and evolutionary flexibility, Tepig delivers optimal results for competitive playthroughs. Alternative picks provide distinct experiences, encouraging experimentation for returning players.