Pokemon Legends: Z-A Starter Evolutions Guide: Everything You Need to Know

What to know

• The starters are Chikorita (Grass), Tepig (Fire), and Totodile (Water).
• They evolve into their classic final forms: Meganium, Emboar, and Feraligatr respectively.
• Mega Evolutions return in this game, adding new powerful forms for the starters.
• There are no unique alternate final evolutions unlike Pokémon Legends: Arceus.

Pokémon Legends: Z-A features three starters drawn from previous generations: Chikorita and Totodile from Generation 2 (Gold and Silver) and Tepig from Generation 5 (Black and White). These starters evolve into their well-known final forms — Meganium, Emboar, and Feraligatr. Unlike some recent games in the series, they do not have alternate or Hisuian-style final evolutions special to this game. Mega Evolutions have returned, offering enhanced forms that significantly boost each starter's stats and sometimes alter their appearance and typing slightly.

Pokémon Legends: Z-A Quick overview

Starter evolutions in Pokémon Legends: Z-A

• Chikorita → Bayleef → Meganium
  Pure Grass-type evolution, retaining its traditional Grass-type role without new typings. Chikorita evolves into Bayleef at level 16 and then into Meganium at level 32.

• Tepig → Pignite → Emboar
  Starts as a Fire-type and becomes Fire/Fighting in its final evolution, consistent with prior games. Tepig evolves into Pignite at level 17 and then into Emboar at level 36.

• Totodile → Croconaw → Feraligatr
  Pure Water-type throughout its evolutionary line, notable for reaching its final evolution faster than typical starters (level 30). Totodile evolves into Croconaw at level 18 and then into Feraligatr at level 30.

Mega Evolutions for starters

Mega Evolutions return as a key feature in the game, and all three starters gain new powerful Mega forms:

• Mega Meganium gains floral decorations resembling giant colored flower bands around its neck.
• Mega Emboar adopts a fierce warrior-like appearance, holding a fiery lance.
• Mega Feraligatr features a large red helmet and enhanced spikes, emphasizing its aggressive look.

These Mega forms boost stats significantly, offering strategic advantages during battles, though the core evolutions remain traditional. The game’s battles leverage real-time mechanics and Mega Energy to trigger these Mega Evolutions temporarily.

In gameplay, you will also have early access to additional starter Pokémon from other generations, so your team can compensate any type weaknesses. Trainers and specialist teams you encounter do not heavily depend on your starter choice.

Tips for evolving and using starters in Pokémon Legends: Z-A

• Level up your starter Pokémon to trigger standard evolutions—no special items are needed.
• Chikorita evolves at level 16 and 32; Tepig at levels 17 and 36; Totodile at levels 18 and 30.
• Use Mega Energy during battles to temporarily Mega Evolve your starter for a powerful boost.
• Balance your team by adding other Pokémon types early to cover weaknesses.
• Experiment with Mega Evolutions in different battles to find the best strategic advantage.
• Focus on your preferred starter’s strengths while progressing steadily through levels.
• Keep an eye out for opportunities to replenish Mega Energy in fights to maintain Mega Evolution potential.
• Remember that starter choice is personal—any starter can work well with a good team and strategy.

In Pokémon Legends: Z-A, starter Pokémon evolve simply by reaching specific levels, with no special items needed. Chikorita, Tepig, and Totodile evolve into their classic final forms—Meganium, Emboar, and Feraligatr. Mega Evolutions return, requiring Mega Energy during battles for a temporary power boost. This setup makes evolution straightforward while adding depth through Mega Evolution in combat, letting you focus on your preferred starter without worry.