Choosing your starter in Pokémon Legends: Z-A is one of the most defining moments in your journey through Lumiose and beyond. Each starter not only sets the tone for your early-game battles but also influences how smoothly you progress through the story. With the mix of new regional forms and returning fan favorites, the question remains—who truly stands out? Below is a detailed Starter Pokémon Tier List to help you decide which companion best fits your adventure.

S-Tier: Froakie (Water-Type)

Froakie remains a top-tier pick thanks to its balanced stats, speed, and incredible final evolution, Greninja. In Pokémon Legends: Z-A, Greninja benefits from new move tuning and compatibility with the stealth mechanics the game emphasizes. Its speed allows it to strike first in most encounters, and the combination of Water- and Dark-type moves makes it versatile against both Gym leaders and wild Pokémon.

If you’re looking for a fast-paced playstyle with strong offensive pressure, Froakie is easily the best starter. Many players also pair it with rare held items—something worth considering when you buy Pokémon ZA items to enhance your build.

A-Tier: Fennekin (Fire-Type)

Fennekin, and its evolutions Braixen and Delphox, provide a strong magical presence in battle. The Fire/Psychic combination covers several weaknesses and offers powerful special attacks. In Pokémon Legends: Z-A, Delphox gains access to rebalanced Psychic-type abilities that make it even more effective against the many Fighting- and Poison-types found early on.

Delphox may not have Greninja’s raw speed, but its versatility and ability to handle tricky status conditions make it a reliable mid- to late-game ally. Trainers who prefer strategic battles and status manipulation will find Fennekin an excellent companion.

B-Tier: Chespin (Grass-Type)

Chespin is the most defense-oriented of the three, evolving into Chesnaught, a sturdy Grass/Fighting-type Pokémon. It’s designed for players who favor durability and close-range combat. However, its slower speed can make early battles feel a bit tougher, especially against fast-moving opponents.

Chesnaught shines later when equipped with specific held items or when used in team compositions that rely on defense and counterattacks. For those planning a bulkier playstyle, consider checking the current Legends ZA Pokémon for sale options in your trading hub—you might find companions that complement Chespin’s slower pace.

Honorable Mentions

Some players have discovered that Pokémon Legends: Z-A allows you to acquire additional starter Pokémon through in-game quests or trading. This means you’re not permanently locked into your first choice. If you’re collecting all starters, it’s wise to buy Pokémon ZA items that boost experience gain or speed up friendship levels to evolve them efficiently.

Final Thoughts

All three starters in Pokémon Legends: Z-A have their strengths, and your choice ultimately depends on playstyle. Froakie dominates for fast, agile battles; Fennekin excels at tactical, special-based combat; and Chespin rewards patient, defensive strategies.

No matter which one you choose, remember that preparation matters just as much as raw power. Keep your inventory stocked, level strategically, and experiment with team compositions to find what works best for you. And if you’re expanding your collection, explore the Legends ZA Pokémon for sale options to fill out your roster with powerful allies.

In the end, your starter is more than just your first partner—it’s the symbol of your adventure through Lumiose and the heart of your Pokémon Legends: Z-A story.