Starting your adventure in Pokémon Legends: Z-A can be a daunting task, with so many Pokémon to choose from. Early-game decisions can make a big difference in your progression, and knowing which Pokémon are worth catching early on is essential. In this guide, we'll go through the Top 10 Early-Game Pokémon to Catch in Pokémon Legends: Z-A, focusing on versatility, strength, and how they fit into your early strategies.
1. Chikorita – A Strong Start with Grass Power
If you're looking for a solid and reliable starter, Chikorita is an excellent choice. As a Grass-type, it can handle a variety of early-game battles effectively. Its defensive stats make it a great option for new players who need something sturdy. Early on, Chikorita’s access to moves like Vine Whip can help you clear the initial wild Pokémon and trainers.
2. Charmander – A Powerful Fire-Type for Early Dominance
For those looking for a more aggressive approach, Charmander offers unmatched offensive power. With its Fire-type moves, it can blaze through early encounters. As it evolves into Charizard, it becomes a formidable force that will carry you through mid-game as well. Catching Charmander early ensures you have a strong offensive Pokémon for key battles.
3. Pikachu – The Classic Electric-Type Companion
There’s no denying the popularity of Pikachu, and for good reason. This Electric-type Pokémon can quickly become a fan favorite thanks to its speed and ability to hit hard with moves like Thunderbolt. Its evolution, Raichu, offers even more utility in later stages, making it an essential catch in the Top 10 Early-Game Pokémon to Catch in Pokémon Legends: Z-A.
4. Rowlet – A Versatile Grass/Flying-Type
Rowlet offers an interesting mix of Grass and Flying-types, giving you a lot of flexibility in the early stages. It evolves into Decidueye, a dual-type that can use both physical and special moves effectively. Rowlet’s early-game moves like Leafage and Astonish allow it to cover a broad range of enemy types.
5. Abomasnow – Ideal for Ice-Type Coverage
For those facing off against Water or Dragon-type enemies, Abomasnow provides valuable Ice-type support. This Pokémon's Grass/Ice typing makes it a solid choice for those looking to handle a variety of threats in the Pokémon Legends: Z-A world. Catching it early will allow you to exploit its strength against common early-game foes.
6. Tepig – A Fire-Type That Packs a Punch
Tepig is another solid choice for a Fire-type starter. Early in the game, Tepig can easily knock out Steel, Bug, and Grass-type enemies with moves like Ember and Tackle. As it evolves into Emboar, it grows into a powerhouse that continues to be useful well into the mid-game, making it an excellent addition to your early-game roster.
7. Ralts – A Psychic-Fairy-Type with Potential
Ralts brings both Psychic and Fairy-type moves, making it a rare but valuable addition to your team. It evolves into Gardevoir (or Gallade if you prefer), offering incredible special attack capabilities. Early in the game, Ralts can handle Dark and Fighting-types with ease, and its support potential shines as it learns healing and buffing moves later on.
8. Machop – Fighting Power Early On
For players who need a powerhouse in the early stages, Machop is a solid pick. This Fighting-type Pokémon is strong against Normal, Ice, Rock, and Steel-types. Early-game trainers will struggle to withstand Machop’s raw power, and its evolution into Machamp gives it access to even more devastating moves, making it a must-have in your lineup.
9. Eevee – The Ultimate Versatile Companion
If you’re aiming for versatility, Eevee is a perfect choice. While it may not have the same raw power as some other Pokémon on this list, its ability to evolve into numerous different forms (such as Vaporeon, Jolteon, or Flareon) makes it a valuable asset in the long run. Early in the game, Eevee can learn useful moves like Quick Attack and Bite, and you can choose its evolution depending on your needs.
10. Bidoof – A Surprisingly Good Early Pickup
At first glance, Bidoof may seem like a joke, but don’t overlook its potential. With the ability to learn moves like Hyper Fang and Surf (via TM), Bidoof can pack quite the punch when trained well. It’s a reliable Pokémon that can serve as a solid backup and utility option in your team, making it a valuable member of the Top 10 Early-Game Pokémon to Catch in Pokémon Legends: Z-A.
Building Your Early Team
When it comes to building your team, balance is key. Try to include a mix of different types to cover all possible weaknesses. The Top 10 Early-Game Pokémon to Catch in Pokémon Legends: Z-A offers you a variety of choices to form a versatile and powerful team that will help you tackle all the challenges the game throws at you.
With these Pokémon by your side, you'll have a much smoother time navigating the challenges of Pokémon Legends: Z-A.
