The Pokémon Legends: Z-A Celebration Event has landed in Pokémon GO, bringing with it a choice that defines your gameplay for the next few days — Chikorita, Totodile, or Tepig. This branching Timed Research not only pays tribute to the Nintendo Switch release of Pokémon Legends: Z-A but also offers players a chance to earn exclusive Candy, XP, and encounters tied to their chosen starter.
Event Overview: How the “Choose a Path” Research Works
The event runs from October 16 to October 20, 2025, ending at 8:00 PM local time.
Once you begin the Timed Research, you must select one of three Pokémon paths — Chikorita, Totodile, or Tepig. Each comes with its own themed tasks and rewards, and your chosen Pokémon will also appear more often when using Daily Adventure Incense throughout the event.
You can only pick one path, so choose wisely before you lock in your selection.
Chikorita Path — Grass-Type Endurance and Defense
For players who favor defensive strategies and sustainability, Chikorita offers a tanky Grass-type experience. The path rewards Candy and encounters that help evolve Chikorita into Bayleef and eventually Meganium, a solid pick for PvE defense teams.
Research Steps and Rewards
Step 1
- Explore 1 km → 25 Chikorita Candy
Reward: Chikorita encounter
Step 2
- Power up Grass-type Pokémon 20 times → 50 Chikorita Candy
- Use 25,000 Stardust → 50 Chikorita Candy
Reward: 6,000 XP and 10 Poké Balls
Step 3
- Evolve a Bayleef → 3 Razz Berries
- Earn 12 hearts with your buddy → 3 Pinap Berries
Reward: Poffin and 12 Chikorita XL Candy
Why Choose Chikorita?
While not the strongest in PvP, Meganium’s high defense and access to Frenzy Plant make it a reliable option in Great League battles and Gym defense teams. This path is great for trainers building a Grass-type roster or completing their Johto collection.
Totodile Path — Power and PvP Dominance
If you’re focused on power, Totodile is the standout pick. Its final evolution, Feraligatr, is a top-tier Water-type attacker with access to Hydro Cannon, one of the best charged moves in Pokémon GO. This makes it a strong choice for both PvE raids and PvP battles.
Research Steps and Rewards
Step 1
- Explore 1 km → 25 Totodile Candy
Reward: Totodile encounter
Step 2
- Power up Water-type Pokémon 20 times → 50 Totodile Candy
- Use 25,000 Stardust → 50 Totodile Candy
Reward: 6,000 XP and 10 Poké Balls
Step 3
- Evolve a Croconaw → 3 Razz Berries
- Earn 12 hearts with your buddy → 3 Pinap Berries
Reward: Poffin and 12 Totodile XL Candy
Why Choose Totodile?
Feraligatr has excellent attack stats, limited weaknesses (only Grass and Electric), and evolves faster than most starters, reaching its final form at Level 30. This makes it the most competitive and versatile option for both new and veteran trainers.
Tepig Path — Balanced Fire and Fighting Potential
The Tepig path is perfect for players looking to complete their Unova Pokédex or prefer Fire-types. Tepig’s evolution line culminates in Emboar, a Fire and Fighting-type Pokémon with a mix of strength and endurance.
Research Steps and Rewards
Step 1
- Explore 1 km → 25 Tepig Candy
Reward: Tepig encounter
Step 2
- Power up Fire-type Pokémon 20 times → 50 Tepig Candy
- Use 25,000 Stardust → 50 Tepig Candy
Reward: 6,000 XP and 10 Poké Balls
Step 3
- Evolve a Pignite → 3 Razz Berries
- Earn 12 hearts with your buddy → 3 Pinap Berries
Reward: Poffin and 12 Tepig XL Candy
Why Choose Tepig?
Emboar’s dual Fire/Fighting typing gives it an advantage against multiple types, including Steel and Ice, but it’s often outclassed by other Fire-type Pokémon like Blaziken or Infernape. Still, it’s a fun, well-rounded choice for casual players and collectors.
Which Path Should You Choose?
If your goal is to pick the most useful Pokémon competitively, Totodile is the best choice.
Its evolution, Feraligatr, remains relevant in both PvP leagues and raid battles, benefiting from the exclusive Hydro Cannon move. Chikorita and Tepig have niche uses, but neither matches Totodile’s overall utility.
However, players who prioritize collection goals or nostalgia might enjoy completing the other paths — especially since each research line grants rare Poffins, XL Candy, and guaranteed Pokémon encounters.
Quick Tips for the Event
- Use Daily Adventure Incense to find more spawns of your chosen starter.
- Complete all three research stages before October 20 to claim your rewards.
- Stock up on Stardust and Power-Ups in advance; each path requires 25,000 Stardust and 20 Power-Ups of a specific type.
- Remember, this event celebrates Pokémon Legends: Z-A, so your chosen starter might also tie into future crossover content.
| Path | Final Evolution | Type | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chikorita | Meganium | Grass | Defense, Great League |
| Totodile | Feraligatr | Water | PvP, PvE, Raids |
| Tepig | Emboar | Fire/Fighting | Collection, Fire-type Team |
Totodile reigns supreme for competitive players, but all three paths offer unique value and fun rewards. No matter which route you take, this event is a rewarding way to celebrate Pokémon Legends: Z-A within Pokémon GO.
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