Pikachu (Pokémon)

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This article is about the species. For a specific instance of this species, see Pikachu (disambiguation).

Pikachu ピカチュウ Pikachu #025
Art by Ken Sugimori from FireRed and LeafGreen
Type Electric ' Unknown Unknown Blue-Striped Unknown Unknown Unknown Unknown Unknown Unknown Unknown Unknown	Category Mouse Pokémon
Abilities Static Blue-Striped ----- Lightningrod Hidden Ability
Exp. at Lv. 100 1,000,000
Regional Pokédex numbers Kanto #025 Johto #022 Hoenn #156 Sinnoh #104 Unova Not in any regional Pokédex
Regional Browser numbers Fiore R-023 Almia R-002 Oblivia R-005 N-154
Height 1'04" Imperial 0.4 m Metric 1'04"/0.4 m Red-Striped 0'0"/0.0 m Blue-Striped 0'0"/0.0 m
Weight 13.2 lbs. Imperial 6.0 kg Metric 13.2 lbs./6.0 kg Red-Striped 0.0 lbs./0.0 kg Blue-Striped 0.0 lbs./0.0 kg
Dex color Yellow	Catch rate 190 (24.8%)
Body style Blue-Striped	Footprint      Blue-Striped
Gender ratio Gender unknown Unknown 50% male, 50% female
Breeding Ground and Fairy groups 21 cycles (5355 minimum steps)
EV yield HP 0 Atk 0 Def 0 Sp.Atk 0 Sp.Def 0 Speed 2 Base Exp.: 82 Battle Exp.: 821*
External links On Smogon Pokédex: Generation I Generation II Generation III Generation IV Generation V Generation VI Generation VII Generation VIII Generation IX Artwork on Bulbagarden Archives

Pikachu (Japanese: ピカチュウ Pikachu) is an Template:Type2 Pokémon introduced in Generation I.

It evolves from Pichu by happiness, and evolves into Raichu when exposed to a Thunderstone.

Pikachu is popularly known as the mascot of the Pokémon franchise and a major representative of Nintendo's collective mascots.

It is the version mascot of Pokémon Yellow, where it is the only starter Pokémon in that game, and has made numerous appearances on the boxes of spin-off titles.

Biology

Physiology

A Pikachu is a short, chubby, ground-dwelling rodent notable for its Electric abilities. Pikachu have short, yellow fur with brown stripes on the back, red cheeks that can produce small jolts of electricity, a mouth that looks like a sideways three, black-tipped ears, along with an unusually shaped tail, resembling a lightning bolt. Besides its evolution and pre-evolution, it may be related to Plusle, Minun, Pachirisu, and Emonga due to notable physical similarities.

Pikachu are known to have acute senses of hearing, thanks to their large ears. Most domestic Pikachu are able to understand and interpret human speech at levels far surpassing those of any pet dog.

In Pika and Goliath!, when Ash's Pikachu was injured, it was shown to have a heart rate of 156.

Gender differences

A female Pikachu has a v-shaped "dent" at the end of its tail. Male Pikachu do not have this dent. However, both genders' tails resemble a lightning bolt, fitting their Electric typing. In Black and White, male Pikachu have less black covering their ear, this is only shown in frontal sprites.

Special abilities

Exclusive to Pikachu is the ability to release electric discharges of varying intensity, at will, through electric sacs in its cheeks. This electric energy can be manipulated into a variety of techniques which are mostly used in battle, but which can be used to roast berries as well.

As Pikachu builds up energy in its electricity glands, it often needs to discharge, as to not result in a short, or worse, which can lead to physical Paralysis, or in severe cases, death. Pikachu release the built-up energy through their tail, which acts as a grounding rod, to safely remove unneeded energy. A sure sign to tell if a location is inhabited by Pikachu is to look for patches of burnt grass, which is the result of the discharge. Through an inability to release a buildup of electricity, a Pikachu may develop a rare condition similar to the human flu. This illness is most often caused by strong nearby electromagnetic forces, which severely impact the electric glands. If a Pikachu is introduced to a magnet, it will be attracted towards its cheeks, and display other common attributes of magnetism.

Pikachu and its evolution family, Pichu and Raichu, are the only known Pokémon that can learn Volt Tackle. In a few rare cases, Pikachu can learn to manipulate Water and, with the help of a surfboard, perform the move Surf. Other rare cases show that Pikachu can also learn, with the use of balloons, to perform the move Fly. Pikachu also have their own signature held item - the Light Ball. This item boosts a Pikachu's Attack and Special Attack stat, and, when held by a Pikachu in the daycare center, causes the offspring to know the move Volt Tackle.

Behavior

In the wild, Pikachu often travel in packs, and are rarely territorial. However, when threatened, a group can generate an intense electrical offensive, and the electro-magnetic forces exerted by the resulting field can even produce a short lived, localized thunderstorm. Pikachu can be harmful pests, eating and sometimes destroying telephone poles, wires, and other electronic equipment.

Despite this, it is a popular pet, and relatively easy to maintain, with little exercise necessary for its well being. However, it is important to discharge the electricity in its cheeks periodically.

As many know, pulling on a Pikachu's tail will result in a severe shock to the offender. Another defense of Pikachu's is the use of its nasty Bite which has been known to leave quite a mark.

Habitat

File:Forest.gif

Forest Pokémon

They are found mostly in forests, but possibly because of their attraction to their electricity or simply because they are not afraid of people, Pikachu commonly show up in civilized areas. They may even enter houses, presumably attracted by the electrical output generated by the dwellers' appliances. Pikachu are native only to the Kanto region, although they have been introduced to many other regions.

Diet

Main article: Pokémon food

Living in wooded areas, Pikachu often are found foraging for berries. Instead of climbing trees, they use small electrical shocks to release the berries from the tree, roasting them at the same time. They especially like Oran Berries, which wild Pikachu are often seen holding.

As pets, they can be fed a variety of processed food. Alternatively, like most Pokémon, Pikachu are tolerant to most "human" foods, and sometimes enjoy them more than the more nutritional food designed for their biology. An example of this is the fact that Ash's Pikachu has been known to have a fondness of ketchup.

In the anime

Major appearances

Pikachu in the anime

Ash's Pikachu

Main article: Ash's Pikachu

Ash Ketchum has a Pikachu that he obtained from Professor Oak in Pokémon - I Choose You!, the first episode of the Pokémon anime series. It has appeared in every non-special episode and every Pokémon movie since. Ash's Pikachu does not like being in a Poké Ball.

Ash was given the opportunity to release Pikachu in Pikachu's Goodbye. Even though he did attempt to, the bond between the two was too strong, so Pikachu chose to stay with him. This episode also featured many other wild Pikachu.

A Pikachu named Sugar belonging to the owners of a restaurant went missing prior to Cooking up a Sweet Story!, and Ash's Pikachu had to fill in for it so that its owner would have the confidence to win a cooking competition. At the end of the episode, Sugar returns, however, it has evolved into a Raichu.

Sparky, Ritchie's Pikachu

Main article: Sparky

Ritchie also has a Pikachu nicknamed Sparky, who debuted in A Friend In Deed. Sparky, unlike most Pikachu, has a tuft of fur on the top of its head.

Ashachu

Main article: Ashachu

Ash gets turned into a Pikachu in Hocus Pokémon by a Pokémon magician named Lily. He reverts to his human form at the beginning of the next episode.

Other

Lt. Surge's Raichu was once a Pikachu, as was Volkner's Raichu when Volkner was younger.

At least twenty other Pikachu appeared in Pokémon Emergency! to help Ash's Pikachu defeat Team Rocket's Jessie, James, and Meowth to send them blasting off for the first time.

Another Pikachu nicknamed Puka was owned by a man named Victor on Seafoam Island in The Pi-Kahuna. This blue-eyed Pikachu had the ability to sense tidal waves approaching.

A Pikachu has also been owned by Luana's son, Travis. Luana mistook Ash for Travis when she saw Pikachu on Ash's shoulder.

In Lights, Camerupt, Action, Elijah used a Pikachu in one of his movies. This Pikachu helped Plusle and Minun on their mission to rescue Princess Kirlia from the evil Exploud.

In Mewtwo Strikes Back, Mewtwo clones Ash's Pikachu. This Pikachu can be told apart from Ash's due to spikes on the black marks at the tips of its ears. It is also comparatively more aggressive than Ash's Pikachu and slurs its speech, defects possibly caused by Ash tampering with Mewtwo's cloning machine during the cloning process.

A Pikachu also had a part in Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Team Go-Getters out of the Gate!. He was kidnapped by a Skarmory and Team Go-Getters set out to rescue him as their first mission. Pikachu provided them with some items in the battle.

Minor appearances

Aside from Ash's Pikachu, Pokémon of this species, wild and Trainers' alike, are rarely seen in the anime. This is most likely due to the fact that Ash's Pikachu is seen in every episode.

James used a Pikachu in the Pokémon League Entrance Exam in The Ultimate Test, but it was defeated by the instructor's Graveler. James, after interfering with a battle Ash was having with the instructor, later tried to steal this Pikachu, only for that Pikachu to zap James instead, as instructed by its instructor.

A Pikachu belonging to an unnamed Aura Guardian appeared in a flashback in The Keystone Pops!.

Pokédex entries

Episode Pokémon Source Entry DP002 Pikachu Dawn's Pokédex Pikachu, the Mouse Pokémon. It can generate electric attacks from the electric pouches located in both of its cheeks.

Episode Pokémon Source Entry BW001 Pikachu Shooti's Pokédex Pikachu, the Mouse Pokémon and the evolved form of Pichu. By straightening its tail it checks its surroundings. Sometimes, a lightning can strike its tail.

In the manga

In the Ash and Pikachu manga

Main article: Ash's Pikachu

Ash's Pikachu is a starring character in Ash and Pikachu, a manga adaptation of the Pokémon anime which is based on Ash's adventures in the Johto region.

In The Electric Tale of Pikachu manga

Main article: Ash's Pikachu

Ash's Pikachu is a main character in the manga series The Electric Tale of Pikachu, an adaptation of the Pokémon anime.

In the manga, Ash discovered Pikachu under the floorboards at his home, where he was chewing on wires to eat the electricity.

Sparky, Ritchie's Pikachu, appears in The Electric Tale of Pikachu as well, however, it is nicknamed "Chuchino" instead.

Pokédex entries

Manga Chapter Entry Electric Tale of Pikachu ET01 An electric mouse Pokémon. Habitat: Forests and woodlands Diet: Mainly fruit Distinguishing features: Has an electric generator on each cheek. Beware of electrocution!

In the How I Became a Pokémon Card manga

A story called Akari and Pikachu's Birthday is featured in the final volume of How I Became a Pokémon Card.

In the Magical Pokémon Journey and Pokémon Chamo-Chamo ☆ Pretty ♪ manga

Main article: Pikachu (MPJ)

Pikachu is a main character in the Magical Pokémon Journey manga series. He is the first Pokémon befriended by Hazel, appearing for the first time in How Do You Do, Pikachu?. Pikachu is one of the few Pokémon in Magical Pokémon Journey that cannot speak human language, although the others seem to understand him. He is described as rather scatterbrained at times. Pikachu returns as a main character in Pokémon Chamo-Chamo ☆ Pretty ♪, the sequel to the Magical Pokémon Journey series.

Ash's Pikachu also makes a cameo appearance in bonus chapters at the end of every volume of the Magical Pokémon Journey manga.

File:PSPikachu.jpg

Pikachu in Pokémon Adventures

In the Pokémon Adventures manga

Main article: Pika

Main article: Chuchu

Pikachu debuted in its own round in the Red, Green & Blue arc, Wanted: Pikachu!. Here, a Pikachu was stealing all the crops in a town. The townsfolk kept chasing it around, but end up getting shocked by it. Red arrives and captures it, ending the chaos. Although extremely disobedient at first, even prone to regularly electrocuting its owner, the two eventually got over this enmity, and this Pikachu, nicknamed "Pika," became one of his most loyal and trusted fighters, being used in almost every major battle Red has had.

In the ninth volume, Yellow is seen to have a new addition to her team: a Pikachu she had found injured in the Viridian Forest and nursed back to health. When Pika is left behind by Red on his trip to Mt. Silver, Pika joins Yellow and Chuchu on their trip to Johto.

Pika and Chuchu share a loving relationship, one that is so strong that even Jasmine noticed, prompting her to hand Yellow a slip with the Pokémon Daycare's address on it. In Volume 13, after Yellow and Wilton are brought to the Daycare after being shipwrecked, Yellow finds that Pika and Chuchu now have an egg shortly after they were "put together." The egg eventually hatches into Gold's Pichu.

Wild Pikachu also appeared in the R/S and D/P arcs.

Pokédex entries

Manga Chapter Entry Pokémon Adventures PS004 When several of these Pokémon gather, their electricity could build up and cause lightning storms. Forest dwellers, they are few in number and exceptionally rare. The pouches in their cheeks discharge electricity at their opponents. The Pikachu are believed to be highly intelligent.

In the Pokémon Battle Frontier manga

A Pikachu makes a cameo in Pokémon Battle Frontier during one of the battles. Also, a photo album owned by Anabel has a Pikachu on the cover.

In the Pokémon Get da ze! manga

Main article: Shū's Pikachu

In the Pokémon Get da ze! manga, Shū's first Pokémon was a Pikachu that he found abandoned in the forest.

In the Pokémon Gold and Silver: The Golden Boys manga

In Pokémon Gold & Silver: The Golden Boys, Gold was in possession of a Pikachu, which ended up being Eusine's.

In the Pokémon Pocket Monsters manga

Main article: Isamu Akai's Pikachu

Pikachu is one of the main characters in the Pokémon Pocket Monsters manga series and its sequels. It was the first Pokémon that Isamu Akai captured on his own.

Pikachu is one of the few Pokémon in the manga that cannot speak human language. He is the cousin of Isamu Akai's Clefairy and is considered the smarter of the two.

Pikachu evolved into Raichu in Clefairy finally evolves?!, but he has since devolved back to the Pikachu stage.

In Pokémon Newspaper Strip

Ash's Pikachu was the main character in the short-lived Pokémon Newspaper Strip.

In the Pokémon Zensho manga

Satoshi has a Pikachu as one of the members of his team in Pokémon Zensho. It later evolves into a Raichu.

First Pikachu card; illustation by Mitsuhiro Arita

In the TCG

Main article: Pikachu (TCG)

Pikachu somehow manages to find its way into many of the expansions, causing there to be 211 known non-reprint Pokémon cards featuring Pikachu. There are also various Trainer cards with Pikachu in the card's artwork too, including the very sought-after tournament promos such as No.1 Trainer.

The first Pikachu that appeared in the TCG was Pikachu in the Base Set (which was reprinted in Base Set 2 and in POP Series 2 with different artwork). It was followed in the next set by another Pikachu (which was also reprinted in the Legendary Collection). The third Pikachu card released was the first-ever English promo card, Pikachu. The original Base Set Pikachu was also released as a special promotional card at E3.

In the early days of the TCG, several notable errors were made regarding the Pikachu cards. The Base Set Pikachu was released with altered artwork at first, depicting it with red cheeks, instead of the original yellow. While this matched Ken Sugimori's artwork, the yellow color on its cheeks was intentional by the artist, who depicted Pikachu using ThunderShock. This error appeared in both the E3 promotional version and the normal Base Set release. A second error was made in the production of Jungle set booster packs, which, instead of the Jungle set's Pikachu, contained, at times, first edition versions of the Pikachu that was released as a promo card.

In the TFG

One Pikachu figure has been released.

• Next Quest: Pikachu

Other appearances

Super Smash Bros.

Pikachu is a playable character and the only Pokémon that is playable from the start of the game. Its main stage is Saffron City.

In the hands of a skilled player, Pikachu is not to be taken lightly. Alongside electrical attacks, it has very good aerial attacks and superb recovery. Because of this, top-level SSB players have placed Pikachu at the top of their list, theoretically making it the best character in the game.

Standard Special Move	Up Special Move	Down Special Move
Thunder Jolt	Quick Attack	Thunder
[[File:{{{SpeImg}}}|100px]]	[[File:{{{SpeUImg}}}|100px]]	[[File:{{{SpeDImg}}}|100px]]

Super Smash Bros. Melee

Pikachu is a returning playable character and the only Pokémon that is playable from the start of the game. Its main stage is Kanto: Pokémon Stadium.

While Pikachu's play style remained the same, it was powered down in the sequel. The tier lists for Melee place Pikachu in either the Middle or Low tier.

File:SSBB Pikachu.png

Pikachu in Super Smash Bros. Brawl

Standard Special Move	Side Special Move	Up Special Move	Down Special Move
Thunder Jolt	Skull Bash	Quick Attack	Thunder
[[File:{{{SpeImg}}}|100px]]	[[File:{{{SpeSImg}}}|100px]]	[[File:{{{SpeUImg}}}|100px]]	[[File:{{{SpeDImg}}}|100px]]

Trophy information

Classic Mode

It's safe to say that Pikachu is the most famous and popular of all Pokémon. It has electric pouches in both cheeks; when in danger, it shoots electricity at its enemies. Although Pikachu can evolve into Raichu by exposure to a Thunderstone, many Trainers like Pikachu so much that they don't let it evolve.

Adventure Mode

While its electrical attacks, such as Thunder and Thunder Jolt, are powerful, Pikachu is at its best speeding around the fray and waiting for its chance to strike. You can control the path of Pikachu's two-directional Quick Attack, allowing you to jump twice. Hold down the B Button to charge up Skull Bash.

All-Star Mode

The angle of the Control Stick controls the direction of Pikachu's Quick Attack. Pikachu will move blindingly fast, and it will also cause damage to any character it runs into. Move the Control Stick during Quick Attack and Pikachu will move in up to two directions. Be sure to check out the ceilings on the level when you use Thunder.

Super Smash Bros. Brawl

Pikachu in Brawl

Pikachu is a returning playable character to the franchise. Its Final Smash move is Volt Tackle. It has different designs for hats including Red's hat from Pokémon Red and Blue.

Standard Special Move	Side Special Move	Up Special Move	Down Special Move	Final Smash
Thunder Jolt	Skull Bash	Quick Attack	Thunder	Volt Tackle
[[File:{{{SpeImg}}}|100px]]	[[File:{{{SpeSImg}}}|100px]]	[[File:{{{SpeUImg}}}|100px]]	[[File:{{{SpeDImg}}}|100px]]	[[File:{{{FSImg}}}|100px]]

Subspace Emissary

Pikachu is first seen in the "Research Facility" stage where it is being used to power a generator. Responding to its shrieks of pain, Samus Aran (seen as Zero Suit Samus), the protagonist of the Metroid series, saves it by destroying the generator. The two then face a group of R.O.B Sentries. Pikachu then joins Samus to search for her stolen power suit. After its rescue, Pikachu can be used for the rest of the story. Samus's suit is soon recovered, but they are confronted by Samus's nemesis, Ridley, who grabs Samus and begins dragging her across the walls. It is now that Pikachu returns the favor, zapping Ridley with a powerful Thunder attack, which causes him to release Samus. The angry Space Pirate leader fights the two heroes and loses, though he later comes back as "Meta Ridley".

Codec information (on Shadow Moses Island)

File:SSBB Volt Tackle.png

Pikachu using Volt Tackle in Brawl

• Mei Ling: "Ooh! How cuute!"
• Solid Snake: "What? The yellow thing?"
• Mei Ling: "That's Pikachu. It's a Pokémon. They're popular all over the world, you know. And it may look cute, but be careful. It can store large amounts of electricity in those adorable little cheeks. It'll try to pepper you with electric shocks."
• Solid Snake: "Couldn't be much worse than Ocelot's old torture device..."
• Mei Ling: "Oh, and, Snake?"
• Solid Snake: "What?"
• Mei Ling: "I was wondering, could you maybe try and catch Pikachu for me? Pleeeeease?"
• Solid Snake: "Give me a break! What do I look like, a Pokémon Trainer?"
• Mei Ling: "Fine... Sorry I asked."

Trophy information

"A Mouse Pokémon. Its lightning-bolt tail and round cheeks are its trademarks. When danger draws near, it uses tiny electric pouches within its cheeks to discharge electricity. When it's really fired up, it unleashes thunderbolts on its rivals. It's said to recharge when it's sleeping. It evolves into Raichu."

Game data

NPC appearances

• Pokémon Stadium: Pikachu stars in the mini-game "Thundering Dynamo" alongside Voltorb. This mini-game involves charging up electric power.
• Pokémon Stadium 2: Pikachu can be used in "Pichu's Power Plant" if one is detected in a Transferred Pokémon game.
• Pokémon Pinball: Pikachu serves as a Ball-Saver, but it will only work if the Lightning Meter is full.
• Pokémon Pinball: Ruby & Sapphire: Pikachu has the same role as in Pokémon Pinball but is sometimes helped by Pichu. Pikachu also appears on the Catch 'Em Mode banner.

Pokédex entries

This Pokémon was unavailable prior to Generation I.
Generation I Red When several of these Pokémon gather, their electricity could build and cause lightning storms. Blue Yellow It keeps its tail raised to monitor its surroundings. If you yank its tail, it will try to bite you. Stadium Lives in forests away from people. It stores electricity in its cheeks for zapping an enemy if it is attacked.
Generation II Gold This intelligent Pokémon roasts hard berries with electricity to make them tender enough to eat. Silver It raises its tail to check its surroundings. The tail is sometimes struck by lightning in this pose. Crystal When it is angered, it immediately discharges the energy stored in the pouches in its cheeks. Stadium 2 This intelligent Pokémon roasts hard Berries with electricity to make them tender enough to eat.
Generation III Ruby Whenever Pikachu comes across something new, it blasts it with a jolt of electricity. If you come across a blackened berry, it's evidence that this Pokémon mistook the intensity of its charge. Sapphire This Pokémon has electricity-storing pouches on its cheeks. These appear to become electrically charged during the night while Pikachu sleeps. It occasionally discharges electricity when it is dozy after waking up. Emerald It stores electricity in the electric sacs on its cheeks. When it releases pent-up energy in a burst, the electric power is equal to a lightning bolt. FireRed It has small electric sacs on both its cheeks. If threatened, it looses electric charges from the sacs. LeafGreen When several of these Pokémon gather, their electricity could build and cause lightning storms.
Generation IV Diamond It lives in forests with others. It stores electricity in the pouches on its cheeks. Pearl If it looses crackling power from the electrical pouches on its cheeks, it is being wary. Platinum It occasionally uses an electric shock to recharge a fellow Pikachu that is in a weakened state. HeartGold This intelligent Pokémon roasts hard berries with electricity to make them tender enough to eat. SoulSilver It raises its tail to check its surroundings. The tail is sometimes struck by lightning in this pose.
Generation V Black よわった　なかまの　ピカチュウに　でんきをながし　ショックをあたえて　げんきを　わけることも　ある。 White {{{whitedex}}} Black 2 {{{black2dex}}} White 2 {{{white2dex}}}
Generation VI X Unknown Y Unknown

Game locations

This Pokémon was unavailable prior to Generation I.
Generation I Red Blue Uncommon Viridian Forest, Power Plant Blue (Japan) None Trade Yellow One Starter Pokémon from Professor Oak in Pallet Town
Generation II Gold Silver Rare Route 2 Crystal Rare Route 2
Generation III Ruby Sapphire Rare Safari Zone Emerald Rare Safari Zone FireRed LeafGreen Rare Viridian Forest, Power Plant Colosseum None Trade XD None Trade
Generation IV Diamond Pearl Common Trophy Garden Platinum Common Trophy Garden HeartGold SoulSilver Rare Viridian Forest Pal Park Forest Pokéwalker Resort, Yellow Forest, Rally, and Sightseeing
Generation V Black White None PokéShifter, Dream World Black 2 White 2 None Trade Dream World None
Generation VI X Y None Trade

In side games

Game	Location
Pokémon Snap	Beach, Tunnel, River and Cave
Pokémon Channel	Collect all 101 Nice Cards
Pokémon Pinball	Viridian Forest
Pokémon Pinball: Ruby & Sapphire	Safari Zone (Ruby Field)
Pokémon Trozei!	Secret Storage 4 Secret Storage 20 Endless Level 1 Mr. Who's Den
Pokémon Mystery Dungeon Red/Blue Rescue Team	Starter Pokémon Lightning Field (6F-10F)
Pokémon Mystery Dungeon Explorers of Time/Darkness	Starter Pokémon Amp Plains (9F-10F) Far Amp Plains (1F-4F)
Pokémon Ranger	Lyra Forest Panula Cave Sekra Mountain Range
Pokémon Ranger: Shadows of Almia	Vien Forest Crysta Cave Volcano Cave Chroma Road Chroma Highlands Chroma Ruins
Pokémon Ranger: Guardian Signs	Submarine Faldera Volcano Thunder Temple
My Pokémon Ranch	Random trade with Hayley*
Pokémon Rumble	Silent Forest

Held items

Game		Held Item(s)
Red*	Blue*	Berry (100%)
Gold	Silver	Berry (8%)
Crystal
Ruby	Sapphire	Oran Berry (50%)	Light Ball (5%)
Emerald
FireRed	LeafGreen	Oran Berry (50%)	Light Ball (5%)
Diamond	Pearl	Oran Berry (50%)	Light Ball (5%)
Platinum
Battle Revolution		Light Ball (100%)
Ranch		Shuca Berry (100%)
HeartGold	SoulSilver	Oran Berry (50%)	Light Ball (5%)
Black	White	Oran Berry (50%)
X	Y	Light Ball (100%)
Pokéwalker		Shuca Berry (100%)	Lum Berry (100%)
		Sitrus Berry (100%)	Leppa Berry (100%)
		TinyMushroom (100%)	Oran Berry (100%)
Events*		Light Ball (100%)	Lucky Egg (100%)
		Shell Bell (100%)	Soothe Bell (100%)
		Chesto Berry (100%)

Stats

Base stats

Stat		Range
		At Lv. 50	At Lv. 100
HP: 35		95 - 142	180 - 274
Attack: 55		54 - 117	103 - 229
Defense: 30		31 - 90	58 - 174
Sp. Atk: 50		49 - 112	94 - 218
Sp. Def: 40		40 - 101	76 - 196
Speed: 90		85 - 156	166 - 306
Total: 300	Other Pokémon with this total
Minimum stats are calculated with 0 EVs, IVs of 0, and (if applicable) a hindering nature. Maximum stats are calculated with 252 EVs, IVs of 31, and (if applicable) a helpful nature. This Pokémon's Special base stat in Generation I was 50.

Pokéathlon stats

Speed 3/4 ★★★☆	Power 3/4 ★★★☆
Skill 3/4 ★★★☆	Stamina 3/4 ★★★☆
Jump 3/4 ★★★☆	Total 15/20 ★★★☆

Type effectiveness

Under normal battle conditions in Generation V, this Pokémon is:

Damaged normally by: Normal 1× Fighting 1× Flying ½× Poison 1× Ground 2× Rock 1× Bug 1× Ghost 1× Steel ½× Fire 1× Water 1× Grass 1× Electric ½× Psychic 1× Ice 1× Dragon 1× Dark 1× None

Weak to: Normal 1× Fighting 1× Flying ½× Poison 1× Ground 2× Rock 1× Bug 1× Ghost 1× Steel ½× Fire 1× Water 1× Grass 1× Electric ½× Psychic 1× Ice 1× Dragon 1× Dark 1× None

Immune to: Normal 1× Fighting 1× Flying ½× Poison 1× Ground 2× Rock 1× Bug 1× Ghost 1× Steel ½× Fire 1× Water 1× Grass 1× Electric ½× Psychic 1× Ice 1× Dragon 1× Dark 1× None

Resistant to: Normal 1× Fighting 1× Flying ½× Poison 1× Ground 2× Rock 1× Bug 1× Ghost 1× Steel ½× Fire 1× Water 1× Grass 1× Electric ½× Psychic 1× Ice 1× Dragon 1× Dark 1× None

Notes: If this Pokémon has Lightningrod, the effectiveness of  Electric-type  moves is 0×.

Learnset

By leveling up

Generation V Other generations: I - II - III - IV - VI - VII - VIII - IX

Level   Move   Type   Cat.   Pwr.   Acc.   PP  00Start Growl Normal Status 0000— 100100% 40 00Start ThunderShock Electric Special 04040 100100% 30 055 Tail Whip Normal Status 0000— 100100% 30 1010 Thunder Wave Electric Status 0000— 100100% 20 1313 Quick Attack Normal Physical 04040 100100% 30 1818 Elecball Electric Special 0000— 100100% 10 2121 Double Team Normal Status 0000— ——% 15 2626 Slam Normal Physical 08080 07575% 20 2929 Thunderbolt Electric Special 09595 100100% 15 3434 Feint Normal Physical 03030 100100% 10 3737 Agility Psychic Status 0000— ——% 30 4242 Discharge Electric Special 08080 100100% 15 4545 Light Screen Psychic Status 0000— ——% 30 5050 Thunder Electric Special 120120 07070% 10

Bold indicates a move that gets STAB when used by Pikachu Italic indicates a move that gets STAB only when used by an Evolution of Pikachu Click on the generation numbers at the top to see level-up moves from other generations

By TM/HM

Generation V Other generations: I - II - III - IV - VI - VII - VIII - IX
TM		Move	Type	Cat.	Pwr.	Acc.	PP
	TM06	Toxic	Poison	Status	0000—	090}}90%	10
	TM10	Hidden Power	Normal	Special	0000—	100}}100%	15
	TM16	Light Screen	Psychic	Status	0000—	—}}—%	30
	TM17	Protect	Normal	Status	0000—	—}}—%	10
	TM18	Rain Dance	Water	Status	0000—	—}}—%	5
	TM21	Frustration	Normal	Physical	0000—	100}}100%	20
	TM24	Thunderbolt	Electric	Special	09595	100}}100%	15
	TM25	Thunder	Electric	Special	120120	070}}70%	10
	TM27	Return	Normal	Physical	0000—	100}}100%	20
	TM28	Dig	Ground	Physical	08080	100}}100%	10
	TM31	Brick Break	Fighting	Physical	07575	100}}100%	15
	TM32	Double Team	Normal	Status	0000—	—}}—%	15
	TM42	Facade	Normal	Physical	07070	100}}100%	20
	TM44	Rest	Psychic	Status	0000—	—}}—%	10
	TM45	Attract	Normal	Status	0000—	100}}100%	15
	TM48	Canon	Normal	Special	06060	100}}100%	15
	TM49	Echo Voice	Normal	Special	04040	100}}100%	15
	TM56	Fling	Dark	Physical	0000—	100}}100%	10
	TM57	Charge Beam	Electric	Special	05050	090}}90%	10
	TM70	Flash	Normal	Status	0000—	100}}100%	20
	TM72	Volt Change	Electric	Special	07070	100}}100%	20
	TM73	Thunder Wave	Electric	Status	0000—	100}}100%	20
	TM86	Grass Knot	Grass	Special	0000—	100}}100%	20
	TM87	Swagger	Normal	Status	0000—	090}}90%	15
	TM90	Substitute	Normal	Status	0000—	—}}—%	10
	TM93	Wild Bolt	Electric	Physical	09090	100}}100%	15
	TM94	Rock Smash	Fighting	Physical	04040	100}}100%	15
	HM04	Strength	Normal	Physical	08080	100}}100%	15
Bold indicates a move that gets STAB when used by Pikachu Italic indicates a move that gets STAB only when used by an Evolution of Pikachu Click on the generation numbers at the top to see TM moves from other generations

By breeding

Generation V Other generations: II - III - IV - VI - VII - VIII - IX
Father	Move	Type	Cat.	Pwr.	Acc.	PP
	Bide	Normal	Status	—	—%	10
	Charge	Electric	Status	—	—%	20
	DoubleSlap	Normal	Physical	15	85%	10
	Encore	Normal	Status	—	100%	5
	Endure	Normal	Status	—	100%	10
	Fake Out	Normal	Physical	40	100%	10
	Flail	Normal	Physical	—	100%	15
	Gift Pass	Normal	Status	—	100%	15
	Lucky Chant	Normal	Status	—	—%	30
	Present	Normal	Physical	—	90%	15
	Reversal	Fighting	Physical	—	100%	15
	ThunderPunch	Electric	Physical	75	100%	15
	Tickle	Normal	Status	—	100%	20
	Volt Tackle	Electric	Physical	120	100%	15
	Wish	Normal	Status	—	—%	10
Moves marked with an asterisk (*) must be chain bred onto Pikachu in Generation V Moves marked with a double dagger (‡) can only be bred from a Pokémon who learned the move in an earlier generation. Moves marked with a superscript game abbreviation can only be bred onto Pikachu in that game. Bold indicates a move that gets STAB when used by Pikachu Italic indicates a move that gets STAB only when used by an Evolution of Pikachu Click on the generation numbers at the top to see Egg moves from other generations

By tutoring

Generation V Other generations: II - III - IV - VI - VII - VIII - IX
Game				Move	Type	Cat.	Pwr.	Acc.	PP
This Pokémon learns no moves by tutoring.
A black abbreviation in a colored box indicates that Pikachu can be tutored the move in that game A colored abbreviation in a white box indicates that Pikachu cannot be tutored the move in that game Bold indicates a move that gets STAB when used by Pikachu Italic indicates a move that gets STAB only when used by an Evolution of Pikachu Click on the generation numbers at the top to see Move Tutor moves from other generations

Smash Bros.-only moves

Pikachu's Thunder Jolt in Brawl

Thunder Jolt (Japanese: でんげき Electric Attack) is Pikachu's standard special move in all three Smash Bros. games. When used, Pikachu will release a small, blue bolt that slowly jumps across the platform. It can also turn around at some corners.

When used in midair, Pikachu will instead make a white ball that will travel in a downward diagonal line until it reaches a platform. In Brawl, there is a blue sphere around the white ball.

TCG-only moves

Move	Set	Cost
Spark	Jungle, POP Series 4 and 6	/
Scratch	Wizards Promo, EX Sandstorm
Tackle	Expedition

Side game data

Pokémon Pinball     Acquisition: Catch		Pokémon Pinball RS     Acquisition: Catch		Pokémon Trozei!    Rarity: Common
Pokémon Mystery Dungeon Red Rescue Team and Blue Rescue Team Body size: 1 Recruit rate: -19% Friend Area: Energetic Forest Phrases 51%-100% HP You can depend on my electric attacks! 26%-50% HP My HP's been halved... 1%-25% HP I'm beat... My electric shocks are out of power... Level up OK! My level went up! Leave it to me! Partner phrases 51%-100% HP Let's keep at it, <name>! 26%-50% HP This is starting to hurt... 1%-25% HP I can't keep going like this... <name>, help... Level up Yes! I leveled up!
Pokémon Mystery Dungeon Explorers of Time, Explorers of Darkness, and Explorers of Sky Body size: 1 Recruit rate: 8.2% IQ group: D
Pokémon Ranger Group:  Electric  Poké Assist: ( Electric ) Field move: (Recharge ×2) Loops: 2 Min. exp.: 9 Max. exp.: 9 Browser entry   Pikachu discharges energy to recharge the Styler's energy.
Pokémon Ranger: Shadows of Almia Group:  Electric  Poké Assist: None Field move: (Recharge ×3) Browser entry   It attacks by blasting electricity from its body.
Pokémon Ranger: Guardian Signs Group: Poké Assist: Field move:  Electric  None Past ( Normal ) (Recharge ×3) Past (Electrify ×1) Browser entry   It restores the Styler Energy.
Pokémon Rumble N/A Not Available Defense Speed N/A Not Available Defense Speed			Pokémon Rumble Blast N/A Not Available Defense Speed N/A Not Available Defense Speed N/A Not Available Defense Speed N/A Not Available Defense Speed
PokéPark Wii: Pikachu's Adventure PokéPark Pad entry: This Pokémon has no PokéPark Pad entry.
PokéPark 2: Wonders Beyond Strong: {{{Park2strong}}} Weak: {{{Park2weak}}} PokéPark Pad entry: This Pokémon has no PokéPark Pad entry.
Pokémon Conquest HP: Move: {{{ConquestMove}}} Attack: Ability 1: {{{ConquestAbility1}}} Defense: Ability 2: {{{ConquestAbility2}}} Speed: Ability 3: {{{ConquestAbility3}}} Does not evolve. Range: 0 Perfect Links: {{{ConquestLink}}}

Evolution

Baby form Pichu  Electric

Friendship → ← Breed

First Evolution Pikachu  Electric

Thunderstone Thunderstone →

Second Evolution Raichu  Electric

Sprites

Gen	Game
I	Red	Blue	Yellow		Red (Ja)	Green	Back
II	Gold	Silver	Crystal				Back
III	Ruby	Sapphire	Emerald		FireRed	LeafGreen	Back
IV	Diamond	Pearl	Platinum		HeartGold	SoulSilver	Back
V	Black	White	Black 2	White 2			Back

For other sprites and images, please see Pikachu images on Bulbagarden Archives.

Trivia

• 

  Pikachu's appearance in Pokémon Stadium.
  In 2008, Japanese researchers discovered a new protein which helps carry electrical impulses from the eyes to the brain and named it Pikachurin. According to the researchers, the decision was based on both Pokémon and protein possessing "lightning-fast moves and shocking electric effects".
• File:RedPika.png

  Pikachu's status screen in Pokémon Yellow.
  There have been two Pikachu balloons in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. The first, known as the "Flying Pikachu" was flown from 2001 through 2005, was used in a morning rush hour test of wind conditions in Times Square after an accident in 2005's parade, and made its farewell appearance at the Party of the Decade in August of 2006 in New York City's Bryant Park. The second version features glowing cheeks and chases a Poké Ball balloon, and debuted in the 2006 parade.
• Pikachu is one of fourteen Pokémon that one can collect foreign Pokédex entries for in Pokémon Diamond and Pearl.
• Pikachu and Raichu share the same species name with Rattata, Raticate, Sandshrew, and Sandslash. They are all known as Mouse Pokémon, although Rattata and Raticate have also been called Rat Pokémon.
• Pikachu is the only Pokémon included in the original Pokémon Stadium that was capable of evolving further when the game was released. Strangely, Raichu was excluded from the said game.
• In Pokémon Red and Blue, Pikachu's sprite shows it having a yellow stomach pouch. This is never shown again in later games.
• Wild Pikachu are available in every region except Johto and Isshu. A player would have to travel to Kanto in order to find wild Pikachu in Generation II.

Yellow Version-related trivia

• Pikachu is the smallest, lightest, and the weakest version mascot, likely owing to the fact that it is neither fully evolved nor legendary, unlike the rest.
• In the games, Pikachu is the first Pokémon to have its cry changed to that of its anime counterpart. This only happened in Pokémon Yellow. Junichi Masuda details the modification of Ikue Ohtani's voice to a sound capable of being made by the low-tech Game Boy in his Director's Column. In some parts of the game, though, Pikachu's original cry was used.
• Pikachu is the only starter Pokémon which cannot be evolved in the game that it is the starter for.
  • Pikachu is also the only main series starter Pokémon that does not have a 7:1 male to female gender ratio.

National Pokédex-related trivia

• Pikachu is the first Template:Type2 Pokémon in National Pokédex order.
• Pikachu is the first unevolved Pokémon in National Pokédex order not to have its name changed in the United States release of Pokémon.
• Pikachu is the first Pokémon in National Pokédex order that evolves by way of an evolutionary stone.
• Pikachu is the first Pokémon in the National Pokédex listing to have a baby relative.
  • This also makes it the first Pokémon in National Pokédex order to be related to a Pokémon of another generation.

Origin

Pikachu has physical aspects resembling several species of rodents. Its species suggests that it is based on a mouse. Due to its name, however, it may be based on a pika.

Name origin

Pikachu is a combination of ピカピカ pikapika which is Japanese onomatopoeia for sparkle and チューチュー chūchū which is the sound of squeaking. It may be named after the pika, a lagomorph, but this is less likely.

In other languages

Language	Name	Notes
Japanese	ピカチュウ Pikachu
English, French, German	Pikachu
Korean	피카츄 Pikachyu
Chinese (Mandarin)	皮卡丘 Pí Kǎ Qiū	Transliteration of the original name.
Chinese (Cantonese)	比卡超 Bei2 Ka1 Chiu1	Transliteration of the original name.

Related articles

Main article: Pikachu

• Ash's Pikachu
• Puka
• Sparky
• Pikachu (MPJ)
• Ashachu
• Pika
• Chuchu
• Pikachu (TCG)
• Pikachu (Battrio)

External links

• Article on Wikipedia
• Electric Mouse, the fanlisting for Pikachu.

Notes

First partner trios

Kanto

Bulbasaur

Charmander

Squirtle

Johto

Chikorita

Cyndaquil

Totodile

Hoenn

Treecko

Torchic

Mudkip

Sinnoh

Turtwig

Chimchar

Piplup

Unova

Snivy

Tepig

Oshawott

Kalos

Chespin

Fennekin

Froakie

Alola

Rowlet

Litten

Popplio

Galar

Grookey

Scorbunny

Sobble

Paldea

Sprigatito

Fuecoco

Quaxly

See also: List of the player's first Pokémon • Pikachu (Yellow) • Partner Pokémon (LGPE) • Hisui first partner Pokémon

Super Smash Bros. series Games: Super Smash Bros. • Super Smash Bros. Melee • Super Smash Bros. Brawl Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS/Wii U • Super Smash Bros. Ultimate Characters: Pikachu • Jigglypuff • Mewtwo • Pichu Pokémon Trainer (Squirtle • Ivysaur • Charizard) • Lucario • Greninja • Incineroar Stages: Saffron City • Pokémon Stadium • Poké Floats • Pokémon Stadium 2 • Spear Pillar Prism Tower • Unova Pokémon League • Kalos Pokémon League Poké Ball and Master Ball: Abomasnow • Abra • Alolan Exeggutor • Alolan Raichu • Alolan Vulpix • Arceus • Articuno • Beedrill Bellossom • Bewear • Blastoise • Bonsly • Celebi • Chansey • Charizard • Chespin • Chikorita • Clefairy Cyndaquil • Darkrai • Dedenne • Deoxys • Ditto • Eevee • Electrode • Entei • Fennekin Fletchling • Gardevoir • Genesect • Giratina • Gogoat • Goldeen • Groudon • Gulpin • Hitmonlee Ho-Oh • Inkay • Jirachi • Keldeo • Koffing • Kyogre • Kyurem • Latias and Latios Lugia • Lunala • Manaphy • Marill • Marshadow • Meloetta • Meowth • Mew • Metagross • Mimikyu Moltres • Munchlax • Onix • Oshawott • Palkia • Piplup • Porygon2 • Pyukumuku • Raikou • Scizor • Snivy Snorlax • Solgaleo • Spewpa • Staryu • Starmie • Suicune • Swirlix • Tapu Koko • Togedemaru • Togepi Torchic • Unown • Venusaur • Victini • Vulpix • Weavile • Weezing • Wobbuffet • Xerneas • Zapdos • Zoroark Collectables: Trophies (Melee • Brawl • for Nintendo 3DS/Wii U) Stickers Spirits Misc: The Subspace Emissary • My Music • Final Smash • Pokémon Change • Brawl cameos

← #024: Arbok

Pokémon

#026: Raichu →

This Pokémon article is part of Project Pokédex, a Bulbapedia project that aims to write comprehensive articles on each Pokémon species, as well as Pokémon groups and forms.