Pikachu (Pokémon)

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Arbok #024: Arbok
Pokémon
#026: Raichu Raichu
This article is about the species. For a specific instance of this species, see Pikachu (disambiguation).
Pikachu
ピカチュウ Pikachu
#025
025Pikachu.png
Art by Ken Sugimori from FireRed and LeafGreen
Type
Electric Unknown
Category
Mouse Pokémon
Abilities
Static Lightningrod
Hidden Ability
Exp. at Lv. 100
1,000,000
Regional Pokédex numbers
Kanto
#025
Johto
#022
Hoenn
#156
Sinnoh
#104
Regional Browser numbers
Fiore
R-023
Almia
R-002
Oblivia
R-005 N-154
Height
1'04"
Imperial
0.4 m
Metric
Weight
13.2 lbs.
Imperial
6.0 kg
Metric
Dex color
Yellow
Catch rate
190 (24.8%)
Body style
Body08.png BodyUnknown.png
Blue-Striped
Footprint
 F025.png   F487O.png
Blue-Striped
Gender ratio
50% male, 50% female
Breeding
Field 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*

Pikachu (Japanese: ピカチュウ Pikachu) is an Electric-type Pokémon.

It evolves from Pichu when leveled up with high friendship 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 also the version mascot of Pokémon Yellow, where it is the only starter Pokémon in that game. It has also made numerous appearances on the boxes of spin-off titles.

Biology

Physiology

Pikachu is a short, chubby, rodent-like Pokémon with yellow fur all over its body. Pikachu's ears are long and come to a point with black tips. It has a small mouth, which resembles a sideways 3, it has black eyes with white pupils and two red circles on its cheeks. Its forearms are short and somewhat stubby, with 5 digits on each "hand" and its feet have three digits. It has two brown stripes on its back, and its tail is in the shape of Zigzag-styled lightning bolt, with a patch of brown fur at the base of the tail. Although it is technically a quadruped, on multiple occasions it has been shown to be able to stand and walk upright on its hind legs.

Besides its evolution and pre-evolution, it may be related to Marill, Plusle, Minun, Pachirisu and/or Emolga due to their many physical similarities.

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. In Black and White, male Pikachu have less black covering their ear, though 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 remove unneeded energy safely. A sure sign that 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 affect 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 stats, and, when held by a Pikachu in the daycare center, causes the offspring to know the move Volt Tackle.

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

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 electromagnetic 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

They are found mostly in forests, but possibly because of their attraction to 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 (specifically, Viridian Forest and the Kanto Power Plant), although they have been introduced to the Hoenn Safari Zone and to the Trophy Garden in Sinnoh.

Diet

Main article: Pokémon food

Living in forested 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.

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. Pikachu is also occasionally seen eating apples.

In the anime

Pikachu in the anime

Major appearances

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. He is the signature Pokémon of the anime series who has appeared in every non-special episode and every Pokémon movie since. Ash's Pikachu does not like being in his Poké Ball.

Ash was given the opportunity to release Pikachu in Pikachu's Goodbye, as Pikachu seemed very happy with the other Pikachu. 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.

Ritchie's Pikachu

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

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.

Puka

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

Pikachutwo

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.

Other

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 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

Numerous other Pikachu appeared in Pokémon Emergency! belonging to Nurse Joy to help Ash's Pikachu defeat Team Rocket's Jessie, James, and Meowth to send them blasting off for the first time. They reappeared in a flashback in Pikachu's Goodbye.

Multiple Pikachu appeared in Battle Aboard the St. Anne.

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

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.

A Pikachu appeared in Lucario and the Mystery of Mew as a transformation of Mew.

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.

A Pikachu that belonged 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 Trip's Pokédex Pikachu, the Mouse Pokémon, and the evolved form of Pichu. Pikachu's tail is sometimes struck by lightning as it raises it to check its surroundings.
BW093 Pikachu Cameron's Pokédex Pikachu, the Mouse Pokémon, and the evolved form of Pichu. Pikachu can help other Pikachu who are feeling weak by sharing its electric current.

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.

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.

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. It also served on Yellow's team while Red was held captive by the Elite Four during the Yellow arc before being returned to him, during which Yellow discovered that it can Surf.

In the ninth volume during the Gold, Silver, & Crystal arc, Yellow is seen to have a new addition to her team: a Pikachu of her own nicknamed "Chuchu", that she had found injured in Viridian Forest and nursed back to health. When Pika is left behind by Red on his trip to Mt. Silver, Pika joined Yellow and Chuchu on their adventure 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. Later on, after Yellow and Wilton were brought to the Day Care 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 Diamond & Pearl arc.

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, Eusine was in possession of a Pikachu, which ended up being Gold's.

In the Pokémon Pocket Monsters manga

Main article: Red's Pikachu (Pocket Monsters)

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

Pikachu is one of the few Pokémon in the manga that cannot speak human language. He is the cousin of 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.

Yellow also has a Pikachu of his own.

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.

Pokédex entries

Manga Chapter Entry
The 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!
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 TCG

Pikachu 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.

Pikachu has also been featured on a number of TCG coins, with one being included with the English and European languages-only Base Set 2. This coin was also featured in the Pokémon Play It! PC game. A Pikachu coin is also featured in the Game Boy game Pokémon Trading Card Game, and is one of the coins that can be obtained in Pokémon Card GB2: Here Comes Team GR!, where it is given by Club Master Isaac to winners of the Lightning Club.

In the TFG

Two Pikachu figures has been released.

Other appearances

Super Smash Bros.

Main article: Pikachu (Super Smash Bros.)

Game data

As the Player

Main article: Pikachu (PokéPark)

Pikachu appears as the player character in both PokéPark Wii: Pikachu's Adventure and its sequel, PokéPark 2: Wonders Beyond. He falls down a mysterious tunnel one day with his friends Charmander, Chikorita, and Piplup and ends up in the PokéPark. There he goes on an quest to save the PokéPark from certain destruction. He later travels to a new PokéPark which is being threatened by the ever expanding Wish Park. At the new PokéPark he meets Snivy, Tepig, and Oshawott, and they help to save the PokéPark from danger.

NPC appearances

  • Pokémon Stadium: Pikachu stars in the mini-game "Thundering Dynamo" alongside Voltorb. This mini-game involves charging up electric power.
  • Hey You, Pikachu!: Pikachu stars along side an unnamed child (who bears a striking resemblance to Red) who was recently taught how to interact with wild Pokémon by Professor Oak. The boy and Pikachu form a bond and go on many adventures together, and one day the Pikachu decides to live with the boy.
  • 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.
  • Pokémon Channel: Much like Hey You, Pikachu!, Pokémon Channel focuses on a boy and a Pikachu bonding through social interactions, such as going outside and talking to other Pokémon, and watching TV together.

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 It occasionally uses an electric shock to recharge a fellow Pikachu that is in a weakened state.
White
Black 2 It occasionally uses an electric shock to recharge a fellow Pikachu that is in a weakened state.
White 2
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)
Uncommon
Unlimited
Viridian Forest, Power Plant
Rocket Game Corner
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 Poké Transfer
Black 2 White 2
None Poké Transfer
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 Mystery Dungeon
Gates to Infinity
Playable Pokémon, Pika Land, Quiet Tundra, Sleepy Ice Cave, Magnagate dungeons,
Quiet Tundra (Mapless Street), Dreaming Island (Mapless Street)
Pokémon Ranger Lyra Forest
Panula Cave
Sekra 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 Normal Mode C, B & S
Pokémon Rumble Blast Autumnwood: Firebreathing Mountain
Forest: Trailhead Field, World Axle - B1F
Pokémon Conquest Violight

In events

In-game events
Games Event Language Location Level Distribution period
Pokétopia Pikachu Japanese Pokémon Battle Revolution 10 December 14, 2006 onwards
Pokétopia Pikachu English Pokémon Battle Revolution 10 June 25, 2007 onwards
Pokétopia Pikachu French Pokémon Battle Revolution 10 July 12, 2007 onwards
Pokétopia Pikachu German Pokémon Battle Revolution 10 July 12, 2007 onwards
Pokétopia Pikachu Italian Pokémon Battle Revolution 10 July 12, 2007 onwards
Pokétopia Pikachu Spanish Pokémon Battle Revolution 10 July 12, 2007 onwards

Pokémon Global Link promotions

Games Event Language Location Level Distribution period
Global Link Pikachu Japanese PGL 10 September 19, 2012 to January 31, 2013
Global Link Pikachu English PGL 10 November 9, 2012 to May 30, 2013
Global Link Pikachu French PGL 10 November 9, 2012 to May 30, 2013
Global Link Pikachu German PGL 10 November 9, 2012 to May 30, 2013
Global Link Pikachu Italian PGL 10 November 9, 2012 to May 30, 2013
Global Link Pikachu Spanish PGL 10 November 9, 2012 to May 30, 2013

Held items

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

Stats

Base stats

Stat Range
At Lv. 50 At Lv. 100
35
95 - 142 180 - 274
55
54 - 117 103 - 229
30
31 - 90 58 - 174
50
49 - 112 94 - 218
40
40 - 101 76 - 196
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
Fighting
Flying ½×
Poison
Ground
Rock
Bug
Ghost
Steel ½×
Fire
Water
Grass
Electric ½×
Psychic
Ice
Dragon
Dark
None
Weak to:
Normal
Fighting
Flying ½×
Poison
Ground
Rock
Bug
Ghost
Steel ½×
Fire
Water
Grass
Electric ½×
Psychic
Ice
Dragon
Dark
None
Immune to:
Normal
Fighting
Flying ½×
Poison
Ground
Rock
Bug
Ghost
Steel ½×
Fire
Water
Grass
Electric ½×
Psychic
Ice
Dragon
Dark
None
Resistant to:
Normal
Fighting
Flying ½×
Poison
Ground
Rock
Bug
Ghost
Steel ½×
Fire
Water
Grass
Electric ½×
Psychic
Ice
Dragon
Dark
None
Notes:

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 Electro Ball 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 
Bag TM Poison Sprite.png TM06 Toxic Poison Status 0000 090}}90% 10
Bag TM Normal Sprite.png TM10 Hidden Power Normal Special 0000 100}}100% 15
Bag TM Psychic Sprite.png TM16 Light Screen Psychic Status 0000 —}}—% 30
Bag TM Normal Sprite.png TM17 Protect Normal Status 0000 —}}—% 10
Bag TM Water Sprite.png TM18 Rain Dance Water Status 0000 —}}—% 5
Bag TM Normal Sprite.png TM21 Frustration Normal Physical 0000 100}}100% 20
Bag TM Electric Sprite.png TM24 Thunderbolt Electric Special 09595 100}}100% 15
Bag TM Electric Sprite.png TM25 Thunder Electric Special 120120 070}}70% 10
Bag TM Normal Sprite.png TM27 Return Normal Physical 0000 100}}100% 20
Bag TM Ground Sprite.png TM28 Dig Ground Physical 08080 100}}100% 10
Bag TM Fighting Sprite.png TM31 Brick Break Fighting Physical 07575 100}}100% 15
Bag TM Normal Sprite.png TM32 Double Team Normal Status 0000 —}}—% 15
Bag TM Normal Sprite.png TM42 Facade Normal Physical 07070 100}}100% 20
Bag TM Psychic Sprite.png TM44 Rest Psychic Status 0000 —}}—% 10
Bag TM Normal Sprite.png TM45 Attract Normal Status 0000 100}}100% 15
Bag TM Normal Sprite.png TM48 Round Normal Special 06060 100}}100% 15
Bag TM Normal Sprite.png TM49 Echoed Voice Normal Special 04040 100}}100% 15
Bag TM Dark Sprite.png TM56 Fling Dark Physical 0000 100}}100% 10
Bag TM Electric Sprite.png TM57 Charge Beam Electric Special 05050 090}}90% 10
Bag TM Normal Sprite.png TM70 Flash Normal Status 0000 100}}100% 20
Bag TM Electric Sprite.png TM72 Volt Switch Electric Special 07070 100}}100% 20
Bag TM Electric Sprite.png TM73 Thunder Wave Electric Status 0000 100}}100% 20
Bag TM Grass Sprite.png TM86 Grass Knot Grass Special 0000 100}}100% 20
Bag TM Normal Sprite.png TM87 Swagger Normal Status 0000 090}}90% 15
Bag TM Normal Sprite.png TM90 Substitute Normal Status 0000 —}}—% 10
Bag TM Electric Sprite.png TM93 Wild Charge Electric Physical 09090 100}}100% 15
Bag TM Fighting Sprite.png TM94 Rock Smash Fighting Physical 04040 100}}100% 15
Bag HM Normal Sprite.png 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 
ClefairyClefableTogeticTogekissZigzagoonLinoone
Bestow Normal Status 100% 15
SeedotNuzleafShiftryPiplupPrinplupEmpoleon
PachirisuPatratWatchogCubchooBeartic
Bide Normal Physical —% 10
MareepFlaaffyAmpharosElectrikeManectricPlusle
MinunShinxLuxioLuxrayBlitzleZebstrika
Emolga
Charge Electric Status —% 20
ClefairyClefableJigglypuffWigglytuffSkittyDelcatty
AudinoMinccinoCinccinoMienfooMienshao
DoubleSlap Normal Physical 15 85% 10
ClefairyClefableSeelDewgongTogeticTogekiss
SlakothVigorothSlakingPlusleMinunSpheal
SealeoWalreinOshawottDewottSamurottMinccino
Emolga
Encore Normal Status 100% 5
SwinubPiloswineMamoswinePhanpyDonphanVigoroth
SlakingPachirisuBunearyLopunnyCubchooBeartic
Endure Normal Status —% 10
MeowthPersianSkittyDelcattyGlameowPurugly
PurrloinLiepardMienfooMienshao
Fake Out Normal Physical 40 100% 10
DunsparcePhanpyDonphanZigzagoonLinooneTorkoal
SpindaCubchooBeartic
Flail Normal Physical 100% 15
ClefairyClefableCherubiCherrimMunnaMusharna
Lucky Chant Normal Status —% 30
Delibird
Present Normal Physical 90% 15
GrowlitheArcanineVigorothSlakingLillipupHerdier
StoutlandMienfooMienshaoBouffalant
Reversal Fighting Physical 100% 15
Ampharos
ThunderPunch Electric Physical 75 100% 15
AipomAmbipomMinccinoCinccino
Tickle Normal Status 100% 20
PikachuRaichu
Volt Tackle Electric Physical 120 100% 15
Togetic
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 
B W B2 W2 Covet Normal Physical 60 100% 40
B W B2 W2 Helping Hand Normal Status —% 20
B W B2 W2 Iron Tail Steel Physical 100 75% 15
B W B2 W2 Knock Off Dark Physical 20 100% 20
B W B2 W2 Magnet Rise Electric Status —% 10
B W B2 W2 Signal Beam Bug Special 75 100% 15
B W B2 W2 Sleep Talk Normal Status —% 10
B W B2 W2 Snore Normal Special 40 100% 15
B W B2 W2 ThunderPunch Electric Physical 75 100% 15
  • 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

By a prior evolution

Generation V
Other generations:
II - III - IV - VI - VII - VIII - IX
 Stage   Move   Type   Cat.   Pwr.   Acc.   PP 
Pichu (Pokémon)/Generation V learnset Charm Normal Status 100% 20
Pichu (Pokémon)/Generation V learnset Sweet Kiss Normal Status 75% 10
Pichu (Pokémon)/Generation V learnset Nasty Plot Dark Status —% 20
Pichu (Pokémon)/Generation V learnset UproarB2W2 Normal Special 90 100% 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 moves from other generations

By events

Generation V
Other generations:
I - II - III - IV - VI - VII - VIII - IX
 Event   Move   Type   Cat.   Pwr.   Acc.   PP 
All Nippon Airways
World Championships 2012
Fly Flying Physical 90 95% 15
All Nippon AirwaysBW Iron Tail Steel Physical 100 75% 15
Singing Pikachu Encore Normal Status 100% 5
Singing Pikachu Teeter Dance Normal Status —% 20
Singing Pikachu Sing Normal Status 55% 15
ExtremeSpeed Pikachu ExtremeSpeed Normal Physical 80 100% 5
Pikachu Festival
Pika Pika Carnival
Volt Tackle Electric Physical 120 100% 15
Global Link Headbutt Normal Physical 70 100% 15
  • A superscript level indicates that Pikachu can learn this move normally in Generation V at that level
  • 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 event moves from other generations

Anime-only moves

Move Type Episode
Leer  Normal  Hour of the Houndour

TCG-only moves

Move Card
Spark Pikachu (Jungle 60)
Pikachu (POP Series 4 13)
Pikachu (POP Series 6 9)
Scratch Pikachu (Wizards Promo 26)
Pikachu (EX Sandstorm 72)
Tackle Pikachu (Expedition 124)

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.

Side game data

Pokémon Pinball
 Pin025.png Pinani025.png 
Acquisition: Catch
Pokémon Pinball RS
 PinRS025.png PinRSani025.png 
Acquisition: Catch
Pokémon Trozei!
 Trozeiani025.png 
Rarity: Common
Pokémon Mystery Dungeon
Red Rescue Team and Blue Rescue Team
MDP RT 025.png 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
MDP E 025.png Body size: 1
Recruit rate: 8.2%
IQ group: D
Pokémon Ranger
Group:  Electric  Poké Assist: Electric PA.png
( Electric )
Field move: Recharge fm.pngRecharge fm.png
(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 field move.png
(Recharge ×3)
Browser entry  
It attacks by blasting electricity from its body.
Pokémon Ranger: Guardian Signs
Group: Poké Assist: Field move:
 Electric  None Past
Electric Assist.png
( Normal )
Recharge 3 field move.png
(Recharge ×3)
Past
Electrify 1 field move.png
(Electrify ×1)
Browser entry  
It restores the Styler Energy.
Attack ●●
Defense
Speed ●●●
Attack Not
Available
Defense
Speed
Attack ●●
Defense
Speed ●●●
Attack Not
Available
Defense
Speed
Attack Not
Available
Defense
Speed
Attack Not
Available
Defense
Speed
PokéPark Wii: Pikachu's Adventure
PPW025.png PokéPark Pad entry:
No entry.
PokéPark 2: Wonders Beyond
None.png Strong: {{{Park2strong}}} Weak: {{{Park2weak}}}
PokéPark Pad entry:
This Pokémon has no PokéPark Pad entry.
PCP025.png HP: Move: Thunderbolt
Attack: Ability 1: Static
Defense: Ability 2: Celebrate
Speed: ★★★★ Ability 3: Lightningrod
Evolves from Pichu when it has a link of 50% or higher

Evolves into Raichu after battling while its Warrior is equipped with a Thunderstone

Range: 3 Perfect Links: Akizane, Hanbei, and Sōrin

Evolution

Pichu
Baby form
Pichu
 Electric 
Soothe Bell
Friendship


Egg
Breed

Pikachu
First Evolution
Pikachu
 Electric 
Thunderstone
Thunderstone


Raichu
Second Evolution
Raichu
 Electric 


Sprites

Gen Game
I Red Blue Yellow Red (Ja) Green Back
Spr 1b 025.png Spr 1y 025.png Spr 1g 025.png Spr b g1 025.png
II Gold Silver Crystal   Back
Spr 2g 025.png Spr 2s 025.png Spr 2c 025.png Spr b 2g 025.png
Spr 2g 025 s.png Spr 2s 025 s.png Spr 2c 025 s.png Spr b 2g 025 s.png
III Ruby Sapphire Emerald FireRed LeafGreen Back
Spr 3r 025.png Spr 3e 025.png Spr 3f 025.png Spr b 3r 025.png
Spr 3r 025 s.png Spr 3e 025 s.png Spr 3f 025 s.png Spr b 3r 025 s.png
IV Diamond Pearl Platinum HeartGold SoulSilver Back
Spr 4d 025 m.png Spr 4p 025 m.png Spr 4h 025 m.png Spr b 4d 025 m.png
Spr 4d 025 f.png Spr 4p 025 f.png Spr 4h 025 f.png Spr b 4d 025 f.png
Spr 4d 025 m s.png Spr 4p 025 m s.png Spr 4h 025 m s.png Spr b 4d 025 m s.png
Spr 4d 025 f s.png Spr 4p 025 f s.png Spr 4h 025 f s.png Spr b 4d 025 f s.png
V Black White Black 2 White 2 Back
Spr 5b 025 m.png Spr 5b2 025 m.png Spr b 5b 025 m.png
Spr 5b 025 f.png Spr 5b2 025 f.png Spr b 5b 025 f.png
Spr 5b 025 m s.png Spr 5b2 025 m s.png Spr b 5b 025 m s.png
Spr 5b 025 f s.png Spr 5b2 025 f s.png Spr b 5b 025 f s.png
Pikachu For other sprites and images, please see Pikachu images on Bulbagarden Archives.

Trivia

$1 coin from Niue featuring Pikachu
Pikachu's appearance in Pokémon Stadium.
  • Niue released a one-dollar coin featuring Pikachu as part of a commemorative promotion for the Pokémon franchise, with Pikachu on one side and the nation's coat of arms on the other.
  • Veronica Taylor has stated that Pikachu is her favorite Pokémon, with Lapras being her second favorite.
  • 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 the Pokémon and protein possessing "lightning-fast moves and shocking electric effects".
  • 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.
  • Despite Pikachu's absence from the Unova Dex and not being native to Unova, a Trainer's Pikachu can be seen in Castelia City, and another Pikachu is depicted on a billboard. Also, there are several Pikachu-shaped hedges in Striaton City, there is a large Pikachu-head balloon near the Gym in Nimbasa City, and Pikachu is depicted on clothing worn by male Pokéfans.
  • The earliest sketch of Pikachu had a white muzzle, but soon became yellow like the rest of its body. This is still depicted in its front sprites from Pokémon Red, Green, and Blue as well as in the international Pokémon Red and Blue.
  • Pikachu is the first Pokémon by National Dex order to be related to a Pokémon from another generation: Pichu.
  • Pikachu is the first Electric type in the National Dex.
  • Pikachu is the first Pokémon by National Dex order who evolves via evolutionary stone.
  • According to A Sneak Peek at Pokémon, Pikachu can deliver a constant current of 1000 amperes.
  • As of Generation V, Pikachu has the most event-exclusive moves available to it.

Pokémon Yellow-related trivia

Pikachu's status screen in Pokémon Yellow.
  • Pikachu and Eevee are the only main series starter Pokémon not to be Grass-, Fire-, or Water-type.
  • In the games, Pikachu is the only 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 main series starter Pokémon which cannot be evolved in the game in which it is a starter Pokémon.
  • Pikachu is the only main series starter Pokémon that does not have a 7:1 male to female gender ratio.
  • Pikachu is the only main series starter Pokémon that can be received by the player that can also be caught in the wild.
  • Pikachu is the only main series starter Pokémon that is not in its base evolutionary form. However, this wasn't true during the generation it was a starter in, as Pichu, its pre-evolved form, wasn't revealed until Generation II.
  • Despite the Pokedex entry saying it would try to bite those who yank its tail, Pikachu cannot learn Bite or any chaw-related attacks.

Origin

Pikachu has physical aspects resembling several species of rodents. Its species name suggests that it is based on a mouse. Despite its name, it bears little resemblance to the pika. Its ears do bear similarity to those of other lagomorphs, however.

Name origin

Pikachu is a combination of ピカピカ pikapika (onomatopoeia for sparkle) and チューチュー chūchū (the sound of squeaking).

In other languages

Language Title Meaning
Japan Flag.png Japanese ピカチュウ Pikachu Combination of ピカピカ pikapika (onomatopoeia for sparkle) and チューチュー chūchū (the sound of squeaking)
France Flag.png French Pikachu Same as English/Japanese name
Spain Flag.png Spanish Pikachu Same as English/Japanese name
Germany Flag.png German Pikachu Same as English/Japanese name
Italy Flag.png Italian Pikachu Same as English/Japanese name
South Korea Flag.png Korean 피카츄 Pikachyu Transliteration of its Japanese name
China and Taiwan Flags.png Mandarin Chinese 皮卡丘 Píkǎqiū Transliteration of its Japanese name.
Hong Kong Flag.png Cantonese Chinese 比卡超 Béikāchīu Transliteration of its Japanese name. The last character means super.


Related articles

Main article: Pikachu (disambiguation)

Notes


External links



Games: Super Smash Bros.Super Smash Bros. MeleeSuper Smash Bros. Brawl
Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS/Wii USuper Smash Bros. Ultimate
Characters: PikachuJigglypuffMewtwoPichu
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Arbok #024: Arbok
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#026: Raichu Raichu


Project Pokédex logo.png 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.