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{{Pokémon infobox
| image = [[File:Pikachu.png|200px]]<br>Primary artwork of Pikachu introduced in [[Pokémon FireRed Version and Pokémon LeafGreen Version|''Pokémon FireRed Version'' and ''Pokémon LeafGreen Version'']]

| generation = [[Generation I]]
| first_game = [[Pocket Monsters Red Version and Pocket Monsters Green Version|''Pocket Monsters Red Version'' and ''Pocket Monsters Green Version'']] (1996, overall)<br/>[[Pokémon Red Version and Pokémon Blue Version|''Pokémon Red Version'' and ''Pokémon Blue Version'']] (1998, outside [[Japan]])
| first_episode = "[[Pokémon - I Choose You!]]" (1997, [[Ash's Pikachu]])

| pronunciation = /pi.ˈka.chu/
| category = Mouse Pokémon
| species_origin = Mouse
| type1 = Electric
| ability1 = [[Static]]
| ability3 = [[Lightning Rod]]
| height = 1'04" (0.4 m)
| weight = 13.2 lbs. (6.0 kg)
| egg_group1 = [[Field (Egg Group)|Field]]
| egg_group2 = [[Fairy (Egg Group)|Fairy]]
| male = 50
| female = 50
| color = Yellow
| shape = 8

| national_no = 025
| national_previous = [[Arbok]]
| national_next = [[Raichu]]
| johto_no = 022
| johto_previous = [[Pichu]]
| johto_next = [[Raichu]]
| hoenn_no = 156
| hoenn_previous = [[Pichu]]
| hoenn_next = [[Raichu]]
| hoenn_no_2 = 163
| hoenn_previous_2 = [[Pichu]]
| hoenn_next_2 = [[Raichu]]
| sinnoh_no = 104
| sinnoh_previous = [[Pichu]]
| sinnoh_next = [[Raichu]]
| johto_no_2 = 022
| johto_previous_2 = [[Pichu]]
| johto_next_2 = [[Raichu]]
| kalos_no = 036
| kalos_category = Central
| kalos_previous = [[Pichu]]
| kalos_next = [[Raichu]]
| alola_no = 025
| alola_previous = [[Pichu]]
| alola_next = [[Alolan Raichu|Raichu]]
| alola_no_2 = 032
| alola_previous_2 = [[Pichu]]
| alola_next_2 = [[Alolan Raichu|Raichu]]
| galar_no = 194
| galar_previous = [[Pichu]]
| galar_next = [[Raichu]]
| galar_no_2 = 085
| galar_previous_2 = [[Pichu]]
| galar_next_2 = [[Raichu]]
| hisui_no = 056
| hisui_previous = [[Pichu]]
| hisui_next = [[Raichu]]
| paldea_no = 074
| paldea_previous = [[Pichu]]
| paldea_next = [[Raichu]]
| paldea_no_2 = 021
| paldea_previous_2 = [[Pichu]]
| paldea_next_2 = [[Raichu]]
}}
'''Pikachu''' is one of the first 151 [[Pokémon]] species. It first appears in the [[Generation I]] titles [[Pocket Monsters Red Version and Pocket Monsters Green Version|''Pocket Monsters Red Version'' and ''Pocket Monsters Green Version'']], released as [[Pokémon Red Version and Pokémon Blue Version|''Pokémon Red Version'' and ''Pokémon Blue Version'']] outside of [[Asia]]. Pikachu is an [[Electric]]-[[Type (Pokémon)|type]] Pokémon. It is the [[first partner Pokémon]] used by trainers who start their [[Pokémon journey|journey]] in the [[Kanto]] region in ''[[Pokémon Yellow Version: Special Pikachu Edition]]'' and [[Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and Pokémon: Let's Go, Eevee!|''Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu!'' and ''Pokémon: Let's Go, Eevee!'']].

Pikachu has an [[evolution]] named [[Raichu]], which it can evolve into by applying a [[Thunder Stone]] to it. Since [[Generation II]], Pikachu has received a pre-evolved form named [[Pichu]].

Pikachu is among the best known Pokémon, let alone a mascot representing the [[Pokémon (franchise)|''Pokémon'' franchise]] at large, which can be especially attributed to a certain [[Ash's Pikachu|Pikachu]] accompanying [[Ash Ketchum|Ash]] throughout ''[[Pokémon the Series]]''.

== Etymology ==
The prefix of Pikachu's name is derived from the Japanese word ピカピカ (''pikapika''), an onomatopoeia for something sparkling, as well as [[wikipedia:Pika|pika]]. The suffix, "-chu", is derived from チューチュー (''chuchu''), another Japanese onomatopoeia, but for describing the sound of mice.

== Biology ==
Pikachu is a small Pokémon whose morphology is based on a rodent. Although its name and category refer to a mouse, its cheeks are based on those of a squirrel, according to graphic designer [[Atsuko Nishida]].<ref name=squirrel>General, Ryan (October 12, 2021). [https://www.yahoo.com/news/pikachu-actually-based-squirrels-pikas-224225989.html Pikachu is actually based on squirrels and the pikas are up in arms]. Yahoo News. Retrieved May 13, 2025.</ref> Its body is yellow with two brown stripes on its back and at the base of its tail. The tips of Pikachu's ears are black, and both of its cheeks each have a large red circle. Pikachu has a tail shaped like a lightning bolt if it is male and a heart-shaped one if it is female.

Pikachu stores a large amount of electricity in the sacs on its cheeks. These seem to charge electrically at night while it sleeps. It occasionally releases electricity while half asleep, as if dreaming of delivering electric shocks. It sometimes releases small electric shocks when it first wakes up. Pikachu's cheeks can also be recharged by an electric shock delivered by another Pikachu. It is a very curious Pokémon, which is why it can often be seen near human settlements.

Pikachus live primarily in the forest, far from human settlements, where it can find [[Berry (Pokémon)|berries]], which it roasts with its electricity. Therefore, if you find a scorched berry lying on the ground, it is very likely Pikachu's work. It likes to live in groups, where it always keeps its tail up to keep watch. In this position, it can easily be struck by lightning, and if it feels threatened or disturbed, it will release all its stored electricity. The energy released by several individuals together is capable of generating thunderstorms.

=== Origin ===
In an interview<ref>[http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/fukayomi/ichiran/20180501-OYT8T50139.html Original interview (in Japanese)].<br>[http://www.siliconera.com/2018/05/03/pikachu-originally-second-evolution-called-gorochu-large-fangs-two-horns/ English translation of the interview]</ref> on May 2, 2018, it is revealed that Pikachu was initially conceived as a [[wikipedia:Daifuku|daifuku]]. Atsuko Nishida was commissioned to design an "adorable" Pokémon, an Electric type with two [[Evolution|evolved forms]]. She designed it directly in a pixel art program and started by thinking of an elongated daifuku. To try to make it more adorable, she added squirrel-like cheeks,<ref name=squirrel/> since squirrels usually hide food in their cheeks, and a lightning-shaped tail for its Electric type. While the [[Game Boy]] lacks any color scheme, the [[Super Game Boy]] enabled them to use the color yellow to represent its Electric type.

The designers do not remember the origin behind the "-chu" suffix, but it had no relation to mice when they came up with the name. However, others on the team were guided by the idea that it was a mouse due to its name, and its final design ended up being that of a mouse.

[[Kōji Nishino]], in charge of game design, liked Pikachu so much that he wanted few players to encounter it, hence its appearance rate in the games was very low.

Pikachu was originally going to have a second pre-evolved form named [[Gorochu]], but it was later scrapped to maintain gameplay balance compared to other Pokémon.{{ref needed}}

=== Gender differences ===
{|class="table" margin:auto"
|style="background:#F1F4F8"|[[File:Pikachu Pokémon HOME.png|150px]]
|style="background:#FCEBEB"|[[File:Pikachu (female) Pokémon HOME.png|150px]]
|-
!Male
!Female
|}

Since the introduction of [[gender]] differences in [[Generation IV]], female Pikachus have a curved cut at the end of their tail, giving it a heart-like shape, whereas male Pikachus have a straight end of their tail.
=== Forms ===
==== Cosplay Pikachu ====
{{main|Cosplay Pikachu}}
[[File:Cosplay Pikachu ORAS.png|thumb|Cosplay Pikachu]]
In ''[[Pokémon Omega Ruby and Pokémon Alpha Sapphire]]'', there is a special and exclusive variety of Pikachu called [[Cosplay Pikachu]], which has a characteristic black heart at the end of its tail. It can be obtained after participating in the first [[Pokémon Contest]]. It is always female and has [[Lightning Rod]] as its [[Ability]].

If the player is male, he receives the Rock Star Pikachu, whereas female players receive the Pop Star Pikachu. However, outfits can be changed later in the dressing room, as well as their special move. The Cosplay Pikachu cannot evolve into Raichu nor can it breed.

{| class="gallery"
|- class="header"
!Artwork
!Name
!Condition
!Move
|-
| [[File:Pikachu Rock Star.png|75px]]
| '''Pikachu Rock Star'''
| [[Cool]]
| [[Meteor Mash]]
|-
| [[File:Pikachu Belle.png|75px]]
|'''Pikachu Belle'''
|[[Smart]]
|[[Electric Terrain]]
|-
|[[File:Pikachu Pop Star.png|75px]]
|'''Pikachu Pop Star'''
|[[Cute]]
|[[Draining Kiss]]
|-
| [[File:Pikachu PhD.png|75px]]
| '''Pikachu Ph.D'''
|[[Beautiful]]
|[[Icicle Spear]]
|-
| [[File:Pikachu Libre.png|75px]]
|'''Pikachu Libre'''
|[[Tough]]
|[[Flying Press]]
|}

==== Pikachu in a cap ====
{{main|Pikachu in a cap}}
In [[Generation VII]], a special variety named Pikachu in a cap is introduced. It wears one of [[Ash Ketchum]]'s [[Ash's hat|hats]] and can be obtained through a [[Pokémon event]], except for the Partner Pikachu, which only exists from ''[[Pokémon Ultra Sun and Pokémon Ultra Moon]]'' onward.

In [[Generation VIII]], with the celebration of the release of [[The Crown Tundra]], Pikachus in a cap were distributed for ''[[Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield]]''.

{| class="gallery"
|- class="header"
| width="105px" | '''Original Cap'''
| width="105px" | '''Hoenn Cap'''
| width="105px" | '''Sinnoh Cap'''
| width="105px" | '''Unova Cap'''
|-
| [[File:Original Cap Pikachu.png|105px]]
| [[File:Hoenn Cap Pikachu.png|105px]]
| [[File:Sinnoh Cap Pikachu.png|105px]]
| [[File:Unova Cap Pikachu.png|105px]]
|- class="header"
| width="105px" | '''Kalos Cap'''
| width="105px" | '''Alola Cap'''
| width="105px" | '''Partner Cap'''
| width="105px" | '''World Cap'''
|-
| [[File:Kalos Cap Pikachu.png|105px]]
| [[File:Alola Cap Pikachu.png|x105px]]
| [[File:Partner Cap Pikachu.png|105px]]
| [[File:World Cap Pikachu.png|105px]]
|}

==== Gigantamax Pikachu ====
Through the [[Gigantamax]] phenomenon, some special Pikachu are capable of transforming into '''Gigantamax Pikachu''' during a battle.

Gigantamax Pikachu has become so powerful that it can produce as much energy as a power plant. But using all that energy to supply Galar's homes doesn't seem feasible, as Pikachu can only Gigantamax for a limited time. It stores all the electricity it generates in its cheeks and tail. In battles, it strikes opponents with its tail while delivering an electric shock as powerful as lightning.<ref>Requires a saved copy of ''[[Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and Pokémon: Let's Go, Eevee!|Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu!]]'' on the Nintendo Switch.</ref>

All [[Electric (Pokémon type)|Electric]]-type moves used by Gigantamax Pikachu will become the [[G-Max Volt Crash]] move, which deals damage to one opponent and [[Paralysis (Pokémon)|paralyze]] all opposing Pokémon.

Gigantamax Pikachu's appearance closely resembles Pikachu's design in illustrations for the first two generations of ''Pokémon'' games.

{| class="evolution"
| [[File:Pikachu.png|110px|Pikachu]]<br>'''Pikachu [[File:Gigantamax Factor icon.png|25px]]'''<br>Height: 0.4m
| '''→'''<br/>[[Gigantamax]]
| [[File:Gigantamax Pikachu.png|150px|Gigantamax Pikachu]]<br>'''Gigantamax Pikachu'''<br>Height: Over 21.0m<br>Gigantamax Move: [[G-Max Volt Crash]]
|}

== Evolution ==
[[Pichu]] [[Evolution|evolves]] into Pikachu by leveling up while having high [[friendship]] with its trainer (220 until [[Pokémon Sun and Pokémon Moon|''Pokémon Sun'' and ''Pokémon Moon'']] and 160 from [[Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield|''Pokémon Sword'' and ''Pokémon Shield'']]). Pikachu evolves into:
* [[Raichu]] if exposed to a [[Thunder Stone]] outside [[Alola]], including [[Ultra Space]] (evolution cannot be [[Evolution#Canceling evolution|canceled]]).
* [[Alolan Raichu]] when exposed to a Thunder Stone in Alola (evolution cannot be canceled). Alolan Raichu does not evolve further.
Pikachu with the Gigantamax factor cannot evolve.

{| class="evolution"
|-
| rowspan="2" style="vertical-align:middle;" | [[File:Pichu.png|65px|Pichu]]<br>[[Pichu]]
| rowspan="2" | '''→'''<br/>[[Friendship]] + level
| rowspan="2" style="vertical-align:middle;" | [[File:Pikachu.png|90px|Pikachu]]<br>Pikachu
| '''→'''<br/>[[File:Thunder Stone bag sprite.png]] [[Thunder Stone]]<br>(outside [[Alola]])
| [[File:Raichu.png|130px|Raichu]]<br>[[Raichu]]
|-
| '''→'''<br/>[[File:Thunder Stone bag sprite.png]] [[Thunder Stone]]<br>(in [[Alola]])
| [[File:Alolan Raichu.png|120px|Raichu]]<br>[[Alolan Raichu]]
|}

== Pokédex descriptions ==
===Core series===
{{Pokédex
| red_blue = When several of these POKéMON gather, their electricity could build and cause lightning storms.. 
| yellow = It keeps its tail raised to monitor its surroundings. If you yank its tail, it will try to bite you. 
| 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.
| 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.
| firered = It has small electric sacs on both its cheeks. If threatened, it looses electric charges from the sacs.
| leafgreen = firered
| 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.
| diamond = It lives in forests with others. It stores electricity in the pouches on its cheeks.
| pearl = If it looses crackling power from the electric 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 = gold
| soulsilver = silver
| black = platinum
| white = platinum
| black_2 = platinum
| white_2 = platinum
| x = silver
| y = firered
| omega_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.
| alpha_sapphire = sapphire
| sun = A plan was recently announced to gather many Pikachu and make an electric power plant.
| moon = It’s in its nature to store electricity. It feels stressed now and then if it’s unable to fully discharge the electricity.
| ultra_sun = Its nature is to store up electricity. Forests where nests of Pikachu live are dangerous, since the trees are so often struck by lightning.
| ultra_moon = While sleeping, it generates electricity in the sacs in its cheeks. If it’s not getting enough sleep, it will be able to use only weak electricity.
| pikachu_eevee = This forest-dwelling Pokémon stores electricity in its cheeks, so you'll feel a tingly shock if you touch it.
| sword = * '''Pikachu:''' Pikachu that can generate powerful electricity have cheek sacs that are extra soft and super stretchy.
* '''Gigantamax Pikachu:''' Its Gigantamax power expanded, forming its supersized body and towering tail. 
| shield = * '''Pikachu:''' When Pikachu meet, they'll touch their tails together and exchange electricity through them as a form of greeting.
* '''Gigantamax Pikachu:''' When it smashes its opponents with its bolt-shaped tail, it delivers a surge of electricity equivalent to a lightning strike.
| brilliant_diamond = It lives in forests with others. It stores electricity in the electric sacs on its cheeks.
| shining_pearl = If it looses crackling power from the electric sacs on its cheeks, it is being wary.
| arceus = Possesses cheek sacs in which it stores electricity. This clever forest-dweller roasts tough berries with an electric shock before consuming them.
| scarlet = When it is angered, it immediately discharges the energy stored in the pouches in its cheeks.
| violet = When several of these Pokémon gather, their electricity can build and cause lightning storms.
}}

===Spinoffs===
{{Spinoff Pokédex
| stadium = Lives in forests away from people. It stores electricity in its cheeks for zapping an enemy if it is attacked.
| stadium_2 = '''''Pokémon Gold'' inserted''': This intelligent Pokémon roasts hard Berries with electricity to make them tender enough to eat.<br/>'''''Pokémon Silver'' version inserted''': It raises its tail to check its surroundings. The tail is sometimes struck by lightning in this pose.
| pinball_rs = 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.
| go = 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. 
| new_snap = Pikachu build up electricity in their cheek sacs while they sleep. They’re also very curious—you’ll often see one playing at our research camp.
| sleep = While sleeping, it generates electricity in its cheek sacs. Apparently, it may also discharge electricity while it dozes, as if firing off electric shocks in its dreams.
}}

=== ''Pokémon the Series'' ===
{|class="table" style="text-align:center"
|-style="background-color:#D4D2FF"
!Pokédex
!Episode
!Description
|-
|[[Dawn]]'s
|[[Two Degrees of Separation!|DP002]]
|style="text-align:left"|Pikachu, the Mouse Pokémon. It can generate electric attacks from the electric pouches located in both of its cheeks.
|-
|[[Trip]]'s
|[[In the Shadow of Zekrom!|BW001]]
|style="text-align:left"|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.
|-
|[[Cameron]]'s
|[[Goodbye, Junior Cup—Hello, Adventure!|BW093]]
|style="text-align:left"|Pikachu, the Mouse Pokémon, and the evolved form of Pichu. Pikachu can help other Pikachu who are feeling weak by sharing its electric current.
|-
|[[RotomDex]]
|[[Loading the Dex!|SM003]]
|style="text-align:left"|Pikachu, the Mouse Pokémon. An Electric type. It raises its tail to sense its surroundings. If you pull on its tail, it will bite.
|-
|[[Goh]]'s
|[[Gotta Catch a What?!|PJ035]]
|style="text-align:left"|Pikachu, the Mouse Pokémon. An Electric type. Pikachu have pouches on their cheeks that can store electricity, which they release if threatened. Male and female Pikachu have differently shaped tails. 
|}

==Ranger Browser entries==
{{Ranger Browser
| ranger = Pikachu discharges energy to recharge the [[Capture Styler|Styler]]'s energy.
| shadows_of_almia = It attacks by blasting electricity from its body.
| guardian_signs = It restores the Styler Energy.
}}

== Locations ==
{{Pokémon locations
| Generation = 1
| red = '''[[Wild Pokémon|Wild]]:''' [[Viridian Forest]] and [[Power Plant (Kanto)|Power Plant]].
* '''[[Pokémon event|Event]]:''' Distributed by event ([[#Events|see below]]).
| blue = Same as in ''Pokémon Red Version''.
| blue_jp = '''[[Wild Pokémon|Wild]]:''' [[Viridian Forest]] and [[Power Plant (Kanto)|Power Plant]].
*'''Special:''' Redeem at the [[Cernel City Casino]] for 620 tokens.
* '''[[Pokémon event|Event]]:''' Given out by event ([[#Events|see below]]).
| yellow = '''Special:''' [[First partner Pokémon]] given out by [[Professor Oak]] in [[Pallet Town]] (only one).
* '''[[Pokémon event|Event]]:''' Given out by event ([[#Events|see below]]).
| gold = '''[[Wild Pokémon|Wild]]:''' [[Route 2 (Kanto)|Route 2]].
| silver = Same as in ''Pokémon Gold Version''.
| crystal = *'''[[Wild Pokémon|Wild]]:''' [[Route 2 (Kanto)|Route 2]] (morning and day).
*'''Special:''' Redeem at the [[Rocket Game Corner]] for 2222 tokens.
| ruby = Same as in ''Pokémon Sapphire Version''.
| sapphire = '''[[Wild Pokémon|Wild]]:''' [[Safari Zone (Hoenn)|Safari Zone]] (entrance and west zone).
* '''[[Pokémon event|Event]]:''' Distributed by event ([[#Events|see below]]).
| firered = '''[[Wild Pokémon|Wild]]:''' [[Viridian Forest]] and [[Power Plant (Kanto)|Power Plant]].
*'''[[Pokémon event|Event]]:''' Distributed by event ([[#Events|see below]]).
| leafgreen = Same as in ''Pokémon FireRed Version''.
| emerald = '''[[Wild Pokémon|Wild]]:''' [[Safari Zone (Hoenn)|Safari Zone]] (entrance and west zone).
* '''[[Pokémon event|Event]]:''' Distributed by event ([[#Events|see below]]).
| diamond = '''[[Wild Pokémon|Wild]]:''' [[Trophy Garden]].
*'''[[Evolution|Evolve]]:''' to [[Pichu]] ([[friendship]] + level).
*'''[[Pal Park]]:''' [[Wooded Area]].
| pearl = Same as in ''Pokémon Diamond Version''.
| platinum = Same as in ''Pokémon Diamond Version''.
| heartgold = '''[[Wild Pokémon|Wild]]:''' [[Viridian Forest]].
*'''[[Pokémon trade|Trade]]:''' for another Pikachu from [[Mt. Surge]] in [[Saffron City]] after defeating him in a [[rematch]].
*'''[[Pal Park]]:''' [[Wooded Area]].
*'''[[Pokéwalker]]:''' [[Resort (Pokéwalker)|Resort]], [[Yellow Forest]], [[Sightseeing]], and [[Rally]].
| soulsilver = Same as in ''Pokémon HeartGold Version''.
| black = '''[[Poké Transfer]]:''' Transfer from [[Pokémon Diamond Version and Pokémon Pearl Version|''Pokémon Diamond'', ''Pearl'']], ''[[Pokémon Platinum Version|Platinum]]'', [[Pokémon HeartGold Version and Pokémon SoulSilver Version|''HeartGold'', or ''SoulSilver Versions'']].
| white = Same as in ''Pokémon Black Version''.
| black_2 = Same as in ''Pokémon Black Version''.
| white_2 = Same as in ''Pokémon Black Version''.
| x = * '''[[Wild Pokémon|Wild]]:''' [[Route 3 (Kalos)|Route 3]] and [[Santalune Forest]].
* '''Special:''' [[Friendship Safari]], on some Electric-type safaris.
* '''[[Pokémon event|Event]]:''' Distributed by event ([[#Events|see below]]).
| y = Same as in ''Pokémon X''.
| omega_ruby = Same as in ''Pokémon Alpha Sapphire''.
| alpha_sapphire = *'''[[Wild Pokémon|Wild]]:''' [[Safari Zone (Hoenn)|Safari Zone]].
* '''Special:''' The [[Cosplay Pikachu]] is obtainable after participating in a [[Pokémon Contest]] in [[Slateport City]] (only one).
* '''[[Pokémon event|Event]]:''' Distributed by event ([[#Events|see below]]).
| sun = * '''[[Wild Pokémon|Wild]]:''' [[Route 1 (Alola)|Route 1]] and [[Hauoli City]] ([[SOS Battle|as Pichu's reinforcement]]).
*'''[[Evolution|Evolve]]:''' a [[Pichu]] ([[friendship]] + level).
* '''[[Pokémon event|Event]]:''' Distributed by event ([[#Events|see below]]).
| moon = Same as in ''Pokémon Sun''.
| ultra_sun = * '''[[Wild Pokémon|Wild]]:''' [[Route 1 (Alola)|Route 1]] ([[SOS Battle|as Pichu's reinforcement]]).
*'''[[Evolution|Evolve]]:''' a [[Pichu]] ([[friendship]] + level).
* '''Special:''' Gift at the [[Heahea City]] [[Surf Association]] for achieving a high score in all four stages of [[Mantine Surfing]] (only one, knows [[surf]]).
* '''[[Pokémon event|Event]]:''' Given out by event ([[#Events|see below]]).
| ultra_moon = Same as in ''Pokémon Ultra Sun''.
| pikachu = *'''Special:''' [[First partner Pokémon]] given by [[Professor Oak]] in [[Pallet Town]] (only one).
*'''[[Wild Pokémon|Wild]]:''' [[Viridian Forest]].
* '''Special''': In [[GO Park]] you can transfer from ''[[Pokémon GO]]''.
* '''[[Pokémon event|Event]]:''' Distributed by event ([[#Events|see below]]).
| eevee = *'''[[Wild Pokémon|Wild]]:''' [[Viridian Forest]].
* '''Special''': In [[GO Park]] you can transfer from ''[[Pokémon GO]]''.
* '''[[Pokémon event|Event]]:''' Distributed by event ([[#Events|see below]]).
| sword = *'''[[Wild Pokémon|Wild]]''' (base game): [[Route 4 (Galar)|Route 4]], [[Stony Wilderness]] (during [[Rain (Pokémon franchise)|rain]] or [[Thunderstorm (Pokémon franchise)|thunderstorm]])
*'''Wild''' (''Expansion Pass''): [[Soothing Wetlands]], [[Fields of Honor]], and [[Forest of Focus]]
* '''[[Dynamax Raid]]s''': [[Hammerlocke Hills]], northwest nest; [[Giant's Mirror]], east nest; [[Giant's Cap]], northwest nest; [[Lake of Outrage]], northeast nest by the lake; and [[Piston Shore]], southwest nest. With possible [[Hidden Ability]]: [[Giant's Mirror]], east nest.
*'''[[List of gift Pokémon|Gift]]:''' At the [[Meetup Spot]] if ''Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu!'' has been played on the same [[Nintendo Switch]] previously.
* '''[[Pokémon event|Event]]:''' Distributed by event ([[#Events|see below]]).
| shield = Same as in ''Pokémon Sword''.
| brilliant_diamond = *'''[[Wild Pokémon|Wild]]:''' [[Trophy Garden]].
*'''[[Evolution|Evolve]]:''' a [[Pichu]] ([[friendship]] + level)
| shining_pearl = Same as in ''Pokémon Brilliant Diamond''.
| arceus = *'''[[Wild Pokémon|Wild]]:''' [[Obsidian Fieldlands]]: [[Forest Cupboard]]. [[Space-Time Distortion]]: [[Alabaster Islands]].
*'''[[Evolution|Evolve]]:''' to [[Pichu]] ([[friendship]] + level)
| scarlet = * '''[[Wild Pokémon|Wild]]''' (base game): [[South Province (Area Two)]], [[South Province (Area Four)]], [[East Province (Area One)]], [[West Province (Area Three)]], and [[Artazon]]<br/>'''Wild''' (''The Teal Mask''): [[Kitakami Road]], [[Apple Hills]], [[Oni Mountain]], [[Wistful Fields]], [[Paradise Barrens]], [[Kitakami Wilds]], and [[Timeless Woods]]
* '''[[Mass outbreak]]:''' Paldea forest areas
* '''[[Tera Raid]]s:''' of [[1-Star Tera Raid|1-Star]] and [[3-Star Tera Raid|3-Star]]; [[Tera Raids Event/Pikachu|Pikachu Tera Raids Event]]
* '''[[Evolution|Evolve]]:''' to [[Pichu]] ([[friendship]] + level)
* '''[[Pokémon event|Event]]:''' distributed by event ([[#Events|see below]])
| violet = Same as in ''Pokémon Scarlet''.
}}

=== Spinoff games ===
{{Pokémon spinoff locations
| snap = *In [[Beach (Pokémon Snap)|Beach]], [[Tunnel (Pokémon Snap)|Tunnel]], [[River (Pokémon Snap)|River]], and [[Cave (Pokémon Snap)|Cave]].
| new_snap = * Base Camp
* [[Florio Nature Park]] (Night)
* Florio Island Illumina Spot
* [[Blushing Beach]] (day and night)
* [[Maricopia Reef]] (Day)
| pinball = * [[Green Forest]] ([[Red Field]] and [[Blue Field]])
| pinball_rs = * Plains ([[Ruby Field]] only)
* [[Safari Zone (Hoenn)|Safari Zone]] (Ruby Field only)
| colosseum = *'''Transfer''': from the Japanese ''[[Pokémon Colosseum Bonus Disc]]''.
| xd = *'''Transfer''': From [[Pokémon Ruby and Pokémon Sapphire|''Pokémon Ruby'', ''Sapphire'']], [[Pokémon FireRed Version and Pokémon LeafGreen|''FireRed'', ''LeafGreen'']], or [[Pokémon Emerald|''Emerald Version'']].
| md_red_blue = *'''Special''': The [[hero Pokémon]] if the player selects male with an Impish nature or female with a Hardy nature during the [[personality quiz]].
*'''[[Wild Pokémon|Wild]]''': [[Lightning Field]] (6F - 10F).
*'''[[Evolution|Evolve]]''' to [[Pichu]] at [[Luminous Cave]] (requires at least a 6-star [[IQ]] rating).
*'''[[Rescue team camp]]''': [[Vibrant Forest]].
| md_time_darkness = *'''Special''': The hero Pokémon if the player selects male with a Brave nature or female with a Hardy nature during the personality quiz. 
*'''[[Wild Pokémon|Wild]]''': [[Flash Meadow]] (9F and 10F), Far Amp Plains (1F - 4F), and [[Zero Isle]] (23F - 28F).
*'''[[Evolution|Evolve]]''': a [[Pichu]] (via [[friendship]]) in [[Bright Spring]].
| md_sky = Same as in ''Explorers of Time'' and ''Explorers of Darkness''
| gates = * '''Special''': The player can choose it as the hero Pokémon or as a [[Partner Pokémon (Pokémon Mystery Dungeon series)|partner Pokémon]] if they did not choose it as the main character.
*'''[[Wild Pokémon|Wild]]''': [[Pika Land]] (1F - 14F), [[Slumbering Cave]] (18F - 22F), [[Silent Tundra]] (1F - 26F), and [[Dreamy Island]] ([[Uncharted Road]]).
| smd = * '''Special''': Either one of the 20 Pokémon resulting from the personality quiz or left to the player's choice.
* Connection in [[Baram Town]], after the epilogue.
| ranger = *In [[Sekra Mountain Range]], [[Panula Cave]], and [[Lyra Forest]]
| shadows_of_almia = *In [[Vien Forest]], [[Crysta Cave]], [[Volcano Cave]], [[Chroma Road]], [[Chroma Highlands]], [[Chroma Ruins]], and [[Cargo Ship]]
| guardian_signs = *In [[Faldera Volcano]], [[Submarine (Pokémon Ranger: Guardian Signs)|submarine]], and [[Thunder Temple]].
| trozei = *[[Secret Storage 4]], [[Secret Storage 20]], Endless Level 1, and [[Mr. Who's Den]]
| battle_trozei = *[[Renegade Meadow]] (Stage 6).
| channel = *He is the protagonist's partner.
| pp_wii = *He is the [[Pokémon player character]].
| pp_2 = *He is one of the Pokémon player characters.
| rumble = *[[Silent Forest]] (Normal Mode Rank C, Rank B, and Rank S; Advanced Mode Rank C and Rank B). It is the first Pokémon that can be obtained.
| rumble_blast = * Chosen by the [[Mii]] as a [[first Partmer Pokémon]].
| rumble_u = *[[Model Train Room]]: Rush Hour
| rumble_world = *[[Leafy Expanse]]: Shrub Forest
*[[Gold Plateau]]: Tricky Factory
| rumble_rush = * [[Charizard Sea (Charizard Island)]], [[Gengar Sea]], [[Celebi Sea]], [[Garchomp Sea]], [[Mimikyu Sea]], [[Mewtwo Sea]], [[Rowlet Sea]], [[Buzzwole Sea]], [[Zygarde Sea]], [[Butterfree Sea]], [[Charizard Sea (Charizard and Lugia Island)]], and [[Bulbasaur Sea]]
| typing = * [[Bracket Park]], [[No.4 Train Ride]], [[Never-ending Tab Track]], [[Caps Lock Museum]]
| conquest = * [[Evolution (Pokémon Conquest)|Evolution]]: Evolution of [[Pichu]], with a [[Link (Pokémon Conquest)|link]] at 50% or higher
* [[Wild Pokémon]]: At the Sky Garden and Floating Rock in [[Violight]], both level 2
* By entering the password: FZP8GqRZRR, urALRZwvRg
| picross = * Area 04: S04-02
| shuffle = * [[Night Festival]] - Stage 23
* [[Graucas Hall]] - Stage 477
| quest = * '''[[Cooking (Pokémon Quest)|Cooking]]:''' Attracted to the recipes Mulligan Stew à la Cube, Yellow Curry à la Cube, and Watt a Risotto à la Cube
| smile = * '''Special:''' It is one of the first Pokémon.
| sleep = * '''Special:''' It is the first Pokémon available from the start.
* In [[Greengrass Isle]], [[Cyan Beach]], [[Lapis Lakeside]], [[Old Gold Power Plant]]
}}

=== Events ===
{| class="table" style="margin: auto"
|- class="header"
! Generation
! Game(s)
! Event
! Region
! Dates
|-
| {{Gen|1}}
| ''Pocket Monsters Red''<br>''Pocket Monsters Green''<br/>''Pocket Monsters Blue''
| [[List of Generation I events#Pokémon 2 Idea Contest Surfing Pikachu|Pokémon 2 Idea Contest Surfing Pikachu]]
| Japan
| June 12, 1997
|-
| {{Gen|1}}
| ''Pocket Monsters Red''<br>''Pocket Monsters Green''<br/>''Pocket Monsters Blue''
| [[List of Generation I events#Nintendo 64 Surfing Pikachu|Nintendo 64 Surfing Pikachu]]
| Japan
| September 21, 1997 to October 31, 1997
|-
| {{Gen|1}}
| ''Pocket Monsters Red''<br>''Pocket Monsters Green''<br/>''Pocket Monsters Blue''
| [[List of Generation I events#Flying Pikachu & Surfing Pikachu|Flying Pikachu & Surfing Pikachu]]
| Japan
| October 15, 1997 to November 14, 1997 <br>November 30, 1997 to November 18, 1997 <br>August 30, 1997 to September 30, 1997 <br>September 13, 1997 to October 14, 1997
|-
| {{Gen|1}}
| ''Pocket Monsters Red''<br>''Pocket Monsters Green''<br/>''Pocket Monsters Blue''
| [[List of Generation I events#Summer 1998 Pokémon Battle Tour Pikachu|Summer 1998 Pokémon Battle Tour Pikachu]]
| Japan
| From July 19, 1998 to August 23, 1998
|-
| {{Gen|1}}
| ''Pokémon Red Version''<br/>''Pokémon Blue Version''<br>''Pokémon Yellow Version''
| [[List of Generation I events#Nintendo Power Pikachu|''Nintendo Power'' Pikachu]]
| United States
| From October 1999 to November 1, 1999
|-
| {{Gen|3}}
| ''Pokémon Ruby Version''<br/>''Pokémon Sapphire Version''<br>''Pokémon FireRed Version''<br>''Pokémon LeafGreen Version''<br>''Pokémon Emerald Version''
| [[List of Generation III events|Top 10 Distribution Pikachu (various events)]]
| North America<br>and Europe
| North America: February 22, 2006 to July 23, 2006 <br>Spain: [[Moviplaya 2006]] <br>Rest of Europe: June 23, 2006 to November 19, 2006
|-
| {{gen|6}}
| ''Pokémon X''<br/>''Pokémon Y''<br/>''Pokémon Omega Ruby''<br/>''Pokémon Alpha Sapphire''
| [[List of Generation VI events#Pokémon Center Birthday Pokémon|Pokémon Center Birthday Pikachu]]
| Japan
| October 12, 2013 to December 31, 2016
|-
| {{gen|6}}
| ''Pokémon X''<br/>''Pokémon Y''
| [[List of Generation VI events#Atsuto Uchida Pikachu|Atsuto Uchida Pikachu]]
| Japan
| June 5, 2014
|-
| {{gen|6}}
| ''Pokémon X''<br/>''Pokémon Y''
| [[List of Generation VI events#Pikachu Outbreak-chu|Pikachu Outbreak-chu]]
| Japan
| From August 9, 2014 to August 17, 2014
|-
| {{gen|6}}
| ''Pokémon X''<br/>''Pokémon Y''
| [[List of Generation VI events#Pikachu Outbreak-chu|Pikachu Outbreak-chu]]
| Japan
| From August 9, 2014 to August 17, 2014
|-
| {{gen|6}}
| ''Pokémon X''<br/>''Pokémon Y''<br/>''Pokémon Omega Ruby''<br/>''Pokémon Alpha Sapphire''
| [[List of Generation VI events#Pikachu & Shiny Charizard|Pokémon Center Mega Tokyo Pikachu]]
| Japan
| From December 12, 2014 to January 16, 2015
|-
| {{gen|6}}
| ''Pokémon X''<br/>''Pokémon Y''<br/>''Pokémon Omega Ruby''<br/>''Pokémon Alpha Sapphire''
| [[List of Generation VI events#Pikachu & Shiny Charizard|Pikachu & Shiny Charizard]]
| Europe
| Germany: From April 1, 2015 to April 21, 2015 <br>United Kingdom: From April 3, 2015 to April 19, 2015 <br>France: From April 13, 2015 to April 19, 2015 <br>Spain: From April 20, 2015 to July 13, 2015
|-
| {{gen|6}}
| ''Pokémon Omega Ruby''<br/>''Pokémon Alpha Sapphire''
| [[List of Generation VI events#Pokémon Cafe Pikachu|Pokémon Cafe Pikachu]]
| Japan
| January 9, 2015 to March 15, 2015
|-
| {{gen|6}}
| ''Pokémon Omega Ruby''<br/>''Pokémon Alpha Sapphire''
| [[List of Generation VI events#Pikachu, Pancham, Lugia, and Latios 7-Eleven|7-Eleven Ash's Pikachu]]
| Japan
| July 18, 2015 to July 31, 2015
|-
| {{gen|6}}
| ''Pokémon Omega Ruby''<br/>''Pokémon Alpha Sapphire''
| [[List of Generation VI events#PGL Pikachu|PGL Pikachu]]
| Worlds
| September 1, 2015 to October 29, 2015
|-
| {{gen|6}}
| ''Pokémon X''<br/>''Pokémon Y''<br/>''Pokémon Omega Ruby''<br/>''Pokémon Alpha Sapphire''
| [[List of Generation VI events#Tohoku Pikachu|Tohoku Pikachu]]
| Japan
| December 20, 2015
|-
| {{gen|6}}
| ''Pokémon X''<br/>''Pokémon Y''<br/>''Pokémon Omega Ruby''<br/>''Pokémon Alpha Sapphire''
| [[List of Generation VI events#Pokémon Center Online Pikachu|Pokémon Center Online Pikachu]]
| Japan
| From February 16, 2016 to May 22, 2016
|-
| {{gen|6}}
| ''Pokémon Omega Ruby''<br/>''Pokémon Alpha Sapphire''
| [[List of Generation VI events#Pikachu with Offering|Tohoku Pikachu]]
| Japan
| From March 11, 2016 to April 21, 2016
|-
| {{gen|7}}
| ''Pokémon Sun''<br/>''Pokémon Moon''
| [[List of Generation VII events#Pokémon Center Birthday Pokémon|Pokémon Center Birthday Pikachu]]
| Japan
| November 18, 2016 to November 15, 2018
|-
| {{gen|7}}
| ''Pokémon Sun''<br/>''Pokémon Moon''
| [[List of Generation VII events#Pokémon with You 2017 Pikachu|Tohoku Pikachu]]
| Japan
| March 11, 2017 to April 20, 2017
|-
| {{gen|7}}
| ''Pokémon Sun''<br/>''Pokémon Moon''
| [[List of Generation VII events#Pikachu in a cap and Ash-Pikachu Z|Pikachu in a cap and Ash-Pikachu Z]]
| Japan
| style="text-align:left"| Original Cap: April 15, 2017 to May 1, 2017 & July 19, 2017 to July 31, 2017<br>Hoenn Cap: May 3, 2017 to May 15, 2017 & August 2, 2017 to August 14, 2017<br>Sinnoh Cap: May 17, 2017 to May 29, 2017 & August 16, 2017 to August 28, 2017<br>Unova Cap: May 31, 2017 to June 12, 2017 & August 30, 2017 to September 11, 2017 <br>Kalos Cap: From June 14, 2017 to June 26, 2017 & September 13, 2017 to September 25, 2017<br>Alola Cap: From June 28, 2017 to July 17, 2017 & July 19, 2017 to July 31, 2017
|-
| {{gen|7}}
| ''Pokémon Sun''<br/>''Pokémon Moon''
| [[List of Generation VII events#Pikachu in a cap and Ash-Pikachu Z|Pikachu in a cap and Ash-Pikachu Z]]
| Europe
| style="text-align:left"| Original Cap: From September 19, 2017 to September 25, 2017<br>Hoenn Cap: From September 26, 2017 to October 2, 2017<br>Sinnoh Cap: From October 3, 2017 to October 9, 2017<br>Unova Cap: From October 10, 2017 to October 16, 2017<br>Kalos Cap: From October 17, 2017 to October 23, 2017<br>Alola Cap: From October 23, 2017 to October 30, 2017
|-
| {{gen|7}}
| ''Pokémon Sun''<br/>''Pokémon Moon''
| [[List of Generation VII events#Pikachu in a cap and Ash-Pikastal Z|Pikachu in a cap and Ash-Pikastal Z]]
| America
| style="text-align:left"| Original Cap: September 19, 2017 to September 25, 2017 <br>Hoenn Cap: September 26, 2017 to October 2, 2017 <br>Sinnoh Cap: October 3, 2017 to October 9, 2017 <br>Unova Cap: October 10, 2017 to October 16, 2017 <br>Kalos Cap: October 17, 2017 to October 23, 2017 <br>Alolan Cap: October 23, 2017 to October 30, 2017
|-
| {{gen|7}}
| ''Pokémon Sun''<br/>''Pokémon Moon''
| [[List of Generation VII events#Carnival Pikachu|Carnival Pikachu]]
| Japan
| From August 9, 2017<br>to August 15, 2017
|-
| {{gen|7}}
| ''Pokémon Ultra Sun''<br/>''Pokémon Ultra Moon''
| [[List of Generation VII events#Pikachu with Original Cap|Pikachu with Original Cap]]
| Worldwide
| From November 17, 2017, indefinitely
|-
| {{gen|7}}
| ''Pokémon Ultra Sun''<br/>''Pokémon Ultra Moon''
| [[List of Generation VII events#2018 Tohoku Pikachu|2018 Tohoku Pikachu]]
| Japan
| From March 5, 2018 to April 26, 2018
|-
| {{gen|7}}
| ''Pokémon Sun''<br/>''Pokémon Moon''<br/>''Pokémon Ultra Sun''<br/>''Pokémon Ultra Moon''
| [[List of Generation VII events#Pokémon Center Tokyo DX Snorlax and Pikachu|Pokémon Cafe Pikachu]]
| Japan
| From March 14, 2018 to April 22, 2018
|-
| {{gen|7}}
| ''Pokémon Sun''<br/>''Pokémon Moon''<br/>''Pokémon Ultra Sun''<br/>''Pokémon Ultra Moon''
| [[List of Generation VII events#Pokémon World Festival 2018 Pikachu|Pokémon World Festival Pikachu]]
| Korea
| From April 27, 2018 to May 7, 2018
|-
| {{gen|7}}
| ''Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu!''<br/>''Pokémon: Let's Go, Eevee!''
| [[List of Generation VII events#Target Bullseye Pass Shiny Eevee and Pikachu|Target Bullseye Pass Shiny Pikachu]]
| Americas
| May 11, 2019 to June 23, 2019
|-
| {{gen|8}}
| ''Pokémon Sword''<br/>''Pokémon Shield''
| [[List of Generation VIII events#Partner Cap Pikachu|Partner Cap Pikachu]]
| Worldwide
| Original Cap and Buddy: September 29, 2020 to November 30, 2020
|-
| {{gen|8}}
| ''Pokémon Sword''<br/>''Pokémon Shield''
| [[List of Generation VIII events#KIBO's Pikachu|KIBO's Pikachu]]
| Worldwide
| KIBO's Pikachu: From December 31, 2020 to January 15, 2021
|-
| {{gen|8}}
| ''Pokémon Sword''<br/>''Pokémon Shield''
| [[List of Generation VIII events#Game Freak's Singing Pikachu|Game Freak's Singing Pikachu]]
| Worldwide
| From February 25, 2021 to March 25, 2021
|-
| {{gen|8}}
| ''Pokémon Sword''<br/>''Pokémon Shield''
| [[List of Generation VIII events#Pokémon Film Fest: Pikachu|Pokémon Film Fest: Pikachu]]
| Japan
| From August 11, 2022 to September 30, 2022
|-
| {{gen|9}}
| ''Pokémon Scarlet''<br/>''Pokémon Violet''
| [[List of Generation IX events#Flying-Type Pikachu|Flying-Type Pikachu]]
| Worldwide
| November 18, 2022 to February 28, 2023
|}

==References==
<references/>

==External links==
*[https://wikidex.net/wiki/Pikachu Pikachu] on WikiDex

[[Category:Pikachu|*]]
[[Category:Electric Pokémon]]
[[Category:Generation I Pokémon]]
[[Category:Single-type Pokémon]]
[[Category:Pokémon with different forms]]