Editing Pikachu

{{ArticleIcons|ssb=y|melee=y|brawl=y|ssb4=y|ultimate=y|fa=y}}

|image = {{tabber|title1=Pikachu|tab1=[[File:Pikachu FireRed LeafGreen.png|300px]]|title2=Pikachu Libre|tab2=[[File:Pikachu-LibreORAS.png|300px]]}}

|caption = [[File:PokemonSymbol.svg|50px]]<br>Official artwork of Pikachu and Pikachu Libre.

|firstgame = ''{{s|bulbapedia|Pokémon Red and Green Versions}}'' (1996) {{Flag|Japan}}

|lastappearance = ''{{s|bulbapedia|Pokémon Sword and Shield}}'' (2019)

|artist = Ken Sugimori

REMEMBER: Nintendo's affiliates' official stance is that Pikachu, like all Pokémon, go by gender-neutral pronouns. Be sure to use "it".

'''Pikachu''' ({{ja|ピカチュウ|Pikachū}}, ''Pikachu'') is a fictional creature from the ''{{uv|Pokémon}}'' series. It debuted in the series' [[bulbapedia:Generation I|first generation]], and represents that generation as a member of the "[[List of Super Smash Bros. series characters#"Perfect-attendance crew"|perfect-attendance crew]]" throughout the ''{{b|Super Smash Bros.|series}}'' series. Similarly to [[Mario]] and [[Link]], Pikachu is one of the most well-known video game characters in the world, to the point of being the de facto mascot of the ''Pokémon'' series.

[[File:PikachuArtworkRB.png|thumb|150px|left|Pikachu's original artwork from ''Pokémon Red and Green''.]]

Pikachu is a small, rodent-like Pokémon characterized by its yellow fur, long, conical ears with black tips, thunder bolt-shaped tail, and round, red cheeks. A pure Electric-type Pokémon, it is categorized within the Pokédex at #025 as the "Mouse Pokémon". The extensive variety of Pokédex entries available for Pikachu throughout the ''Pokémon'' series provide plenty of biological information about the species: it stores electric energy within its cheeks, and releases this energy when startled or angered. Groups of Pikachu typically live in secluded forests, and can occasionally cause thunderstorms when gathered together. It is the evolved form of [[Pichu]], and evolves into [[Raichu]] when exposed to a {{s|bulbapedia|Thunder Stone}}.

In the {{s|bulbapedia|core series}}, Pikachu is a relatively weak yet somewhat rare Pokémon that can be found early in the series' [[bulbapedia:Generation I|first generation]] of games: [[bulbapedia:Pokémon Red and Green Versions|''Pokémon Red'', ''Green'']] and [[bulbapedia:Pokémon Red and Blue Versions|''Blue Versions'']]. Unlike certain Pokémon that had plot elements wrapped around them, such as [[Mewtwo]], Pikachu was simply a Pokémon that could be readily caught, evolved into a stronger form, and had no bearing on the story. According to programmer {{s|bulbapedia|Kōji Nishino}}, its unusual rarity was because he was personally fond of the design and wanted it to be difficult to find; however, this resulted in Pikachu becoming popular among players precisely due to its rarity.<ref>https://www.pokemon.co.jp/corporate/en/pikachu/page_02.html</ref>

Soon afterwards, Pikachu's popularity led to its prominent appearance in the [[bulbapedia:Pokémon anime|''Pokémon'' anime]], where [[bulbapedia:Ash's Pikachu|a member of its species]] became the first Pokémon acquired by {{s|bulbapedia|Ash Ketchum}}, the anime's main character. This, in turn, resulted in Pikachu becoming the main mascot of the series. To capitalize on its fame, it became a major focus of many ''Pokémon'' spin-offs, such as ''{{s|bulbapedia|Pokémon Yellow Version}}'', a remake of ''Red'', ''Green'' and ''Blue Versions'' that is largely based on the anime. In keeping with the anime, [[bulbapedia:Red's Pikachu (game)|a Pikachu]] is the first Pokémon that [[bulbapedia:Red (game)|the player]] obtains, and its digitized cry from the previous versions is replaced with voiced soundbites provided by {{s|bulbapedia|Ikue Ōtani}}, Pikachu's voice actress from the anime.

Pikachu's role in ''Yellow Version'' was greatly elaborated upon, as several events in the game depend on how Pikachu feels towards the player. Depending on the player's actions towards Pikachu, it will exhibit a variety of emotions when spoken to, varying from frustration, to amusement, to complete adoration. As such, ''Yellow Version'' became the first game in the series to implement a {{s|bulbapedia|happiness}} mechanic, which has since become a series standard. Pikachu's temperament toward the player would also become a prerequisite for certain rewards in the game, most notably the acquisition of all three of the {{s|bulbapedia|starter Pokémon}} from ''Red'', ''Green'' and ''Blue Versions'': {{s|bulbapedia|Bulbasaur}}, {{s|bulbapedia|Charmander}} and [[Squirtle]].

Following ''Yellow Version'', Pikachu has since been featured in every core series game, and is usually associated with some new gameplay mechanic with each successive installment. It is also readily available to catch in all games within the core series, with the exception of those in the fifth generation ([[bulbapedia:Pokémon Black and White Versions|''Pokémon Black'' and ''White Versions'']] and [[bulbapedia:Pokémon Black and White Versions 2|''Pokémon Black'' and ''White Versions 2'']]). In [[bulbapedia:Pokémon Gold and Silver Versions|''Pokémon Gold'' and ''Silver Versions'']], released for the Game Boy Color, Pikachu gained a pre-evolutionary form called [[Pichu]] and the {{s|bulbapedia|Light Ball}} item, the latter of which doubled Pikachu's Special Attack {{s|bulbapedia|statistic}} when held. However, the Light Ball was only obtainable when trading a Pikachu over from the ''Yellow Version''.

 

[[bulbapedia:Pokémon Emerald Version|''Pokémon Emerald Version'']], the solitary follow-up to [[bulbapedia:Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire Versions|''Pokémon Ruby'' and ''Sapphire Versions'']], granted Pikachu and its evolutionary relatives a {{s|bulbapedia|signature move}} called [[Volt Tackle]], an [[bulbapedia:Volt Tackle|exceptionally powerful Electric-type attack that deals recoil damage]] and can only be attained by breeding a female Pikachu that holds a Light Ball. [[bulbapedia:Pokémon Diamond and Pearl Versions|''Pokémon Diamond'' and ''Pearl Versions'']] for the Nintendo DS introduced cosmetic differences between genders for certain species of Pokémon, with Pikachu being among of them; in Pikachu's case, females have a dent at the tip of their tails that makes it look like a heart. The Light Ball was also improved, as it now doubles both Pikachu's Attack and Special Attack stats.

 

[[bulbapedia:Pokémon X and Y|''Pokémon X'' and ''Y'']] featured Ikue Ōtani voicing Pikachu in the core series for the first time since ''Yellow Version'', a change which has been retained moving forward. [[bulbapedia:Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire|''Pokémon Omega Ruby'' and ''Alpha Sapphire'']], the remakes of the ''Ruby'' and ''Sapphire Versions'', introduced {{s|bulbapedia|Cosplay Pikachu}}, a female Pikachu that can wear costumes that correspond to the five {{s|bulbapedia|contest condition}}s and grant her a respective move that her species cannot normally learn.

 

[[bulbapedia:Pokémon Sun and Moon|''Pokémon Sun'' and ''Moon'']] introduced {{s|bulbapedia|Z-Crystal}}s, two of which ({{s|bulbapedia|Pikanium Z}} and {{s|bulbapedia|Pikashunium Z}}) are exclusive to Pikachu, alongside [[bulbapedia:Pikachu variants#Pikachu in a cap|a Pikachu based on Ash's that can wear one of his numerous hats]]. [[bulbapedia:Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee!|''Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu!'' and ''Let's Go, Eevee!'']], remakes of ''Yellow Version'', feature a Pikachu as the player's [[bulbapedia:Partner Pokémon (game)|partner Pokémon]] in ''Let's Go, Pikachu!''. In contrast to previous starter Pokémon, the partner Pikachu has various traits that notably distinguish it from other members of its species, such as exclusive moves and customization through various outfits and hairstyles.

 

Most recently, [[bulbapedia:Pokémon Sword and Shield|''Pokémon Sword'' and ''Shield'']] introduced the {{s|bulbapedia|Dynamax}} and the {{s|bulbapedia|Gigantamax}} features, the latter of which is exclusive to specific members of certain species. By registering ''Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu!'' with the games, the player will receive a special Pikachu with the ability turn into Gigantamax Pikachu. While Gigantamaxed, it is able to use {{iw|bulbapedia|G-Max Volt Crash|move}}, which paralyzes all opponents on the field.

[[bulbapedia:Detective Pikachu (character)|A more anthropomorphic Pikachu]] appears as the main character in the ''Detective Pikachu'' sub-franchise; in the [[bulbapedia:Detective Pikachu (film)|''Detective Pikachu'' film]], [[wikipedia:Ryan Reynolds|Ryan Reynolds]] provides spoken English dialogue for the Pokémon, and Ōtani reprises her role to provide its traditional vocalizations.

Pikachu has also appeared in the Tamagotchi-style virtual pet simulator ''{{s|bulbapedia|Pocket Pikachu}}'', which is a small LCD device that owners can clip onto their belt. Whenever the user takes a step, it will register on the system, which will give Pikachu points in the form of "watts". Much like its fighting game appearances in the ''Super Smash Bros.'' series, Pikachu is one of the playable Pokémon in ''{{s|bulbapedia|Pokkén Tournament}}'' and its [[bulbapedia:Pokkén Tournament DX|enhanced version]]. While the initial arcade release features a presumably<!--stylistic choice; don't remove!--> male Pikachu, the female Cosplay Pikachu (in her Pikachu Libre outfit) was later introduced as an additional character with a different moveset.

 

[[File:Pikachu SSB.png|120px|thumb|Official artwork of Pikachu in ''Super Smash Bros.'']]

[[File:Pikachu SSBM.jpg|120px|right|thumb|Pikachu, as it appears in ''Super Smash Bros. Melee''.]]

Pikachu returns as a starter character. While its playstyle is still incredibly similar to its first appearance, Pikachu was [[Nerf|nerfed]] in ''Melee''. Despite this, Pikachu still holds up at 9th out of 26 on the [[tier list]], ranking at C tier. It has gained [[Skull Bash]] as a [[side special]] move, and possesses a respectable mix of speed and power. Pikachu is the only [[Pokémon]] which is available from the [[starter character|start of the game]]. On the [[character selection screen]], it appears initially after {{SSBM|Mario}} on the top row, but when {{SSBM|Luigi}} is unlocked, it moves to the bottom row.

In line with the other playable characters, there are three Pikachu trophies obtained by defeating the single-player modes - a normal trophy from Classic Mode, and "Smash Red" and "Smash Blue" trophies from the Adventure and All-Star modes, respectively. The Classic mode trophy reads:

;Pikachu

:''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.''

:*''Pokémon Red & Blue'' 9/98 (GB)

File:Pikachu Trophy Melee.png|Trophy [Classic Mode]

File:Pikachu Trophy (Smash).png|Smash Red trophy [Adventure Mode]

File:Pikachu Trophy (Smash 2).png|Smash Blue Trophy [All-Star Mode]

[[File:Pikachu SSBB.jpg|200px|right|thumb|Pikachu, as it appears in ''Super Smash Bros. Brawl''.]]

Pikachu returns as a starter character in ''Brawl''. Visually, Pikachu has barely changed at all from its ''Melee'' design, only being touched up slightly. While its position on the tier list isn't much of an improvement from ''Melee'', Pikachu is considered to have been [[Buff|buffed]] in ''Brawl'', becoming more powerful and gaining many new techniques such as [[Quick Attack cancel]]ing and two [[chain grab]]s in exchange for mainly weaker knockback in its attacks. Pikachu is ranked 8th on the [[tier list]], placing it in the B tier. Like the rest of ''Brawl''{{'}}s cast, Pikachu possesses a [[Final Smash]], a new kind of special attack that debuted in ''Brawl''. In Pikachu's case, its Final Smash is its signature move in the Pokémon series, [[Volt Tackle]], which involves it generating a giant ball of electricity around itself that can be controlled by the player in order to slam into and/or shock the opponent.

[[File:Pikachu - Brawl Trophy.png|thumb|left|100px|Pikachu's trophy in ''Brawl'']]

:''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.''

{{Trophy games|console1=GB|game1=Pokémon Red/Blue|console2=DS|game2=Pokémon Diamond/Pearl}}

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! Name  

! Game  

! Effect  

! Character(s)

| ''{{uv|Pokémon}}'' series

[[File:Pikachu SSB4.png|thumb|right|Pikachu, as it appears in ''Super Smash Bros. 4''.]]

Pikachu returns as a starter character, with its design having been updated to appear in line with its more recent appearances in the Pokémon series, namely being slimmed down somewhat.  

:{{Flag|North America}} ''Recognized the world over, Pikachu is an Electric-type Pokémon that stores energy in its cheeks for use in battle. In Smash Bros., Pikachu is a well-rounded fighter with speedy, powerful electric attacks. Quick Attack can be used twice in a row if two directions are input, one after another.''

:{{Flag|Europe}} ''Pikachu is famous worldwide as the face of the Pokémon series. There's a lot of electricity stored in those rosy cheeks, and in this game, that allows for some devastating attacks, like Thunder Jolt. Tip: Input another direction after using Quick Attack to get a second burst. It's top-notch for recoveries!''

 

:'''Pikachu (Alt.)'''

:{{Flag|North America}} ''Pikachu's Thunder Jolt fires off a ball of electricity that bounces across the stage, getting weaker as it travels. It does more damage to enemies in the air. The default down special, Thunder, causes a lightning strike that both shocks opponents and turns Pikachu invincible for a split second.''

:{{Flag|Europe}} ''Pikachu's Thunder Jolt fires off a ball of electricity that bounces across the stage, getting weaker as it travels. Airborne enemies will take extra damage from it and get launched further. The default down special, Thunder, causes a lightning strike that both shocks opponents and turns Pikachu invincible for a split second.''

PikachuTrophy3DS.png|Classic (3DS)

PikachuTrophyWiiU.png|Classic (Wii U)

PikachuAltTrophy3DS.png|Alt. (3DS)

PikachuAltTrophyWiiU.png|Alt. (Wii U)

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[[File:Pikachu SSBU.png|thumb|right|Pikachu, as it appears in ''Super Smash Bros. Ultimate''.]]

Pikachu returns as a starter character in ''Super Smash Bros. Ultimate''. For the first time in the series, Pikachu now has female variants to choose from via [[alternate costume]]s, one of which is [[bulbapedia:Cosplay Pikachu|Cosplay Pikachu]] wearing the Pikachu Libre attire. Pikachu received several changes and buffs in the transition to ''Ultimate'', including a new neutral aerial that acts similarly to [[Mewtwo]]'s. It is considered to be one of the best characters in the game.  

{{clear}}

Pikachu Spirit.png|407. '''''Pikachu'''''

Pikachu Libre Spirit.png|408. '''Pikachu Libre'''

{{clear}}

File:Pikachu_Libre_SSBU.png|Pikachu Libre, as she appears in ''Super Smash Bros. Ultimate''.

*Pikachu and [[Charizard]] are the only playable ''Pokémon'' that are {{iw|bulbapedia|game mascot}}s.  

*Pikachu is the only playable Pokémon in the [[Super Smash Bros. (series)|''Super Smash Bros.'' series]] to have a visible gender difference. Male Pikachu look like the one in the ''Super Smash Bros.'' series, while females have a dent at the tip of their tails. However, gender differences in the ''Pokémon'' series were introduced in {{s|bulbapedia|Generation IV}}, which debuted well after ''SSB'' and ''Melee'' did. Given this, and the fact that its [[alternate costume]]s include hats worn by male characters, the Pikachu in the ''Super Smash Bros.'' series is commonly perceived as male. In addition, ''Ultimate'' gave it two distinctly female variants via alternate costumes. Despite this, Pikachu is not listed under a specific gender, as Nintendo and its affiliates primarily use gender-neutral pronouns for all Pokémon, regardless of a species' appearance/gender ratio or lack thereof.

*Pikachu is the only character in the entire ''Super Smash Bros.'' series to have only four alternate costumes in the first three ''Super Smash Bros.'' games. It has eight alternate costumes in ''SSB4'', just like every other character aside from [[Little Mac]] and the [[Mii Fighter]]s.

*Pikachu's poses for its Classic trophy in ''Melee'' and its official artwork for ''SSB4'' are based on the [[bulbapedia:File:Spr 1y 025.png|sprite]] of {{iw|bulbapedia|Red's Pikachu|game}} from ''Pokémon Yellow Version''.

*Pikachu was designed by {{iw|bulbapedia|Atsuko Nishida}}, making it the only one of the "original 8" to have been designed by a woman.