Pokemon: Sleeping Pikachu 18 inch Plush

Name: Pikachu
Species: Mouse Pokémon
Type: Electric
Height: 0.4 m (1'04")
Weight: 6 kg (13.2 lbs)
National Pokédex Number: #025
Abilities: Static, Lightning Rod (Hidden Ability)
First Appearance: Pokémon Red and Blue (1996, Japan)
Notable Trainers: Ash Ketchum, Red
Evolution: Evolves from Pichu, evolves into Raichu (using Thunder Stone)
Signature Move: Thunderbolt

Pikachu (ピカチュウ)

Pikachu is an Electric-type Pokémon and one of the most recognizable characters from the Pokémon franchise. Known as the "Mouse Pokémon," Pikachu is the franchise's mascot and has been a staple in both the Pokémon games and anime since its debut in Pokémon Red and Blue (1996). Pikachu's popularity surged with its role as Ash Ketchum's partner in the Pokémon anime, becoming a beloved character around the world.

Appearance

Pikachu is a small, rodent-like Pokémon with yellow fur, large pointy ears tipped with black, and a tail shaped like a lightning bolt. Male Pikachu have straight-edged tails, while female Pikachu have heart-shaped notches at the end of their tails, making the difference between genders easy to spot. Pikachu’s red cheeks store electrical energy, which it can discharge in battle or to communicate with other Pokémon.

Personality

Pikachu is known for its lively and energetic personality. In the anime, Ash’s Pikachu is playful, brave, and deeply loyal to its trainer. Pikachu forms strong bonds with Ash and other Pokémon, often showing its affection in playful or protective ways. Although it is generally friendly, Pikachu can be stubborn at times, especially when refusing to evolve into Raichu, as seen in both the games (Pokémon yellow) and anime.

Pikachu’s personality is a balance of lightheartedness and courage, always ready to help others and willing to face strong opponents despite its small size.

Abilities & Moves

Pikachu is an Electric-type Pokémon, and its powers revolve around electricity. It has two primary abilities: Static, which may paralyze opponents on contact, and the hidden ability Lightning Rod, which draws in Electric-type moves to raise its Special Attack.

Some of Pikachu’s most notable moves include:

[1] Thunderbolt: One of Pikachu’s signature moves, Thunderbolt is a powerful Electric-type attack that it frequently uses in both the anime and games.
[2] Quick Attack: A fast Normal-type move that allows Pikachu to strike first.
[3] Iron Tail: In the anime, Pikachu learns Iron Tail, a Steel-type move that it often uses in battle.
[4] Volt Tackle: A high-risk, high-reward move where Pikachu charges its opponent with an electrified tackle. This move is exclusive to Pikachu in certain games.

Evolution

Pikachu evolves from Pichu when its friendship with its trainer is high. It can further evolve into Raichu (or Alolan Raichu in Alola) when exposed to a Thunder Stone. However, in both the anime and games (Pokémon yellow), Ash’s Pikachu famously refuses to evolve into Raichu, preferring to remain in its current form.

Major Appearances

Pokémon Anime

Pikachu is Ash Ketchum’s main partner throughout the Pokémon anime series. From the very first episode, Pikachu refuses to obey Ash, but after a dangerous encounter with a flock of Spearow, the two bond and become inseparable. Pikachu accompanies Ash on all his journeys through different regions, from Kanto to Galar. Throughout the series, Pikachu has fought against some of the most powerful Pokémon, including Legendaries like Mewtwo, Zapdos, and Zekrom.

Pokémon Yellow

Pikachu was the mascot of Pokémon Yellow, a special edition of the original games where Pikachu follows the player around outside of its Poké Ball, mimicking Ash’s Pikachu in the anime. It refuses to evolve and has unique interactions based on its friendship level with the player.

Super Smash Bros.

Pikachu is a prominent fighter in the Super Smash Bros. series, using its electrical abilities to battle against other characters. Its speed, agility, and powerful moves like Thunder and Quick Attack make it a fan-favorite in competitive play.

Impact and Legacy

Pikachu is one of the most iconic characters in video game history. As the face of the Pokémon franchise, Pikachu has appeared in almost every piece of Pokémon media, from the anime to the trading card game, movies, merchandise, and more. Its simple design, electric powers, and relatable personality have made it a global symbol of the Pokémon brand. Pikachu’s legacy continues to grow with each new generation of games, and its status as a cultural icon is undeniable.

Pikachu's role as a fighter in games like Super Smash Bros., as well as its starring role in Pokémon Yellow and Pokémon: Let’s Go, Pikachu!, has cemented its place as one of the most beloved and recognizable Pokémon of all time.