What is Pikachu’s Pokémon type in the original games?

Pikachu is an Electric-type Pokémon in the original games.

Pikachu first appeared in Pokémon Red and Green and became the franchise mascot through its prominent role beside Ash in the anime. In the games, its Electric typing gives it access to electricity-based moves and makes it especially effective against Water- and Flying-type Pokémon.

The species was designed by Atsuko Nishida, with its final artwork completed by Ken Sugimori. Pikachu’s yellow body, red cheek sacs, pointed ears, and lightning-bolt tail visually reinforce its electrical theme. Its name combines Japanese sound-symbolic words associated with sparkling and a mouse’s squeak.

Pikachu later received the pre-evolution Pichu in Pokémon Gold and Silver. It can evolve into Raichu with a Thunder Stone, but Pikachu itself remains an Electric type. Regional forms and special battle forms appeared in later games, yet the standard Pikachu species has consistently been identified with the Electric type.