What is Pikachu's role in the Pokémon franchise?

Pikachu is the mascot of the Pokémon franchise.

Pikachu is an Electric-type Pokémon introduced in the first-generation games. Its bright yellow design, red cheek markings, and distinctive voice made it highly recognizable, and the anime made it even more prominent by pairing it with Ash Ketchum as his closest companion.

Pikachu was not the first Pokémon designed, nor is it the creator of the series. Its importance grew through a combination of visual appeal, anime exposure, merchandise, and Nintendo's decision to feature it prominently in international marketing. The character became the face of Pokémon for audiences who encountered the franchise through games, television, cards, or toys.

Pikachu also appears in several related forms and roles, including Pokémon Yellow's partner character and the playable detective in Detective Pikachu. Those appearances build on its mascot status rather than changing its basic identity as a species in the Pokémon world.