Which first-generation Pokémon game gives the player Pikachu as a starter?

Pokémon Yellow gives the player Pikachu as the starter Pokémon.

Released in Japan in 1998, Pokémon Yellow is an enhanced version of the first-generation games. It was designed with visual and story elements inspired by the Pokémon anime, especially Ash’s partnership with Pikachu.

Unlike Red, Green, and Blue, Yellow begins with Professor Oak assigning Pikachu to the player. Pikachu follows the player outside its Poké Ball and reacts to the player’s treatment, making the starter feel more like a companion than a conventional party member.

The game still uses Kanto as its setting and retains the basic first-generation adventure structure. Players can also obtain Bulbasaur, Charmander, and Squirtle during the story, so choosing Pikachu does not permanently prevent access to the other original starter Pokémon.