Which Game Boy Pokémon game made Pikachu the player’s initial partner?

Pokémon Yellow made Pikachu the player’s initial partner.

Released in Japan in 1998, Pokémon Yellow was an enhanced version of the first-generation games. It was inspired by the television anime and adjusted the opening so the player received Pikachu rather than choosing Bulbasaur, Charmander, or Squirtle.

Pikachu also follows the player outside its Poké Ball, echoing Ash’s relationship with Pikachu in the anime. The game includes appearances by Jessie and James of Team Rocket and gives players opportunities to obtain all three original starter Pokémon during the adventure.

The other first-generation releases begin with a choice among Bulbasaur, Charmander, and Squirtle. Pokémon Yellow is therefore distinct not because Pikachu is merely available, but because Pikachu is the player character’s designated starting partner.