Which Pokémon became the franchise’s official mascot?

Pikachu became the Pokémon franchise’s official mascot.

Pikachu is an Electric-type Pokémon designed by Atsuko Nishida, with its final artwork refined by Ken Sugimori. Its yellow color, rounded shape, expressive face, and mouse-like design helped it appeal to a broad audience.

The character became especially prominent when it was chosen as the companion of Ash Ketchum in the Pokémon anime. The decision avoided favoring one of the three selectable game starters and gave the television series a recognizable central character.

Pikachu was not originally the only mascot candidate. Clefairy was also considered for a leading promotional role, but Pikachu's popularity among children and its appeal to both boys and girls made it the stronger choice.

Pikachu's name combines Japanese sound-symbolic words associated with a sparkling sound and a mouse's squeak. It is also classified as a Pokémon species, so the mascot is not a separate category outside the game world.