Which Pokémon game first gave players Pikachu as their starting partner?

Pokémon Yellow was the first Pokémon game to give players Pikachu as their starting partner.

Released in Japan in 1998 for the Game Boy, Pokémon Yellow was designed as an enhanced version of Pokémon Red and Green. Its presentation was influenced by the animated series, so the player begins with Pikachu rather than choosing Bulbasaur, Charmander, or Squirtle.

Pikachu follows the player outside its Poké Ball and reacts to the player’s actions. The game also places Jessie, James, and Meowth from Team Rocket into the story, making the anime connection especially visible. The rival begins with Eevee, another detail that distinguishes Yellow from the earlier games.

Pokémon Red and Blue offered a choice among three starter Pokémon, so they should not be confused with Yellow’s fixed opening. Pokémon Yellow later inspired Pokémon: Let’s Go, Pikachu! and Pokémon: Let’s Go, Eevee!, which similarly emphasized a partner Pokémon accompanying the player.