Pikachu is officially recognized as the mascot of the Pokémon franchise.
The Electric-type Pokémon was designed by Atsuko Nishida and Ken Sugimori for the original games. Although Pikachu was not one of the three selectable starters, the anime made it Ash Ketchum’s constant companion and turned it into Pokémon’s most recognizable character.
Pikachu’s design combines a small animal-like body, yellow fur, pointed ears, and a lightning-bolt tail. Its name is shared across many languages with only minor pronunciation differences, helping the character function as a global brand symbol.
Other Pokémon, especially Eevee, Charizard, and Mew, are major stars in games, cards, and films. They are not the franchise’s primary official mascot, however; that role belongs to Pikachu.