Pikachu is the Pokémon species recognized as the franchise’s internationally famous mascot.
Pikachu is an Electric-type Pokémon introduced in the first-generation games Pokémon Red, Green, and Blue. Its bright yellow design, pointed ears, red cheeks, and distinctive tail helped make it visually recognizable across languages and media. In the animated series, Pikachu became even more prominent as Ash Ketchum’s constant partner.
Pikachu was not the player’s mandatory starter in the original Pokémon Red and Green games; players chose Bulbasaur, Charmander, or Squirtle. Pokémon Yellow later placed Pikachu in the starring role, giving the player one as a companion and allowing it to follow the player on screen. This anime-inspired presentation strengthened Pikachu’s identity as the face of Pokémon.
Pikachu’s name is shared across many languages, although some related names and character names differ between regions. Its evolved form is Raichu, while Pichu is its pre-evolution introduced in Generation II.