Which type is Pikachu classified as in the Pokémon games?

Pikachu is classified as an Electric-type Pokémon.

Its yellow body, red cheek sacs, and lightning-bolt-shaped tail visually reinforce that classification. In the games, Electric-type Pokémon specialize in electricity-based attacks and have a type advantage against Water- and Flying-type Pokémon. Electric attacks are ineffective against Ground-type Pokémon.

Pikachu first appeared in the original Pokémon games and later became the franchise mascot. Although it is often associated with lightning, “Lightning” is not its official game type; Electric is the canonical classification.

Pichu was added later as Pikachu’s pre-evolution in Pokémon Gold and Silver. Pikachu can evolve into Raichu with a Thunder Stone in many games, creating a three-stage evolutionary line when Pichu is included.