Raichu | |
---|---|
Pokémon character | |
First game | Pokémon Red and Blue (1996) |
Created by | Atsuko Nishida[1] |
Designed by | Atsuko Nishida[1] Ken Sugimori (finalized)[2] |
Voiced by | Expand
|
In-universe information | |
Species | Pokémon |
Type | Electric Electric/Psychic (Alolan) |
Raichu (Japanese: ライチュウ) /ˈraɪtʃuː/ is a Pokémon species in Nintendo and Game Freak's Pokémon media franchise, and the evolved form of series mascot Pikachu. First introduced in the video games Pokémon Red and Blue, they were created by Atsuko Nishida at the request of lead designer Ken Sugimori, with the design finalized by Sugimori. Since their initial appearance, they have appeared in multiple games including Pokémon Go and the Pokémon Trading Card Game, as well as various merchandise. In media related to the franchise, Raichu has been voiced by various voice actors, including Kei Shindō, Fumiko Takekuma, and Casey Mongillo.
Classified as an Electric-type Pokémon, Raichu is a large brown mouse with a lightning bolt-shaped tail, and yellow sacs on its cheek that can generate large amounts of electricity. Designed to be the stronger counterpart to Pikachu, who evolves into Raichu through use the of a "Thunder Stone" item, Raichu was intended to be able to evolve into 'Gorochu' before the latter was removed. A regional variant was added in Pokémon Sun and Moon called Alolan Raichu. Featuring a fluffier design with round ears and tail, it is able to levitate by riding its tail like a surfboard, and classified as both Electric and Psychic-type.
While early reactions from media outlets regarded it negatively in light of Pikachu's status as the franchise's main mascot, later examinations have been more favorable, showing preference for its design. Due to it often being portrayed as Pikachu's rival in the anime adaptation of the series and in some games a form Pikachu refuses to evolve into, critics have claimed Game Freak painted the species in a negative light and overall damaged its reputation. This has led to further discussion on Game Freak's overemphasis on Pikachu, as well as varying interpretations of the themes in the rivalry, including concepts of self-identity and portrayals of youth in anime media.
© MMXXIII Rich X Search. We shall prevail. All rights reserved. Rich X Search