Raichu
Mouse Pokémon
When its electricity builds, its muscles are stimulated, and it becomes more aggressive than usual.
Base Stats
Type Effectiveness
Abilities
Held Items
Forms
Evolution Chain
Moves
Details
Sprites
Competitive
Strategy Overview
Raichu is one of the fastest Fake Out users, sporting a base Speed of 110 that lets it outspeed the likes of Mega Kangaskhan and Infernape. It also has Lightning Rod, which neuters opposing Electric-types by redirecting Electric-type attacks, benefiting teams that struggle with foes such as Thundurus. With access to a good utility movepool containing options such as Fake Out, Encore, Nuzzle, and Feint, Raichu controls game flow and provides speed control. On the other hand, its poor bulk leaves it easily KOed by strong attacks such as Mega Kangaskhan's Return and Talonflame's Flare Blitz. In addition, Raichu provides little offensive pressure by itself, as it lacks the ability to deal meaningful damage and is walled by Grass- and Ground-types. Compared to other Electric-types in the metagame—Rotom-W, Thundurus, and Zapdos—Raichu lacks the natural Ground immunity, bulk, and offensive pressure the other options provide, making it a niche option for teams requiring its specific support.
Most Used Moves
Common Teammates
Competitive data from Smogon University via data.pkmn.cc