How to Get Pikachu as a Starter in Pokémon Go

This Pokemon Go Pikachu guide will show you how to get Pikachu as a starter character in Pokémon Go. Getting Pikachu as a starter only takes a few extra steps, quite literally.

Check out our Pokémon GO guide hub for more guides and tips that'll help you level up faster, earn more Candy, get more Stardust, and lots more!

How to Get Pikachu as a Starter Pokemon in Pokemon GO

Pokémon Go has incorporated a special easter egg that allows players to start as Pikachu, in a subtle nod to the days of Pokémon Yellow. When given the option to choose a starter Pokémon, most players often will excitedly snag their favorite of the three original starter characters without looking back. However, with a bit of patience, Pikachu will make a cameo during this select screen and become available as a fourth option.

Once you have installed the game application on your iPhone or Android device, begin the game and make your way through both the setup and tutorial. After meeting Professor Willow, you will be tasked with catching your first Pokémon. There are three starters to choose from: Bulbasaur, Charmander, and Squirtle. Selecting one initiates battle with them and allows you to obtain your first starter.

The trio will spawn beside you on your map, practically begging to be captured. However, don't click on any of them just yet. To obtain Pikachu as a fourth option, start walking in any direction away from the initial three Pokémon. As you get further away from them, the trio will disappear and respawn near your position, as if you didn't see them the first time.

Continue to walk away, causing the starters to respawn multiple times. Around the fifth respawn attempt, the trio will arrive with a fourth option: Pikachu. At this point you can initiate battle with Pikachu to obtain this character as a starter. Tap on Pikachu to begin tossing Pokeballs.

The process can take some time, as you may need to walk around for a while in order for the trio to eventually respawn with Pikachu. You can always try to catch Pikachu in the wild later on, but it's nice to have the electric mouse on your side from the beginning.

We've got a lot more Pokemon Go articles on the site, such as this guide to evolving Eevee, and a handy look at the distances you need to walk with buddies.