Does Pikachu Evolve in Arceus? The Definitive Guide

Yes, Pikachu can evolve in Pokémon Legends: Arceus. However, the method differs slightly from some previous Pokémon games. You need to use a Thunder Stone on Pikachu to evolve it into Raichu. There are no level requirements or special conditions other than having a Thunder Stone in your inventory.

Evolving Pikachu in Pokémon Legends: Arceus: A Step-by-Step Guide

Pokémon Legends: Arceus shakes up the traditional Pokémon formula, offering a more open-world experience and streamlined evolution mechanics. While some Pokémon have complex evolution requirements in this game, Pikachu’s evolution remains relatively straightforward. Here’s how to evolve your Pikachu into a powerful Raichu:

1. Catch a Pikachu: Obviously, the first step is to obtain a Pikachu. They can be found in specific areas of the Hisui region. A notable location is the Obsidian Falls area in the Obsidian Fieldlands. They are also known to spawn in the Golden Lowlands of the Crimson Mirelands. Be patient; Pikachu is a relatively rare spawn. Consider using items like Oran Berries to distract it while you sneak up with a Poké Ball. Remember to save your game before engaging Pikachu, just in case you accidentally knock it out!

2. Acquire a Thunder Stone: This is the crucial item needed for Pikachu’s evolution. There are several ways to obtain Thunder Stones in Pokémon Legends: Arceus:

   • Purchasing from the Trading Post: You can buy a Thunder Stone from the Trading Post in Jubilife Village using Merit Points (MP). Merit Points are earned by finding Lost Satchels scattered throughout the Hisui region.
   • Breaking Tumblestone Ores: Explore the Hisui region and break open Tumblestone Ores. These ores have a small chance of dropping evolution stones, including the Thunder Stone. This method relies on luck and requires persistence.
   • Space-Time Distortions: Space-Time Distortions are dynamic events that appear randomly in different areas. Inside these distortions, you can find rare Pokémon and items, including evolution stones. Thunder Stones have a higher chance of appearing in Space-Time Distortions than from breaking Tumblestone Ores.
   • Completing Requests: Some Requests (side quests) reward you with evolution stones upon completion. Check the Request board in Jubilife Village regularly for new opportunities.

3. Use the Thunder Stone on Pikachu: Once you have a Thunder Stone, open your satchel and select the Thunder Stone. Choose “Use” and then select Pikachu from your party. A confirmation message will appear, asking if you want to evolve Pikachu. Confirm your choice, and watch as Pikachu transforms into Raichu!

Why Evolve Pikachu in Arceus?

While Pikachu is undeniably cute and a fan favorite, Raichu boasts significantly improved stats, making it a more formidable opponent in battles. Raichu possesses higher Attack, Special Attack, and Speed stats compared to Pikachu, allowing it to deal more damage and act more quickly in combat. In the wild battles and trainer encounters of Pokémon Legends: Arceus, having a strong and capable team is essential, and evolving Pikachu into Raichu is a valuable step in strengthening your team.

Raichu in the Hisui Region

Raichu maintains its Electric-type classification in Pokémon Legends: Arceus. Its movepool expands upon Pikachu’s, offering a wider variety of Electric-type attacks and coverage moves. This versatility makes Raichu a valuable asset for tackling various challenges throughout the game. Remember to utilize Raichu’s speed to your advantage, striking first in battles and exploiting enemy weaknesses.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Pikachu and Raichu in Arceus

Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify the evolution process and related aspects:

1. Can I catch Raichu directly in the wild in Arceus?

While rare, yes, you can catch Raichu in the wild. They are typically found in areas with electrical activity, like near power sources or in regions with frequent thunderstorms, particularly within Space-Time Distortions.

2. Is there an Alolan Raichu in Pokémon Legends: Arceus?

No, Alolan Raichu is not available in Pokémon Legends: Arceus. The game focuses solely on the original Raichu form.

3. What happens if my Pikachu is holding an Everstone?

If your Pikachu is holding an Everstone, it will prevent it from evolving even when you use a Thunder Stone on it. You must remove the Everstone before attempting to evolve it.

4. Does friendship level affect Pikachu’s evolution in Arceus?

No, friendship level does not affect Pikachu’s evolution into Raichu in Pokémon Legends: Arceus. Unlike some other Pokémon that evolve through friendship, Pikachu only requires a Thunder Stone.

5. Can I revert Raichu back to Pikachu in Arceus?

No, there is no way to de-evolve Raichu back into Pikachu in Pokémon Legends: Arceus. Once evolved, it’s a permanent transformation.

6. Are there any special moves Pikachu learns before evolving that I should consider?

While Pikachu doesn’t learn any evolution-exclusive moves that are drastically different from what Raichu can learn via leveling up or move tutors, you might want to check its move set. Specifically, consider if it knows any moves you want before evolving, as move relearning has a cost in Arceus.

7. How many Merit Points do I need to buy a Thunder Stone at the Trading Post?

The price of a Thunder Stone at the Trading Post can vary slightly, but it generally costs around 1,000 – 1,200 Merit Points (MP).

8. Is Raichu a good Pokémon to use in battles in Arceus?

Yes, Raichu can be a valuable asset in battles. Its high Speed stat allows it to often attack first, and its Special Attack is decent. However, be mindful of its weaknesses, particularly to Ground-type moves.

9. Can I find Thunder Stones in massive mass outbreaks?

While primarily focused on Pokémon encounters, massive mass outbreaks can sometimes yield valuable items, including evolution stones like the Thunder Stone. Check every sparkling item you find.

10. What other Pokémon evolve using Thunder Stones in Arceus?

Besides Pikachu, Eevee (into Jolteon) and Magneton (into Magnezone if leveled up in a specific location like near the Coronet Highlands) also evolve using Thunder Stones in Pokémon Legends: Arceus.

11. Does Shiny Pikachu evolve into Shiny Raichu?

Yes, if you evolve a Shiny Pikachu, it will evolve into a Shiny Raichu. The shiny status is retained throughout the evolution process.

12. Are there any unique Raichu forms in other Pokémon games that might appear in future Arceus updates?

Currently, Pokémon Legends: Arceus only features the standard Kanto Raichu. While future updates are possible, there’s no guarantee that Alolan Raichu or other regional variants will be added.

13. Are there any online resources or communities where I can learn more about Pokémon Legends: Arceus strategies?

Absolutely! Many online resources and communities are dedicated to Pokémon Legends: Arceus. Websites like Serebii.net and Bulbapedia offer comprehensive information about the game. You can also find helpful tips and discussions on forums like Reddit (r/PokemonLegendsArceus).

14. Does the evolution of Pikachu into Raichu affect its Research Level in the Pokédex?

Yes, evolving Pikachu into Raichu will add Raichu to your Pokédex and start its own research tasks. Completing these research tasks are crucial for progressing in the game and reaching the ultimate goal of completing the Pokédex. Focusing on tasks like battling with Raichu, observing it use specific moves, and defeating certain Pokémon with it will contribute to your research level.

15. How can understanding game mechanics contribute to learning and skill development?

Understanding game mechanics, like evolution in Pokémon Legends: Arceus, can improve problem-solving, strategic thinking, and resource management skills. These skills are valuable not just in gaming, but also in real-world situations. To further explore the intersection of games and learning, visit the Games Learning Society website at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/ or GamesLearningSociety.org.

By following these steps and addressing these FAQs, you’ll be well-equipped to evolve your Pikachu into a powerful Raichu and conquer the Hisui region in Pokémon Legends: Arceus! Good luck, and happy adventuring!