Yes—Pikachu can evolve into Raichu, but the method and exceptions depend on the game and the specific Pikachu. In Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Pokémon Shining Pearl, use a Thunder Stone. The partner Pikachu in Pokémon: Let’s Go, Pikachu! and a special Gigantamax-capable Pikachu in Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield are exceptions.
How do you evolve Pikachu into Raichu?
In Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Pokémon Shining Pearl, use a Thunder Stone on Pikachu to evolve it into Raichu. The official Trainers’ Guide lists Pikachu and Raichu among the Pokémon that evolve with a stone.
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Can every Pikachu evolve?
No. The rule depends on the game and whether Pikachu is a special partner or reward Pokémon. The documented exceptions below do not change the Thunder Stone method in Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl.
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The official French-language story page describes the game’s partner Pikachu as seemingly unwilling to evolve. This applies to the partner in that game, not Pikachu universally.
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Special Pikachu in Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield
A special Gigantamax-capable Pikachu, received at the Wild Area Station by players with Pokémon: Let’s Go, Pikachu! play records, cannot evolve, according to the official Sword and Shield page. This restriction applies to that special Pikachu.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Is Pokémon TCG evolution the same as evolving in a game?
No. In the Trading Card Game, Raichu is identified as a Stage 1 Pokémon that evolves from Pikachu in an official Pokémon card document. That describes the card game’s evolution relationship; it is not an instruction for evolving Pikachu in a video game.
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