Pikachu Raids in Pokemon GO: Best Counters & Strategies (2024)

## Pikachu Raids in Pokemon GO: A Comprehensive Guide

Pikachu, the iconic Electric-type Pokemon, occasionally features in raids in Pokemon GO, especially during special events. While a raid boss Pikachu isn't the most challenging encounter, knowing the best counters and strategies can help you defeat it quickly and efficiently, earning you rewards and a chance to catch a special Pikachu.

This guide will cover everything you need to know about tackling Pikachu raids, including its weaknesses, the best counters, and optimal strategies.

### Why Raid Pikachu?

* **Shiny Chance:** Raid events often boost the chances of encountering a Shiny Pikachu.

* **Special Costumes:** Event Pikachu often wear unique costumes, making them highly collectible.

* **Raid Rewards:** Defeating any raid boss grants XP, Stardust, and other valuable items.

### Pikachu Raid Weaknesses and Resistances

As an Electric-type Pokemon, Pikachu has the following weaknesses and resistances:

* **Weaknesses:** Ground

* **Resistances:** Electric, Steel, Flying

This means Ground-type Pokemon are your best bet for dealing super effective damage against Pikachu in raids.

### Top Pikachu Raid Counters

Here's a list of the best Pokemon to use against Pikachu in raids, ranked by effectiveness:

1. **Groudon:** With Mud Shot and Earthquake, Groudon is an absolute powerhouse against Pikachu.


2. **Excadrill:** Excadrill with Mud-Slap and Drill Run is a fast and powerful Ground-type attacker.


3. **Rhyperior:** With Mud-Slap and Earthquake or Rock Wrecker (Elite TM), Rhyperior offers great damage and bulk.


4. **Garchomp:** Garchomp, while part Dragon-type, can be very effective with Mud Shot and Earth Power.


5. **Landorus (Therian Forme):** This legendary Pokemon boasts impressive attack stats. Use Mud Shot and Earthquake to deal significant damage.


**Note:** Pokemon with Shadow bonuses will perform even better, assuming they have the correct movesets.

### Raid Strategy

1. **Assemble a Team:** Gather a team of 2-3 trainers, especially if you are lower level. While possible to solo, it's recommended to have backup.

2. **Choose Your Counters:** Select your best Ground-type Pokemon from the list above, ensuring they have Ground-type moves.

3. **Dodge Charged Attacks:** Pay attention to Pikachu's charged attacks and dodge when necessary to conserve your Pokemon's health.

4. **Coordinate with Your Team:** If raiding with others, coordinate your attacks to maximize damage output.

5. **Use Weather Boost:** If the weather is Sunny, Ground-type moves will be boosted, increasing your damage output.

### Catching Pikachu After the Raid

After defeating Pikachu, you'll have a chance to catch it. Use Golden Razz Berries to increase your chances of success. Aim for Great or Excellent throws, and utilize curveballs for an even greater boost.

### Shining Pearl Connection

While not directly related to Pikachu raids in Pokemon GO, Pikachu is a popular Pokemon in Pokemon Shining Pearl. You can find Pikachu in the Trophy Garden, making it a good choice if you need an electric type on your team in that game as well!

### Conclusion

While Pikachu raids are relatively easy, using the right counters and strategies can make the process even smoother and increase your chances of catching a Shiny or costume variant. So, prepare your team, and get ready to take down this iconic Pokemon!

What are your favorite Pokemon to use against Electric-type raid bosses?

Awesome guide! I remember using a strong Ground-type like Groudon back during the last Pikachu event and it made things super easy. Anyone else have luck with specific Ground-types?

Good guide! I always forget Pikachu is just a straight Electric-type and not Electric/something else, so Ground is the way to go. Anyone have a favorite Ground type they like to use against it?