Pikachu is the global mascot of Pokémon. To capitalize on its popularity, each generation introduces “Pikachu clones”, small, adorable electric mouse Pokémon. Over 30 years, this group has formed a unique extended family.
Below is a ranking of Pikachu clones from least to most innovative, based on their design breakthroughs and impact.
10. Plusle & Minun (Generation 3)
Created as a test for Double Battles, this positive-negative duo looks like recolored Pichu. Their lack of unique identity makes them the most forgettable clones.
9. Pichu (Generation 2)
As the first baby Pokémon, Pichu introduced the egg-hatching mechanic. Though popular and featured in Super Smash Bros., it remains a smaller, less independent version of Pikachu.
8. Togedemaru (Generation 7)
With Electric/Steel typing, Togedemaru breaks the mold by drawing inspiration from a chubby hedgehog rather than a mouse. Its round shape sets it apart but strays from the traditional sleek Pikachu clone design.
7. Dedenne (Generation 6)
The first Electric/Fairy type, Dedenne impresses with bright orange fur and a tail resembling an electric wire. Its plump body recalls Pikachu’s original round design from the 1990s, evoking strong nostalgia.
6. Emolga (Generation 5)
Emolga changed the game by introducing Electric/Flying typing. Its playful black-and-white flying squirrel design was so successful it set a trend: since Emolga, all Pikachu clones have dual typings.
5. The Marill Line (Generation 2)
Once mistaken by fans as “Pikablue” (a Water-type Pikachu evolution) before the game’s release, Marill and its evolutions became honorary clones. With Huge Power ability and Fairy typing, this water mouse line dominates competitive battles.
4. Morpeko (Generation 8)
This Electric/Dark hamster has the unique Hunger Switch ability, allowing it to constantly change appearance: sweet yellow when full and grumpy purple when hungry. This visual transformation offers a captivating experience.
3. The Pawmi Line (Generation 9)
Paldea revolutionized the concept by giving Pawmi a full three-stage evolution (Pawmi – Pawmo – Pawmot). With Electric/Fighting typing and the Revival Blessing move to revive teammates, Pawmot is both adorable and a formidable strategic fighter.
2. Pachirisu (Generation 4)
At first glance, this blue-and-white flying squirrel looks simple. However, Pachirisu earned legendary status by helping player Se Jun Park win the 2014 World Championship. Its resilience and ability to take hits from powerful Legendary Pokémon made it an iconic symbol.
1. Mimikyu (Generation 7)
Mimikyu is the ultimate design masterpiece. A lonely Ghost/Fairy type, it desperately wants to be loved and sews a rough Pikachu disguise. The blend of creepy, distorted art and its tragic backstory helped Mimikyu break out as an independent star, cleverly parodying the franchise’s own mascot.