Pokémon Scarlet and Violet: How to evolve Pikachu into Raichu

Pikachu has become a cultural icon across a range of entertainment platforms. Most people are familiar with Pikachu thanks to video games, anime, and even movies—even if they are unfamiliar with any other Pokémon. In the long-running Pokémon series, the franchise's face is notorious for not changing, but if you want to, you can change it into a bigger and stronger form. To become Raichu in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, follow these steps:

How to evolve Pikachu into Raichu in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet

In Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, a Pikachu evolves into a Raichu in the same manner as in previous games. All you have to do to defeat the Pokémon is get a Thunder Stone and use it on it when it's in your party. When you do this, evolution starts right away, giving you the larger electric mouse Pokémon.

Related: How to evolve Eevee into Jolteon in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet

Thunder Stones are readily available in several shops through Scarlet and Violet; however, they can also be picked up for nothing by simply lying on the ground next to other things. Although they are rather uncommon, they can be found in Casseroya Lake, Levincia, and West Province (Area One). Just southwest of Mesagoza and to the east of South Province, you can run across a Pikachu (Area 2).

Pikachu can also be found in the South Province (Area 4), the West Province (Area 3), and the East Province (Area 1). Additionally, you could encounter them in teraraids and mass outbreaks. If your Pikachu is relatively low-level, we do not recommend transforming it into Raichu right away. Get it to level 26 or higher instead so that it can master Thunderbolt, one of its most potent attacks. That move will remain in effect when you evolve Raichu.