Pikachu (SSB4): Difference between revisions

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'''Pikachu''' ({{ja|ピカチュウ|Pikachū}}, ''Pikachu'') is a playable character in ''[[Super Smash Bros. 4]]''. Its return to the series was announced during the [[Electronic Entertainment Expo|E3]] [[Nintendo Direct]] on June 11th, 2013.<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=13D1I5s236o Nintendo Direct@E3 2013]</ref> It was also among the first wave of [[amiibo]] that are compatible with ''SSB4''. Ikue Ōtani reprises her role as Pikachu's voice actress, albeit via recycled voice clips from ''[[Super Smash Bros. Melee]]'' and ''[[Super Smash Bros. Brawl]]''.
'''Pikachu''' ({{ja|ピカチュウ|Pikachū}}, ''Pikachu'') is a playable character in ''[[Super Smash Bros. 4]]''. Its return to the series was announced during the [[Electronic Entertainment Expo|E3]] [[Nintendo Direct]] on June 11th, 2013.<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=13D1I5s236o Nintendo Direct@E3 2013]</ref> It was also among the first wave of [[amiibo]] that are compatible with ''SSB4''. Ikue Ōtani reprises her role as Pikachu's voice actress, albeit via recycled voice clips from ''[[Super Smash Bros. Melee]]'' and ''[[Super Smash Bros. Brawl]]''.


Pikachu is ranked 15th out of 55 on the [[tier list]], placing it in the B tier. This is a slight drop from its placement in ''Brawl'', where it was ranked 8th out of 38. Pikachu boasts fast overall speed, an excellent approach, good neutral and combo games, and an excellent recovery. However, it is burdened with poor endurance and very unimpressive KO potential. As a result, Pikachu has a high learning curve and minimal high-level representation compared to other high-tier characters, but it has nonetheless achieved notable tournament results, mostly thanks to {{Sm|ESAM}}.
Pikachu is ranked 15th out of 54 on the [[tier list]], placing it in the B tier. This is a slight drop from its placement in ''Brawl'', where it was ranked 8th out of 38. Pikachu boasts fast overall speed, an excellent approach, good neutral and combo games, and an excellent recovery. However, it is burdened with poor endurance and very unimpressive KO potential. As a result, Pikachu has a high learning curve and minimal high-level representation compared to other high-tier characters, but it has nonetheless achieved notable tournament results, mostly thanks to {{Sm|ESAM}}.


The competitive community's overall opinion of Pikachu has been volatile since ''SSB4''{{'}}s release. Initially, it was widely seen as an average character, but after a number of impressive tournament showings by ESAM, including his brief period of retirement having added to the "mystery" of Pikachu's potential, it was seen as a top 3 character by players like {{Sm|ZeRo}} and ESAM himself. Incidentally, this perception was further cemented after ZeRo and ESAM competed against each other in an extremely close Winners' Finals set at [[Super Smash Con]].
The competitive community's overall opinion of Pikachu has been volatile since ''SSB4''{{'}}s release. Initially, it was widely seen as an average character, but after a number of impressive tournament showings by ESAM, including his brief period of retirement having added to the "mystery" of Pikachu's potential, it was seen as a top 3 character by players like {{Sm|ZeRo}} and ESAM himself. Incidentally, this perception was further cemented after ZeRo and ESAM competed against each other in an extremely close Winners' Finals set at [[Super Smash Con]].
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|fsdmg=1%-6% (collision), 8%-19% (discharge)
|fsdmg=1%-6% (collision), 8%-19% (discharge)
|fsdesc=Performs [[bulbapedia:Volt Tackle (move)|Volt Tackle]], its evolutionary line's {{s|bulbapedia|signature move}}. Pikachu surrounds itself in a sphere of electricity and flies around the stage, charging through opponents. Pressing the attack button will cause the sphere to discharge electricity, which deals significantly more damage and has more knockback. Unlike in ''Brawl'', Volt Tackle now emits a small, whitish violet spark of electricity that is analogous to a cursor, which makes it easier to aim its trajectory.
|fsdesc=Performs [[bulbapedia:Volt Tackle (move)|Volt Tackle]], its evolutionary line's {{s|bulbapedia|signature move}}. Pikachu surrounds itself in a sphere of electricity and flies around the stage, charging through opponents. Pressing the attack button will cause the sphere to discharge electricity, which deals significantly more damage and has more knockback. Unlike in ''Brawl'', Volt Tackle now emits a small, whitish violet spark of electricity that is analogous to a cursor, which makes it easier to aim its trajectory.
}}
===Stats===
{{Attributes
|cast = 58
|weight = 79
|rweight = 51-54
|dash = 1.8
|rdash = 5-8
|run = 1.85325
|rrun = 15
|walk = 1.24
|rwalk = 12
|trac = 0.0596
|rtrac = 25
|airfric = 0.0075
|rairfric = 43-48
|air = 0.9118
|rair = 48
|baseaccel = 0.01
|rbaseaccel = 10-54
|addaccel = 0.09
|raddaccel = 5-7
|gravity = 0.095
|rgravity = 21
|fall = 1.55
|rfall = 30
|ff = 2.48
|rff = 29
|jumpsquat = 4
|rjumpsquat = 1-13
|jumpheight = 35.5
|rjumpheight = 17
|shorthop = 17.123371
|rshorthop = 20
|djump = 35.5
|rdjump = 19-21
}}
}}


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==In [[competitive play]]==
==In [[competitive play]]==
===Tier placement and history===
Pikachu was initially perceived as a top-tier character, thanks to its approach and mindgame potentials courtesy of [[Quick Attack]], its strong combo game and edge-guarding potential, its ability to evade attacks courtesy of its small size and low [[crouch]], and its [[jab lock]] set-ups into KOs. As each of these traits were demonstrated very effectively in competitive play by {{Sm|ESAM}}, Pikachu was ranked 5th on the first tier list. However, there was also a vocal fraction of players who did not agree on Pikachu's initial placement, mainly due to ESAM being the only notable Pikachu player who placed well in tournaments, which was insufficient enough in comparison to the significant results and representation of other well-regarded characters. Other criticisms included Pikachu's lack of reliable KO set-ups, its KO potential in general, the high landing lag of its aerials, and its poor [[range]].
The debate over Pikachu's tier placement would become even more prevalent due to ESAM's results eventually declining due to the strengths of other well-regarded characters, as well as Pikachu's unfavorable matchups against {{SSB4|Mario}} and {{SSB4|Ness}} becoming more apparent. These criticisms were further exacerbated by Pikachu's representation still remaining fairly minimal for a high-tier character, and altogether resulted in its ranking on the first tier list being met with widespread disapproval. As expected, Pikachu's tier placement saw a noticeable drop on the second tier list, where it was ranked 12th. Despite ESAM placing at 3rd at [[UGC Smash Open]], Pikachu's tier placement saw another drop, now being ranked 15th on the third tier list. Pikachu's results, while rare, have remained pretty strong nonetheless, which has allowed it to hold on the 15th placing on the fourth and current tier list.
===[[Official Custom Moveset Project]]===
===[[Official Custom Moveset Project]]===
{{OfficialCustomMoves
{{OfficialCustomMoves
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<!--This character has a ten player limit for this section. Before adding and/or removing a player, read these guidelines: https://www.ssbwiki.com/SmashWiki:Notability#%22Most_historically_significant_players%22_guidelines -->


''Any number following the Smasher name indicates placement on the [[PGR 100]], which recognizes the official top 100 players in [[Super Smash Bros. 4]] of all time.''
''See also: [[:Category:Pikachu players (SSB4)]]''


''See also: [[:Category:Pikachu professionals (SSB4)]]''
*{{Sm|Captain L|Canada}} - The best Pikachu player in Canada and one of the best in the world. He notably placed 2nd at {{Trn|Arcane Tournaments 2018}} where he scored his best wins in his career, being {{Sm|MkLeo}} and {{Sm|Mr.R}}. He also notably placed 9th at {{Trn|CEO 2018}} and 13th at both {{Trn|2GGC: MkLeo Saga}} and {{Trn|Smash 'N' Splash 4}}. He is ranked 79th on the [[PGR 100]] as the second player to primarily play Pikachu.
*{{Sm|ESAM|USA}} - The best Pikachu player of all-time. He was the closest any Pikachu player came to winning a major, placing 2nd at {{Trn|Super Smash Con 2015}} and {{Trn|The Big House 8}}. Additionally, he made multiple top 8s at other majors as solo-Pikachu such as 3rd at {{Trn|UGC Smash Open}}, 5th at {{Trn|DreamHack Atlanta 2018}}, and 7th at {{Trn|EVO 2015}}. He is the highest ranking Pikachu in the world, ranking 17th on the [[PGR 100]].
*{{Sm|Kishiru|Japan}} - The best Pikachu player in Japan. He placed 13th at {{Trn|Sumabato Smash 4 Final}} and made top 24s at many Umebura tournaments, placing 13th at {{Trn|Umebura 27}} and 17th at both {{Trn|Umebura 32}} and {{Trn|Umebura 33}}. He notably defeated {{Sm|Kameme}} at {{Trn|Umebura 34}}. Ranked 58th on the [[JAPAN Power Rankings]].
*{{Sm|Nero|USA}} - The best Pikachu player in the Midwest. Known more for his regional performances, placing 7th at {{Trn|Midwest Mayhem 5}}, 13th {{Trn|Showdown: Battle Royale}}, and defeating players such as {{Sm|Ned}} and {{Sm|tyroy}} at other Midwest events. In terms of majors, he has a few notable top 64s under his belt with 33rd at {{Trn|Frostbite 2018}} defeating {{Sm|K9sbruce}} and 49th at {{Trn|The Big House 7}}.
*{{Sm|Rideae|USA}} - One of the best Pikachu players in the United States. During 2017, he took sets over {{Sm|Nairo}} during his 17th place finish at {{Trn|Super Smash Con 2017}} and {{Sm|Tweek}} during his 25th place finish at {{Trn|CEO 2017}}. In 2018, he very solid placements around his region of Florida, placing 13th at {{Trn|CEO 2018}} and 17th at {{Trn|DreamHack Atlanta 2018}}.
*{{Sm|Z|USA}} - One of the best Pikachu players in the United States, residing in Las Vegas where he is considered a top 10 player there. He made top 64 at many majors during the lifespan of ''Smash 4'', placing 17th at {{Trn|IBP Masters Showdown}} defeating {{Sm|AC}}, 25th at {{Trn|Paragon Orlando 2015}}, and 33rd at {{Trn|EVO 2018}}.


*{{Sm|Captain L|Canada}} (#79) - The best Pikachu player in Canada. Placed 2nd at {{Trn|Arcane Tournaments 2018}}, 4th at {{Trn|Port Priority 2: Midwest Invasion}}, 9th at {{Trn|CEO 2018}}, and 13th at both {{Trn|2GGC: MkLeo Saga}} and {{Trn|Smash 'N' Splash 4}} with wins over players such as {{Sm|MkLeo}}, {{Sm|Tweek}}, {{Sm|Mr. R}}. Ranked 3rd on the [[British Columbia Power Rankings]].
===Tier placement and history===
*{{Sm|DM888|USA}} - The best Pikachu player in New England. Placed 13tb at {{Trn|GUMS 16}} and 17th at {{Trn|Overclocked}}, {{Trn|Overclocked III}}, and {{Trn|Overclocked IV}} with wins over players such as {{Sm|Marss}}, {{Sm|Pugwest}}, and {{Sm|Raffi-X}}. Ranked 10th on the [[New England Power Rankings]]. Currently ranked 15th on the [[New England Power Rankings]].
Pikachu was initially perceived as a top-tier character, thanks to its approach and mindgame potentials courtesy of [[Quick Attack]], its strong combo game and edge-guarding potential, its ability to evade attacks courtesy of its small size and low [[crouch]], and its [[jab lock]] set-ups into KOs. As each of these traits were demonstrated very effectively in competitive play by {{Sm|ESAM}}, Pikachu was ranked 5th on the first tier list. However, there was also a vocal fraction of players who did not agree on Pikachu's initial placement, mainly due to ESAM being the only notable Pikachu player who placed well in tournaments, which was insufficient enough in comparison to the significant results and representation of other well-regarded characters. Other criticisms included Pikachu's lack of reliable KO set-ups, its KO potential in general, the high landing lag of its aerials, and its poor [[range]].
*{{Sm|ESAM|USA}} (#17) - The best Pikachu player in the world. Placed 2nd at both {{Trn|Shine 2016}} and {{Trn|The Big House 8}}, 3rd at {{Trn|Low Tier City 6}}, 5th at {{Trn|Smash 'N' Splash 3}}, and 7th at {{Trn|EVO 2015}}.
 
*{{Sm|Kishiru|Japan}} - The best Pikachu player in Japan. Placed 13th at both {{Trn|Umebura 27}} and {{Trn|Sumabato Smash 4 Final}} as well as 17th at both {{Trn|Umebura 32}} and {{Trn|Umebura 33}} with wins over players such as {{Sm|Ally}}, {{Sm|Kuro}}, and {{Sm|Umeki}}. Ranked 58th on the [[JAPAN Power Rankings]].
The debate over Pikachu's tier placement would become even more prevalent due to ESAM's results eventually declining due to the strengths of other well-regarded characters, as well as Pikachu's unfavorable matchups against {{SSB4|Mario}} and {{SSB4|Ness}} becoming more apparent. These criticisms were further exacerbated by Pikachu's representation still remaining fairly minimal for a high-tier character, and altogether resulted in its ranking on the first tier list being met with widespread disapproval. As expected, Pikachu's tier placement saw a noticeable drop on the second tier list, where it was ranked 12th. Despite ESAM placing at 3rd at [[UGC Smash Open]], Pikachu's tier placement saw another drop, now being ranked 15th on the third tier list. Pikachu's results, while rare, have remained pretty strong nonetheless, which has allowed it to hold on the 15th placing on the fourth and current tier list.
*{{Sm|Nero|USA}} - The best Pikachu player in the Midwest. Placed 7th at {{Trn|Midwest Mayhem 5}}, 13th at both {{Trn|Endgame}} and {{Trn|Showdown: Battle Royale}}, and 17th at {{Trn|Midwest Mayhem 8: North American Tour}} with wins over players such as {{Sm|Ned}}, {{Sm|tyroy}}, and {{Sm|K9sbruce}}. Ranked 7th on the [[Michigan Power Rankings]].
*{{Sm|Rideae|USA}} - One of the best Pikachu players in the United States. Placed 5th at {{Trn|GatorLAN Fall 2018}}, 7th at {{Trn|Divided}}, 13th at {{Trn|CEO 2018}}, and 17th at both {{Trn|Super Smash Con 2017}} and {{Trn|DreamHack Atlanta 2018}} with wins over players such as {{Sm|Nairo}}, {{Sm|Tweek}}, and {{Sm|Marss}}. Ranked 3rd on the Tampa Power Rankings.


==[[Trophies]]==
==[[Trophies]]==
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*Pikachu knows six official Pokémon {{s|bulbapedia|move}}s in ''SSB4'', all of which it can learn legally in the ''Pokémon'' {{s|bulbapedia|core series}}. In addition to {{iw|bulbapedia|Skull Bash|move}}, {{iw|bulbapedia|Quick Attack|move}}, {{iw|bulbapedia|Thunder|move}} and {{iw|bulbapedia|Volt Tackle|move}}, it can also use {{iw|bulbapedia|Thunder Wave|move}} and {{iw|bulbapedia|Thunder Shock|move}} as [[Character customization|custom moves]].
*Pikachu knows six official Pokémon {{s|bulbapedia|move}}s in ''SSB4'', all of which it can learn legally in the ''Pokémon'' {{s|bulbapedia|core series}}. In addition to {{iw|bulbapedia|Skull Bash|move}}, {{iw|bulbapedia|Quick Attack|move}}, {{iw|bulbapedia|Thunder|move}} and {{iw|bulbapedia|Volt Tackle|move}}, it can also use {{iw|bulbapedia|Thunder Wave|move}} and {{iw|bulbapedia|Thunder Shock|move}} as [[Character customization|custom moves]].
**One of its custom moves, Quick Feet, has the [[bulbapedia:Quick Feet (ability)|same name]] of an {{s|bulbapedia|ability}} instead of a move, similarly to [[Victini]]'s [[Poké Ball]] effect. However, Pikachu cannot legitimately have Quick Feet as an Ability.
**One of its custom moves, Quick Feet, has the [[bulbapedia:Quick Feet (ability)|same name]] of an {{s|bulbapedia|ability}} instead of a move, similarly to [[Victini]]'s [[Poké Ball]] effect. However, Pikachu cannot legitimately have Quick Feet as an Ability.
*Pikachu's official art for ''SSB4'' is almost identical to its official art for ''SSB''. The only difference is that it is standing erect in its ''SSB4'' art instead of slightly slouching to the side.
*Pikachu's pose in its official artwork for ''SSB4'' is based on its [[bulbapedia:File:Spr_1y_025.png|front sprite]] from ''Pokémon Yellow'', albeit completely facing the screen.


==References==
==References==
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