How to evolve Pikachu into Raichu in Pokémon Scarlet & Violet

There is no Pokémon more iconic than Pikachu, often to the detriment of its evolution Raichu. The adorable yellow mouse's fans can rest easily knowing that Pikachu is in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet. But they will need to evolve Pikachu to keep the Electric-type viable in the later stages. This may leave you wondering how to evolve Pikachu into Raichu in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet.

How to get a Raichu in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet

To get a Raichu in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, you must evolve Pikachu using a Thunder Stone. You cannot evolve Pikachu by any other means, so you will need to seek a Thunder Stone. Fortunately, these can be purchased from the Delibird Presents store after you have defeated three gym leaders.

Related: How to evolve Jigglypuff into Wigglytuff in Pokémon Scarlet & Violet

Once you have a Thunder Stone, place Pikachu in your party and press X to open the Main Menu. Select Bag and then go to the tab represented by the candy icon—this is the Other Items tab. Scroll down, find the Thunder Stone, and then press A to select it. Choose Use this Item and then select Pikachu. This will evolve into Raichu.

Raichu typically does not learn moves through leveling up, but you can remember moves at any time to relearn old moves. This means you do not need to wait to evolve Pikachu until it has learned a good move set.

For more information on How to get all three Starter Pokémon in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet and Where to find Eevee and its evolution stones in Pokémon Scarlet & Violet on Pro Game Guides.