Pokemon GO is bringing people together and making Nintendo’s stock go up like crazy. Basically, the new iOS and Android app is a smash hit.
The full worldwide release schedule has stalled, but Niantic says Pokemon GO will reach everyone in just a few more days. It’s so popular, rumors are swirling about unexplained features, secret functions, and locked content. Well, one of those rumors is totally real — you can get Pikachu as a starter Pokemon.
After beginning a new game, you’ll get to choose one of the three Generation 1 starters; Charmander, Bulbasaur, and Squirtle. In the core series, these are extremely rare Pokemon that can’t be captured in the wild — your only chance to get these three is starting a new game, or trading with friends. That isn’t the case in Pokemon GO, you’ll find plenty of Charmanders, Bulbasaurs, and Squirtles out in the wild if you look long enough. If you’re looking to unlock a fourth option, there is a way to make it happen. It’s totally easy, but crazy secret.
How to Unlock Pikachu As Your Starter
At the start of the game, you’ll see two or three Pokemon near your location. These are your starters — they’re the first Pokemon you can catch. Approaching and throwing a Pokeball at one locks-in your choice and you won’t be able to capture the other two — they immediately disappear.
Want to add a fourth option to the starters? Pikachu will appear if you follow these steps.
- Start a new game.
- Reach the Starters choice — two / three Pokemon will appear nearby.
- Walk away from the choices.
- Walk away from the choices 5 times.
- Pikachu will appear!
Now you can capture Pikachu and start your journey with the face of the Pokemon franchise. This sounds completely fake — the kind of rumor kids spread on the playground before the internet existed. But no, it’s been confirmed multiple times. Crazy, right?
Just a heads-up, but all four starter Pokemon (Pikachu included) can be captured at any point in your Pokemon GO adventure. They aren’t rare, and there’s no reason to keep a starter if you find a higher-CP identical Pokemon in the wild. There’s really nothing special about starters in the long-run.
This is still a fun little secret, and we’re hoping this is the first of many rumored Easter eggs. If you’ve heard a weird rumor or have theories of your own, let us know in the comments!
More Pokemon GO tips, tricks, and FAQs:
- Pokemon GO: 9 Essential Tips, Tricks & Answers To Your Questions
- Pokemon GO: How to Become A Gym Leader
- Pokemon GO: How to Earn Coins (Fast) & What They’re Used For
- Pokemon GO: iOS & Android Compatibility – Which Versions Work
- Pokemon GO: Easy Ways to Earn XP & Level Up Fast
- Pokemon GO: How to Take In-Game Screenshots
Source: [1]