Raikou (Pokémon): Difference between revisions

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{{PokémonPrevNextHead | species=Raikou | prev=Blissey | next=Entei|type=electric|| prevnum=242| nextnum=244}}
{{PokémonPrevNextHead | species=Raikou | prev=Blissey | next=Entei | prevnum=242 | nextnum=244 | type=electric }}
{{Pokémon Infobox |
{{Pokémon Infobox
name=Raikou |
|name=Raikou
jname=ライコウ |
|jname=ライコウ
tmname=Raikou |
|tmname=Raikou
ndex=243 |
|ndex=243
oldjdex=238 |
|oldjdex=238
jdex=243 |
|jdex=243
hdex=378 |
|fbrow=203
fbrow=203 |
|obrow=126
obrow=126 |
|typebox=1
typebox=1 |
|type1=Electric
type1=Electric |
|category=Thunder
species=Thunder |
|height-ftin=6'03"
height-ftin=6'03" |
|height-m=1.9
height-m=1.9 |
|weight-lbs=392.4
weight-lbs=392.4 |
|weight-kg=178.0
weight-kg=178.0 |
|abilityn=d
abilityn=d |
|ability1=Pressure
ability1=Pressure |
|abilityd=Volt Absorb
abilityd=Volt Absorb |
|egggroupn=0
egggroupn=1 |
|egggroup1=Undiscovered
egggroup1=Undiscovered |
|gendercode=255
gendercode=255 |
|eggcycles=81
eggcycles=81 |
|evtotal=3
evtotal=3 |
|evsa=1
evsa=1 |
|evsp=2
evsp=2 |
|expyield=261
expyield=261 |
|oldexp=216
oldexp=216 |
|lv100exp=1,250,000
lv100exp=1,250,000 |
|color=Yellow
color=Yellow |
|catchrate=3
catchrate=3 |
|body=08
body=08 |
|pokefordex=raikou
pokefordex=raikou |
|generation=2
generation=2 |
|friendship=35
friendship=35 |
}}
}}
'''Raikou''' (Japanese: '''ライコウ''' ''Raikou'') is an {{type|Electric}} [[Legendary Pokémon]].  
'''Raikou''' (Japanese: '''ライコウ''' ''Raikou'') is an {{type|Electric}} [[Legendary Pokémon]].


It is not known to [[Evolution|evolve]] into or from any other Pokémon.  
It is not known to [[Evolution|evolve]] into or from any other Pokémon.


Along with {{p|Entei}} and {{p|Suicune}}, it is one of the [[legendary beasts]] resurrected by {{p|Ho-Oh}} after the burning of the [[Burned Tower|Brass Tower]]. Of the three legendary beasts, Raikou is said to represent the lightning strike which ignited the fire that consumed the Brass Tower.
Along with {{p|Entei}} and {{p|Suicune}}, it is one of the [[Legendary beasts]] resurrected by {{p|Ho-Oh}} after the burning of the [[Burned Tower|Brass Tower]]. Of the three Legendary beasts, Raikou is said to represent the lightning strike which ignited the fire that consumed the Brass Tower.


==Biology==
==Biology==
Raikou is a quadruped, yellow, tiger-like Pokémon with black stripes and a white underside. It has a thin, light blue tail with sharp angles and a spark-shaped formation at the end. Raikou's mane looks like dull purple rain clouds and allows it to shoot bolts of lighting. Most of its face consists of thick, white fur and shorter yellow fur around its red eyes. Raikou's muzzle is a light blue "X" and it has a black faceplate with two bumps that covers its forehead, nose, and ears. Raikou has two long fangs that make its appearance similar to the {{wp|saber-toothed cat}}. Its large claws each converge to form a single point and never retract. Extra fur hangs off its body in front of its rear thighs.
Raikou is a quadruped, yellow, tiger-like Pokémon with black stripes and a white underside. It has a thin, light blue tail with sharp angles and a spark-shaped formation at the end. Most of its face consists of thick, white fur and shorter yellow fur around its red eyes. Raikou's muzzle is a light blue "X" and it has a black faceplate with two bumps that covers its forehead, nose, and ears. Raikou has two long fangs that make its appearance similar to the {{wp|saber-toothed cat}}. Its large claws each converge to form a single point and never retract. Extra fur hangs off its body in front of its thighs. Raikou has a mane across its back that resembles dull purple rain clouds and allows it to shoot bolts of lighting.


[[SS023|As seen in the anime]], Raikou is able to fly by creating storm clouds. [[The Legend of Thunder!|It is shown]] to be distrustful of humans, though it may form some friendship with those who help it. Raikou tends to appear during thunderstorms and when other Electric-type Pokémon are in danger. Raikou races across {{DL|List of Pokémon by habitat|Grassland Pokémon|grasslands}} while barking cries that sound like thunder.
[[SS023|As seen in the anime]], Raikou is able to fly by creating storm clouds. [[The Legend of Thunder!|It is shown]] to be distrustful of humans, though it may form some friendship with those who help it. Raikou tends to appear during thunderstorms and when other Electric-type Pokémon are in danger. Raikou races across {{DL|List of Pokémon by habitat|Grassland Pokémon|grasslands}} while barking cries that sound like thunder.
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Raikou appeared in the [[Pokémon Chronicles]] episode, ''[[The Legend of Thunder!]]'' where members of [[Team Rocket]] hunt down and attempt to catch Raikou.
Raikou appeared in the [[Pokémon Chronicles]] episode, ''[[The Legend of Thunder!]]'' where members of [[Team Rocket]] hunt down and attempt to catch Raikou.


====[[legendary beasts (M13)|Raikou (M13)]]====
====[[Legendary beasts (M13)|Raikou (M13)]]====
A [[legendary beasts (M13)|Shiny Raikou]] made its first movie appearance alongside {{p|Celebi}}, and the other members of its [[legendary beasts|trio]] in the thirteenth Pokémon movie, ''[[M13|Zoroark: Master of Illusions]]''.
A [[Legendary beasts (M13)|Shiny Raikou]] made its first movie appearance alongside {{p|Celebi}}, and the other members of its [[Legendary beasts|trio]] in the thirteenth Pokémon movie, ''[[M13|Zoroark: Master of Illusions]]''.


====Other====
====Other====
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===Minor appearances===
===Minor appearances===
Raikou first appeared in ''[[EP180|Houndoom's Special Delivery]]''. It was spotted by {{TP|Misty|Togepi}} and a {{p|Houndoom}} before it disappeared.  
Raikou first appeared in ''[[EP180|Houndoom's Special Delivery]]''. It was spotted by {{TP|Misty|Togepi}} and a {{p|Houndoom}} before it disappeared.


The [[Mauville City]] [[Gym Leader]] [[Wattson]] owns many Raikou robots which he uses in his Gym.
The [[Mauville City]] [[Gym Leader]] [[Wattson]] owns many Raikou robots which he uses in his Gym.
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==In the manga==
==In the manga==
[[File:Anabel Raikou Adventures.png|thumb|Raikou in Pokémon Adventures]]
[[File:Anabel Raikou Adventures.png|thumb|200px|Raikou in Pokémon Adventures]]
===In the movie adaptations===
{{main|Legendary beasts (M13)|Raikou (M13)}}
Raikou appeared in the {{ma|Zoroark: Master of Illusions|manga adaptation}} of the fourth and final {{series|Diamond & Pearl}} {{pkmn|movie}}, ''[[M13|Zoroark: Master of Illusions]]''.
 
===In the Pokémon Adventures manga===
===In the Pokémon Adventures manga===
{{main|Legendary beasts (Adventures)#Raikou|Raikou (Adventures)}}
Raikou appeared as a beam of light in ''[[PS117|Slugging It Out With Slugma]]''. Its first real appearance was in ''[[PS137|Really Raikou & Entirely Entei I]]'', where it along with Entei tests Falkner and were joined by Suicune in ''[[PS138|Really Raikou & Entirely Entei I]]'', discussing about Ho-oh. It was revealed in a flashback in ''[[PS141|Hello, Lickitung]]'', where it was awakened by {{adv|Yellow}} along with its two counterparts, and the three raced around [[Kanto]] and [[Johto]] looking for {{pkmn|Trainer}}s to help them defeat the [[Masked Man]] to free {{p|Ho-Oh}} and repay the debt of the latter for saving its life. Nearing the end of the chapter, Raikou eventually pairs up with [[Lt. Surge]] after encountering and escaping [[Falkner]], and later {{adv|Gold}}. Once Ho-Oh is freed and [[Pryce]], the true identity of the Masked Man, is defeated, it once again roams the lands of Johto with {{p|Suicune}} and {{p|Entei}}.
Raikou appeared as a beam of light in ''[[PS117|Slugging It Out With Slugma]]''. Its first real appearance was in ''[[PS137|Really Raikou & Entirely Entei I]]'', where it along with Entei tests Falkner and were joined by Suicune in ''[[PS138|Really Raikou & Entirely Entei I]]'', discussing about Ho-oh. It was revealed in a flashback in ''[[PS141|Hello, Lickitung]]'', where it was awakened by {{adv|Yellow}} along with its two counterparts, and the three raced around [[Kanto]] and [[Johto]] looking for {{pkmn|Trainer}}s to help them defeat the [[Masked Man]] to free {{p|Ho-Oh}} and repay the debt of the latter for saving its life. Nearing the end of the chapter, Raikou eventually pairs up with [[Lt. Surge]] after encountering and escaping [[Falkner]], and later {{adv|Gold}}. Once Ho-Oh is freed and [[Pryce]], the true identity of the Masked Man, is defeated, it once again roams the lands of Johto with {{p|Suicune}} and {{p|Entei}}.


{{FB|Salon Maiden|Anabel}} also owns a Raikou in the {{ho|Battle Frontier}} saga. It has been confirmed that it is the same Raikou as the one that befriended Gold, having caught it sometime before the {{chap|Emerald}} in Johto. Raikou is more powerful than any other Electric-type Pokémon in the manga because billowing thunder clouds follow it everywhere carried on its back, allowing it to perform powerful attacks, such as {{m|Thunder}}, more quickly and efficiently than regular Electric Pokémon. Despite clearly possessing sentient intelligence like its fellow beasts, it obeyed Anabel's commands to battle {{adv|Emerald}} without question while she was under psychic control of [[Guile Hideout]]. After he is defeated and the Battle Frontier is saved, Raikou is seen interacting with Gold and {{adv|Crystal}}, and has not appeared since.
{{FB|Salon Maiden|Anabel}} also owns a Raikou in the {{ho|Battle Frontier}} saga. It has been confirmed that it is the same Raikou as the one that befriended Gold, having caught it sometime before the {{chap|Emerald}} in Johto. Raikou is more powerful than any other Electric-type Pokémon in the manga because billowing thunder clouds follow it everywhere carried on its back, allowing it to perform powerful attacks, such as {{m|Thunder}}, more quickly and efficiently than regular Electric Pokémon. Despite clearly possessing sentient intelligence like its fellow beasts, it obeyed Anabel's commands to battle {{adv|Emerald}} without question while she was under psychic control of [[Guile Hideout]]. After he is defeated and the Battle Frontier is saved, Raikou is seen interacting with Gold and {{adv|Crystal}}, and has not appeared since.
{{-}}


==In the TCG==
==In the TCG==
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===[[Super Smash Bros.]] Series===
===[[Super Smash Bros.]] Series===
====[[Super Smash Bros. Melee]]====
====[[Super Smash Bros. Melee]]====
When released from a [[Poké Ball]], Raikou releases a powerful {{m|Spark}} attack that electrocutes any opponents that get caught in it. Raikou is the only [[legendary beasts|legendary beast]] that does not return in [[Super Smash Bros. Brawl]].
When released from a [[Poké Ball]], Raikou releases a powerful {{m|Spark}} attack that electrocutes any opponents that get caught in it. Raikou is the only [[Legendary beasts|Legendary beast]] that does not return in [[Super Smash Bros. Brawl]].


=====Trophy Information=====
=====Trophy Information=====
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====[[Super Smash Bros for Nintendo 3DS/Wii U|Super Smash Bros. for Wii U]]====
====[[Super Smash Bros for Nintendo 3DS/Wii U|Super Smash Bros. for Wii U]]====
Raikou appears as a trophy in the Wii U version of the game.
Raikou appears as a trophy.


=====Trophy Information=====
=====Trophy Information=====
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{{Dex/NA|gen=II}}
{{Dex/NA|gen=II}}
{{Dex/Gen|gen=II}}
{{Dex/Gen|gen=II}}
{{Dex/Entry1|v=Gold|entry=The rain clouds it carries let it fire {{m|thunderbolt}}s at will. They say that it descended with lightning.}}
{{Dex/Entry1|v=Gold|entry=The rain clouds it carries let it fire thunderbolts at will. They say that it descended with lightning.}}
{{Dex/Entry1|v=Silver|entry=A Pokémon that races across the land while barking a cry that sounds like crashing {{m|thunder}}.}}
{{Dex/Entry1|v=Silver|entry=A Pokémon that races across the land while barking a cry that sounds like crashing thunder.}}
{{Dex/Entry1|v=Crystal|entry=This rough Pokémon stores energy in its body, then sweeps across the land, shooting off electricity.}}
{{Dex/Entry1|v=Crystal|entry=This rough Pokémon stores energy in its body, then sweeps across the land, shooting off electricity.}}
{{Dex/Entry1|v=Stadium 2|t=FFF|color=000|entry=The rain clouds it carries let it fire thunderbolts at will. They say that it descended with lightning.}}
{{Dex/Entry1|v=Stadium 2|t=FFF|color=000|entry=The rain clouds it carries let it fire thunderbolts at will. They say that it descended with lightning.}}
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|}
|}
{{Dex/Gen|gen=III}}
{{Dex/Gen|gen=III}}
{{Dex/Entry2|v=Ruby|v2=Sapphire|t=FFF|t2=FFF|entry=Raikou embodies the speed of lightning. The {{m|roar}}s of this Pokémon send shock waves shuddering through the air and shake the ground as if lightning bolts had come crashing down.}}
{{Dex/Entry2|v=Ruby|v2=Sapphire|t=FFF|t2=FFF|entry=Raikou embodies the speed of lightning. The roars of this Pokémon send shock waves shuddering through the air and shake the ground as if lightning bolts had come crashing down.}}
{{Dex/Entry1|v=Emerald|t=FFF|entry=Raikou embodies the speed of lightning. Its roars send shock waves shuddering through the air and ground as if lightning bolts were crashing down.}}
{{Dex/Entry1|v=Emerald|t=FFF|entry=Raikou embodies the speed of lightning. Its roars send shock waves shuddering through the air and ground as if lightning bolts were crashing down.}}
{{Dex/Entry1|v=FireRed|entry=This Pokémon races across the land while barking a cry that sounds like crashing thunder.}}
{{Dex/Entry1|v=FireRed|entry=This Pokémon races across the land while barking a cry that sounds like crashing thunder.}}
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====In events====
====In events====
{{eventAvail/h|type=Electric}}
{{eventAvail/h|type=Electric}}
{{eventAvail|{{gameabbrev3|GSC}}|Gotta Catch 'Em All Station! Raikou|English|United States|40[[File:ShinyIIStars.png|Shiny|link=Shiny Pokémon]]|November 22 to 29, 2001;<br>December 7 to 20, 2001;<br>June 22 to 28, 2002;<br>July 5 to 11, 2002;<br>November 15 to 21, 2002|link=List of Gotta Catch 'Em All event Pokémon#Shiny Raikou}}
{{eventAvail|{{gameabbrev2|GSC}}|Gotta Catch 'Em All Station! Raikou|English|United States|40[[File:ShinyIIStars.png|Shiny|link=Shiny Pokémon]]|November 22 to 29, 2001;<br>December 7 to 20, 2001;<br>June 22 to 28, 2002;<br>July 5 to 11, 2002;<br>November 15 to 21, 2002|link=List of Gotta Catch 'Em All event Pokémon#Shiny Raikou}}
{{eventAvail|{{gameabbrev3|RSE}}{{gameabbrev3|FRLG}}|Journey Across America Raikou|English|United States|70|February 25 to July 23, 2006|link=List of Journey Across America event Pokémon distributions#Raikou}}
{{eventAvail|{{gameabbrev3|RSEFRLG}}|Journey Across America Raikou|English|United States|70|February 25 to July 23, 2006|link=List of Journey Across America event Pokémon distributions#Raikou}}
{{eventAvail|{{gameabbrev3|RSE}}{{gameabbrev3|FRLG}}|Top 10 Distribution Raikou|English|United Kingdom|70|June 10, 2006;<br>October 14 to November 19, 2006|link=List of English event Pokémon distributions in Generation III#Raikou}}
{{eventAvail|{{gameabbrev3|RSEFRLG}}|Top 10 Distribution Raikou|English|United Kingdom|70|June 10, 2006;<br>October 14 to November 19, 2006|link=List of English event Pokémon distributions in Generation III#Raikou}}
{{eventAvail|{{gameabbrev3|RSE}}{{gameabbrev3|FRLG}}|Top 10 Distribution Raikou|Italian|Italy|70|June 23 to 25, 2006|link=List of Italian event Pokémon distributions in Generation III#Raikou}}
{{eventAvail|{{gameabbrev3|RSEFRLG}}|Top 10 Distribution Raikou|Italian|Italy|70|June 23 to 25, 2006|link=List of Italian event Pokémon distributions in Generation III#Raikou}}
{{eventAvail|{{gameabbrev3|RSE}}{{gameabbrev3|FRLG}}|Top 10 Distribution Raikou|Spanish|Spain|70|June 27 to August 27, 2006|link=List of Spanish event Pokémon distributions in Generation III#Raikou}}
{{eventAvail|{{gameabbrev3|RSEFRLG}}|Top 10 Distribution Raikou|Spanish|Spain|70|June 27 to August 27, 2006|link=List of Spanish event Pokémon distributions in Generation III#Raikou}}
{{eventAvail|{{gameabbrev3|RSE}}{{gameabbrev3|FRLG}}|Party of the Decade Raikou|English|United States|70|August 8, 2006|link=List of Party of the Decade event Pokémon distributions#Raikou}}
{{eventAvail|{{gameabbrev3|RSEFRLG}}|Party of the Decade Raikou|English|United States|70|August 8, 2006|link=List of Party of the Decade event Pokémon distributions#Raikou}}
{{eventAvail|{{gameabbrev3|RSE}}{{gameabbrev3|FRLG}}|Top 10 Distribution Raikou|German|Germany|70|September 24 to November 5, 2006|link=List of German event Pokémon distributions in Generation III#Raikou}}
{{eventAvail|{{gameabbrev3|RSEFRLG}}|Top 10 Distribution Raikou|German|Germany|70|September 24 to November 5, 2006|link=List of German event Pokémon distributions in Generation III#Raikou}}
{{eventAvail|{{gameabbrev3|RSE}}{{gameabbrev3|FRLG}}|Top 10 Distribution Raikou|French|France|70|September 26, 2006|link=List of French event Pokémon distributions in Generation III#Raikou}}
{{eventAvail|{{gameabbrev3|RSEFRLG}}|Top 10 Distribution Raikou|French|France|70|September 26, 2006|link=List of French event Pokémon distributions in Generation III#Raikou}}
{{eventAvail|{{gameabbrev3|DPP}}{{gameabbrev3|HGSS}}|Crown Raikou|Japanese|Japan|30[[File:ShinyIVStar.png|Shiny|link=Shiny Pokémon]]|June 18 to August 31, 2010|link=List of local Japanese event Pokémon distributions in Generation IV#Raikou}}
{{eventAvail|{{gameabbrev4|DPPtHGSS}}|Crown Raikou|Japanese|Japan|30[[File:ShinyIVStar.png|Shiny|link=Shiny Pokémon]]|June 18 to August 31, 2010|link=List of local Japanese event Pokémon distributions in Generation IV#Raikou}}
{{eventAvail|{{gameabbrev3|DPP}}{{gameabbrev3|HGSS}}|Shinsegae Raikou|Korean|South Korea|30[[File:ShinyIVStar.png|Shiny|link=Shiny Pokémon]]|September 11 to October 24, 2010|link=List of local Korean event Pokémon distributions in Generation IV#Shinsegae Raikou}}
{{eventAvail|{{gameabbrev4|DPPtHGSS}}|Shinsegae Raikou|Korean|South Korea|30[[File:ShinyIVStar.png|Shiny|link=Shiny Pokémon]]|September 11 to October 24, 2010|link=List of local Korean event Pokémon distributions in Generation IV#Shinsegae Raikou}}
{{eventAvail|{{gameabbrev3|DPP}}{{gameabbrev3|HGSS}}|Crown City Raikou|Korean|South Korea|30[[File:ShinyIVStar.png|Shiny|link=Shiny Pokémon]]|December 16, 2010 to January 9, 2011|link=List of local Korean event Pokémon distributions in Generation IV#Crown City Raikou}}
{{eventAvail|{{gameabbrev4|DPPtHGSS}}|Crown City Raikou|Korean|South Korea|30[[File:ShinyIVStar.png|Shiny|link=Shiny Pokémon]]|December 16, 2010 to January 9, 2011|link=List of local Korean event Pokémon distributions in Generation IV#Crown City Raikou}}
{{eventAvail|{{gameabbrev3|DPP}}{{gameabbrev3|HGSS}}|GameStop Raikou|English|North America|30[[File:ShinyIVStar.png|Shiny|link=Shiny Pokémon]]|January 3 to 9, 2011|link=List of local English event Pokémon distributions in Generation IV#GameStop Raikou}}
{{eventAvail|{{gameabbrev4|DPPtHGSS}}|GameStop Raikou|English|North America|30[[File:ShinyIVStar.png|Shiny|link=Shiny Pokémon]]|January 3 to 9, 2011|link=List of local English event Pokémon distributions in Generation IV#GameStop Raikou}}
{{eventAvail|{{gameabbrev3|DPP}}{{gameabbrev3|HGSS}}|Winter 2011 Raikou|English|Wi-Fi|30[[File:ShinyIVStar.png|Shiny|link=Shiny Pokémon]]|February 7 to 13, 2011|link=List of Wi-Fi English event Pokémon distributions in Generation IV#Winter 2011 Raikou}}
{{eventAvail|{{gameabbrev4|DPPtHGSS}}|Winter 2011 Raikou|English|Wi-Fi|30[[File:ShinyIVStar.png|Shiny|link=Shiny Pokémon]]|February 7 to 13, 2011|link=List of Wi-Fi English event Pokémon distributions in Generation IV#Winter 2011 Raikou}}
{{eventAvail|{{gameabbrev3|DPP}}{{gameabbrev3|HGSS}}|Winter 2011 Raikou|French|Wi-Fi|30[[File:ShinyIVStar.png|Shiny|link=Shiny Pokémon]]|February 7 to 13, 2011|link=List of Wi-Fi French event Pokémon distributions in Generation IV#Winter 2011 Raikou}}
{{eventAvail|{{gameabbrev4|DPPtHGSS}}|Winter 2011 Raikou|French|Wi-Fi|30[[File:ShinyIVStar.png|Shiny|link=Shiny Pokémon]]|February 7 to 13, 2011|link=List of Wi-Fi French event Pokémon distributions in Generation IV#Winter 2011 Raikou}}
{{eventAvail|{{gameabbrev3|DPP}}{{gameabbrev3|HGSS}}|Winter 2011 Raikou|German|Wi-Fi|30[[File:ShinyIVStar.png|Shiny|link=Shiny Pokémon]]|February 7 to 13, 2011|link=List of Wi-Fi German event Pokémon distributions in Generation IV#Winter 2011 Raikou}}
{{eventAvail|{{gameabbrev4|DPPtHGSS}}|Winter 2011 Raikou|German|Wi-Fi|30[[File:ShinyIVStar.png|Shiny|link=Shiny Pokémon]]|February 7 to 13, 2011|link=List of Wi-Fi German event Pokémon distributions in Generation IV#Winter 2011 Raikou}}
{{eventAvail|{{gameabbrev3|DPP}}{{gameabbrev3|HGSS}}|Winter 2011 Raikou|Italian|Wi-Fi|30[[File:ShinyIVStar.png|Shiny|link=Shiny Pokémon]]|February 7 to 13, 2011|link=List of Wi-Fi Italian event Pokémon distributions in Generation IV#Winter 2011 Raikou}}
{{eventAvail|{{gameabbrev4|DPPtHGSS}}|Winter 2011 Raikou|Italian|Wi-Fi|30[[File:ShinyIVStar.png|Shiny|link=Shiny Pokémon]]|February 7 to 13, 2011|link=List of Wi-Fi Italian event Pokémon distributions in Generation IV#Winter 2011 Raikou}}
{{eventAvail|{{gameabbrev3|DPP}}{{gameabbrev3|HGSS}}|Winter 2011 Raikou|Spanish|Wi-Fi|30[[File:ShinyIVStar.png|Shiny|link=Shiny Pokémon]]|February 7 to 13, 2011|link=List of Wi-Fi Spanish event Pokémon distributions in Generation IV#Winter 2011 Raikou}}
{{eventAvail|{{gameabbrev4|DPPtHGSS}}|Winter 2011 Raikou|Spanish|Wi-Fi|30[[File:ShinyIVStar.png|Shiny|link=Shiny Pokémon]]|February 7 to 13, 2011|link=List of Wi-Fi Spanish event Pokémon distributions in Generation IV#Winter 2011 Raikou}}
|}
|}


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===Stats===
===Stats===
====Base stats====
====Base stats====
{{BaseStats|
{{BaseStats
type=electric|
|type=electric
HP=    90 |
|HP=    90
Attack= 85 |
|Attack= 85
Defense=75 |
|Defense=75
SpAtk= 115 |
|SpAtk= 115
SpDef= 100 |
|SpDef= 100
Speed= 115 }}
|Speed= 115 }}


====Pokéathlon stats====
====Pokéathlon stats====
Line 258: Line 263:


===Type effectiveness===
===Type effectiveness===
{{TypeEffectiveness|
{{TypeEffectiveness
type1=electric|
|type1=electric
Normal=  100 |
|Normal=  100
Fighting=100 |
|Fighting=100
Flying=  50 |
|Flying=  50
Poison=  100 |
|Poison=  100
Ground=  200 |
|Ground=  200
Rock=    100 |
|Rock=    100
Bug=    100 |
|Bug=    100
Ghost=  100 |
|Ghost=  100
Steel=    50 |
|Steel=    50
 
|Fire=    100
Fire=    100 |
|Water=  100
Water=  100 |
|Grass=  100
Grass=  100 |
|Electric= 50
Electric= 50 |
|Psychic= 100
Psychic= 100 |
|Ice=    100
Ice=    100 |
|Dragon=  100
Dragon=  100 |
|Dark=    100
Dark=    100 |
|Fairy=  100
Fairy=  100 |
|notes=yes
 
|voltabsorb=maybe}}
notes=yes|
voltabsorb=maybe|}}


===Learnset===
===Learnset===
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===Side game data===
===Side game data===
{{Sidegame|
{{Sidegame
type=electric |
|type=electric
ndex=243 |
|ndex=243
Trozei=yes |
|Trozei=yes
rarity=Rare |
|rarity=Rare
Dungeon=yes |
|Dungeon=yes
body=1 |
|body=1
rate=0.1 |
|rate=0.1
area=Sacred Field |
|area=Sacred Field
P1=I am the thunderbolt that races through the fields! |
|P1=I am the thunderbolt that races through the fields!
P2=I don't like this... My HP is cut to half? |
|P2=I don't like this... My HP is cut to half?
P3=This is it... The power of lightning fails here... |
|P3=This is it... The power of lightning fails here...
PL=I gained a level! May lightning bolts empower me! |
|PL=I gained a level! May lightning bolts empower me!
Ranger=yes |
|Ranger=yes
group=Electric |
|group=Electric
assist=Electric |
|assist=Electric
field=Recharge |
|field=Recharge
fieldpower=3 |
|fieldpower=3
loop=11 |
|loop=11
MinEXP=500 |
|MinEXP=500
MaxEXP=600 |
|MaxEXP=600
browser=Raikou is a [[legendary Pokémon]] that dashes while dropping thunderbolts. |
|browser=Raikou is a [[legendary Pokémon]] that dashes while dropping thunderbolts.
Dungeon2=yes |
|Dungeon2=yes
body2=2 |
|body2=2
rate2=5 |
|rate2=5
iq=D |
|iq=D
rumble2=yes |
|rumble2=yes
rumble2attack=4|  
|rumble2attack=4
rumble2defense=3|  
|rumble2defense=3
rumble2speed=4|
|rumble2speed=4
Ranger3=yes |
|Ranger3=yes
group3=Electric |
|group3=Electric
assist3=Electric |
|assist3=Electric
field3=None |
|field3=None
field3power=- |
|field3power=-
browser3=It creates waves of electricity around it and launches thunderbolts to attack. |
|browser3=It creates waves of electricity around it and launches thunderbolts to attack.
}}
}}


Line 424: Line 427:
* Raikou, along with {{p|Entei}} and {{p|Suicune}}, was designed by [[Muneo Saitō]].<ref>http://kai-you.net/article/5034</ref>
* Raikou, along with {{p|Entei}} and {{p|Suicune}}, was designed by [[Muneo Saitō]].<ref>http://kai-you.net/article/5034</ref>
[[File:Raikou dex entry LoT.png|thumb|Raikou in {{jo|Jimmy}}'s Pokédex]]
[[File:Raikou dex entry LoT.png|thumb|Raikou in {{jo|Jimmy}}'s Pokédex]]
* Raikou is the only Pokémon in the anime whose image on the anime [[Pokédex]] was of stylized art rather than [[Ken Sugimori]]'s official artwork.  
* Raikou is the only Pokémon in the anime whose image on the anime [[Pokédex]] was of stylized art rather than [[Ken Sugimori]]'s official artwork.
* Raikou's [[effort values|EV]] yield (1 Sp. Atk and 2 Speed) is unique.  
* Raikou's [[effort values|EV]] yield (1 Sp. Atk and 2 Speed) is unique.
* Raikou's number in the [[National Pokédex]] and the [[List of Pokémon by Johto Pokédex number|Johto Pokédex]] is the same: 243.
* Raikou's number in the [[National Pokédex]] and the [[List of Pokémon by Johto Pokédex number|Johto Pokédex]] is the same: 243.


===Origin===
===Origin===
Raikou is particularly based on the Thunder and Lightning deities of most cultures surrounding the world, mostly the 雷獣 ''{{wp|raijū}}'', a thunder demon of Japanese lore. It is said to be a creature that could take the form of a {{wp|tiger}}, {{wp|monkey}}, blue {{wp|wolf}} wrapped in lightning, and many other animals. Raikou is specifically based on its tiger form, while the Pokémon {{p|Manectric}} is based on its wolf form. In terms of physical build, Raikou is based on the ''{{wp|Smilodon fatalis}}'', a well-known but extinct species of wildcat often referred to as a saber-toothed tiger. Its color and pattern scheme are reminiscent of that of a {{wp|Bengal tiger}}. The stripes that decorate Raikou's body also can be compared to zigzagging thunderbolts and perhaps even scars from claws. The white ruff around Raikou's face is akin to the {{wp|Siberian tiger}}'s thick fur around its neck. In the anime, Raikou is shown to be very agile, swift, stealthy, and a powerful attacker, just like a tiger. The gray "plate" atop its head may be similar to Entei's head ornament, being either a helmet or crown that signifies courage and power.  
Raikou may be particularly based on the Thunder and Lightning gods of most cultures surrounding the world, mostly the 雷獣 ''{{wp|raijū}}'', a thunder demon of Japanese lore. It is said to be a creature that could take the form of a {{wp|tiger}}, {{wp|monkey}}, blue {{wp|wolf}} wrapped in lightning, and many other animals. Raikou is specifically based on its tiger form, while the Pokémon {{p|Manectric}} is based on its wolf form. In terms of physical build, Raikou may be based on the ''{{wp|Smilodon fatalis}}'', a well-known but extinct species of wildcat often referred to as a saber-toothed tiger. Its color and pattern scheme are reminiscent of that of a {{wp|Bengal tiger}}. The stripes that decorate Raikou's body also can be compared to zigzagging thunderbolts and perhaps even scars from claws. The white ruff around Raikou's face is akin to the {{wp|Siberian tiger}}'s thick fur around its neck. In the anime, Raikou is shown to be very agile, swift, stealthy, and a powerful attacker, just like a tiger. The gray "plate" atop its head may be similar to Entei's head ornament, being either a helmet or crown that signifies courage and power.
The flowing purple mane on its back is likely meant to invoke the image of a {{wp|cumulonimbus cloud}}, the cloud type most often associated with thunderstorms.  
The flowing purple mane on its back is likely meant to invoke the image of a {{wp|cumulonimbus cloud}}, the cloud type most often associated with thunderstorms.


====Name origin====
====Name origin====
Raikou could be taken to mean 雷光 ''raikou'' (lightning), which is also the inspiration for the name of {{wp|raijū}}, or it may be a combination of 雷 ''rai'' (thunder) and 皇 ''kō'' (emperor). It may also derive from 雷公 ''raikō'' (thunder duke), identical to the name of the Taoist god {{wp|Lei Gong}}.
Raikou could be taken to mean 雷光 ''raikou'' (lightning), which is also the inspiration for the name of {{wp|raijū}}, or it may be a combination of 雷 ''rai'' (thunder) and 皇 ''kō'' (emperor). It may also derive from 雷公 ''raikō'' (thunder duke), identical to the name of the Taoist deity {{wp|Lei Gong}}.


==In other languages==
==In other languages==
Line 450: Line 453:


==Related articles==
==Related articles==
* [[Legendary beasts]]
* [[Raikou (The Legend of Thunder!)]]
* [[Raikou (The Legend of Thunder!)]]
* [[Legendary beasts (M13)]]
* [[Legendary beasts (M13)]]
* [[Legendary beasts]]
* [[Legendary beasts (Adventures)#Raikou|Raikou (Adventures)]]


==Notes==
==Notes==
Line 460: Line 464:
{{Legendary Pokémon}}
{{Legendary Pokémon}}
{{Smash Bros.}}
{{Smash Bros.}}
{{PokémonPrevNextFoot | prev=Blissey | next=Entei|type=electric|| prevnum=242| nextnum=244}}
{{PokémonPrevNextFoot | prev=Blissey | next=Entei | prevnum=242 | nextnum=244 | type=electric }}
{{-}}
{{-}}
{{Project Pokédex notice}}
{{Project Pokédex notice}}

Revision as of 05:34, 31 May 2016

Blissey #242: Blissey
Pokémon
#244: Entei Entei
This article is about the species. For a specific instance of this species, see Raikou (disambiguation).
Raikou
Thunder Pokémon
ライコウ
Raikou
#243
Raikou



Images on the Bulbagarden Archives
Type
Electric Unknown
Unknown Unknown
Unknown Unknown
Unknown Unknown
Unknown Unknown
Unknown Unknown
Abilities
Pressure Cacophony
Cacophony
Volt Absorb
Hidden Ability
Cacophony
Hidden Ability
Cacophony
Cacophony
Gender ratio
Gender unknown
Catch rate
3 (1.6%)
Breeding
Egg Group
Undiscovered
Hatch time
81 cycles
Egg not obtainable
Height
6'03" 1.9 m
Raikou
0'0" 0 m
{{{form2}}}
0'0" 0 m
{{{form3}}}
0'0" 0 m
{{{form4}}}
Weight
392.4 lbs. 178.0 kg
Raikou
0 lbs. 0 kg
{{{form2}}}
0 lbs. 0 kg
{{{form3}}}
0 lbs. 0 kg
{{{form4}}}
Mega Stone
[[|]] [[|]]
Base experience yield
216
Gen. II-IV
Unknown
IV
261
V+
Leveling rate
Slow
EV yield
Total: 3
Raikou
0
HP
0
Atk
0
Def
1
Sp.Atk
0
Sp.Def
2
Speed
0
HP
0
Atk
0
Def
0
Sp.Atk
0
Sp.Def
0
Speed
0
HP
0
Atk
0
Def
0
Sp.Atk
0
Sp.Def
0
Speed
0
HP
0
Atk
0
Def
0
Sp.Atk
0
Sp.Def
0
Speed
Shape
Body08.png
Footprint
F243.png F000.png
{{{form2}}}
Pokédex color
Yellow
Base friendship
35
External Links

Raikou (Japanese: ライコウ Raikou) is an Electric-type Legendary Pokémon.

It is not known to evolve into or from any other Pokémon.

Along with Entei and Suicune, it is one of the Legendary beasts resurrected by Ho-Oh after the burning of the Brass Tower. Of the three Legendary beasts, Raikou is said to represent the lightning strike which ignited the fire that consumed the Brass Tower.

Biology

Raikou is a quadruped, yellow, tiger-like Pokémon with black stripes and a white underside. It has a thin, light blue tail with sharp angles and a spark-shaped formation at the end. Most of its face consists of thick, white fur and shorter yellow fur around its red eyes. Raikou's muzzle is a light blue "X" and it has a black faceplate with two bumps that covers its forehead, nose, and ears. Raikou has two long fangs that make its appearance similar to the saber-toothed cat. Its large claws each converge to form a single point and never retract. Extra fur hangs off its body in front of its thighs. Raikou has a mane across its back that resembles dull purple rain clouds and allows it to shoot bolts of lighting.

As seen in the anime, Raikou is able to fly by creating storm clouds. It is shown to be distrustful of humans, though it may form some friendship with those who help it. Raikou tends to appear during thunderstorms and when other Electric-type Pokémon are in danger. Raikou races across grasslands while barking cries that sound like thunder.

In the anime

Raikou in the anime
A Shiny Raikou in the anime

Major appearances

Raikou (The Legend of Thunder!)

Raikou appeared in the Pokémon Chronicles episode, The Legend of Thunder! where members of Team Rocket hunt down and attempt to catch Raikou.

Raikou (M13)

A Shiny Raikou made its first movie appearance alongside Celebi, and the other members of its trio in the thirteenth Pokémon movie, Zoroark: Master of Illusions.

Other

Raikou appears at the end of Pokémon Ranger: Guardian Signs (Part Two), the second half of the special episode based on Pokémon Ranger: Guardian Signs.

Minor appearances

Raikou first appeared in Houndoom's Special Delivery. It was spotted by Togepi and a Houndoom before it disappeared.

The Mauville City Gym Leader Wattson owns many Raikou robots which he uses in his Gym.

Raikou made a small cameo at the opening of Lucario and the Mystery of Mew and Arceus and the Jewel of Life.

Raikou also had a minor appearance in Dawn's Piplup's dream in Three Sides to Every Story!.

Pokédex entries

Episode Pokémon Source Entry
The Legend of Thunder! Raikou Jimmy's Pokédex Raikou, the Thunder Pokémon. It is said to have descended to earth on a bolt of lightning.

In the manga

Raikou in Pokémon Adventures

In the movie adaptations

Main article: Raikou (M13)

Raikou appeared in the manga adaptation of the fourth and final Diamond & Pearl series movie, Zoroark: Master of Illusions.

In the Pokémon Adventures manga

Main article: Raikou (Adventures)

Raikou appeared as a beam of light in Slugging It Out With Slugma. Its first real appearance was in Really Raikou & Entirely Entei I, where it along with Entei tests Falkner and were joined by Suicune in Really Raikou & Entirely Entei I, discussing about Ho-oh. It was revealed in a flashback in Hello, Lickitung, where it was awakened by Yellow along with its two counterparts, and the three raced around Kanto and Johto looking for Trainers to help them defeat the Masked Man to free Ho-Oh and repay the debt of the latter for saving its life. Nearing the end of the chapter, Raikou eventually pairs up with Lt. Surge after encountering and escaping Falkner, and later Gold. Once Ho-Oh is freed and Pryce, the true identity of the Masked Man, is defeated, it once again roams the lands of Johto with Suicune and Entei.

Anabel also owns a Raikou in the Battle Frontier saga. It has been confirmed that it is the same Raikou as the one that befriended Gold, having caught it sometime before the Emerald arc in Johto. Raikou is more powerful than any other Electric-type Pokémon in the manga because billowing thunder clouds follow it everywhere carried on its back, allowing it to perform powerful attacks, such as Thunder, more quickly and efficiently than regular Electric Pokémon. Despite clearly possessing sentient intelligence like its fellow beasts, it obeyed Anabel's commands to battle Emerald without question while she was under psychic control of Guile Hideout. After he is defeated and the Battle Frontier is saved, Raikou is seen interacting with Gold and Crystal, and has not appeared since.

In the TCG

Main article: Raikou (TCG)

Other appearances

Super Smash Bros. Series

Super Smash Bros. Melee

When released from a Poké Ball, Raikou releases a powerful Spark attack that electrocutes any opponents that get caught in it. Raikou is the only Legendary beast that does not return in Super Smash Bros. Brawl.

Trophy Information

These Thunder Pokémon travel near and far, blasting out electrified whirlwinds. They carry storm clouds on their backs, so they can produce lightning regardless of the local weather; it's even said that they descended to the earth with via lightning bolts. Their extreme quickness lends itself to flight, so they're very hard to capture.

Super Smash Bros. for Wii U

Raikou appears as a trophy.

Trophy Information

NA: Was that a bolt of lightning flashing by, on the ground instead of the air? Then it could have been Raikou. A rumble of thunder in the distance, but not a cloud in the sky? Sounds like Raikou's roar to us. It is said that this wild Pokémon perished in the Johto region once, but Ho-Oh was so filled with sorrow at the loss that Raikou was resurrected.

PAL: If you see a bolt of lightning flash across the ground instead of from the sky, you may have just caught a glimpse of Raikou. And if you hear a peal of thunder that lasts longer than it should, that may be Raikou's roar. It's said that this wild yet majestic Pokémon once perished in the Johto region, but Ho-Oh, filled with sorrow, resurrected it.

Game data

Pokédex entries

This Pokémon was unavailable prior to Generation II.
Generation II
Gold The rain clouds it carries let it fire thunderbolts at will. They say that it descended with lightning.
Silver A Pokémon that races across the land while barking a cry that sounds like crashing thunder.
Crystal This rough Pokémon stores energy in its body, then sweeps across the land, shooting off electricity.
Stadium 2 The rain clouds it carries let it fire thunderbolts at will. They say that it descended with lightning.
Generation III
Ruby Raikou embodies the speed of lightning. The roars of this Pokémon send shock waves shuddering through the air and shake the ground as if lightning bolts had come crashing down.
Sapphire
Emerald Raikou embodies the speed of lightning. Its roars send shock waves shuddering through the air and ground as if lightning bolts were crashing down.
FireRed This Pokémon races across the land while barking a cry that sounds like crashing thunder.
LeafGreen The rain clouds it carries let it fire thunderbolts at will. They say that it descended with lightning.
Generation IV
Diamond It is said to have fallen with lightning. It can fire thunderbolts from the rain clouds on its back.
Pearl
Platinum
HeartGold The rain clouds it carries let it fire thunderbolts at will. They say that it descended with lightning.
SoulSilver A Pokémon that races across the land while barking a cry that sounds like crashing thunder.
Generation V
Black It is said to have fallen with lightning. It can fire thunderbolts from the rain clouds on its back.
White
Black 2 It is said to have fallen with lightning. It can fire thunderbolts from the rain clouds on its back.
White 2
Generation VI
X The rain clouds it carries let it fire thunderbolts at will. They say that it descended with lightning.
Y This rough Pokémon stores energy inside its body, then sweeps across the land, shooting off electricity.
Omega Ruby Raikou embodies the speed of lightning. The roars of this Pokémon send shock waves shuddering through the air and shake the ground as if lightning bolts had come crashing down.
Alpha Sapphire


Game locations

This Pokémon was unavailable prior to Generation II.
Generation II
Gold Silver
Roaming Johto
Crystal
Roaming Johto
Generation III
Ruby Sapphire
Trade
Emerald
Trade
FireRed LeafGreen
Roaming Kanto (if the player chose Squirtle)
Colosseum
Shadow PKMN Lab (Shadow)
XD
Trade
Generation IV
Diamond Pearl
Trade
Platinum
Trade
HeartGold SoulSilver
Roaming Johto
Pal Park
Mountain
Generation V
Black White
Poké Transfer
Relocator (Shiny event Raikou only)
Black 2 White 2
Poké Transfer
Generation VI
X Y
Trade
Omega Ruby Alpha Sapphire
Trackless Forest (requires Ho-Oh or Lugia in the party)


In side games

This Pokémon was unavailable prior to Generation II.
Generation II
This Pokémon is unavailable in Generation II side games.
Generation III
Trozei!
Random Agent Cards, Mr. Who's Den
MD Red MD Blue
Lightning Field (30F)
Ranger
Fiore Temple
Generation IV
MD Time MD Darkness
Concealed Ruins (B20F)
MD Sky
Southeastern Islands (B12F-B24F; appears on random floor after accepting challenge letter)
Ranger: GS
Wireless Tower, Rand's House
Generation V
Rumble Blast
Meadow: World Axle - B1F (post-ending)
Rumble U
Conductor Room: Rumbling Magnetic Motors (Reward),
Entranceway: Battle Royale - Cage Match
Generation VI
Battle Trozei
Island of Haste: Stage 2
Shuffle
Expert Stages: Stage EX16
Rumble World
Dark Land: Royal Armory (Special Boss)


In events

Games Event Language Location Level Distribution period
GSC Gotta Catch 'Em All Station! Raikou English United States 40Shiny November 22 to 29, 2001;
December 7 to 20, 2001;
June 22 to 28, 2002;
July 5 to 11, 2002;
November 15 to 21, 2002
RSEFRLG Journey Across America Raikou English United States 70 February 25 to July 23, 2006
RSEFRLG Top 10 Distribution Raikou English United Kingdom 70 June 10, 2006;
October 14 to November 19, 2006
RSEFRLG Top 10 Distribution Raikou Italian Italy 70 June 23 to 25, 2006
RSEFRLG Top 10 Distribution Raikou Spanish Spain 70 June 27 to August 27, 2006
RSEFRLG Party of the Decade Raikou English United States 70 August 8, 2006
RSEFRLG Top 10 Distribution Raikou German Germany 70 September 24 to November 5, 2006
RSEFRLG Top 10 Distribution Raikou French France 70 September 26, 2006
DPPtHGSS Crown Raikou Japanese Japan 30Shiny June 18 to August 31, 2010
DPPtHGSS Shinsegae Raikou Korean South Korea 30Shiny September 11 to October 24, 2010
DPPtHGSS Crown City Raikou Korean South Korea 30Shiny December 16, 2010 to January 9, 2011
DPPtHGSS GameStop Raikou English North America 30Shiny January 3 to 9, 2011
DPPtHGSS Winter 2011 Raikou English Wi-Fi 30Shiny February 7 to 13, 2011
DPPtHGSS Winter 2011 Raikou French Wi-Fi 30Shiny February 7 to 13, 2011
DPPtHGSS Winter 2011 Raikou German Wi-Fi 30Shiny February 7 to 13, 2011
DPPtHGSS Winter 2011 Raikou Italian Wi-Fi 30Shiny February 7 to 13, 2011
DPPtHGSS Winter 2011 Raikou Spanish Wi-Fi 30Shiny February 7 to 13, 2011

Held items

Game Held Item(s)
Events* Micle Berry Micle Berry (100%)

Stats

Base stats

Stat Range
At Lv. 50 At Lv. 100
90
150 - 197 290 - 384
85
81 - 150 157 - 295
75
72 - 139 139 - 273
115
108 - 183 211 - 361
100
94 - 167 184 - 328
115
108 - 183 211 - 361
Total:
580
Other Pokémon with this total
  • Minimum stats are calculated with 0 EVs, IVs of 0, and (if applicable) a hindering nature.
  • Maximum stats are calculated with 252 EVs, IVs of 31, and (if applicable) a helpful nature.

Pokéathlon stats

Speed
5/5 ★★★★★
Power
3/4 ★★★
Skill
4/4 ★★★★
Stamina
3/3 ★★★
Jump
3/3 ★★★
Total
18/19 ★★★


Type effectiveness

Under normal battle conditions in Generation IX, this Pokémon is:
Damaged
normally by:
Normal
Fighting
Flying ½×
Poison
Ground
Rock
Bug
Ghost
Steel ½×
Fire
Water
Grass
Electric ½×
Psychic
Ice
Dragon
Dark
Fairy
None
Weak to:
Normal
Fighting
Flying ½×
Poison
Ground
Rock
Bug
Ghost
Steel ½×
Fire
Water
Grass
Electric ½×
Psychic
Ice
Dragon
Dark
Fairy
None
Immune to:
Normal
Fighting
Flying ½×
Poison
Ground
Rock
Bug
Ghost
Steel ½×
Fire
Water
Grass
Electric ½×
Psychic
Ice
Dragon
Dark
Fairy
None
Resistant to:
Normal
Fighting
Flying ½×
Poison
Ground
Rock
Bug
Ghost
Steel ½×
Fire
Water
Grass
Electric ½×
Psychic
Ice
Dragon
Dark
Fairy
None
Notes:

Learnset

By leveling up

Generation VI
Other generations:
II - III - IV - V - VII - VIII - IX
 Level   Move   Type   Cat.   Pwr.   Acc.   PP   Contest   Appeal   Jamming 
011 Extrasensory Psychic Special 08080 100100% 20 Cool 2 ♥♥ 1
011 Discharge Electric Special 08080 100100% 15 Beautiful 2 ♥♥ 2 ♥♥
011 Bite Dark Physical 06060 100100% 25 Tough 2 ♥♥ 3 ♥♥♥
011 Leer Normal Status 0000 100100% 30 Cool 2 ♥♥ 1
088 Thunder Shock Electric Special 04040 100100% 30 Cool 4 ♥♥♥♥ 0  
1515 Roar Normal Status 0000 100100% 20 Cool 3 ♥♥♥ 0  
2222 Quick Attack Normal Physical 04040 100100% 30 Cool 3 ♥♥♥ 0  
2929 Spark Electric Physical 06565 100100% 20 Cool 4 ♥♥♥♥ 0  
3636 Reflect Psychic Status 0000 —% 20 Clever 2 ♥♥ 0  
4343 Crunch Dark Physical 08080 100100% 15 Tough 1 4 ♥♥♥♥
5050 Thunder Fang Electric Physical 06565 09595% 15 Cool 4 ♥♥♥♥ 0  
5757 Discharge Electric Special 08080 100100% 15 Beautiful 2 ♥♥ 2 ♥♥
6464 Extrasensory Psychic Special 08080 100100% 20 Cool 2 ♥♥ 1
7171 Rain Dance Water Status 0000 —% 5 Beautiful 1 0  
7878 Calm Mind Psychic Status 0000 —% 20 Clever 1 0  
8585 Thunder Electric Special 110110 07070% 10 Cool 1 0  
  • Bold indicates a move that gets STAB when used by Raikou
  • Italic indicates a move that gets STAB only when used by an evolution of Raikou
  • Click on the generation numbers at the top to see level-up moves from other generations

By TM/HM

Generation VI
Other generations:
II - III - IV - V - VII - VIII - IX
   TM   Move   Type   Cat.   Pwr.   Acc.   PP   Contest   Appeal   Jamming 
TM04Bag TM Psychic Sprite.png TM04 Calm Mind Psychic Status 0000 —}}—% 20 Clever 1 0  
TM05Bag TM Normal Sprite.png TM05 Roar Normal Status 0000 —}}—% 20 Cool 3 ♥♥♥ 0  
TM06Bag TM Poison Sprite.png TM06 Toxic Poison Status 0000 090}}90% 10 Clever 3 ♥♥♥ 0  
TM10Bag TM Normal Sprite.png TM10 Hidden Power Normal Special 06060 100}}100% 15 Clever 3 ♥♥♥ 0  
TM11Bag TM Fire Sprite.png TM11 Sunny Day Fire Status 0000 —}}—% 5 Beautiful 1 0  
TM15Bag TM Normal Sprite.png TM15 Hyper Beam Normal Special 150150 090}}90% 5 Cool 4 ♥♥♥♥ 4 ♥♥♥♥
TM16Bag TM Psychic Sprite.png TM16 Light Screen Psychic Status 0000 —}}—% 30 Beautiful 2 ♥♥ 0  
TM17Bag TM Normal Sprite.png TM17 Protect Normal Status 0000 —}}—% 10 Cute 2 ♥♥ 0  
TM18Bag TM Water Sprite.png TM18 Rain Dance Water Status 0000 —}}—% 5 Beautiful 1 0  
TM21Bag TM Normal Sprite.png TM21 Frustration Normal Physical 0000 100}}100% 20 Cute 2 ♥♥ 3 ♥♥♥
TM24Bag TM Electric Sprite.png TM24 Thunderbolt Electric Special 09090 100}}100% 15 Cool 4 ♥♥♥♥ 0  
TM25Bag TM Electric Sprite.png TM25 Thunder Electric Special 110110 070}}70% 10 Cool 1 0  
TM27Bag TM Normal Sprite.png TM27 Return Normal Physical 0000 100}}100% 20 Cute 4 ♥♥♥♥ 0  
TM28Bag TM Ground Sprite.png TM28 Dig Ground Physical 08080 100}}100% 10 Tough 2 ♥♥ 0  
TM30Bag TM Ghost Sprite.png TM30 Shadow Ball Ghost Special 08080 100}}100% 15 Clever 4 ♥♥♥♥ 0  
TM32Bag TM Normal Sprite.png TM32 Double Team Normal Status 0000 —}}—% 15 Cool 1 0  
TM33Bag TM Psychic Sprite.png TM33 Reflect Psychic Status 0000 —}}—% 20 Clever 2 ♥♥ 0  
TM37Bag TM Rock Sprite.png TM37 Sandstorm Rock Status 0000 —}}—% 10 Tough 2 ♥♥ 1
TM42Bag TM Normal Sprite.png TM42 Facade Normal Physical 07070 100}}100% 20 Cute 2 ♥♥ 0  
TM44Bag TM Psychic Sprite.png TM44 Rest Psychic Status 0000 —}}—% 10 Cute 1 0  
TM48Bag TM Normal Sprite.png TM48 Round Normal Special 06060 100}}100% 15 Beautiful 2 ♥♥ 0  
TM57Bag TM Electric Sprite.png TM57 Charge Beam Electric Special 05050 090}}90% 10 Beautiful 1 0  
TM60Bag TM Dark Sprite.png TM60 Quash Dark Status 0000 100}}100% 15 Clever 3 ♥♥♥ 0  
TM68Bag TM Normal Sprite.png TM68 Giga Impact Normal Physical 150150 090}}90% 5 Tough 4 ♥♥♥♥ 4 ♥♥♥♥
TM70Bag TM Normal Sprite.png TM70 Flash Normal Status 0000 100}}100% 20 Beautiful 3 ♥♥♥ 0  
TM72Bag TM Electric Sprite.png TM72 Volt Switch Electric Special 07070 100}}100% 20 Cool 4 ♥♥♥♥ 0  
TM73Bag TM Electric Sprite.png TM73 Thunder Wave Electric Status 0000 100}}100% 20 Cool 1 3 ♥♥♥
TM77Bag TM Normal Sprite.png TM77 Psych Up Normal Status 0000 —}}—% 10 Clever 2 ♥♥ 0  
TM78Bag TM Ground Sprite.png TM78 Bulldoze Ground Physical 06060 100}}100% 20 Tough 2 ♥♥ 2 ♥♥
TM87Bag TM Normal Sprite.png TM87 Swagger Normal Status 0000 090}}90% 15 Cute 3 ♥♥♥ 0  
TM88Bag TM Normal Sprite.png TM88 Sleep Talk Normal Status 0000 —}}—% 10 Cute 1 0  
TM90Bag TM Normal Sprite.png TM90 Substitute Normal Status 0000 —}}—% 10 Cute 2 ♥♥ 0  
TM93Bag TM Electric Sprite.png TM93 Wild Charge Electric Physical 09090 100}}100% 15 Tough 6 ♥♥♥♥♥♥ 0  
TM94Bag TM Fighting Sprite.png TM94 Rock SmashXY Fighting Physical 04040 100}}100% 15 Tough 4 ♥♥♥♥ 0  
TM94Bag TM Normal Sprite.png TM94 Secret PowerORAS Normal Physical 07070 100}}100% 20 Clever 1 0  
TM95Bag TM Dark Sprite.png TM95 Snarl Dark Special 05555 095}}95% 15 Tough 4 ♥♥♥♥ 0  
XTM100Bag TM Normal Sprite.png TM100 Confide Normal Status 0000 —}}—% 20 Cute 3 ♥♥♥ 0  
ZHM01Bag HM Normal Sprite.png HM01 Cut Normal Physical 05050 095}}95% 30 Cool 4 ♥♥♥♥ 0  
ZHM04Bag HM Normal Sprite.png HM04 Strength Normal Physical 08080 100}}100% 15 Tough 4 ♥♥♥♥ 0  
ZHM06Bag HM Fighting Sprite.png HM06 Rock SmashORAS Fighting Physical 04040 100}}100% 15 Tough 4 ♥♥♥♥ 0  
  • Bold indicates a move that gets STAB when used by Raikou
  • Italic indicates a move that gets STAB only when used by an evolution of Raikou
  • Click on the generation numbers at the top to see TM moves from other generations

By breeding

Generation VI
Other generations:
II - III - IV - V - VII - VIII - IX
 Parent   Move   Type   Cat.   Pwr.   Acc.   PP   Contest   Appeal   Jamming 
This Pokémon learns no moves by breeding.
  • Moves marked with an asterisk (*) must be chain bred onto Raikou in Generation VI
  • Moves marked with a double dagger (‡) can only be bred from a Pokémon who learned the move in an earlier generation.
  • Moves marked with a superscript game abbreviation can only be bred onto Raikou in that game.
  • Bold indicates a move that gets STAB when used by Raikou
  • Italic indicates a move that gets STAB only when used by an evolution of Raikou
  • Click on the generation numbers at the top to see Egg moves from other generations

By tutoring

Generation VI
Other generations:
II - III - IV - V - VII - VIII - IX
 Game   Move   Type   Cat.   Pwr.   Acc.   PP   Contest   Appeal   Jamming 
X Y OR AS Iron Head Steel Physical 80 100% 15 Tough 4 ♥♥♥♥ 0  
X Y OR AS Iron Tail Steel Physical 100 75% 15 Cool 4 ♥♥♥♥ 0  
X Y OR AS Magnet Rise Electric Status —% 10 Clever 2 ♥♥ 0  
X Y OR AS Shock Wave Electric Special 60 —% 20 Cool 2 ♥♥ 0  
X Y OR AS Signal Beam Bug Special 75 100% 15 Beautiful 3 ♥♥♥ 0  
X Y OR AS Snore Normal Special 50 100% 15 Cute 4 ♥♥♥♥ 0  
  • A black or white abbreviation in a colored box indicates that Raikou can be tutored the move in that game
  • A colored abbreviation in a white box indicates that Raikou cannot be tutored the move in that game
  • Bold indicates a move that gets STAB when used by Raikou
  • Italic indicates a move that gets STAB only when used by an evolution of Raikou
  • Click on the generation numbers at the top to see Move Tutor moves from other generations

Side game data

Pokémon Pinball
 N/A 
Not available
Pokémon Pinball RS
 N/A 
Not available
Pokémon Trozei!
 Trozeiani243.png 
Rarity: Rare
Pokémon Mystery Dungeon
Red Rescue Team and Blue Rescue Team
MDP RT 243.png Body size: 1
Recruit rate: 0.1%
Friend Area: Sacred Field
Phrases
51%-100% HP I am the thunderbolt that races through the fields!
26%-50% HP I don't like this... My HP is cut to half?
1%-25% HP This is it... The power of lightning fails here...
Level up I gained a level! May lightning bolts empower me!
Partner phrases
51%-100% HP <name>, my HP is between 51% and 100%.
26%-50% HP <name>, my HP is between 26% and 50%.
1%-25% HP <name>, my HP is between 1% and 25%.
Level up I gained a level! May lightning bolts empower me!
Pokémon Mystery Dungeon
Explorers of Time, Explorers of Darkness
,
and Explorers of Sky
MDP E 243.png Body size: 2
Recruit rate: 5%
IQ group: D
Pokémon Ranger
Group:  Electric  Poké Assist: Electric PA.png
( Electric )
Field move: Recharge fm.pngRecharge fm.pngRecharge fm.png
(Recharge ×3)
Loops: 11 Min. exp.: 500 Max. exp.: 600
Browser entry  
Raikou is a legendary Pokémon that dashes while dropping thunderbolts.
Pokémon Ranger: Shadows of Almia
Group:  Normal  Poké Assist: None Field move: None
Browser entry  
This Pokémon does not have a browser entry.
Pokémon Ranger: Guardian Signs
Group: Poké Assist: Field move:
 Electric  Electric Assist.png
( Electric )
Past
Electric Assist.png
( Normal )
None Past
Electrify 1 field move.png
(Electrify ×1)
Browser entry  
It creates waves of electricity around it and launches thunderbolts to attack.
N/A Not
Available
Defense
Speed
N/A Not
Available
Defense
Speed
Attack ●●●●
Defense ●●●
Speed ●●●●
Attack Not
Available
Defense
Speed
Attack Not
Available
Defense
Speed
Attack Not
Available
Defense
Speed
PokéPark Wii: Pikachu's Adventure
None.png PokéPark Pad entry:
This Pokémon has no PokéPark Pad entry.
PokéPark 2: Wonders Beyond
None.png Strong: {{{Park2strong}}} Weak: {{{Park2weak}}}
PokéPark Pad entry:
This Pokémon has no PokéPark Pad entry.
None.png HP: Move: {{{ConquestMove}}}
Attack: Ability 1: {{{ConquestAbility1}}}
Defense: Ability 2: {{{ConquestAbility2}}}
Speed: Ability 3: {{{ConquestAbility3}}}
Does not evolve.
Range: 0 Perfect Links: {{{ConquestLink}}}

Evolution

243Raikou.png
Unevolved
Raikou
 Electric 



Sprites

This Pokémon was unavailable prior to Generation II.
Generation II
Gold Silver Crystal
Spr 2g 243.png Spr b 2g 243.png Spr 2s 243.png Spr b 2s 243.png Spr 2c 243.png Spr b 2c 243.png
Spr 2g 243 s.png Spr b 2g 243 s.png Spr 2s 243 s.png Spr b 2s 243 s.png Spr 2c 243 s.png Spr b 2c 243 s.png
Front Back Front Back Front Back
Generation III
Ruby Sapphire Emerald FireRed LeafGreen
Spr 3r 243.png Spr b 3r 243.png Spr 3e 243.png Spr b 3e 243.png Spr 3f 243.png Spr b 3f 243.png
Spr 3r 243 s.png Spr b 3r 243 s.png Spr 3e 243 s.png Spr b 3e 243 s.png Spr 3f 243 s.png Spr b 3f 243 s.png
Front Back Front Back Front Back
Generation IV
Diamond Pearl Platinum HeartGold SoulSilver
Spr 4d 243.png Spr b 4d 243.png Spr 4p 243.png Spr b 4p 243.png Spr 4h 243.png Spr b 4h 243.png
Spr 4d 243 s.png Spr b 4d 243 s.png Spr 4p 243 s.png Spr b 4p 243 s.png Spr 4h 243 s.png Spr b 4h 243 s.png
Front Back Front Back Front Back
Generation V
Black White Black 2 White 2
Spr 5b 243.png Spr b 5b 243.png Spr 5b2 243.png Spr b 5b2 243.png
Spr 5b 243 s.png Spr b 5b 243 s.png Spr 5b2 243 s.png Spr b 5b2 243 s.png
Front Back Front Back
Generation VI
X Y Omega Ruby Alpha Sapphire
Spr 6x 243.png
Spr b 6x 243.png
Spr 6o 243.png
Spr b 6o 243.png
Spr 6x 243 s.png
Spr b 6x 243 s.png
Spr 6o 243 s.png
Spr b 6o 243 s.png
Front Back Front Back
243MS.png For other sprites and images, please see Raikou images on the Bulbagarden Archives.


Trivia

Raikou in Jimmy's Pokédex
  • Raikou is the only Pokémon in the anime whose image on the anime Pokédex was of stylized art rather than Ken Sugimori's official artwork.
  • Raikou's EV yield (1 Sp. Atk and 2 Speed) is unique.
  • Raikou's number in the National Pokédex and the Johto Pokédex is the same: 243.

Origin

Raikou may be particularly based on the Thunder and Lightning gods of most cultures surrounding the world, mostly the 雷獣 raijū, a thunder demon of Japanese lore. It is said to be a creature that could take the form of a tiger, monkey, blue wolf wrapped in lightning, and many other animals. Raikou is specifically based on its tiger form, while the Pokémon Manectric is based on its wolf form. In terms of physical build, Raikou may be based on the Smilodon fatalis, a well-known but extinct species of wildcat often referred to as a saber-toothed tiger. Its color and pattern scheme are reminiscent of that of a Bengal tiger. The stripes that decorate Raikou's body also can be compared to zigzagging thunderbolts and perhaps even scars from claws. The white ruff around Raikou's face is akin to the Siberian tiger's thick fur around its neck. In the anime, Raikou is shown to be very agile, swift, stealthy, and a powerful attacker, just like a tiger. The gray "plate" atop its head may be similar to Entei's head ornament, being either a helmet or crown that signifies courage and power. The flowing purple mane on its back is likely meant to invoke the image of a cumulonimbus cloud, the cloud type most often associated with thunderstorms.

Name origin

Raikou could be taken to mean 雷光 raikou (lightning), which is also the inspiration for the name of raijū, or it may be a combination of 雷 rai (thunder) and 皇 (emperor). It may also derive from 雷公 raikō (thunder duke), identical to the name of the Taoist deity Lei Gong.

In other languages

Language Title Meaning
Japan Flag.png Japanese ライコウ Raikou From 雷公 raikō, rai, 雷光 raikou, and
France Flag.png French Raikou Same as Japanese name
Spain Flag.png Spanish Raikou Same as Japanese name
Germany Flag.png German Raikou Same as Japanese name
Italy Flag.png Italian Raikou Same as Japanese name
South Korea Flag.png Korean 라이코 Raikou Transliteration of its Japanese name
China and Taiwan Flags.png Mandarin Chinese 雷公 Léigōng From 雷公 Raikou. Also a reference to the ancient Chinese god of thunder, Lei Gong.
Hong Kong Flag.png Cantonese Chinese


Related articles

Notes

External links

Generation I: ArticunoZapdosMoltresMewtwo
Generation II: RaikouEnteiSuicuneLugiaHo-Oh
Generation III: RegirockRegiceRegisteelLatias
LatiosKyogreGroudonRayquaza
Generation IV: UxieMespritAzelfDialgaPalkia
HeatranRegigigasGiratinaCresselia
Generation V: CobalionTerrakionVirizionTornadusThundurus
ReshiramZekromLandorusKyurem
Generation VI: XerneasYveltalZygarde
Generation VII: Type: NullSilvallyTapu KokoTapu LeleTapu BuluTapu Fini
CosmogCosmoemSolgaleoLunalaNecrozma
Generation VIII: ZacianZamazentaEternatusKubfuUrshifu
RegielekiRegidragoGlastrierSpectrierCalyrexEnamorus
Generation IX: Wo-ChienChien-PaoTing-LuChi-YuKoraidonMiraidon
OkidogiMunkidoriFezandipitiOgerponTerapagos
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Blissey #242: Blissey
Pokémon
#244: Entei Entei


Project Pokédex logo.png This Pokémon article is part of Project Pokédex, a Bulbapedia project that aims to write comprehensive articles on each Pokémon as a species.