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Alolan Raichu Uses Its Tail As A Surfboard, So I'm Not Sure Why You WOULDN'T Want One

TNT

The NowLoading Team

Gaming Writer

August 10, 2016 at 14:20PM5 min read

Archive Notice: Wayback archive for convenience purposes, originally written by The NowLoading Team

Alolan Raichu Uses Its Tail As A Surfboard, So I'm Not Sure Why You WOULDN'T Want One

Pokemon Sun and Moon introduced us to many amazing Alolan forms, but none quite as spectacular as Alolan Raichu. This Electric/Psychic-type variant doesn't just look different from its Kanto counterpart - it has one of the coolest abilities we've ever seen in a Pokemon game. Seriously, who wouldn't want a Pokemon that surfs on its own tail?

Pokemon Sun and Moon introduced us to many amazing Alolan forms, but none quite as spectacular as Alolan Raichu. This Electric/Psychic-type variant doesn't just look different from its Kanto counterpart - it has one of the coolest abilities we've ever seen in a Pokemon game. Seriously, who wouldn't want a Pokemon that surfs on its own tail?

The Surfboard Tail That Changes Everything

Let's talk about what makes Alolan Raichu so incredibly unique. Unlike its original Kanto form, Alolan Raichu has developed the ability to use its tail as a literal surfboard. This isn't just a cute animation detail - it's a core part of the Pokemon's identity and lore. According to the Pokedex, Alolan Raichu can ride its tail like a surfboard, allowing it to "surf" through the air with remarkable grace and speed.

The transformation from Electric-type to Electric/Psychic-type isn't just cosmetic either. This dual typing gives Alolan Raichu access to powerful Psychic-type moves that its Kanto counterpart simply can't learn. The psychic energy is what allows it to levitate and control its tail-surfing abilities, making it not just cooler looking, but genuinely more versatile in battle.

Why Alolan Raichu is Superior to Regular Raichu

Don't get me wrong - regular Raichu has its charm. But when you put them side by side, there's really no contest. Alolan Raichu brings everything that made the original great and adds layers of awesome on top. The psychic typing gives it better coverage against Fighting and Poison types, while the surfboard tail gives it a signature move in Psychic that feels thematically perfect.

Plus, let's be honest about the aesthetic upgrade. The darker orange coloration and the way it glides through battles on its tail just looks incredible. It's like Game Freak took everything cool about Raichu and asked, "How can we make this even more awesome?" The answer was apparently "Give it a surfboard tail and psychic powers."

The Perfect Pokemon for Alola's Island Vibes

What makes Alolan Raichu even more special is how perfectly it fits the tropical island setting of the Alola region. The surfboard tail isn't just a random addition - it's a brilliant adaptation that reflects the surfing culture that's so central to Hawaiian-inspired Alola. It's environmental storytelling at its finest, showing how Pokemon adapt to their surroundings in meaningful ways.

In battle, watching Alolan Raichu glide around on its tail while unleashing psychic attacks is genuinely mesmerizing. It moves with this fluid, almost dance-like quality that makes every battle feel more dynamic. This isn't just a Pokemon - it's a work of art in motion.

How to Get Your Own Surfboard-Tailed Raichu

Getting an Alolan Raichu is surprisingly straightforward, but there's a catch that makes it even more special. You can't just evolve any Pikachu - it has to be a Pikachu that was caught or hatched in the Alola region. This regional requirement adds to the exclusivity and makes your Alolan Raichu feel like a true native of the islands.

Once you have an Alolan Pikachu, simply use a Thunder Stone and watch the magic happen. The evolution animation is particularly satisfying, as you get to see the moment when your Pikachu gains its psychic powers and that iconic surfboard tail. It's one of those Pokemon moments that never gets old, no matter how many times you see it.

So really, the question isn't whether you should get an Alolan Raichu - it's why you haven't gotten one already. With its incredible design, unique typing, and that absolutely amazing surfboard tail, it's easily one of the coolest Pokemon to come out of Sun and Moon. Trust me, once you see it gliding through battle on its tail, you'll wonder how you ever lived without one.

Tags

Pokemon Sun MoonAlolan FormsRaichuElectric PokemonPsychic PokemonNintendo 3DSGame Freak
TNT

The NowLoading Team

Gaming journalist and writer. Passionate about gaming culture and technology.