Pikachu has a good movement speed and decent finishers, making it possible to disorient opponents with its quick, momentum-cancelling side attack and its instant KO moves at high damages.
Pikachu's other moves end up possessing multiple issues, however. Its standard attack has poor range and a long duration, leaving it wide open if the attack misses. Its Thunderprojectiles are one of if not the worst in the game, as they have a long startup time, fall towards Pikachu — making their horizontal range effectively zero — and can be interrupted if Pikachu gets hit. These traits make it rather unsuitable for camping or for use in the neutral game.
Despite its flaws, Pikachu has average matchups across the board, which is why it is ranked near the middle of the tier list.
Uses Skull Bash, propelling itself forward a fixed distance, delivering a headbutt. This attack offers momentum canceling, aiding in Pikachu's survivability when launched off the stage, and it also aids in its horizontal recovery.
Uses Thunder, causing a large lightning bolt with infinite range to spawn above Pikachu and travel from top to bottom, launching opponents on contact. This makes it a better option for edgeguarding rather than as an offensive tool.
