Natures define how Pokémon and their stats are curated. Each comes with a boon and a bane that make players weigh what they desire more in their partner Pokémon. No Pokémon is without a Nature, not even the series mascot, Pikachu. Find what Nature best accents the Electric Mouse Pokémon and its evolution, Raichu.

We’ve listed the best Natures for the Electric-type Pokémon Pikachu and Raichu below, along with the effects each Nature has on their base stats:

  • Jolly (+Speed, -Special Attack,) Modest (+Special Attack, -Attack)Naive (+Speed, -Special Defense)Timid (+Speed, -Attack)

Speed is arguably the essential trait for Pikachu and Raichu, as they can outmaneuver many other combatants in the game. Never prioritize with a nature that denigrates the Speed of these two Pokémon. While many users prefer a Special Attack-oriented Pikachu or Raichu, the choice is up to players. There is merit in building a Physical Attack optimized Pokémon so long as Speed is a priority.

As fans of damage output, we prefer a Timid Pikachu and Raichu build that allows for devastating Speed, with Special Attacks being our secondary focus. With a strong base Speed state, Pikachu and Raichu can almost always attack first, giving players a leg up on their competition. Make sure your moves focus on Special Attack when using this build, as Timid Nature degrades Physical actions. Experiment with these natures and see which of the above best fits your playstyle, as having an unconventional Pikachu could take an opponent (computer or human) by surprise.

For more on Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl, visit some of our other guides, like Finding the Protector in Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl here on Pro Game Guides.