Unleashing the Power of Bug-Type: Pikachu's Astonishing Transformation

Highlights

Talented artist creates a unique design for Pikachu, envisioning it as an Electric/Bug-type Pokemon called Pikabee.

This design is unique in the realm of Pokemon fan art, as it breathes life into a fresh and eccentric fusion. The creator skillfully steered clear of a disturbing insect-like aesthetic and made a deliberate choice by incorporating the Compound Eyes move, which is typically associated with Bug-type Pokemon.

A Pokemon fan and skilled artist recently dedicated their time to depicting Pikachu as an Electric/Bug-type creature. This creation quickly gained attention on social media, adding to the ever-expanding collection of impressive fan-made Pokemon interpretations.

When it comes to altering the iconic designs of Pokemon, the majority of fan art can be classified into two categories: fusions and variations in typing. Both approaches can generate remarkably unusual results, yet many artists find that creating visually captivating Pokemon fusions is generally more straightforward. This is primarily due to the ability to combine distinguishing characteristics from already existing Pokemon.

However, YouTuber JJonnyDraws recently took on a larger challenge by transforming Pikachu into a dual-type Pokemon through a random wheel spin. Despite not aiming for a Bug type, he still managed to create an impressive concept called Pikabee. Inspired by insects like phasmids, this unique creature is essentially a bug with a Pikachu-like pattern, and its red cheeks serve as its eyes. JJonnyDraws even went the extra mile by designing a shiny version of this Pikachu clone, painting it mostly dark brown, possibly as a nod to the shiny Alolan Raichu palette.

In hindsight, the YouTuber shared that he didn't want to turn Pikachu into a creepy centipede or overly insect-like creature. The amount of thought put into this design is further demonstrated by JJonnyDraws selecting one of Pikabee's moves, Compound Eyes. This skill, which boosts accuracy, has been a common feature among Bug-type Pokemon in the series.

The distinct redesign of Pikachu also highlights the fact that the Pokemon franchise has not yet introduced an Electric/Bug dual-type pocket monster in its almost three-decade existence. Although there are four creatures - Joltik, Galvantula, Charjabug, and Vikavolt - that somewhat fit this typing combination, they are primarily bugs with a secondary Electric type.

Although no entry in the franchise has ever made a gameplay distinction between primary and secondary half-types, the order of these types has always been crucial in determining the overall appearance of a particular pocket monster. This means that an Electric/Bug Pokemon would have to resemble something that draws inspiration from the much broader range of potential Electric Pokemon, rather than an insect. However, accomplishing this is easier said than done.