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Manila Bulletin devider Lifestyle devider Arts and Culture devider Fat Pikachu makes a comeback

Fat Pikachu makes a comeback

Takara Tomy revives iconic plush for Pokémon's 30th anniversary

Published Jan 17, 2026 08:11 am
NICE AND SOFT Pikachu's original rotund design shows a much chunkier appearance.
NICE AND SOFT Pikachu's original rotund design shows a much chunkier appearance.
Step aside, Ozempic Pikachu, it's Fat Pikachu's time to shine again.
Over the years, the Internet has made jokes about how the original design of Pikachu has changed over the years, with a gradual weight decline. The Pokémon mascot originally debuted with the release of the first games, Pocket Monsters Red and Green, in Japan. Its title was changed to Pokémon for the international release of Pokémon Red and Blue. To celebrate its upcoming 30th anniversary, toy company Takara Tomy has unveiled a revival of its iconic Pikachu plush from 1997.
PIKACHU CRAZE Pikachu's appearance on the box art of Pokémon Yellow.
PIKACHU CRAZE Pikachu's appearance on the box art of Pokémon Yellow.
Pikachu's first look was conceptualized by Atsuko Nishida, a team member who was tasked with making cuter Pokémon after lead designer Ken Sugimori felt his scary designs needed some balance. She took inspiration from a soft Japanese dessert, daifukumochi, before later leaning toward squirrels. Nishida notes how the way squirrels store food in their cheeks is the reason behind Pikachu's iconic red cheeks. Despite this, Pikachu is considered a mouse Pokémon, after creator Satoshi Tajiri made the change.
A CULTURAL ICON Pikachu's modern design by Ken Sugimori.
A CULTURAL ICON Pikachu's modern design by Ken Sugimori.
Originally, Pikachu wasn't meant to be the main face of the world's most popular franchise. Clefairy, the fairy-type Pokémon, was considered the main runner at first. After some market research, Pikachu was then found to resonate the most with Japanese children. It was also noted how Pikachu was an easy character to translate over to other media, including the manga, anime, and merchandise. 
Takara Tomy's Pikachu plush is expected to release on Feb. 28 via its webstore. It will follow the Pokédex's entry for the size dimensions, making it as genuine as possible to Pikachu's true size. Purchases will be limited to one per customer and will be sold for approximately $50 (₱2,971).

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