Why is Pichu Popular?

[WhoKnows_WhoCares]

This topic is started to discuss the recent popularity of Pichu. Now, don't get me wrong, I like the little yellow rat, but for some reason, Gamefreak seems to be especially fond of Pikachu's Pre-evolution so much that it's everywhere. And in several different versions. And I don't understand why.

There's the event Pichu, a shiny/Pikachu Colored Pichu which will unlock an event in Heart Gold and Soul Silver getting you ANOTHER Pichu, the Notched Eared Pichu (who had a major part in the 12th movie, Aceus and the Jewel of Life). And it seems the Notched Eared Pichu is so well loved by gamefreak that they won't even let you evolve him or trade him away, forcing you to keep this Pichu forever. Add to that the recent Pokemon Ranger 3 announcment where your partner will be a Pichu with a Ukelele (which is another strange look), and you can start to see a trend that Pichu seems to be popular (at least with the game makers)

But Why? I know that Pichu is the first 'baby' Pokemon in the national dex, but I dont recall it being massivly popular back when the original Gold and Silver were released. And is it popular with the fans now, or is it just Gamefreak who seem to have the obsession with it and we're being forced to suffer as a result? I want to know what other people's opinions are on this, so please, discuss

[Shrine Sprite]

It's kind of interesting that they used a Pichu for the event rather than Pikachu... who is essentially the icon of Pokémon. I don't really understand why. Pikachu has the "cuteness" that Pichu has, so I don't think it's just to appeal to audience with an affinity for cuter Pokémon.

Poor Raichu is the most ignored of the trio...

[pikalover1234]

Imagine a Little Plump Rodent. Then Think of The Possibility of a Cute Voice, Then The Possibility to have it be Your Little Sleepy Pillow Thing. Yea. I Forgot What I Was Talking about.

Well He/She/It/HeShe's Cute Alright! I Don't Know Why It's So Hard to Accept!

[teamgalactic2]

Quote From:Japan101.com
Pikachu is popular in japan. Pichu will evolve into pikachu.

[pokefan200]

I don't know why, but I like him better than most pokemon (he's competing for my #1 fav) Maybe people like him beacuse of his cuteness, or his charm? But anyways think of how many Pichus are out there! The Pichu Bros., Spiky Ear, and Pikachu Colered Pichu! Gamefreak must by planning to make him the new icon of Pokemon...