Pikachu

Strategy
Pikachu is an extremely versatile Pokemon. Its moveset covers damaging and hindering opponents.

Quick Attack is an attack with nearly no drawbacks. Its range allows you to hit opponents from a distance. It can also be used to dodge attacks or get towards/away from an enemy. Several other uses for Quick Attack include hit-and-run, where you use Quick Attack to hit the opponent and then use it again to get away, and maneuvering around an opponent by jumping and using Quick Attack to a spot behind the target.

Thundershock is Pikachu's special projectile move. Thundershock is useful if you don't want to risk getting hit by an attack while using Quick Attack. Unlike other projectile attacks from other Pokemon, Pikachu's Thundershock cannot be deflected by Tail Whip, making Pikachu a good counter against Pokemon like Squirtle. It can also be charged to deal more damage, although this leads to some downfalls of the move. It would be incredibly hard to hit a target with a fully charged shot as the target is able to see what you're doing. Charging also leaves you vulnerable, allowing opponents to make their move by avoiding where you might shoot and attack you. Using a charged shot will also eat up a whole chunk of stamina, restricting some later actions. Thundershock is a powerful move, but must be used when your opponent is most susceptable to attack.

Pikachu's Tail Whip further proves how versatile it is. If you are at low health, Tail Whip can save you from fainting. Tail Whip can deflect most attacks when used at the correct time, allowing for defensive play. For example, a Leech Seed from Bulbasaur can be deflected back, and if it hits the Bulbasaur, you will drain its HP instead.

Thunder Wave adds on to Pikachu's diverse moveset. As a status-inflicting move, it paralyzes opponents in range. Paralyzed Pokemon have a chance of momentarily pausing if attempting to use an attack, When paused, the Pokemon is unable to attack and open to attacks, giving you the chance to quickly attack or get away. Although Thunder Wave is a close-ranged attack, you can easily incorporate it with Quick Attack to inflict the move on the target. Using Quick Attack on the enemy and immediately proceeding with Thunder Wave is one way of strategic use.

With a melee attack that can be used to dodge, a good damaging ranged attack, a parrying/blocking move, and a status inducing move, Pikachu is an amazing, all-round Pokemon that has almost any battle covered.