>>49550202Plusle and Minun exist for three reasons. One, to highlight positive and negative charge. We see certain Pokémon prefer different charges to electricity in the past, but this is the first instance of Pokémon that have a set charge. Two, their abilities that work together. And three, double battles.
Each Pikaclone represents a mechanic that was introduced in or used strongly in a game.
Gen 1 - Pikachu and Raichu - Stone evolution
Gen 2 - Pichu - Breeding, baby Pokémon
Gen 3 - Plusle and Minun - Abilities and double battles
Gen 4 - Pachirisu - Gender differences (with Pikachu line being the only other case but Pachirisu is the one you will see first)
Gen 5 - Emolga - Phenomenon
Gen 6 - Dedenne - Fairy type
Gen 7 - Togedemaru - Signature move and eventually Totem Pokémon
Gen 7 - Alolan Raichu - Regional form and signature Z-Move
Gen 8 - Morpeko - Abilities that cause form changes
