View source for Psyduck

{{Short description|Pokémon species}}
{{good article}}
{{pp-pc1}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=March 2024}}
{{Infobox character
| name = Psyduck
| image = Pokémon Psyduck art.png
| image_upright = 0.8
| alt = Official artwork of Psyduck, a yellow, duck-like Pokémon.
| caption = Psyduck artwork by [[Ken Sugimori]]
| series = [[Pokémon]]
| firstgame = [[Pokémon Red and Blue|''Pokémon Red'' and ''Blue'']] (1996)
| designer = [[Ken Sugimori]] (finalized)<ref name=EeveeDesigner>{{cite web |last1=Morrissy |first1=Kim |title=Pokémon Designers Reflect on History of Eevee's Design |url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/interest/2018-09-10/pokemon-designers-reflect-on-history-of-eevee-design/.136529 |website=Anime News Network |access-date=18 August 2020 |archive-date=2022-11-26 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221126003606/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/interest/2018-09-10/pokemon-designers-reflect-on-history-of-eevee-design/.136529 |url-status=live }}</ref>
| voice = Michael Haigney (English, 1998-2006)<br>[[Michele Knotz]] (English, since 2006)<br>[[Rikako Aikawa]] (Japanese)
| species = Pokémon
| lbl21 = [[Pokémon types|Type]]
| data21 = Water
}}

'''Psyduck''' ({{IPAc-en|audio=Psyduck Voice Line.ogg|ˈ|s|aɪ|d|ʌ|k}}), known as {{nihongo|'''Koduck'''|コダック|Kodakku}} in Japan, is a [[List of Pokémon|Pokémon species]] in [[Nintendo]] and [[Game Freak]]'s ''[[Pokémon]]'' franchise. Created by [[Ken Sugimori]], Psyduck first appeared in the video games [[Pokémon Red and Blue|''Pokémon Red'' and ''Blue'']] and later in sequels. It has later appeared in various merchandise, spinoff titles and animated and printed adaptations of the franchise. A Psyduck also appears as part of the main cast in the [[live-action animated film]] ''[[Pokémon Detective Pikachu]]''. Psyduck has been voiced by Michael Haigney and [[Rikako Aikawa]] since its debut. 

A [[duck]]-like Pokémon, Psyduck is constantly stunned by its [[headache]], and usually just stands vacantly, trying to calm itself. In the [[Pokémon (anime)|anime series]], Psyduck's appearances became a [[running gag]]; [[Misty (Pokémon)|Misty]], a major supporting character, would often release Psyduck by accident instead of the Pokémon she wanted to use. Psyduck has been met with a primarily positive response since its debut, primarily in its role in the ''[[Pokémon Concierge]]'' television series.

==Design and characteristics==
Psyduck is a species of fictional creatures called Pokémon created for the ''[[Pokémon]]'' media franchise. Developed by [[Game Freak]] and published by [[Nintendo]], the Japanese franchise began in 1996 with the video games ''Pokémon Red'' and ''Green'' for the [[Game Boy]], which were later released in North America as [[Pokémon Red and Blue|''Pokémon Red'' and ''Blue'']] in 1998.<ref>{{cite magazine |last=Hilliard |first=Kyle |date=December 25, 2016 |title=''Pokémon Red'' & ''Blue'' – A Look Back At The 20-Year Journey To Catch 'Em All |url=https://www.gameinformer.com/b/features/archive/2016/12/25/pok-233-mon-red-amp-blue-a-look-back-at-the-20-year-journey-to-catch-em-all.aspx |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231001192920/https://www.gameinformer.com/b/features/archive/2016/12/25/pok-233-mon-red-amp-blue-a-look-back-at-the-20-year-journey-to-catch-em-all.aspx |archive-date=October 1, 2023 |access-date=January 22, 2024 |magazine=[[Game Informer]]}}</ref> In these games and their sequels, the player assumes the role of a Trainer whose goal is to capture and use the creatures' special abilities to combat other Pokémon. Some Pokémon can transform into stronger species through a process called [[Gameplay of Pokémon#Pokémon evolution|evolution]] via various means, such as exposure to specific items.<ref name="millenial2">{{cite book |last=Allison |first=Anne |title=Millennial Monsters: Japanese Toys and the Global Imagination |date=May 2006 |publisher=[[University of California Press]] |isbn=9780520938991 |pages=192–197}}</ref> Each Pokémon have one or two elemental types, which define its advantages and disadvantages when battling other Pokémon.<ref>{{cite book |title=Pokémon Deluxe Essential Handbook |date=July 28, 2015 |publisher=[[Scholastic Inc.]] |isbn=9780545795661 |page=5}}</ref> A major goal in each game is to complete the [[Pokédex]], a comprehensive Pokémon encyclopedia, by capturing, evolving, and trading with other Trainers to obtain individuals from all Pokémon species.<ref name="millenial2" />

Introduced in ''Red'' and ''Blue'', the design started as pixel art [[sprite (computer graphics)|sprites]] by the development team first, with a single color identity chosen to work within the [[Super Game Boy]] hardware limitations.<ref name=EeveeDesigner/> While conceived as a group effort by multiple developers at Game Freak,<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.pokemon.com/us/pokemon-news/creator-profile-the-creators-of-pikachu |website=Pokemon.com |date=26 July 2018 |access-date=23 November 2023 |title=Creator Profile: The Creators of Pikachu |archive-date=9 April 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220409190502/https://www.pokemon.com/us/pokemon-news/creator-profile-the-creators-of-pikachu/ |url-status=live }}</ref> the finalized design and artwork was done by [[Ken Sugimori]]. Originally tasked with drawing the characters to illustrate a planned strategy guide by Game Freak when the games released, Sugimori drew all the sprites for the game in his style to not only unify their designs visually but also modify any design elements he felt were amiss, while trying to retain the original sprite artists' unique styles.<ref>{{cite book |pages=342–343 |language=Japanese |title=Ken Sugimori Works |publisher=Tankobon Softcover |date=January 2014 |isbn= 9784198638061}}</ref> Originally called "Koduck" in Japanese, Nintendo decided to give the various Pokémon species "clever and descriptive names" related to their appearance or features when translating the game for western audiences as a means to make the characters more relatable to American children.<ref name="Time">{{cite magazine|url=http://www.time.com/time/asia/magazine/99/1122/cover2.html|title=PokéMania|last=Chua-Euan|first=Howard|date=22 November 1999|magazine=TIME|access-date=2008-09-15|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080913182631/http://www.time.com/time/asia/magazine/99/1122/cover2.html <!--Added by H3llBot-->|archive-date=2008-09-13}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |author1=Hope Bellingham |date=2021-02-08 |title=Psyduck joins other Pokemon as part of jewellery collection |url=https://www.gamesradar.com/psyduck-joins-other-pokemon-as-part-of-jewellery-collection/ |access-date=2024-05-07 |website=[[GamesRadar+]]|language=en |archive-date=8 May 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240508065151/https://www.gamesradar.com/psyduck-joins-other-pokemon-as-part-of-jewellery-collection/ |url-status=live }}</ref> As a result, they were renamed "Psyduck", a combination of the words "psychic" and "duck".<ref>{{cite web |url=http://guides.ign.com/guides/16708/page_133.html |title=#054 Psyduck |website=IGN |author=Staff |access-date=2015-05-01 |archive-date=2012-03-24 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120324195549/http://guides.ign.com/guides/16708/page_133.html |url-status=live }}</ref>

Psyduck is constantly stunned by its [[headache]],<ref name="psyduckyellow">{{pokédex|yellow|Always tormented by headaches. It uses psychic powers, but it is not known if it intends to do so.}}</ref> and usually just stands there vacantly, trying to calm its headache.<ref name="psyduckred">{{pokédex|red|While lulling its enemies with its vacant look, this wily Pokémon will use psychokinetic powers.}}</ref> When the headache gets too bad, its brain cells awaken, allowing it to use strong psychic powers.<ref name="psyducksilver">{{pokédex|silver|If its chronic headache peaks, it may exhibit odd powers. It seems unable to recall such an episode.}}</ref><ref name="psyduckcrystal">{{pokédex|crystal|The only time it can use its psychic power is when its sleeping brain cells happen to wake.}}</ref> Psyduck is classified in-game as a Water-type Pokémon.<ref name=":1" /> When a Psyduck receives enough [[Experience point|experience]] from battles, it evolves into [[Golduck]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=O'Gorman |first=Erin |date=2020-07-11 |title=Pokémon Sword & Shield: How To Find & Evolve Psyduck Into Golduck |url=https://www.thegamer.com/pokemon-sword-shield-find-evolve-location-psyduck-golduck/ |access-date=2024-05-07 |website=TheGamer |language=en |archive-date=28 October 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201028064351/https://www.thegamer.com/pokemon-sword-shield-find-evolve-location-psyduck-golduck/ |url-status=live }}</ref> During the initial pitch of the 2019 film ''[[Detective Pikachu (film)|Detective Pikachu]]'', writers Benji Samit and Dan Hernandez stated that they wanted Psyduck in the film, citing that this was because it was "their favorite." Hernandez stated that "Because I'm a neurotic writer, I really relate to getting stressed and more stressed and more stressed and then just exploding... and for that reason, I've always felt a great kinship to Psyduck, so we thought that was really important to get him in there."<ref>{{Cite web |date=2019-05-08 |title=Why Psyduck — yes, Psyduck — was the key Pokémon in Detective Pikachu |url=https://www.syfy.com/syfy-wire/pokemon-detective-pikachu-psyduck-pokemon-jobs |access-date=2024-02-11 |website=SYFY Official Site |language=en-US |archive-date=5 December 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231205111736/https://www.syfy.com/syfy-wire/pokemon-detective-pikachu-psyduck-pokemon-jobs |url-status=live }}</ref> Psyduck was also initially planned to be one of the cover mascots of the [[Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee!|''Pokémon, Let's Go!'']] games, though it was ultimately scrapped due to [[Eevee|Eevee's]] popularity and Psyduck's yellow color scheme clashing with the other decided mascot, [[Pikachu]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Farokhmanesh |first=Megan |date=2018-05-30 |title=Eevee's starring role in Pokémon: Let's Go was inspired by fan art |url=https://www.theverge.com/2018/5/30/17384582/pokemon-lets-go-eevee-pikachu-fan-art-nintendo-switch |access-date=2024-04-16 |website=The Verge |language=en |archive-date=30 May 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180530231413/https://www.theverge.com/2018/5/30/17384582/pokemon-lets-go-eevee-pikachu-fan-art-nintendo-switch |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Baird |first=Scott |date=2021-04-19 |title=Why Pokémon: Let's Go, Psyduck! Was Canned In Favor Of Eevee |url=https://screenrant.com/canceled-pokemon-game-lets-go-psyduck-pikachu-eevee/ |access-date=2024-04-16 |website=ScreenRant |language=en |archive-date=22 April 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230422202959/https://screenrant.com/canceled-pokemon-game-lets-go-psyduck-pikachu-eevee/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Psyduck has been voiced by Michael Haigney in English<ref>{{Cite tweet|number=1562430609900720129|title=Come to SacAnime, Sept. 2-4 for a reunion of the original voice cast of the Pokémon TV series. It's the biggest thing to hit Sacramento since tomato juice. We'll have stuff to autograph or bring your own PokéMabilia.|user=MikeHaigney|access-date=16 April 2024 |archive-date=16 April 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240416153534/https://twitter.com/MikeHaigney/status/1562430609900720129 |url-status=live }}</ref> and by [[Rikako Aikawa]] in Japanese.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Valdez |first=Nick |title=Detective Pikachu Reveals Japanese Dub Cast |url=https://comicbook.com/anime/news/detective-pikachu-japanese-dub-cast/ |access-date=2024-04-16 |website=Comicbook.com |date=4 May 2019 |language=en |archive-date=6 November 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221106143820/https://comicbook.com/anime/news/detective-pikachu-japanese-dub-cast/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

==Appearances==
Psyduck made its debut appearance in the [[Pokémon (video game series)|''Pokémon'' video game series]] in ''Pokémon Red'' and ''Blue'',<ref>{{Cite web |last=McCasland |first=Kevin |date=2018-06-02 |title=10 Gen I Pokémon No One Should Catch (And 10 That Are Totally Underrated) |url=https://screenrant.com/pokemon-gen-1-overrated-underrated/ |access-date=2024-04-16 |website=ScreenRant |language=en |archive-date=4 February 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190204002559/https://screenrant.com/pokemon-gen-1-overrated-underrated/ |url-status=live }}</ref> before later appearing in all mainline entries in the series.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-05-22 |title=Only Three Pokémon Are Catchable In Every Game, But Not Pikachu |url=https://kotaku.com/only-three-pokemon-are-catchable-in-every-game-but-not-1850461272 |access-date=2024-04-16 |website=Kotaku |language=en |archive-date=9 March 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240309215001/https://kotaku.com/only-three-pokemon-are-catchable-in-every-game-but-not-1850461272 |url-status=live }}</ref> It has since gone to make a variety of appearances in spin-off games, such as the ''[[Pokémon Snap]]'' series,<ref>{{Cite web |last=Aubrey |first=Dave |date=2021-08-14 |title=New Pokemon Snap: Psychic Sidekick Request Guide |url=https://www.thegamer.com/new-pokemon-snap-psychic-sidekick-request-guide/ |access-date=2024-04-16 |website=TheGamer |language=en |archive-date=16 April 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240416155055/https://www.thegamer.com/new-pokemon-snap-psychic-sidekick-request-guide/ |url-status=live }}</ref> the ''[[Pokémon Mystery Dungeon]]'' series,<ref>{{Cite web |last=Donaldson |first=Alex |date=2020-03-06 |title=Pokemon Mystery Dungeon Rescue Team DX: starter Pokemon, personality quiz answers and buddy Pokemon |url=https://www.vg247.com/pokemon-mystery-dungeon-rescue-team-dx-starter-pokemon-personality-quiz-answers |access-date=2024-04-16 |website=VG247 |language=en |archive-date=25 February 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240225235532/https://www.vg247.com/pokemon-mystery-dungeon-rescue-team-dx-starter-pokemon-personality-quiz-answers |url-status=live }}</ref> ''[[Pokémon Go]]'',<ref>{{Cite web |last=Lee |first=Julia |date=2023-12-18 |title=Pokémon Go Winter Holiday 2023 event guide |url=https://www.polygon.com/pokemon-go-guide/2023/12/18/24006193/winter-holiday-2023-event-timed-research-paid-ticket-cetoddle |access-date=2024-04-16 |website=Polygon |language=en-US |archive-date=16 January 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240116144421/https://www.polygon.com/pokemon-go-guide/2023/12/18/24006193/winter-holiday-2023-event-timed-research-paid-ticket-cetoddle |url-status=live }}</ref> and the ''[[Pokémon Rumble]]'' series.<ref>{{Cite web |author1=Connor Sheridan |date=2019-05-15 |title=Pokemon Rumble Rush is headed to iOS and Android for on-the-go battling |url=https://www.gamesradar.com/pokemon-rumble-rush-ios-android/ |access-date=2024-04-16 |website=[[GamesRadar+]]|language=en |archive-date=25 December 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221225023922/https://www.gamesradar.com/pokemon-rumble-rush-ios-android/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

In the [[Pokémon (anime)|''Pokémon'' anime]], [[Misty (Pokémon)|Misty]], a major supporting character in the series, has a Psyduck that she accidentally caught, serving as a constant source of frustration for her, as it frequently emerges to attempt to battle the opponent in substitution of the Pokémon she intends to use, and in instances where she does intend to use it, it often does not act. When its headache gets bad enough, it has been shown to use phenomenally powerful Psychic-type moves which far exceed its perceived potential.<ref name=":1" /><ref>{{Cite web |last=Atkins |first=Kallie |date=2022-04-02 |title=Misty's 10 Most Powerful Pokémon, Ranked |url=https://screenrant.com/pokemon-misty-most-powerful-ranked/ |access-date=2024-04-16 |website=ScreenRant |language=en |archive-date=18 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230218024945/https://screenrant.com/pokemon-misty-most-powerful-ranked/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Comments |first=Theo Dwyer {{!}} |date=2020-11-29 |title=Everything Pokémon GO Players Need To Know About Psyduck |url=https://bleedingcool.com/games/everything-pokemon-go-players-need-to-know-about-psyduck/ |access-date=2024-04-16 |website=bleedingcool.com |language=en |archive-date=28 February 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240228113316/https://bleedingcool.com/games/everything-pokemon-go-players-need-to-know-about-psyduck/ |url-status=live }}</ref> As such, it often acts as comic relief within the anime.<ref name=":2">{{Cite web |last=Walker |first=Alex |date=2018-12-06 |title=My Mission To Conquer Pokemon: Let's Go Psyduck |url=https://www.kotaku.com.au/2018/12/pokemon-lets-go-switch-psyduck/ |access-date=2024-04-16 |website=Kotaku Australia |language=en-AU |archive-date=9 March 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200309035612/https://www.kotaku.com.au/2018/12/pokemon-lets-go-switch-psyduck/ |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref name=":1" /> Psyduck have appeared at various points in the ''[[Pokémon Adventures]]'' manga.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Cooper |first=Dalton |date=2018-08-05 |title=The 16 Most Disturbing Moments In The Pokemon Manga |url=https://gamerant.com/pokemon-manga-disturbing-moments/ |access-date=2024-04-16 |website=Game Rant |language=en |archive-date=7 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230807155317/https://gamerant.com/pokemon-manga-disturbing-moments/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Psyduck appears in the 2019 film ''[[Pokémon Detective Pikachu]]'' as the partner to the female lead of the film, junior unpaid reporter Lucy Stevens (portrayed by [[Kathryn Newton]]).<ref name="Zakarin">{{Cite web|last=Zakarin|first=Jordan|date=2019-05-08|title=Why Psyduck — yes, Psyduck — was the key Pokémon in Detective Pikachu|url=https://www.syfy.com/syfywire/pokemon-detective-pikachu-psyduck-pokemon-jobs|access-date=2021-07-18|website=SYFY WIRE|language=en|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210718120712/https://www.syfy.com/syfywire/pokemon-detective-pikachu-psyduck-pokemon-jobs|url-status=live|archive-date=2021-07-18}}</ref> It also appears in the 2023 animated series ''[[Pokémon Concierge]]'', in which a shy Psyduck is a wild Pokémon in the Pokémon Resort, an island where Pokémon come to visit and relax. It ends up befriending the protagonist, Haru, and the two become close friends.<ref name=":0" />

==Promotion and reception==
[[File:Psyduck Pokemon Concierge.webp|thumb|The relationship between Pokémon Concierge's protagonist, Haru, and Psyduck was the subject of significant commentary.|alt=An image of Psyduck relaxing next to the protagonist of Pokémon Concierge, Haru. ]]
Psyduck has appeared in multiple pieces of merchandise, including plush toys,<ref>{{Cite web|date=2020-06-08|title=This giant Psyduck is a $300 roommate|url=https://www.destructoid.com/this-giant-psyduck-is-a-300-roommate/|access-date=2021-07-18|website=Destructoid|language=en-CA|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210718121031/https://www.destructoid.com/this-giant-psyduck-is-a-300-roommate/|archive-date=2021-07-18|url-status=live|last=Makedonski|first=Brett}}</ref> battery-powered toys,<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.amazon.com/Hasbro-Electronic-Talking-Pokemon-Psyduck/dp/B00000JDXB |title=Hasbro Electronic Talking Pokemon - 54 Psyduck |website=www.amazon.com |access-date=12 January 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210718150230/https://www.amazon.com/Hasbro-Electronic-Talking-Pokemon-Psyduck/dp/B00000JDXB |archive-date=18 July 2021 |url-status=dead}}</ref> pins, and cards in the ''[[Pokémon Trading Card Game]]''. [[Zavvi (retailer)|Zavvi]] has launched licensed T-shirts featuring Psyduck and other popular [[List of generation I Pokémon|generation I species]].<ref>{{Cite web|last1=Alexander|first1=Susannah|date=2021-07-03|title=Pokémon launches summer clothing collection inspired by Sun and Moon games|url=https://www.digitalspy.com/tech/a36866880/pokemon-sun-moon-games-summer-clothing-collection/|access-date=2021-07-18|website=Digital Spy|language=en-GB|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210712143337/https://www.digitalspy.com/tech/a36866880/pokemon-sun-moon-games-summer-clothing-collection/|archive-date=2021-07-12|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=2021-06-28|title=Deals: Pokémon Summer Collection Brings An Alola Theme To Zavvi|url=https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2021/06/deals_pokemon_summer_collection_brings_an_alola_theme_to_zavvi|access-date=2021-07-18|website=Nintendo Life|language=en-GB|last=Lane|first=Gavin|archive-date=2021-07-18|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210718115138/https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2021/06/deals_pokemon_summer_collection_brings_an_alola_theme_to_zavvi|url-status=live}}</ref> Psyduck-inspired cast necklaces have also been available in Japan.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2021-02-08|title=U-Treasure to Release Psyduck Inspired Pokemon Necklace|url=https://www.siliconera.com/u-treasure-to-release-psyduck-inspired-pokemon-necklace/|access-date=2021-07-18|website=Siliconera|language=en-US|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210718115613/https://www.siliconera.com/u-treasure-to-release-psyduck-inspired-pokemon-necklace/|archive-date=2021-07-18|url-status=live|last=Hashimoto|first=Kazuma}}</ref> The first [[Pokémon Jet]], a [[Boeing 747-400D]] for [[All Nippon Airways]], has Psyduck and nine other Pokémon on its livery.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Japan Gets A New Pokémon Airplane And It's Glorious|url=https://kotaku.com/japan-gets-a-new-pokemon-airplane-and-its-glorious-1847163460|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210709041632/https://kotaku.com/japan-gets-a-new-pokemon-airplane-and-its-glorious-1847163460|archive-date=2021-07-09|access-date=2021-07-18|website=Kotaku|date=24 June 2021|language=en-us|last=Ashcraft|first=Brian}}</ref> A life-sized Psyduck plush was released by [[The Pokémon Company|The Pokemon Company]] in 2020, later being rereleased in 2023.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Carpenter |first=Nicole |date=2024-02-06 |title=The life-size Psyduck is coming back, and it's available to pre-order |url=https://www.polygon.com/24063771/life-size-psyduck-the-pokemon-center-buy-pre-order |access-date=2024-02-11 |website=Polygon |language=en-US |archive-date=7 February 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240207072607/https://www.polygon.com/24063771/life-size-psyduck-the-pokemon-center-buy-pre-order |url-status=live }}</ref>

Described as "silly" by ''[[GameSpy]]'' and ''[[The New York Times]]'', Psyduck has been well received by the media, identified as one of the most popular characters in the original games by ''[[GamesRadar+]]'' and ''[[Kotaku]]''.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Leeper |first=Justin |date=24 April 2004 |title=GameSpy: Pokemon - Page 1 |url=http://www.gamespy.com/articles/508/508764p1.html |access-date=2023-07-05 |website=GameSpy |archive-date=2013-01-21 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130121173405/http://www.gamespy.com/articles/508/508764p1.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite book |title=The New York Times Film Reviews 1999-2000 |author=New York Times Theater Reviews |page=178 |publisher=Taylor & Francis |year=2001 |isbn=0-415-93696-9}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.gamesradar.com/ds/f/the-complete-pokemon-rby-pokedex-part-5/a-20070820141819445080/g-2006100415372930075/p-10 |page=10 |title=The complete Pokemon RBY pokedex, part 5 |publisher=[[Future Publishing]] |work=[[GamesRadar+]] |access-date=2009-10-01 |author=Elston, Brett |archive-date=2013-10-25 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131025024026/http://www.gamesradar.com/the-complete-pokemon-rby-pokedex-part-5/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Pokémon Designs Aren't Getting Worse, They May Be Getting Better |url=http://kotaku.com/5969098/pokemon-designs-arent-getting-worse-they-may-be-getting-better |work=[[Kotaku]] |last=Hernandez |first=Patricia |date=2012-12-17 |access-date=2014-05-20 |archive-date=2016-01-21 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160121153230/http://kotaku.com/5969098/pokemon-designs-arent-getting-worse-they-may-be-getting-better |url-status=live }}</ref> Psyduck is Pokémon developer [[Junichi Masuda]]'s favorite Pokémon.<ref>{{cite AV media |url= |title=Pokémon Challenge: Mr. Masuda versus...Mr. Masuda?! |date=18 December 2018 |medium= |language= |publisher= |trans-title= |location= |time= |access-date= |format= |id= |isbn= |oclc= |quote= |people=Kensaku Nabana}}</ref> ''[[GameDaily]]'' staff felt it was among the more unique Pokémon designs, while ''[[IGN]]'' felt it was a cult favorite among fans due to its "bizarre, bewildered appearance."<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.gamedaily.com/articles/galleries/retro-rewind-then-and-now--pokemon/?page=16 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090413015150/http://www.gamedaily.com/articles/galleries/retro-rewind-then-and-now--pokemon/?page=16 |archive-date=2009-04-13 |title=Retro Rewind: Then and Now - Pokémon |access-date=2009-06-09 |publisher=[[AOL]] |work=[[GameDaily]] |author=Workman, Robert}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://stars.ign.com/objects/143/14350017_biography.html |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120723060104/http://stars.ign.com/objects/143/14350017_biography.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=2012-07-23 |title=Psyduck Biography |publisher=[[IGN Entertainment]] |work=[[IGN]] |access-date=2009-09-28 }}</ref> Alex Walker of ''Kotaku'' highlighted it as a relatable character, also citing its role as comic relief in the Pokémon anime.<ref name=":2" /> It was also cited as a favorite character by ''IGN'' staff.<ref>{{cite web |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20010331212321/http://pocket.ign.com/news/12065.html |title=Pokémon of the Day: Psyduck |publisher=[[IGN Entertainment]] |work=[[IGN]] |url=http://pocket.ign.com/news/12065.html |access-date=2009-10-05 |archive-date=2001-03-31 |date=1999-11-11 |url-status=dead }}</ref> The ''[[Coventry Evening Telegraph]]'' also praised its design, stating the character was "more interesting" in comparison to more commonly seen Pokémon such as [[Squirtle]],<ref>Tim, Frings (December 22, 2000). "CINEMA: PEAK emon!". ''[[Coventry Evening Telegraph]]''.</ref> though [[James Stephanie Sterling]] of ''[[Destructoid]]'' was more critical, calling it "annoying" and "irritating."<ref>{{Cite web|date=2008-06-26|title=Thirty rubbish Pokemon: Red/Blue edition|url=https://www.destructoid.com/thirty-rubbish-pokemon-red-blue-edition/|access-date=2021-07-18|website=Destructoid|language=en-CA|archive-date=2023-03-23|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230323015732/https://www.destructoid.com/thirty-rubbish-pokemon-red-blue-edition/|url-status=live}}</ref> Psyduck has also been criticized for associations to the occult. Author Cindy Jacobs criticized Psyduck's occult powers, while Pastor Phil Arms discussed how its psychic powers reflected "New Age" ideas of altered states of consciousness.<ref name="cindyjacobs">{{cite book |last=Jacobs |first=Cindy |title=Deliver Us From Evil: Putting A Stop To The Occult Influences Invading Your Home and Community |date=2001-11-05 |publisher=Gospel Light Publications |isbn=0830728007 |page=48 |chapter=3}}</ref>

Psyduck's appearance in ''[[Pokémon Concierge]]'' has been received positively. James Whitbrook, writing for ''[[Gizmodo]]'', found Psyduck and its relationship with the show's protagonist, Haru, a relatable centerpiece of the show. He highlighted their relationship as a relatable and welcoming message.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-01-04 |title=Pokémon Concierge's Psyduck Is for the Millennial Pokémon Fans |url=https://gizmodo.com/pokemon-concierge-psyduck-netflix-millennials-streaming-1851140908 |access-date=2024-02-11 |website=Gizmodo |language=en |archive-date=18 January 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240118171144/https://gizmodo.com/pokemon-concierge-psyduck-netflix-millennials-streaming-1851140908 |url-status=live }}</ref> Jade King, writing for ''TheGamer'', found Psyduck's role and emotions in the show akin to feelings of social anxiety, and praised the messages delivered by Psyduck overcoming its own anxieties to befriend Haru.<ref>{{Cite web |last=King |first=Jade |date=2024-01-04 |title=Psyduck In Pokemon Concierge Is My Mood For 2024 |url=https://www.thegamer.com/pokemon-concierge-psyduck-mental-health-anxiety-vibe/ |access-date=2024-02-11 |website=TheGamer |language=en |archive-date=10 January 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240110093910/https://www.thegamer.com/pokemon-concierge-psyduck-mental-health-anxiety-vibe/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Ana Diaz, writing for ''[[Polygon (website)|Polygon]]'', also praised Psyduck's role in the show, stating that "Every scene with Psyduck is like viewing a brief, but fleeting moment of pure, unadulterated thoughtless bliss." She also highlighted how the show helped portray Psyduck in a more positive light, primarily in comparison in its role in the ''Pokémon'' anime series.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |last=Diaz |first=Ana |date=2023-12-30 |title=Pika-who? Pokémon Concierge has made me a Psyduck lover now |url=https://www.polygon.com/pokemon/24009731/pokemon-concierge-best-psyduck-propaganda-pikachu-mascot |access-date=2024-02-11 |website=Polygon |language=en-US |archive-date=16 January 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240116142715/https://www.polygon.com/pokemon/24009731/pokemon-concierge-best-psyduck-propaganda-pikachu-mascot |url-status=live }}</ref> Emma Stefansky, writing for ''[[The Atlantic]]'', cited similar sentiments, stating that the series "wisely recognizes the dramatic potential of Psyduck." She highlighted the usage of Psyduck, primarily used as comic relief, as a relatable figure in the series.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |last=Stefansky |first=Emma |date=2024-01-19 |title='Pokémon,' All Grown Up |url=https://www.theatlantic.com/culture/archive/2024/01/pokemon-concierge-office-comedy-netflix/677181/ |access-date=2024-02-11 |website=The Atlantic |language=en |archive-date=29 January 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240129214117/https://www.theatlantic.com/culture/archive/2024/01/pokemon-concierge-office-comedy-netflix/677181/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Actress [[Rena Nōnen]], who played Haru in the series, cited that it had become her favorite Pokemon as a result of the series.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-07-02 |title=Netflix's Stop-Motion Pokémon Series Will Be Therapeutic For Fans, Says Actress |url=https://kotaku.com/pokemon-concierge-netflix-stop-motion-anime-psyduck-1850600407 |access-date=2024-02-11 |website=Kotaku |language=en |archive-date=2 July 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230702224454/https://kotaku.com/pokemon-concierge-netflix-stop-motion-anime-psyduck-1850600407 |url-status=live }}</ref> 

==See also==
* {{Portal-inline|Video games}}

==References==
{{reflist|2}}

==External links==
* {{Bulbapedia}}
* [https://www.pokemon.com/us/pokedex/psyduck Psyduck on Pokemon.com]

{{Pokémon Generation 1|state=expanded}}
{{Pokémon}}

[[Category:Anthropomorphic ducks]]
[[Category:Fictional monotremes]]
[[Category:Pokémon introduced in generation I]]
[[Category:Video game characters introduced in 1996]]
[[Category:Video game characters who are psychics]]
[[Category:Video game characters with water abilities]]