How did my Jolteon get paralyzed by Pikachu?

Question

My Jolteon, in Leafgreen, used Bite on a Pikachu, and got paralyzed by Static. Now, in Leafgreen, Bite is a special attack. But Static paralyzed me regardless. Why?

Answer 1

While in Gen I-III all types were fully classed as special or physical, special moves were able to make direct contact, so Bite, even being classed as special, still makes physical contact on Pikachu, thereby triggering Static.

There are still some moves that, despite being special, make direct contact.

Comments

K, thanks!