Decoding Lucario: Myth, Biology, and More
Lucario, a beloved Pokémon, is a complex creation drawing inspiration from diverse sources. To answer the question “What is Lucario supposed to be?” directly, it is a bipedal Pokémon whose design is heavily influenced by Anubis, the ancient Egyptian god of death and the afterlife, who is often depicted with the head of an African golden wolf or jackal. However, Lucario’s design also incorporates traits of canines like the Dobermann and jackal, with hints of marsupials such as the kangaroo found in its broader hips, shorter stature, and jagged tail. It’s ultimately a unique combination of these elements, creating a Fighting/Steel-type Pokémon that’s both powerful and visually striking. It’s neither strictly a dog, a wolf, or a jackal, but rather a fusion of characteristics from all of these and more. Its core concept embodies a spiritual guardian-like warrior with a keen sense of aura, reflecting the role of Anubis in the afterlife. The overall design is intended to be both fierce and intelligent, combining elements of canine ferocity and spiritual insight.
The Inspirations Behind Lucario’s Design
Anubis, the Egyptian Connection
The most prominent influence on Lucario’s design is undoubtedly Anubis, the Egyptian god often portrayed with the head of a jackal or African golden wolf. Lucario’s humanoid body, combined with its distinctly canine head, directly mirrors the imagery associated with this deity. The theme of reading and understanding “auras” in Lucario’s lore also parallels Anubis’ role as a judge of hearts in the afterlife. This connection makes Lucario particularly appealing to fans of Egyptian mythology, adding a layer of depth to its already captivating design. The aura-sensing abilities are also symbolic of Anubis seeing into the souls of the departed.
Canine and Marsupial Traits
Beyond its Egyptian inspiration, Lucario’s physical features draw from several animal sources. Its overall build and snout resemble a Dobermann or a jackal, giving it a sleek, athletic appearance. However, its posture and some specific proportions like its broad hips and shorter stature hint at marsupial origins. The jagged tail, reminiscent of a kangaroo’s tail, further solidifies this connection. It’s a blend of these different features that gives Lucario its distinct silhouette. This fusion goes beyond mere looks, hinting at its complex battle prowess and unique place in the Pokemon universe.
The Aura Reader Concept
Lucario’s ability to sense and manipulate aura sets it apart from many other Pokémon. This ability connects with the Anubis inspiration of judging souls. However, in the Pokémon world, it translates to the ability to sense and understand the feelings of others through their aura, adding a layer of spiritual depth to its character. This aura-sensing ability also reflects in its combat strategy, allowing it to predict enemy movements and execute precise attacks. The concept of the aura reader makes Lucario more than just a fighting machine; it’s a spiritually attuned combatant.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 frequently asked questions about Lucario to delve deeper into its various aspects:
Is Lucario a dog or a wolf?
Lucario is neither strictly a dog nor a wolf, but rather a bipedal Pokémon with a design that combines elements of dogs, wolves, and jackals, along with marsupial influences. It is primarily inspired by the Egyptian god Anubis, who is depicted with the head of an African golden wolf or jackal.
What animal is Riolu based on?
Riolu, Lucario’s pre-evolution, is primarily based on a small, blue, canine Pokémon. Its design is less complex and more overtly puppy-like, setting the stage for Lucario’s more mature and powerful form.
Why isn’t Lucario a pseudo-Legendary?
Lucario doesn’t meet the requirements for being a pseudo-Legendary because it only has a two-stage evolution (Riolu to Lucario) instead of three, and its total base stat is 525, which is below the 600 threshold required for pseudo-legendary status.
What dog breed does Lucario resemble?
Lucario’s design resembles a Dobermann in terms of its sleek build, but it also draws heavily from jackal features as part of the Anubis influence. The combination of these and other subtle animal traits creates its overall look.
What is the “Lucario bug” in Pokemon Unite?
The “Lucario bug” in Pokemon Unite is a glitch that occurs when using the Extreme Speed Special Move in conjunction with another button press, resulting in significantly increased damage to enemy players.
How did Ash get Riolu?
Ash received an unhatched egg which he felt a connection with. This egg eventually hatched into the Riolu that became a part of his team.
Why was Lucario banned in competitive play?
Lucario’s unpredictability in competitive play, stemming from its multiple possible sets (Physical, Special, Agility), made it difficult to counter effectively. This led to it being banned because of its ability to overcome counterplay.
Who is the girl with Lucario?
Korrina is the Gym Leader of the Shalour City Gym who specializes in Fighting-type Pokemon and is well-known for having a Lucario. She gives the player a Lucario with a Lucarionite.
Why was Lucario blind in “Lucario and the Mystery of Mew”?
Lucario was temporarily blinded while scouting in the mist of a mountain, which led him to encounter Aaron who was on his way to the Tree of Beginning. This blindness is a key plot point in the movie.
How rare is Lucario in Pokémon GO?
Lucario is extremely rare in Pokémon GO, as it can only be obtained by evolving Riolu, which is exclusively found in eggs.
Is Lucario aggressive?
Lucario can become very aggressive in certain situations, such as when its ability, Aggressor, is activated, which boosts its attack and special attack but lowers its defense and special defense.
Does Lucario have a gender?
While both male and female Lucarios exist in the Pokemon world, many prominent trainers, such as Sir Aaron, Korrina, and Ash, all possess male Lucario.
Is Mega Lucario rare?
Mega Lucario cards are often of Secret Rare rarity in the Pokemon Trading Card Game, making them highly sought after by collectors.
Why is Lucario considered cool?
Lucario is often considered a “cool” Pokémon because of its unique Fighting/Steel-type, its vulpine features, its capability to deliver powerful blows, and its association with the myth of Anubis. The ability to read auras and its status as one of the strongest non-legendaries contribute to its popularity. Many fans even mistake it for a pseudo-legendary due to its power and popularity.
How tall is Lucario?
Lucario is 3 feet 11 inches tall. Its bipedal stance makes it a fairly tall Pokémon, contributing to its imposing presence in battle.
By understanding the various elements that make up Lucario, from its Egyptian deity inspiration to its canine and marsupial traits, one can fully appreciate the depth and complexity of this beloved Pokémon. Its ability to perceive aura only solidifies its unique position as a skilled and intelligent warrior in the Pokémon world.