Unveiling the Apex: What is the Best Dragon Move in Pokemon?

The question of the best Dragon-type move in Pokemon isn’t a simple one. It depends heavily on the context: are we talking about competitive battling, in-game progression, Pokemon GO raids, or a specific Pokemon’s movepool? However, if forced to crown a single champion, and considering its sheer versatility and impact across different formats, Dragon Dance emerges as the ultimate Dragon-type move. While not a damaging move, its ability to drastically increase both Attack and Speed makes it a game-changer, turning otherwise moderate threats into sweeping powerhouses.

The Reign of Dragon Dance

Why does a status move like Dragon Dance reign supreme over powerful offensive options like Draco Meteor or Outrage? The answer lies in its multiplicative effect. By boosting Attack and Speed by one stage each (effectively 50% increases), Dragon Dance lays the foundation for a devastating sweep. A Pokemon that is faster and hits harder is exponentially more dangerous.

• Setup Potential: Dragon Dance provides unparalleled setup potential. Pokemon that can reliably set up one or two Dragon Dances can often overwhelm opposing teams.
• Versatility: Unlike offensive moves that may be resisted or leave the user vulnerable, Dragon Dance is rarely a bad play. Even if the opponent switches out, the boosts remain, setting the stage for future opportunities.
• Competitive Viability: Dragon Dance is a staple in competitive Pokemon battling, appearing on numerous teams across various tiers. Its presence alone shapes teambuilding and strategy.
• Boosting other Moves: A boosted attack stat impacts every attack move of a Pokemon, not just dragon type moves, making it essential for building a mixed attack sweeper.

While other moves boast higher base power, Dragon Dance’s strategic value and lasting impact elevate it above the rest. It embodies the essence of a successful strategy: creating a snowball effect that leads to victory. This is something that we at Games Learning Society would consider in the context of game design and player strategy. You can learn more about the work they are doing at GamesLearningSociety.org.

Honorable Mentions: The Offensive Powerhouses

While Dragon Dance takes the crown, several offensive Dragon-type moves deserve recognition for their raw power and strategic utility:

• Draco Meteor: This special attack boasts immense power but comes with a significant drawback: sharply lowering the user’s Special Attack after use. It’s a powerful nuke but requires careful planning.
• Outrage: A physical powerhouse, Outrage locks the user into attacking for 2-3 turns, ending with confusion. Its high damage output is offset by the lack of control.
• Eternabeam: The signature move of Eternatus, this Special move deals high damage, but needs the user to recharge next turn.
• Dragon Darts: This move hits twice, making it a great option for breaking through Focus Sashes or Sturdy abilities.
• Clanging Scales: A physical attack that hits hard but lowers the user’s Defense.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Dragon-type Moves

1. Which Dragon-type move has the highest base power?

In most generations, Draco Meteor and Outrage are typically among the Dragon-type moves with the highest base power, though there may be exceptions depending on the specific game and the availability of signature moves like Eternabeam.

2. What is the best Dragon-type move in Pokemon GO?

In Pokemon GO, Outrage is often considered one of the best Dragon-type charged moves due to its high damage output and relatively quick charge time. However, Draco Meteor can be powerful as well but is less accessible due to being a legacy move.

3. Is Dragon Claw a good move?

Dragon Claw is a decent move, offering reliable damage without any drawbacks. However, its base power is relatively low compared to other Dragon-type moves, making it less desirable in competitive settings.

4. What is a Dragon-type Z-Move?

The Dragonium Z allows a Pokemon to use the Z-Move Devastating Drake, a powerful one-time attack that deals significant damage.

5. What makes Dragon Dance so effective?

Dragon Dance’s effectiveness stems from its ability to simultaneously boost both Attack and Speed, creating a snowball effect that allows a Pokemon to outspeed and outdamage its opponents.

6. Are there any Dragon/Electric-type Pokemon?

Yes, Zekrom is a legendary Dragon/Electric-type Pokemon, making it unique in its typing.

7. What are some good counters to Dragon-type moves?

Fairy-type Pokemon are immune to Dragon-type moves, making them excellent counters. Steel-types resist Dragon-type moves and can also be effective.

8. What is the best way to use Draco Meteor?

Draco Meteor is best used as a powerful finishing move or when the user is about to be switched out, minimizing the impact of the Special Attack drop.

9. How can I deal with the confusion caused by Outrage?

Using a Lum Berry or switching out the Pokemon after using Outrage can cure the confusion. Alternatively, having a Pokemon with the ability Own Tempo prevents confusion altogether.

10. Which Pokemon benefit the most from Dragon Dance?

Pokemon with good offensive stats and a decent Speed stat, such as Dragonite, Salamence, and Garchomp, benefit greatly from Dragon Dance. These are powerful attackers that can become nearly unstoppable after a boost or two.

11. What is Dragon Tail’s strategic advantage?

Dragon Tail forces the opponent to switch out, disrupting their strategy and potentially bringing in a less favorable matchup.

12. Are there any Dragon-type moves that bypass accuracy checks?

Some moves, such as certain Z-Moves, bypass accuracy checks and always hit. However, most standard Dragon-type moves are subject to accuracy.

13. What role do Dragon-type moves play in a Nuzlocke challenge?

Dragon-type moves can be powerful assets in a Nuzlocke challenge, offering high damage output. However, their limited availability and potential drawbacks (like Outrage’s confusion) require careful consideration.

14. How has the power of Dragon-type moves changed throughout the Pokemon generations?

The base power and effects of certain Dragon-type moves have been adjusted throughout the Pokemon generations, impacting their viability and usage in competitive play. New moves have also been introduced, further expanding the Dragon-type arsenal.

15. Are there any Dragon-type moves that increase evasion?

While there are no direct Dragon-type moves that raise evasion, the move Scale Shot raises speed, but lowers defense which is less preferable to the effect of Dragon Dance.

Mastering the Dragon’s Power

Understanding the nuances of Dragon-type moves is crucial for success in the Pokemon world. While Dragon Dance stands as the ultimate enabler, the offensive options provide the necessary firepower to conquer opponents. Mastering the strategic application of these moves will elevate your Pokemon game to new heights.