Is Dragonite Still Rare? The Definitive Guide
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
The short answer is: it depends on what you mean by “rare.” In the context of Pokémon GO and the broader Pokémon universe, Dragonite’s rarity has evolved over time. While it isn’t the absolute unicorn it once was, encountering a wild Dragonite still carries a sense of excitement and accomplishment. Let’s delve deeper into why this remains the case and explore the nuances of its availability across different Pokémon platforms.
Dragonite’s Evolving Rarity in Pokémon GO
In the early days of Pokémon GO, Dragonite was exceptionally rare. It was a goal for many trainers, representing the pinnacle of the first-generation Pokémon. Players would spend hours hunting Dratini near water bodies, hoping to gather enough candies to eventually evolve it into Dragonair and then the coveted Dragonite.
Why Dragonite was Rare in Early Pokémon GO:
- Low Spawn Rates: Wild Dragonite spawns were, and still are, extremely infrequent.
- Evolving Challenges: The process of evolving a Dragonite requires 125 Dratini candies, necessitating numerous catches of Dratini or using rare candies to shorten the grind.
- Rarity of Dratini: Dratini themselves are not common. They typically spawn near water sources, adding a layer of challenge to their acquisition.
- Hatching Odds: While Dratini can hatch from 10km eggs, this is not a guaranteed method and relies on luck.
Dragonite’s Rarity Today
While the core mechanics of Pokémon GO remain the same, Dragonite’s “rarity” has slightly diminished due to various in-game additions:
- Community Days: While Dratini Community Days have occurred, these events drastically increase the number of Dratini available. This makes evolution easier for a limited period, but a wild Dragonite remains incredibly rare.
- Increased Spawn Points: While still not common, increased spawn points in certain areas and events can sometimes lead to a more frequent sighting of all Pokémon, albeit slightly.
- Wild Spawns: Wild spawns still occur, but they remain very uncommon.
In summary, while acquiring a Dragonite through evolution is more achievable, finding a wild one is still a significant achievement. Dragonite remains a valuable and powerful Pokémon, solidifying its somewhat rare status.
Dragonite in Other Pokémon Games
The perception of Dragonite’s rarity also varies across different Pokémon games:
Core Series Games
-
Older Generations (e.g., Red/Blue/Yellow): Dragonite was incredibly rare, often being the final Pokémon players encountered in their Pokédex. The need to catch a very rare Dratini and then evolve it twice made it a significant task.
-
Modern Generations (e.g., Scarlet/Violet): In games like Scarlet and Violet, it’s relatively easier to find wild Dragonite in specific locations like the Paldea region. The game features fixed Dragonite spawns, which drastically reduces the perceived rarity.
Pokémon Unite
- Dragonite is still a sought-after pick in Pokémon Unite, reflecting its consistent strength in team-based combat. This consistent popularity and frequent usage by top-tier players, underscores its desirability.
Why Is Dragonite Still So Popular?
Dragonite’s enduring appeal stems from several key factors:
-
Powerful Stats: Dragonite boasts impressive base stats, making it a formidable battler. It is particularly strong in Attack, Defense, and Special Defense.
-
Versatile Moveset: Dragonite’s ability to learn both Dragon and Flying-type moves provides significant advantages in battles. It has access to moves like Dragon Claw and Dragon Tail which are highly desirable in battle.
-
Iconic Design: As one of the original 151 Pokémon, Dragonite holds a special place in the hearts of many fans. Its friendly, gentle appearance contrasts with its powerful nature.
-
Pseudo-Legendary Status: Dragonite’s position as a pseudo-legendary Pokémon implies a certain status and desirability.
-
Terastalization: Its power increased dramatically due to Terastalization, which combined with moves such as Extreme Speed and its extensive move pool, made it a force to be reckoned with.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Dragonite a Legendary Pokémon?
No, Dragonite is not a Legendary Pokémon. It’s classified as a pseudo-legendary, meaning it has high base stats and evolves from a three-stage evolutionary line, similar to the legendary Pokémon, but without being a part of the formal legendary Pokémon category.
2. What Type of Dragon is Dragonite?
Dragonite is a Dragon/Flying-type Pokémon.
3. Where are the best places to find Dratini in Pokémon GO?
Dratini is typically found near bodies of water such as lakes, rivers, and oceans. Some players report better results during certain weather conditions like rainy or windy days.
4. How many candies does it take to evolve a Dragonite from a Dratini?
It takes 25 candies to evolve Dratini into Dragonair and an additional 100 candies to evolve Dragonair into Dragonite, totaling 125 Dratini candies to get a Dragonite.
5. Is Dragonite better than Charizard in Pokémon GO?
In battle simulations, a level 30 Dragonite with 3251 CP defeats a level 30 Charizard with 2476 CP. However, actual battle results may vary based on movesets and individual trainer skill.
6. Why is Dragonite so powerful?
Dragonite’s high base stats, especially its high attack, defense, special attack and special defense, and its dual typing and versatile moveset make it a powerful option in most battle situations.
7. Is Dragonite banned from any competitive Pokémon formats?
Dragonite was banned in early competitive Pokémon formats before auto-leveling was introduced. In the 2008 Video Game Showdown, anything above level 50 was banned.
8. What is the best moveset for Dragonite in Pokémon GO?
Generally, Dragon Tail and Outrage are considered the best moveset for Dragonite in Pokémon GO due to the STAB and high damage output. However, other moves such as Dragon Claw also perform well in some situations.
9. What Pokémon do people often buddy with in Pokémon GO?
This varies depending on player preference. However, Dragonite is a popular buddy Pokémon given its rarity and the benefits that come with having a buddy, such as improved stats in battles.
10. Are Wild Dragonites difficult to catch?
Yes, wild Dragonites are notoriously difficult to catch. They have a low capture rate, so be prepared with berries and high-level Poké Balls.
11. How common is Dragonite in Pokémon Unite?
Dragonite is a very popular and frequently picked Pokémon in Pokémon Unite, appearing in roughly one out of every five matches according to data.
12. Is Dragonite stronger than Gardevoir?
In battle simulations, a level 30 Dragonite with 3251 CP defeats a level 30 Gardevoir with 2652 CP. However, in individual battles, many other factors can play a role in battle outcomes.
13. Why is Dratini’s evolutionary line the only Dragon type in Gen 1?
This is due to the evolutionary design of Gen 1. It’s unique that Dragonite is the final form in Gen 1’s only Dragon-type line. This uniqueness adds to Dragonite’s appeal.
14. Where can you find Dragonite spawns in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet?
In the Paldea region, north of Levincia, there are known fixed Dragonite spawn locations. These locations can be reliably visited to find and potentially capture this elusive Pokémon.
15. Is Dragonite based on a European or Chinese Dragon?
Dragonite is based on a Chinese dragon type, while Charizard is based on the European dragon type. This distinction highlights their differing origins and designs.
Conclusion
Dragonite’s “rarity” is not absolute. While the task of obtaining it is more approachable now, particularly through evolution in Pokémon GO, finding a wild Dragonite still provides a thrill. Its consistent strength, iconic status, and versatile moveset contribute to its enduring popularity across the Pokémon franchise. Whether you are actively seeking it out, or just happen upon one by chance, encountering a Dragonite remains a special moment for any Pokémon trainer.