Decoding DragonVale Breeding: A Comprehensive Guide
So, you want to become a DragonVale breeding master? The short answer to what dragons can you breed together in DragonVale is: almost any combination! However, the results of those breeding experiments are where the real strategy comes in. The game allows for an incredible number of breeding combinations, but understanding the underlying rules and mechanics is key to hatching those elusive and rare dragons. Ultimately, breeding boils down to element combinations and the specific dragons you use, with some dragons requiring very specific pairs or conditions.
Understanding DragonVale Breeding Mechanics
Element Combinations: The Foundation of Breeding
The core of DragonVale breeding revolves around elemental combinations. Most dragons are defined by one or more elements: Plant, Fire, Earth, Cold, Lightning, Water, Air, Light, Dark, and Metal. When you breed two dragons, the offspring’s potential is determined by the elements present in the parents. Some dragons, especially the basic ones, can be bred by simply combining their required elements. For example, breeding a dragon with the Fire element and a dragon with the Cold element could potentially yield an Ice Dragon.
Hybrid Dragons and Breeding Restrictions
Beyond the basic elemental dragons, lies the vast world of hybrid dragons. These dragons require specific combinations, sometimes involving specific dragons themselves. This is where things get interesting. Certain dragons have breeding restrictions; opposite elements (Plant/Metal, Fire/Cold, Earth/Air) cannot be directly combined using basic dragons with those single elements. Instead, you’ll need to use hybrid dragons that possess other elements to circumvent these restrictions. For example, you can’t breed a Plant Dragon and a Metal Dragon directly, but you can breed a Poison Dragon (Plant/Dark) and a Iron Dragon (Metal/Lightning).
Breeding Caves and the Co-Op Cave
You can breed in the regular Breeding Cave, the Epic Breeding Island, or the Co-Op Breeding Cave. The regular Breeding Cave and Epic Breeding Island function the same way, using your own dragons. The Co-Op Breeding Cave allows you to breed one of your dragons with a friend’s dragon, potentially opening up entirely new breeding possibilities, especially for dragons that require specific parent dragons.
The Importance of Dragon Levels
The levels of your dragons also influence breeding success. Higher-level dragons may (though this is unconfirmed by Backflip Studios) increase your chances of obtaining rarer outcomes. Always try to breed with dragons that are at least level 16, and ideally level 20, to maximize your opportunities.
Breeding Odds and Luck
Finally, keep in mind that breeding in DragonVale involves a significant amount of luck. Even with the “correct” breeding pair, the outcome is not guaranteed. Breeding odds are influenced by several factors, including the dragons involved, the elements present, and potentially (though unconfirmed) the dragons’ levels and the breeding location. Persistence is key!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are some common breeding pairs for specific dragons?
Breeding pairs are as varied as the dragons themselves! Here are a few examples:
- Rainbow Dragon: A dragon with at least four different elements is required. Hail (Cold/Lightning) and Tree (Plant/Earth) is a good combo.
- Seasonal Dragon: Needs Plant, Fire, and Air elements represented in both parents.
- Double Rainbow Dragon: Similar to the Rainbow Dragon, but rarer. Same breeding combos apply.
- Triple Rainbow Dragon: Even rarer than Double Rainbow. Again, requires the correct elements.
Can I breed limited-time dragons after they are no longer available in the market?
Yes! You can breed limited-time dragons even after they’re removed from the market, provided you use the correct breeding combination. The challenge lies in figuring out those combinations, which are often discovered through community sharing and experimentation.
What is the best way to figure out the breeding combinations for new dragons?
Experimentation, consulting DragonVale breeding guides, and participating in online communities are your best bets. The DragonVale community is incredibly active and collaborative, so leverage online forums, wikis, and social media groups to share information and learn from others’ experiences. Don’t forget to check out GamesLearningSociety.org for insights into the learning aspects of games like DragonVale.
Does the order of the breeding pair matter?
For most dragons, the order of the parents in the breeding cave does not matter. However, there are anecdotal claims in the community that it can affect the outcome, especially when using the Co-Op Cave, but this is unconfirmed.
How do I breed Epic Dragons?
Epic Dragons are generally more difficult to breed and often require specific conditions or combinations. Some require specific elements, others require specific dragon parents, and some are only available during certain events.
What are Gemstone and Crystalline dragons, and how do I breed them?
Gemstone and Crystalline Dragons are special dragons that can only be bred during specific months, corresponding to their gemstone or crystal type. The breeding combinations usually involve specific elements like earth and lightning, or fire and water.
What are Twin Dragons? Are they hard to get?
Twin Dragons are unique versions of existing dragons that have a special visual effect. They are obtained by breeding two of the same dragon together in the Co-Op Breeding Cave. Twin Dragons are considered rare, with a small chance of breeding occurring on the first try.
What is the Rift, and how does it affect breeding?
The Rift is a special area in DragonVale where you can breed dragons with Etherium, a special currency. Breeding in the Rift can result in unique Rift versions of existing dragons, as well as some dragons that can only be bred in the Rift.
What is the best strategy for breeding a specific rare dragon?
Research the specific dragon’s breeding requirements and use the recommended breeding pair with high-level dragons. Be patient and persistent, as breeding rare dragons can take many attempts. Consider using the Co-Op Breeding Cave for potentially advantageous combinations with friends’ dragons.
What is the hardest dragon to breed in DragonVale?
The Dream Dragon is widely considered to be one of the most difficult dragons to breed, even in the Co-Op Breeding Cave. This is due to its specific breeding requirements and low breeding odds.
Are there any dragons that I absolutely cannot breed together?
Yes. Dragons with opposite elements (Plant/Metal, Fire/Cold, Earth/Air) cannot be directly bred with each other using basic dragons. You need to incorporate hybrid dragons with other elements to bypass this limitation.
How often do breeding events occur, and what are their benefits?
Breeding events occur regularly in DragonVale, often coinciding with real-world holidays or in-game milestones. These events usually feature increased chances of breeding certain dragons, new dragon releases, and special breeding combinations.
Is there a limit to how many times I can breed a dragon?
There is no limit to how many times you can breed a dragon. You can continue to breed dragons as long as you have available breeding caves and the resources to do so.
Can I increase my chances of breeding rare dragons?
While luck plays a significant role, you can improve your odds by using the recommended breeding pairs, leveling up your dragons, using the Co-Op Breeding Cave, and taking advantage of breeding events.
What role does strategy play in succeeding in DragonVale breeding?
Strategy is crucial. Understanding elemental combinations, researching specific dragon requirements, managing your resources, and leveraging the Co-Op Breeding Cave are all essential for successful breeding. Stay informed, experiment, and engage with the DragonVale community to continuously refine your breeding strategies. The link between strategy and learning in games like DragonVale makes it a fascinating area of study, as explored by the Games Learning Society.
Breeding dragons in DragonVale is an art and a science. By understanding the core mechanics, researching specific dragon requirements, and utilizing the resources available to you, you can significantly increase your chances of hatching those coveted rare dragons and becoming a true DragonVale breeding master.