Introduction
Dragonite has always held a special place in the hearts of Pokémon fans. First introduced in Generation I, it became an iconic symbol of strength and balance. While many Dragon-type Pokémon have received Mega Evolutions, Dragonite never officially did. However, fans across the globe have envisioned a powerful next stage: Mega Dragonite. In this guide, we explore everything about this hypothetical form—from imagined stats and abilities to battle strategies and appearances in fan-made games.
What is a Mega Evolution?
Mega Evolution is a battle mechanic first introduced in Generation VI, allowing certain Pokémon to evolve temporarily during battle. It significantly boosts their stats, often alters their abilities, and sometimes even changes their typing. While some popular creatures like Charizard and Garchomp received Mega forms, others, such as Dragonite, were notably left out.
Although not officially recognized in the mainline games, the concept of a Mega Evolution for Dragonite has taken a strong hold in the community.
Fan-Based Concept: A New Form of Power
The imagined evolution is more than just a stat boost. It often symbolizes a transformation into a battle-hardened warrior. With sleeker wings, glowing accents, and a more aggressive stance, it embodies the full potential of Dragonite’s power.
Fans envision this form not only as more powerful but also more agile and intimidating—traits that would enhance its viability in high-level competitive play.
Hypothetical Typing and Design
Most interpretations keep the original dual typing of Dragon/Flying. However, alternate typings are often suggested to rebalance gameplay dynamics:
- Dragon/Steel: Emphasizes a hardened, armored appearance.
- Dragon/Fairy: Introduces better balance against existing meta threats.
The design typically includes:
- Larger, more majestic wings.
- Glowing lines or runes along the body.
- Thicker, reinforced scales resembling armor.
- Sharper claws and fangs to show its evolved ferocity.
Predicted Base Stats
If it were to receive an upgrade, here’s how the stats might look based on fan creations:
| Stat | Base Dragonite | Hypothetical Mega Form |
|---|---|---|
| HP | 91 | 91 |
| Attack | 134 | 170 |
| Defense | 95 | 120 |
| Sp. Attack | 100 | 120 |
| Sp. Defense | 100 | 115 |
| Speed | 80 | 110 |
| Total | 600 | 726 |
This kind of stat distribution would make it an incredibly potent threat, especially after setting up with moves like Dragon Dance.
Abilities (Fan Imagined)
Original Ability:
- Multiscale: Reduces damage taken while at full HP.
Hypothetical Abilities:
- Enhanced Multiscale: Provides protection even after taking non-damaging status effects like burn.
- Draconic Surge: Boosts Dragon-type moves on entry and reduces incoming Fairy-type damage for a few turns.
- Sky Sovereign: Grants Flying-type moves a 30% damage increase and immunity to entry hazards.
These imagined abilities would elevate its battle utility across multiple formats.
Best Movesets (Theoretical)
Physical Attacker Build
- Nature: Adamant or Jolly
- Moves: Dragon Dance, Dragon Claw, Earthquake, Fire Punch or Extreme Speed
- EVs: 252 Attack / 252 Speed / 4 HP
- Held Item: Custom Mega Stone (for fan-made games)
Special Variant (Surprise Set)
- Nature: Modest
- Moves: Draco Meteor, Hurricane, Thunderbolt, Roost
- EVs: 252 Sp. Atk / 252 Speed / 4 Def
These builds would make it difficult for opponents to guess its strategy, offering flexibility depending on team composition.
Team Synergy and Counters
Ideal Teammates
- Excadrill: Removes hazards via Rapid Spin.
- Togekiss: Paralyzes enemies and checks Fairy-types.
- Rotom-Wash: Defends against Ice-type threats and can cripple enemies with status moves.
Suggested Counters
- Mimikyu: Can survive a hit using Disguise and retaliate with Play Rough.
- Mega Diancie: Outspeeds and hits hard with Moonblast.
- Mamoswine: Ice Shard with high Attack can KO if Multiscale is broken.
Competitive Role (In Fan Games)
In fan-created environments, this imagined evolution is often categorized in Uber or custom tiers due to its powerful stats and wide movepool. It fulfills various roles:
- Setup Sweeper: After a single Dragon Dance, it outspeeds and destroys most threats.
- Bulky Offense: Takes advantage of Multiscale and high defenses.
- Late-Game Cleaner: Can use Extreme Speed or Dragon Claw to finish weakened teams.
This versatility makes it one of the most feared Pokémon in community-created battles.
Appearances in Fan Games
Several ROM hacks and fan-made titles have added Mega versions of popular creatures. Here are a few where this evolution appears:
- Pokémon Radical Red
- Pokémon Mega Adventure
- Pokémon Mega Power
- Pokémon Gaia (with patch)
These games not only allow players to use the upgraded form but also provide custom animations and battle mechanics for a more immersive experience.
Strategic Differences
Dragonite (Standard Form)
- Relies on Multiscale and Dragon Dance.
- Struggles against faster threats or status.
Upgraded Version
- Improved Speed and bulk allow more survivability.
- Better matchups against meta-dominant threats.
- Threatens Fairy-types with new coverage moves.
The Future in Official Games
Although this form has not been introduced officially, the potential remains. With fans clamoring for more nostalgic features and battle mechanics, Game Freak might one day revisit Mega Evolutions.
Remakes or spin-offs could be perfect platforms to finally introduce this evolution and others like it.
Final Thoughts
The concept of this evolved form of Dragonite isn’t just about power. It’s about giving a classic, beloved character the spotlight it truly deserves. With its increased stats, versatile movepool, and imagined abilities, it captures the essence of what Mega Evolutions were meant to be: bold, strategic, and exciting.
Until Game Freak makes it official, fans will continue to honor and innovate this evolution in creative ways across games, art, and competitive theory.
FAQs
Q: Is this evolution available in official Pokémon games?
A: No, it exists only in fan games and creative concepts.
Q: What typing is usually assigned to it in fan content?
A: Most often, it retains Dragon/Flying, but some versions use Dragon/Steel.
Q: Can I use this form in Pokémon Showdown?
A: Only in custom formats or modded servers.
Q: What makes it different from standard Dragonite?
A: Boosted stats, enhanced abilities, and better matchup versatility.
Q: Are there plans from Game Freak to make this official?
A: As of now, there are no public plans, but fan interest remains high.
