Dragonite is beloved. A quiet, intelligent and powerful Pokémon. Strong yet so adorable. However, don’t let Dragonite’s cuddly appearance dissuade you from its immense strength. Dragonite was always a staple in my six member Pokémon team. He could fly effortlessly around Kanto and Johto. And when you were in a pinch, he could fire off a devastating Hyper Beam. I always saw Dragonite as this quasi-legendary Pokémon.
The whole evolution line is memorable. Dratini is a cute little serpent always growing. This small water noodle has so much potential. As Dratini sheds, its molting process begins a great transformation. Second comes Dragonair, a long elegant serpentine Pokémon which exudes a mystical-like appearance. Dragonair can take to the air or swim in the sea, elusively moving from region to region. And finally, in most bewildering fashion, Dragonair transforms into a plump orange Dragonite. Whether you remember him from the games as a powerful companion/foe or from the movies as a trusty messenger, it’s safe to say Dragonite has created his own legend, one that is unique and personal to all of us.
2002’s Legendary Collection Dark Dragonite:
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Arita’s illustration makes a subtle statement on what it would be like under Team Rocket’s tutelage. Dragonite’s stern expression, body reeling away from the foreground. Wings projected and antae disconcertedly searching. It evokes anxiety and fear, opposite to the joyful expressiveness Dragonite usually conveys. Love this art.
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In fact, I love this art so much, you’ll see several examples in the images below. I really enjoy the Legendary Collection copies. The firework pattern’s flash helps to dull the text and bring attention to the illustration. For this reason, many of my binder pages of other Pokémon, I have also opted for the LC versions. Plus, many of the first appearances I’ve kept with their respective sets.
2004’s EX Team Rocket Returns Dark Dragonite:
- A worthy encore appearance. This whole set produced many spectacular artworks, and Dragonite is no exception. Dark shadowed features amongst a brightly lit evening moon. Eyes menacing and ready to attack. Wonderful depiction and a great way to theme the dark Pokémon.
2008’s Legends Awakened Dragonite:
- Arita just gets it. Soaring through the air, a dragon at flight among the clouds. This is how I like to think of Dragonite. Happily drifting through the sky without a care in the world.
2000’s Gym Heroes Erika’s Dratini and Erika’s Dragonair:- Will there ever be Erika’s Dragonite?
