Best Dragon Types In Pokemon Scarlet & Violet

Summary

• Dragon-type Pokemon like Haxorus, Latios, and Kommo-o are powerful additions for competitive play.
• Legendary Dragon-types like Reshiram, Zekrom, and Rayquaza are available to capture in Pokemon Scarlet and Violet.
• Unique Dragon-type Pokemon like Roaring Moon, Archaludon, and Baxcalibur offer diverse and powerful options for players.

The Pokemon franchise is known to have a variety of powerful Pokemon with numerous type combinations, from the simple Fire and Water to ones like Psychic or Fairy. Arguably one of the strongest types in the franchise’s long history has been Dragon-types, which were originally introduced in the first generation games.

Game Freak continues to create interesting dragon-type Pokemon for players to catch. With so many new additions to the franchise, as well as plenty of old favorites, these are by far the strongest Dragon-type Pokemon players should try capturing while exploring Paldea in Pokemon Scarlet and Violet.

Updated March 2, 2025, by Blaise Santi: It’s been an exciting week for Pokemon fans now that footage of Pokemon Legends Z-A has finally been revealed. This follow-up to Pokemon Legends Arceus will likely introduce some new Dragon-type Pokemon, particularly as new forms of older Pokemon, to the mainline series, which will certainly be used a lot in future generations’ competitive scenes. However, Scarlet & Violet users who haven’t picked the game up in a while may not know that some of the strongest Dragon-type Pokemon are now obtainable in the Gen 9 games thanks to functionality of Pokemon HOME as well as special Event Raids. Take a look at this updated list of the best Dragon-types in Pokemon Scarlet & Violet, including some iconic mascots from the series’ past!

30

Haxorus

The Axe Jaw Pokemon

In terms of Gen 5 Pokemon, Haxorus often gets the short end of the stick by not being a pseudo legendary. However, it’s a fairly straight-forward pure-Dragon-type with a staggering physical Attack base stat. Paired with decent speed and the useful Ability, Mold Breaker, Haxorus can make for a big threat in the competitive scene with the right movepool.

Aside from its learned moves, Haxorus gains incredible coverage with access to Earthquake and Poison Jab, which will both counter its biggest weaknesses. It can strengthen these moves with Terastallization, though some players may prefer keeping Haxorus’ Tera-type as Dragon in order to make its physical STAB moves even more painful.

29

Latios & Latias

The Eon Pokemon

Latios and Latias are grouped together here simply because they share a lot of similar qualities, and not just in terms of their design. Stats-wise, the only major difference between Latios and Latias is Latios’ preference for Attack and Special Attack compared to Latias’ Defense and Special Defense, but even their movepools are remarkably similar.

Even in competitive play, they serve similar functions as potential Choice Specs sweepers, utilizing their equivalent speeds to become powerful special attackers. They’re both also capable of getting mileage out of the unique item Soul Dew, which boosts Latios and Latias’ Dragon and Psychic-type STAB attacks. With their unique type combinations, they’re very underrated.

28

Kommo-o

The Scaly Pokemon

Kommo-o was introduced in Pokemon Sun & Moon, but as of The Hidden Treasure of Area Zero, it can appear in Tera Raid Battles in Scarlet & Violet, or transferred over from Pokemon HOME. Prior to Koraidon, Kommo-o’s Dragon/Fighting-typing was unique, allowing it to boast incredible Attack and Defense stats that can be quite rare for other Dragon-type Pokemon.

As of the previous generation, there’s one particular item that’s simply made for Kommo-o: Throat Spray. This consumable held item will boost a Pokemon’s Special Attack after using a sound move, of which Kommo-o has many. It also makes for a strong Physical Attacker in Doubles matches, so don’t underestimate this Pokemon just because Koraidon exists.

27

Gouging Fire

The Paradox Pokemon

Alongside the Raikou-reminiscent Raging Bolt, Gouging Fire is a brand-new Paradox Pokemon introduced in The Indigo Disk. This Fire/Dragon-type appears to be an ancestor of the Gen 2 Legendary Pokemon Entei, sporting a golden crest on its head. Unlike Entei, Gouging Fire learns some pretty powerful Dragon-type moves, like Dragon Rush and Outrage.

However, Gouging Fire’s biggest positive is the unique move Burning Bulwark, which only it can learn. The move works similarly to Protect, but for opponents who make direct contact with the shield, they are burned.

26

Walking Wake

The Paradox Pokemon

Rounding out the Paradox forms of Gen 2’s Legendary beasts is the Water/Dragon-type Walking Wake, which resembles a prehistoric form of Suicune. It also learns the unique signature move Hydro Steam, which receives an attack boost when used in harsh sunlight. This pairs extremely well with Walking Wake’s ability Protosynthesis, which it shares with other past Paradox Pokemon.

With Protosynthesis, a Pokemon’s highest base stat will be boosted in harsh sunlight (or when holding a Booster Energy). Since Walking Wake’s highest stat is already Special Attack, the special move Hydro Steam will be even more powerful in harsh sunlight than it already would be.

25

Dragonite

The Dragon Pokemon

It’s simply hard to find much wrong with Dragonite, other than the fact it only evolves from Dragonair at the extremely-late level 55. This Dragon/Flying-type and its evolutionary line are notably one of the first Dragon-types in the entire franchise, a status it held until the addition of only Kingdra in Gen 2. Nevertheless, Dragonite has remained a top-tier Pokemon for many generations.

There are a lot of positives to Dragonite, competitively speaking, from its Hidden Ability Multiscale, which reduces damages at full HP, its incredibly diverse movepool, including moves like Aqua Tail, Fire Punch, and Stomping Tantrum, and its incredibly high stats, especially Attack. For the very first pseudo-legendary, Dragonite is about as nearly-legendary as it gets.

24

Goodra

The Dragon & Shell Bunker Pokemon

Speaking of pseudo-legendaries, Goodra is perhaps one of the more underrated pseudo-legendary evolutionary lines. Introduced in Pokemon X & Y, the pure Dragon-type was notable for access to useful Abilities like Sap Sipper and Gooey, as well as its movepool including a solid selection of Water-type, Grass-type, and Poison-type moves.

However, it was Pokemon Legends: Arceus that really boosted Goodra’s favor with hardcore Pokemon fans. The Hisui region introduced a regional form of Goodra that is Dragon/Steel, with moves to complement its new STAB capabilities and increased Defense at the cost of some Speed, making it a bulkier and, frankly, much more appealing Pokemon for any team.

23

Tatsugiri

The Mimicry Pokemon

It’s surprising to think that this small fish that replicates the look of a piece of Sushi is a Dragon-type Pokemon. However, it is exactly that. Tatsugiri may appear as one of the weakest Dragon-types in the game, but they are also incredibly intelligent. They call upon the aid of Dondozo to help them in not only battle but also to get food.

While taking part in two vs. two battles, Tatsugiri may use its signature ability of Commander, which allows it to hop into the mouth of an ally Dondozo that is on the field. While in this match-up, Tatsugiri is unable to be hit.

22

Dragalge

The Mock Kelp Pokemon

Dragalge is an incredible Dragon/Poison-Type Pokemon. It is not only a great choice for those looking for a Dragon for their roster but also for those looking for an incredibly powerful Poison-type. With Special Defense being one of its highest stats, Dragalge is also sure to stay alive in various battles, as it can also hit hard.

Some Pokemon in Scarlet and Violet are version exclusives, and Dragalge can only be found in Pokemon Scarlet. Thankfully, players who own Pokemon Violet can still get their hands on this Mock Kelp Pokemon by trading with a player who has the other version of the game.

21

Altaria

The Humming Pokemon

Although Altaria doesn’t look like a typical Dragon-type Pokemon, it has earned itself a place as one of the best Dragon-types a player may wish to consider. Players can either find Altaria flying around in the wild or capture a Swablu and evolve it at around level 35.

As its fluffy cloud-like wings that wrap around its body suggest, Altaria is also a Flying-type Pokemon. This typing may have become less useful in recent games since players can fast-travel around the map freely, but Altaria continues to be a powerful member of any player’s team.

20

Appletun

The Apple Nectar Pokemon

Appeltun is another interesting Pokemon that players will likely want on their teams, not only for its adorable appearance but also for its powerful Dragon and Grass-type attacks. Appletun evolves from Applin once given a Sweet Apple. If given a Tart Apple instead, Applin becomes Flapple, which is another great Dragon-type that players should consider.

In addition to the usual Dragon-type moves available to the Pokemon, Appletun is also the only monster that can learn the move Apple Acid. This Grass-Type move deals substantial damage while also lowering the target’s Special Defense. This benefits Appletun greatly, as its best stats involve its Special Attack.

19

Cyclizar

The Mount Pokemon

Cyclizar may be considered quite basic compared to its futuristic relative Miraidon and its ancient ancestor Koraidon. However, this doesn’t stop Cyclizar from being an exciting choice early in the game until players can use their own legendary in battle.

Combining Dragon with Normal may not seem that special, but this does mean that players have a Pokemon that can confidentially go up against a Ghost-type Pokemon without worrying about its move set. Besides, Cyclizar is an adorable Pokemon to have on the team; it’s just unfortunate that players can’t use them as a vehicle like the other NPCs can.

18

Noivern

The Sound Wave Pokemon

Stepping away from the newest Pokemon added with Pokemon Scarlet and Violet, players may also remember this Dragon-type from Pokemon X & Y, the bat Pokemon, Noivern. Evolving from Noibat, some players may think Noivern would be a combination of Dark/Dragon, but it is actually Flying/Dragon-typed. Players would first need to evolve Noibat if they wish to have this dragon bat.

One mustn’t be fooled by its adorable design, as Noivern has been known to be incredibly cruel to Pokemon in the dark and incredibly timid in the light. Luckily, many players will find this Pokemon exploring the outdoors, instead of a damp cave.

17

Hydrapple

An Incredibly Powerful Evolution Of Applin

Applin is a Pokemon that already has multiple different evolutions depending on the sort of apple it gets from the player. This has led to two brand-new evolution paths in Pokemon Scarlet and Violet. When Applin is given a Syrupy Apple, it evolves into Dipplin, but unlike Flapple or Appletun, this evolutionary line doesn’t stop there.

This Pokemon can evolve a step further into Hydrapple if the player levels it up while knowing the Dragon Cheer move, causing it to become an even more powerful Grass and Dragon-type Pokemon, with a fierce special attack. Hydrapple is also the only Pokemon to know the ability Supersweet Syrup, which lowers the evasion of a target.

16

Raging Bolt

The Paradox Pokemon

Players may find Paradox Pokemon from Pokemon Scarlet and Violet to look quite familiar, such as Raging Bolt. That’s because this Paradox Pokemon appears to be an ancient relative of the legendary Electric-type Pokemon Raikou that players are likely to have encountered during the second generation of the franchise.

With this in mind, Raging Bolt combines these legendary Electric-type moves with the Dragon-type to create an incredibly deadly force against other trainers. With an even more incredible Special Attack, the electricity that is created from its fur is sure to trample the competition.

15

Giratina

The Renegade Pokemon

Giratina is one of the few Legendary Pokemon unobtainable by regular means in Pokemon Scarlet & Violet, though post-DLC, it’s possible to transfer it over from Pokemon HOME. That means that players who were fortunate enough to catch Giratina in Pokemon Legends: Arceus (or have even kept their Legendary Pokemon around since Pokemon Platinum) can use it in-game.

Competitively, Giratina is one of the best Legendary Pokemon out there, with the incredibly useful Ghost/Dragon type making it immune to Normal and Fighting-type moves. It can utilize Terastallization to become Fairy-type and have coverage against its Fairy and Dark-type weaknesses.

14

Reshiram

The Vast White Pokemon

The mascot legendary for Pokemon Black is surprisingly obtainable in Pokemon Scarlet & Violet, though it requires players to have the DLC expansion The Indigo Disk. For completing solo quests in Blueberry Academy, an NPC named Snacksworth will reward players with a “treat” corresponding to Legendary Pokemon, allowing them to be caught in various spots around Paldea.

Reshiram, however, is exclusive to Pokemon Scarlet, meaning Pokemon Violet users will have to trade or utilize Pokemon HOME to acquire their own. Competitively, Reshiram has impeccable stats and a great movepool. Its Fairy-type and Ice-type weaknesses are neutralized by its dual-typing with Fire, making it only weak to Ground, Rock, and Dragon-type moves.

13

Zekrom

The Deep Black Pokemon

Reshiram’s counterpart, Zekrom, is similarly obtainable from Snacksworth exclusively for players of Pokemon Violet. After completing 100 solo quests at Blueberry Academy, Snackworth will give the player a Zekrom Treat. This will allow them to encounter and potentially catch this Dragon/Electric-type Pokemon from Pokemon White.

As an Uber-tiered Pokemon in the competitive scene, Zekrom pairs well with a moveset that has high-powered STAB moves like Bolt Strike and Dragon Claw. Lots of players also pair Zekrom with Dragon Dance, boosting its already-incredible physical Attack as well as its surprisingly disappointing Speed stat, making it a sweeping powerhouse on any team.

12

Rayquaza

The Sky High Pokemon

Sadly, Mega Evolution isn’t an option in Pokemon Scarlet & Violet, meaning the overpowered Mega Rayquaza can’t join a team. Nevertheless, groups of players can team up to complete group quests at Blueberry Academy, eventually rewarding them with a Rayquaza Treat. This will allow players to encounter a Rayquaza in the Great Crater of Paldea.

However, some lucky players had the chance to catch a shiny Rayquaza in a special Event raid in December 2024, with the Dragon Tera type. Sadly, it ended in January 2025, meaning most Scarlet & Violet players just missed their chances. Nevertheless, maybe scouring online trade forums is a great way to obtain this special Rayquaza.

11

Dialga

The Temporal Pokemon

Dialga has always been one of the best-designed Legendary Pokemon, but thanks to Pokemon Legends Arceus, it’s even more special. This Gen 4 mascot cannot be caught under ordinary means in Pokemon Scarlet & Violet. Players must either transfer it from Pokemon HOME or wait for another Dialga Tera raid to hit the Gen 9 titles.

However, if players manage to acquire a Dialga in Scarlet & Violet, there’s an additional item they should locate: the Adamant Crystal. This can be bought at the Porto Marinada auction, but only if players currently own a Dialga. In its Origin Forme, Dialga trades some of its physical Attack stats for some increased Special Defense, which is handy for players with a Special Attack-focused Dialga set.