Dragonite Movesets & Competitive Sets

Dragonite is a powerful sweeper due to its great bulk, coverage, and access to Multiscale. It notably provides a good deal of defensive utility before it attempts to sweep, switching into tough-to-check foes like Air Balloon Heatran and Astrolotl without Will-O-Wisp. Earthquake and Ice Punch provide Dragonite with perfect coverage, allowing it to pressure common defensive foes like Landorus-T, Toxapex, and Tornadus-T while threatening offensive Pokemon like Zeraora and Dragapult as well. Dual Wingbeat can be used over Ice Punch to hit Arghonaut, Buzzwole, and Pyroak super effectively; however, dropping Ice Punch greatly worsens Dragonite's matchup against the omnipresent Landorus-T. A Jolly nature is used over Adamant to outspeed Dragapult, Zeraora, Tapu Koko, and Stratagem at +1. Dragonite fits on offense and bulky offense teams that appreciate its useful defensive utility and its sweeping capabilities. Stacking Dragonite alongside other bulky setup sweepers like Venomicon, Tapu Fini, Volcarona, and Reuniclus is an excellent strategy; together, they can weaken bulky foes like Ferrothorn while switching into each other's checks to always keep the pressure on. Tapu Fini is particularly helpful to switch into Weavile and opposing Dragon-types. Landorus-T is an absolutely amazing option to slowly wear down walls like Ferrothorn and Tapu Fini with Earthquake and Stealth Rock, poison bulky Water-types like Arghonaut and Slowbro, and switch into Pokemon like Zapdos and Scale Shot Garchomp, which can force Dragonite out before it sets up. Pivots like Tapu Koko and Tornadus-T excel at wearing down foes into range of a Dragonite sweep; Tapu Koko notably pressures bulky Water-types like Tapu Fini and Slowbro. Ferrothorn and Astrolotl provide Spikes support, wearing down foes like Tapu Fini and Ferrothorn into range of Dragonite's attacks. Astrolotl can also run Defog, letting Dragonite more comfortably tank Knock Off from Pokemon like Zeraora and Ferrothorn. Clefable is an excellent teammate that can situationally switch into Weavile and Dragapult and absorb Toxic for Dragonite while providing support in Thunder Wave and Knock Off.

Outrage is Dragonite’s most powerful STAB move, 2HKOing common physically bulky Pokemon like Tangrowth, Slowbro and Gliscor. As Outrage locks Dragonite into the move for multiple turns, Earthquake is a good mid-ground option because it hits Heatran and Jirachi super effectively while hitting Scizor and Clefable neutrally. Extreme Speed is a powerful tool that can clean up or revenge kill weakened faster pokemon like Starmie or Latias while circumventing Ice Shard from Weavile and Mamoswine. Fire Punch allows Dragonite to OHKO Scizor, while Dragon Claw it a secondary STAB option that avoids Outrage's downsides. Iron Tail is also an option to 2HKO Clefable but has very limited application outside of this matchup in addition to its bad accuracy. An Adamant nature helps Dragonite hit as hard as possible, while a Jolly nature can be used to outspeed Adamant Lucario and faster Gliscor variants. Choice Band Dragonite fits with most offensive teams that appreciate its wallbreaking and cleaning prowess as well as its defensive utility, especially since it doesn’t need much support to function. Dragonite likes to have Magnezone or Heatran for a partner, as they both put pressure on Steel- and Fairy-types, while Dragonite is able to switch into opposing Ground-, Fighting- and Fire-type moves from Infernape and Gliscor. In addition, Dragonite pairs well with fellow Dragon-types like Latias and Garchomp that share the same checks and counters, allowing them to work together to break through them. Dragonite benefits from Stealth Rock setters such as Heatran or Jirachi; the latter also provides Doom Desire, which helps Dragonite to break would-be checks like Clefable. Alongside it, a Defogger or a spinner such as Gliscor, Scizor or Starmie prevents Dragonite from being worn down too quickly. Finally, Dragonite combines well with other wallbreakers like Infernape, Lucario, and Breloom that appreciate Dragonite's ability to weaken shared checks like Gliscor, while Dragonite can take advantage of their ability to pressure Pokemon like Latias, Clefable and Steel-types to use Outrage more easily.

Dragon Dance Dragonite is a sweeper that trades off immediate power for better sweeping potential. One Dragon Dance allows Dragonite to outspeed many common foes such as Garchomp and Latias. Outrage is the STAB move of choice for its high power and neutral coverage. Earthquake allows Dragonite to clear through Steel-types such as Heatran or Jirachi, while Extreme Speed ensures Dragonite can punish potential revenge killers such as Choice Scarf Latias and Weavile. Lum Berry protects Dragonite from burn or paralysis and cures Outrage-induced confusion that would otherwise make its sweep uncertain. As an other option, Yache Berry, in combination with Multiscale, gives Dragonite opportunities to set up on Pokemon running Ice-type attacks such as Starmie and Slowbro in a pinch while preventing Mamoswine and Weavile from revenge killing Dragonite in case its Multiscale gets broken and it cannot set up enough. Dragon Dance Dragonite requires a lot of support to realize its full potential. Keeping the field free of Stealth Rock is mandatory to preserve Multiscale for as long as possible. Teammates like Gliscor and Starmie can remove entry hazards, while Taunt users like Azelf and lead Skarmory can prevent the opponent from getting Stealth Rock up in the first place. In addition, Azelf can set up dual screens or Stealth Rock, while Skarmory can set both Stealth Rock and Spikes. Setting up Stealth Rock is essential, as it enables Dragonite to OHKO Weavile most of the time and 2HKO utility Togekiss with Extreme Speed after one boost. Due to the absence of Fire Punch, Magnezone is particularly valuable, as it traps defensive Skarmory and prevents it from phazing Dragonite with Whirlwind. More generally, Lucario and Nidoking are powerful wallbreakers that are able to effectively damage Fairy- and Steel-types such as Scizor and Unaware Clefable that would otherwise prevent Dragonite from sweeping. Also, Pokemon such as Latias and Alakazam like Dragonite's ability to severely damage shared checks like Weavile and Scizor for their own sweeping attempt.

Dragon Dance gives Dragonite the necessary power to break through opposing teams. It should be used late-game once the opposing team has been weakened. Outrage is its strongest STAB attack, dealing massive damage to anything that doesn't resist it. It should be used carefully, as it locks Dragonite in for a few turns. Extreme Speed allows Dragonite to pick off weakened Pokemon without taking damage and deal with fast threats such as Weavile and Tapu Koko. Earthquake hits Steel-types that resist its other moves such as Heatran, Aegislash, and Melmetal. Alternatively, Fire Punch can be used to hit Celesteela and Ferrothorn. Heavy-Duty Boots relieves Dragonite of worrying about Stealth Rock so it can keep its Multiscale. An Adamant nature can be used for maximum power, whereas Jolly can be used to outspeed Pokemon such as Zeraora and Dragapult at +1 Speed. As a setup sweeper, Dragonite appreciates teammates that help weaken the opposing team as much as possible before going for the win. Garchomp's Stealth Rock aids in this goal, as it makes it easier for Dragonite to get KOs. Hydreigon is able to threaten Steel-type teams with its coverage, giving Dragonite an easier time due to its exploitable moveset. Dragalge switches in well on most Fairy-type attacks that threaten Dragonite thanks to its Poison typing and good Special Defense. It can also set up Toxic Spikes to whittle down the opposing team for Dragonite. Kyurem is a strong breaker and does well in matchups where Dragonite struggles such as Poison, Ground, and Water. Latias provides Healing Wish support, which is extremely valuable for a setup sweeper such as Dragonite. Dragapult can spread status in the form of Will-O-Wisp and Thunder Wave and punch holes in teams with its attacks to open up for Dragonite to clean.

Dragon Dance makes Dragonite both a setup sweeper and a late-game cleaner. Outrage is the best Dragon-type STAB move available to Dragonite, and it can comfortably 2HKO walls such as Slowbro and Hippowdon after a Dragon Dance boost. Extreme Speed gives Dragonite the only priority available on Flying teams, and it can be used to clean up chipped or frail threats such as Alolan Raichu. Earthquake is primarily used to hit Electric-types, such as Tapu Koko and Zeraora, and Pokemon that resist or are immune to Dragon such as Heatran, Jirachi, and Azumarill, as well as hitting targets like Tyranitar and Toxapex super effectively. Fire Punch can be used in lieu of Earthquake to deal with Ferrothorn and Celesteela, since they otherwise completely wall Dragonite. Heavy-Duty Boots makes Dragonite immune to Stealth Rock, allowing it to preserve Multiscale reliably. Thanks to its Jolly nature, it outspeeds several threats such as Tapu Koko, Spectrier, Zeraora, and Dragapult after just one Dragon Dance boost. Celesteela, Corviknight, and Skarmory can sponge super effective Ice-, Dragon-, Rock-, and Fairy-type attacks for Dragonite with ease. Celesteela notably takes on threatening Fairy-types such as Tapu Lele, Clefable, and Mimikyu. Corviknight and Skarmory take on Ice-types such as Kyurem and Weavile, respectively. Corviknight is also able to safely bring in Dragonite with U-turn, while Skarmory can provide Spikes support. Landorus-T helps greatly in the Electric matchup, is able to set Stealth Rock, and can provide Knock Off support. Tornadus-T can use Knock Off too, and it can also use Taunt and then pivot into Dragonite. Thundurus-T is a complementary setup sweeper to Dragonite, since it can deal with foes such as Tapu Fini, but it can also act as a reliable revenge killer and great offensive pivot when equipped with a Choice Scarf. Zapdos can Pressure stall and reliably pivot to eventually put bulkier foes such as Slowking in a weakened position. Choice Specs Zapdos and Dragonite deal with each other's threats well. Galarian Moltres aids greatly in matchups like Psychic, Ghost, and Steel, while Galarian Zapdos helps immensely in matchups such as Steel, Dark, and Ice.

With the use of Heavy Duty Boots, Dragonite can ensure it always comes in without breaking Multiscale, allowing it to stall out a variety of opponents that cannot break it while using special coverage to wear down foes unable to recover or resist its coverage. Outside of Hurricane as its main STAB, this Dragonite runs Ice Beam to hit Landorus-T, Zapdos, and opposing Dragon-types super effectively, and Fire Blast to hit Ferrothorn, Celesteela, and Glastrier. The given EVs are designed to maximize Dragonite's physical bulk while outspeeding neutral nature base 100 Speed Pokemon at +1.

Dragonite can equip a damage boosting item to wallbreak unsuspecting foes, allowing it to catch opponents off guard that suspect it to boost with Dragon Dance or those that try to play around Weakness Policy. Dual Wingbeat is necessary to increase Speed through Max Airstream; however, the other moves are open to adjustment based on the team's needs. Outrage is Dragonite's strongest attack and hits opposing Dragon-types hard, however, it comes with the downside of being locked into and Fairy-types being immune to it. Alternatively, Ice Punch can be used instead, which sports better type coverage while also hitting Landorus-T super effectively. Thunder Punch is helpful against Water-types, Tapu Fini in particular, as it allows Dragonite to wallbreak them when using Max Lightning. Fire Punch can be opted for instead to hit Steel-types such as Kartana and Ferrothorn. In the last move slot, Superpower allows Dragonite to gain Attack boosts when Dynamaxed, Extreme Speed is particularly useful for picking off weakened opponents and synergizes well with Choice Band, and Earthquake beats Heatran while also boosting Special Defense as Max Quake. Items Inner Focus is most often used with Life Orb, as it allows Dragonite to avoid Intimidate from Pokemon such as Landorus-T, and because the recoil from Life Orb removes the benefits from Multiscale. If using Choice Band, Multiscale is still preferred, and Choice Band makes up for the damage output loss from Intimidate.

When equipped with a Maranga Berry, Dragonite is able to effectively stall or set up on a variety of special attackers after receiving a Special Defense boost. Dual Wingbeat is necessary for achieving Speed boosts with Max Airstream if Dragonite is not able to safely Dragon Dance. The added HP from Dynamax allows Dragonite to trigger Maranga Berry more safely. The Speed boost allows Dragonite to Roost to maximum HP before taking a hit from a foe after Dynamax expires. Dragon Dance and Roost work in combination to stall while slowly setting up boosts to overwhelm special attackers who cannot break Dragonite. The choice between Outrage and Fire Punch depends on what coverage Dragonite's teammate are equipped with. Outrage allows Dragonite to beat other Dragon-types and has higher base power, while Fire Punch helps defeat Steel-types who could otherwise handle it, such as Kartana and Celesteela.

Dragonite makes a fearsome bulky sweeper thanks to Multiscale and access to a STAB Max Airstream. Outside of its dual STAB attack options, Fire Punch helps defeat Ferrothorn and Celesteela, while Ice Punch can be used to help deal with Landorus-T. Max Hailstorm is also particularly useful for KOing many common Focus Sash Pokemon in one turn. Dragon Dance gives Dragonite an alternate means to set up besides Weakness Policy, and Roost allows Dragonite to retain its Multiscale throughout the course of a game, allowing it to fish for missed attacks and stall out low PP moves. The given EVs outspeed Cinderace at +1, ensure Porygon2 gains an Attack boost from Download, and otherwise gives Dragonite a good bulk-power balance. Items Weakness Policy makes Dragonite a daunting foe to face while Dynamaxed, and perfectly takes advantage of Multiscale. Lum Berry can be used with Dragon Dance to protect Dragonite against status. Heavy-Duty Boots allows Dragonite to retain its Multiscale even if Stealth Rock is set up.

Moves Outrage is Dragonite's main offensive move, blowing back Pokemon like Mega Charizard Y, Porygon-Z, and Meloetta. Earthquake is necessary in order to 2HKO Magearna. Fire Punch is used to beat Pokemon like Genesect and Mega Scizor. Superpower is an option to most reliably beat Heatran and Mega Tyranitar, while Iron Head can be used to beat Mega Diancie and slow Tapu Lele. Extreme Speed allows Dragonite to beat faster frail Pokemon like Pheromosa, Vivillon, and Smeargle, as well as Volcarona, and to avoid confusion after fatigue from Outrage. Fly can be run in order to beat Mega Heracross. Set Details 152 HP EVs and 4 Defense EVs allow Dragonite to tank Choice Band Garchomp's Outrage as well as survive an Ice Beam from Genesect. The 136 Speed EVs are used to outspeed neutral-natured Magearna. The rest of the EVs are invested into Attack, with an Adamant nature, in order to hit as hard as possible. Multiscale is run in order to take super effective attacks like Ice Beam from Porygon-Z and Hidden Power Ice from Magnezone. Alternatively, one can choose to run a spread of 160 HP / 4 Atk / 208 SpD / 136 Spe in order to also tank Choice Specs Greninja's Ice Beam, alongside still tanking Choice Band Garchomp's Outrage and beating Magearna, but this loses out on the offensive presence that is useful in the Dragonite mirror matchup. Usage Tips Choice Band Dragonite can be used to lure in and KO Pokemon that normally do well against Dragon-types, like Magearna, Incineroar, and Mega Tyranitar. It is notable that Outrage will always 3HKO bulky Heatran, which removes some of the necessity of running Superpower, although Hidden Power Ice variants may require Superpower anyway to be taken care of. Even though Iron Head hits Togekiss super effectively, Extreme Speed should be used against Choice Scarf variants to 2HKO it while avoiding potential flinches caused by Air Slash. Mega Mawile, although it's weak to Earthquake, should be avoided, as Intimidate will allow it to take an Earthquake and win with Play Rough or Metal Burst followed by Sucker Punch. Choice Band Dragonite can also be used to lure in and beat Choice Scarf variants of Dragonite, as Choice Band-boosted Outrage can OHKO an offensive Dragonite even through Multiscale. Team Options Dragonite in general appreciates answers to bulky offensive Steel- and Water-types that can easily take its unboosted attacks, like Mega Metagross, Mega Mawile, Mega Aggron, Primarina, Mega Swampert, and Tapu Fini. This hole can be mostly patched up through the usage of certain Steel-types like Ferrothorn, Celesteela, Magnezone, and Genesect, as well as with Mega Charizard Y, which can utilize both Fire- and Grass-type moves to beat both types. In return, they appreciate Dragonite's positive matchups against each of their mirror matchups, as well as Dragonite's ability to beat threats like Naganadel, Heatran, and Victini. Be wary of Sturdy and Mold Breaker users like Donphan, Golem, Crustle, Mega Gyarados, and Haxorus, which can all tank attacks from Dragonite and knock it out with Counter or their offensive options; to counteract them, bulky Water-types like Primarina, Mega Swampert, Manaphy, Tapu Fini, and your own Mega Gyarados can be run, which all have the capability to bypass most of their respective strategies. Magearna can also be used to beat most of these aforementioned threats with its Double Dance Fairium Z set. In return, for the Water-types, Dragonite can win against Pokemon like Kommo-o, Ferrothorn, and faster threats like Smeargle and Vivillon, which threaten most of these Pokemon, and Dragonite can aid Magearna against Mega Charizard Y, Zygarde, and Heatran.

Moves Outrage is Dragonite's go-to move, being used against Pokemon like Mega Charizard Y, Garchomp, and non-Dragonium Z Zeraora. Iron Head should be used to beat Fairy-types Choice Scarf Dragonite lures in, like Tapu Lele and Mega Diancie. Earthquake is most useful in beating Pokemon like Aegislash and Magnezone. Fire Punch is used to blow back Steel-types that aren't hit super effectively by Earthquake, like Genesect, Ferrothorn, and offensive Celesteela. Superpower can be run in order to beat Steel-types not threatened by Earthquake like Heatran and Ferrothorn, as well as Mega Tyranitar and Mega Lopunny, depending on the nature of Dragonite. Fly can also be run in order to beat Mega Heracross. Set Details 8 HP and 4 Special Defense EVs allow Dragonite to always survive an Ice Beam from Choice Scarf Greninja. The rest are put into Attack and Speed to maximize Dragonite's offensive presence. This specifically allows a Jolly Dragonite to outspeed Zeraora, as well as common threats like Mega Lopunny, Zeraora, and +1 bulky Mega Charizard X. An Adamant nature can also be run in order to more reliably secure KOs against metagame staples like Aegislash, Greninja, Mega Tyranitar, and bulky Tapu Lele. Multiscale is run in order to tank attacks like Moonblast from Tapu Lele and Outrage from Mega Charizard X. Usage Tips Choice Scarf Dragonite can lure in Pokemon like Greninja, Tapu Lele, Zeraora, and Mega Lopunny, which traditionally have an excellent matchup against Dragonite, and KO them with specific coverage moves. Against Greninja, if you choose to run an Adamant nature, always use Outrage instead of Superpower, as it will OHKO Greninja anyway and also covers the occasional Shadow Sneak + Waterium Z Greninja variants that could avoid damage from Superpower. If Jolly is being run, use Superpower, as Outrage will not OHKO Greninja reliably enough to be worth using to account for Shadow Sneak Waterium Z Greninja. Avoid sending Dragonite out against Zeraora and Mega Lopunny if you are running Adamant, as they will simply outspeed it and win with Fake Out followed by their respective coverage options. If running a Jolly nature, bear in mind that Dragonite will be able to outspeed bulky Mega Charizard X even after a Flame Charge or Dragon Dance and promptly 2HKO it. If you are running Jolly Dragonite and predict your opponent to be running a defensive Normalium Z Porygon-Z variant, use Outrage instead of Superpower, as Superpower has a chance to fail to OHKO in that matchup. However, outside of this specific Dragonite and Porygon-Z scenario, Superpower will always be the correct play. Mega Gardevoir is an interesting matchup; although Dragonite can use Iron Head to hit it super effectively, regular Gardevoir can Trace Multiscale, giving it the opportunity to use Will-O-Wisp and break Multiscale. However, Mega Gardevoir is still not in the clear; it needs to not only avoid two Iron Head flinches but also hit both Will-O-Wisp and Hyper Beam back to back or use Hyper Beam immediately to perhaps get a good roll and OHKO Dragonite. So, in practice, this matchup is not very reliable on either end, with Dragonite only statistically beating Mega Gardevoir about 60% of the time. Team Options Dragonite in general appreciates answers to bulky offensive Steel- and Water-types that can easily take its unboosted attacks, like Mega Metagross, Mega Mawile, Mega Aggron, Magearna, Primarina, Mega Swampert, and Tapu Fini. This hole can mostly be patched up through the usage of certain Steel-types of your own, like Ferrothorn, Celesteela, Magnezone, and Genesect, as well as with Mega Charizard Y, which can utilize both Fire- and Grass-type moves to beat both types. In return, they appreciate Dragonite's positive matchups against each of their mirror matchups, as well as Dragonite's ability to beat hyper offensive foes like Mega Lopunny and Zeraora. Stall Pokemon like Mega Slowbro, Type: Null, Stored Power Necrozma, and Registeel all easily take attacks from Dragonite and quickly overwhelm it defensively. Therefore, stallbreakers like Taunt Mega Gyarados, Fightinium Z Pheromosa, Serperior, and Tapunium Z Tapu Fini can serve as excellent partners. In return, Dragonite can beat Kommo-o, Magnezone, and Tapu Lele, three very common hyper offensive threats that can be run to beat these stallbreaking Pokemon. As Sturdy, Intimidate, and Mold Breaker users, like Donphan, Golem, Crustle, Landorus-T, Incineroar, Mega Gyarados, and Choice Scarf Haxorus, can all tank attacks from Dragonite and knock it out with Counter or their offensive options, bulky Water-types like Primarina, Mega Swampert, Manaphy, Tapu Fini, and your own Mega Gyarados can be run, which all have the capability to bypass most of their respective strategies. Double Dance + Fairium Z Magearna can also be used to beat most of these threats. In return, for the Water-types, Dragonite can win against the aforementioned Tapu Lele and Kartana, which threaten most of these Pokemon, and can aid against Mega Charizard Y and bulky Mega Charizard X for Magearna.

Moves Outrage is Dragonite's main STAB attack and doubles as the base move for a powerful Devastating Drake, which brushes aside most foes it hits neutrally that lack absurd physical bulk or hindering status moves, such as Mega Charizard Y, Porygon-Z, and Meloetta. Earthquake is an essential coverage move for hitting the Steel-types that resist both of Dragonite's STAB attacks, like Magnezone, Heatran, and Aegislash. Extreme Speed is a useful move for picking off weakened targets after they've been softened up by Dragonite's other attacks, as well as breaking Sturdy from Counter users like Donphan and Sawk. Some relevant examples that this move helps against include Kommo-o, Magnezone, Donphan, and Zeraora. Dragon Dance is Dragonite's setup move and also enables the use of Z-Dragon Dance, which restores the user's lowered stats to +0 before setting up, if ran with Dragonium Z. Matchups you'll find yourself needing Dragon Dance for include Normalium Z Porygon-Z, Meloetta, Zygarde, Mega Venusaur, and Mega Pinsir. Alternatively, a similar set with Fly over one of Dragonite's moves and Flyinium Z over Dragonium Z can be run, sacrificing matchups against Pokemon that Devastating Drake would win against, like opposing Dragonite, Zygarde, and Bulk Up Zeraora, in favor of winning matchups against Pokemon like slow Tapu Lele, Genesect, Primarina, and Durant. Substitute can also be run over Earthquake or Extreme Speed with a more defensive spread in order to lure in and beat Mega Charizard X every time, regardless of spreads or moveset. Protect can be used to block Fake Out from Mega Lopunny, Zeraora, Mega Medicham, and Incineroar in order to maintain Multiscale. Fire Punch can be used to safely beat Genesect, Kartana, Ferrothorn, and Durant. Set Details 156 HP EVs make Dragonite survive a Choice Band Outrage from Garchomp. When combined with 36 Special Defense EVs, Dragonite also lives Choice Specs Draco Meteor from Naganadel and Latios. The 172 Speed EVs let Dragonite outspeed Serperior after a Dragon Dance, while 144 Attack EVs with an Adamant nature maximizes its attack in order to almost always 2HKO Aegislash with Earthquake. Multiscale is an essential ability that allows Dragonite to withstand an attack, at full health, from most Pokemon beyond Mold Breaker users or Pokemon with extremely powerful super effective STAB attacks. Thanks to Multiscale, Dragonite has several other EV spreads at its disposal. A spread of 160 HP / 72 Atk / 104 SpD / 172 Spe and a Careful Nature can be run in order to beat Choice Specs Greninja, a very common metagame threat, alongside the HP to tank a Choice Band Outrage from Garchomp. This also still beats Serperior with its 172 Speed EVs and the 72 Attack. However, this will lose out reliability on both physical defense and offensive presence, so Landorus-T should no longer be considered reliable. If Substitute is being run, Dragonite should run 188 HP / 28 Atk / 120 Def / 172 Spe with an Adamant Nature, as this makes sure Dragonite will always be able to use Substitute after an Outrage from Mega Charizard X, as well as always survive a Draco Meteor from Naganadel, and outspeed Serperior after a Dragon Dance. Usage Tips Dragonite is best used against Pokemon that lack or don't use reliable recovery and some way to boost their Defense or lower the foe's Attack, such as Mega Charizard Y, Aegislash, Meloetta, and Magnezone. Even though Dragonite doesn't have the greatest defensive typing, Multiscale makes it capable of withstanding hits from even most super effective hits, such as Mega Charizard X's Outrage, Porygon-Z's Ice Beam, Kommo-o's Clangorous Soulblaze, and Crustle's Continental Crush. Against Mega Charizard X, Dragon Dance is usually the ideal play, as they will most often opt to use Will-O-Wisp to hinder Dragonite's Attack and break Multiscale to KO it on the next turn with Outrage. Using Dragon Dance will allow Dragonite to either OHKO them with Devastating Drake if they try to Mega Evolve or 2HKO them with Devastating Drake followed by Extreme Speed if they don't. It becomes a bit prediction based once your opponent knows the tech, though; if you predict them to use a move other than Will-O-Wisp, you should Devastating Drake right away, as an Outrage from Mega Charizard X after a Dragon Dance or Flame Charge will likely KO Dragonite. Z-Dragon Dance is only really useful for getting past certain Taunt users, but it also helps for the Landorus-T matchup, as Z-Dragon Dance undoes Intimidate's Attack drop and boosts Dragonite to +1, in addition to undoing a possible Speed reduction from Rock Tomb. Be aware that Head Smash + Counter + Ice Shard Donphan can play mind games with Dragonite, putting it in range of Ice Shard after a Head Smash while threatening to KO with Counter the first turn if Dragonite uses its Z-Move. If you're running Substitute, use Substitute turn one against Mega Charizard X, followed by either a Devastating Drake if they used Outrage turn one, or a Dragon Dance if they do anything else. Team Options Steel-type Pokemon like Magnezone, Genesect, Ferrothorn, and Celesteela all help to cover Dragonite's weakness to common Fairy-types like Magearna, Tapu Lele, Mega Gardevoir, Togekiss, and Clefable while being aided by Dragonite's proficiency against the Fighting-, Ground-, and Fire-types that would threaten them, like Mega Charizard Y, Zygarde, Landorus-T, Heatran, and Blaziken. Physically defensive Pokemon like Mega Slowbro, Zygarde, Tapu Fini, and Porygon2 aid Dragonite through dealing with various Pokemon that have either the moves, ability, or raw stats to withstand its attacks, like Mega Charizard X, Mega Gyarados, Mega Metagross, Celesteela, and Mega Aggron. In turn, Dragonite helps these Pokemon out by covering their weaknesses to special attackers and stallbreakers like Magnezone, Kommo-o, Genesect, and Hoopa-U. Meloetta helps Dragonite by handling particular threats to it, like non-Crunch Mega Gyarados, Magearna, Tapu Lele, Choice Specs Greninja, and Mega Slowbro; just be wary that Meloetta needs Calm Mind to handle Gyarados and Slowbro and needs both Calm Mind and Laser focus to handle Magearna. In return, Dragonite aids Meloetta by covering its weaknesses to non-Ice Punch Mega Metagross, Zygarde, Electrium Z Zeraora, and Volcarona.

Moves Hurricane is the main move, being boosted by Flyinium Z to gain perfect accuracy and a considerable boost in power for a single turn. Supersonic Skystrike's main utility is for covering Pokemon that resist or are immune to Dragonite's Dragon-type moves, namely slow Tapu Lele, Mega Altaria, and Primarina. Furthermore, since it's a special attack, Counter users like Donphan, Crustle, and Sawk can no longer deflect their damage right back at Dragonite. Fire Blast is an essential move for damaging Steel-types. The main Pokemon hit with Fire Blast are non-Ice Punch Mega Metagross, Magnezone, Aegislash, Genesect, and Ferrothorn. Extreme Speed is an essential priority attack for picking up KOs against weakened Pokemon. The main Pokemon you'll want to have it for are Crustle, Sawk, Carracosta, and Kommo-o in case Dragonite's Z-Move doesn't OHKO them. Ice Beam is a coverage move that aids to win certain matchups more reliably, namely against Substitute users like Garchomp, Landorus-T, and Zygarde, though it can also help against opposing Dragonite that lack a Dragon-type Z-Move as well as Mega Altaria. Protect can be used to block Fake Out from Mega Lopunny and Mega Medicham in order to maintain Multiscale. Set Details The 156 HP EVs and 36 Special Defense make Dragonite survive a Choice Specs-boosted Draco Meteor from Naganadel and Latios. The 136 Speed EVs let Dragonite outspeed uninvested base 95 Speed Pokemon, namely Tapu Lele and Zygarde, as well as outspeeding specially defensive variants of Kommo-o that would not be 2HKOed by Supersonic Skystrike followed by Extreme Speed. 180 Special Attack EVs with a Modest nature maximizes Dragonite's offensive presence, letting it reliably 3HKO bulky non-Ice Punch Mega Metagross with the combination of two Fire Blasts and an Extreme Speed, in addition to 2HKOing non-specially defensive Kommo-o that have been boosted by Clangorous Soulblaze with Supersonic Skystrike followed by Extreme Speed. Dragonite can also run a spread of 160 HP / 108 SpA / 104 SpD / 136 Spe and a Calm Nature in order to live a Choice Specs Greninja's Ice Beam, as well as a Choice Band Outrage from Garchomp. Usage Tips Special Dragonite is more suited going in against Pokemon that can't or don't usually boost their defenses or heal off any damage, such as Mega Charizard Y, non-Ice Punch Mega Metagross, Zygarde, Landorus-T, and Donphan. This Dragonite set does not have to fear the potential damage deflection from Counter users like Donphan, Crustle, and Sawk, so it can just use its Z-Move right away and pick them off with Extreme Speed. Unfortunately, since Dragonite doesn't possess a viable means of boosting its Special Attack, certain matchups are unfavorable, namely against Z-Conversion Porygon-Z with Recover, and Iapapa Berry Necrozma, as well as losing the potential win against specially defensive Mega Charizard X. Team Options Meloetta is an asset to Dragonite, covering its weaknesses to Porygon-Z, Magearna, faster Tapu Lele, Choice Specs Greninja, and Mega Slowbro. In return, Dragonite aids Meloetta by covering its weaknesses to non-Ice Punch Mega Metagross, Zygarde, Genesect, and Crustle. Mega Tyranitar aids Dragonite by taking on specially defensive Mega Charizard X, Dragonium Z Dragonite, Porygon-Z, Meloetta, and Choice Specs Greninja, while Dragonite backs up Tyranitar by taking care of non-Ice Punch Mega Metagross, Zygarde, Landorus-T, Mega Altaria, and Kommo-o. Physically defensive Zygarde covers Dragonite's weaknesses to Mega Charizard X, Mega Gyarados, Magearna, Ice Punch Mega Metagross, and Metal Sound Aegislash, while Dragonite handles Zygarde's weaknesses to Mega Altaria, Genesect, Kommo-o, Primarina, and Naganadel.

Set Information Agility allows Dragonite to outspeed any foe it faces, and Roost allows Dragonite to take advantage of its good defensive stats and notably improves its defensive typing for the turn, a factor that lets it heal off powerful attacks such as Mega Aerodactyl's Rock Slide. Outrage is Dragonite's most powerful attack and provides the main damage output in most scenarios. Earthquake provides good super effective or neutral coverage versus all relevant Outrage responses. Adamant is the absolute best nature for this set, as it helps guarantee KOs versus weakened foes, and extra bulk is generally unnecessary. Jolly might seem good at first glance, as it allows Dragonite to outrun foes such as Eevee-S, Nidoqueen, and Adamant Mega Gyarados before a boost, but extra power is useful in more scenarios. Usage Tips Dragonite is best saved for the end of the battle when defensive Pokemon and notable threats to it are weakened or outright removed from play, but it can be used earlier on to pick up KOs with Earthquake if necessary. If an opportunity arises late-game for Dragonite to set up, you should generally take it. Dragonite can set up on a good number of Pokemon thanks to its natural bulk and Roost, so don't be afraid to bring it in on foes like Mega Gyarados, Zapdos, Mega Venusaur and Snorlax when the stage is set for it. Use Agility as soon as possible unless Dragonite naturally outspeeds the opponent's remaining Pokemon or you predict a switch to a healthy check. Make liberal use of Roost where sensible to keep Dragonite out of range of more threatening attacks from anything that can still take a hit, such as Rock Slide from Rhydon. Don't lock Dragonite into Outrage until absolutely necessary or it is safe to do so. If Dragonite looks to be unable to clean, don't be afraid to use it as a tank. Its bulk, Roost, and solid damage output let it deal with many common Pokemon like Alolan Muk, Zapdos, and Gengar if necessary. Team Options Mega Beedrill is a very effective partner for Dragonite thanks to the two sharing several common switch-ins, enabling it to force important damage on them in preparation for Dragonite's sweep. In certain matchups, they can even assume reversed roles, with Dragonite utilizing its high damage output earlier on to weaken foes for Mega Beedrill. This works especially well versus teams that rely on Melmetal to check both, as it will be weakened for an easy late-game sweep. This is most significant in matchups where Dragonite isn't given good setup opportunities. Mega Aerodactyl is a good partner for similar reasons to Mega Beedrill, having a better Speed tier, the option of providing Stealth Rock, and defensive value in exchange for weaker STAB and a lack of U-Turn. Poliwrath makes for a good defensive teammate thanks to its good matchup versus Ice-types, Rock-types, and Melmetal. Melmetal itself is also a great teammate, resisting all of Dragonite's weaknesses and appreciating Dragonite's resistances while also providing a response to fast Mega Evolutions like Mega Aerodactyl, Mega Alakazam, and Mega Beedrill, which can threaten Dragonite before it sets up.

Moves Outrage is Dragonite's strongest STAB move and is able to 2HKO many physical walls like Toxapex and Mega Venusaur. However, Dragonite can potentially be revenge killed if it's locked into it and left unable to switch out of a threat such as Kyurem-B or Nihilego. Extreme Speed is a powerful priority move that can 2HKO fast threats like Zeraora and Volcarona. Fire Punch hits common Steel-types like Ferrothorn, Celesteela, Klefki, and Mega Scizor that resist Outrage, as well as catching Tapu Bulu. Superpower is able to OHKO Air Balloon Heatran as well as always 2HKO Porygon2 on the switch, both of which can otherwise serve as roadblocks for Dragonite. Earthquake is an alternate option that can OHKO certain Fairy-types like Tapu Koko and Mega Diancie, avoid poison from Baneful Bunker Toxapex, and still hit non-Air Balloon Heatran. Set Details 252 Attack EVs with an Adamant nature let Dragonite hit as hard as possible. 252 Speed EVs put Dragonite above key threats such as Adamant Diggersby and Adamant Bisharp. Choice Band boosts the power of Dragonite's attacks to monstrous levels, letting it effectively break past defensive teams, at the cost of locking it into one move. Multiscale lets Dragonite take half damage from an attack when at full HP, letting it survive strong hits it otherwise wouldn't, such as Mega Diancie's Diamond Storm or Moonblast. Usage Tips Dragonite is best used to break past defensive walls such as Zapdos with Choice Band-boosted Outrage. Dragonite's Multiscale can be preserved by bringing it in with a U-turn user such as Tornadus-T or Landorus-T or on a predicted double switch. If your opponent has a Steel-type like Celesteela or Heatran that resists Outrage, try to predict them switching it into Dragonite and hit it with a super effective coverage move like Fire Punch or Superpower. Preserving Dragonite late-game can be worth it so it can use Extreme Speed to revenge kill fast but frail threats like Greninja and Alolan Raichu that otherwise could sweep the team. Extreme Speed can also be utilized late-game to clean up weakened teams. Multiscale can be used to let Dragonite act as an emergency check to setup sweepers like Double Dance Mew if Stealth Rock is not on the field and its teammates are unable to handle it otherwise. It is important to keep Stealth Rock off the field with a teammate's Defog or Taunt so Dragonite's Multiscale won't be broken upon switching in. Dragonite should avoid status whenever possible, as poison and burn breaks its Multiscale, with the latter also completely crippling it by halving its Attack, while paralysis makes it unable to outspeed and 2HKO walls like Mega Venusaur. It is important to preserve Dragonite in the Electric matchup, as it can break past the Rotom-Wash + Zapdos defensive core while also OHKOing Alolan Raichu with Choice Band- boosted Extreme Speed. Team Options Offensive pivots like Choice Scarf Landorus-T and Tornadus-T make for excellent partners, as they can remove Stealth Rock with Defog and bring Dragonite in safely with U-turn. Dragonite can then break past bulky walls like Mantine and Mega Sableye that tend to switch into its teammates. Landorus-T and Tornadus-T also can utilize Knock Off so Dragonite has an easier time dealing with potential checks like Swampert and Porygon2. Mantine can remove Stealth Rock with Defog for Dragonite and switch into Ice-type attacks from the likes of Greninja. In exchange, Dragonite can pressure stallbreakers like Calm Mind Keldeo and Zapdos, which Mantine struggles to do anything against. Celesteela can take on Ice- and Rock-types like Mamoswine and Terrakion for Dragonite while also being able to keep Dragonite's Multiscale from being broken by weak attacks such as Scald with Leech Seed. Gliscor can absorb status that otherwise cripples Dragonite, reliably remove Stealth Rock with Defog, and use Taunt to relieve pressure from Dragonite to deal with bulky walls, helping in particular against Steel-type teams, which Dragonite can struggle with due to Protect scouting from Celesteela and Ferrothorn. Zapdos can relieve pressure from Dragonite in dealing with Electric-types such as Zap Plate Tapu Koko. It also can run a Substitute + Toxic set to take advantage of Dragonite checks such as Baneful Bunker Toxapex and Azumarill or alternatively support it with Volt Switch or Defog. Mega Charizard Y makes for a good offensive partner due to it immensely threatening Steel-types that can impede Dragonite, such as Skarmory. In exchange, Dragonite can easily break past specially defensive walls like Chansey, Mantine, and Toxapex that Mega Charizard Y struggles with. Mega Aerodactyl can set Stealth Rock and Pursuit trap threats such as Latios for Dragonite, while Dragonite can break past physically defensive walls like Mega Venusaur. Landorus is a powerful special wallbreaker that appreciates Dragonite's ability to break special walls like Chansey and Gliscor, while it can pressure Steel-types like Jirachi in exchange.

Moves Dragon Dance boosts Dragonite's Attack and Speed, letting it break past walls while also outspeeding offensive threats like Mega Gallade. Outrage is Dragonite's strongest STAB move that allows it to break past walls after a Dragon Dance boost and can be turned into a powerful Devastating Drake to break past walls such as Slowbro. Extreme Speed provides strong priority for threats that can still outspeed +2 Dragonite such as Choice Scarf Greninja. Earthquake hits Steel-types like Excadrill and Heatran, which resist Devastating Drake and would otherwise wall Dragonite. It also hits many key Fairy-types such as Tapu Koko, Mega Diancie, and Klefki for super effective damage. Set Details 252 Attack EVs and an Adamant Nature let Dragonite hit as hard as possible with Devastating Drake. 252 Speed EVs let it outrun threats such as Adamant Metagross and Adamant Mega Swampert, as well as Greninja after a Dragon Dance. Dragonium Z powers up Outrage into Devastating Drake, blowing past walls such as Toxapex after a Dragon Dance boost. Multiscale lets Dragonite take strong hits from full health such as Mega Aerodactyl's Stone Edge so that it can act as an emergency revenge killer or have more opportunities to set up. Usage Tips Dragon Dance is best utilized on offensive Flying teams to compress the roles of a sweeper, wallbreaker, and emergency check to setup sweepers with Multiscale. Dragon Dance is ideally set up on a Pokemon that is unable to OHKO Dragonite with Multiscale intact, either early-game to wallbreak or late-game to sweep a weakened team. Dragonite can also bluff a Choice Band set and take advantage of the forced switch to set up a free Dragon Dance. It is very important to keep Stealth Rock off the field to preserve Multiscale, as without it Dragonite finds far fewer setup opportunities. Dragonite's Z-Move can be used without a Dragon Dance boost to OHKO a threat such as SubToxic Zapdos or Double Dance Mew in a pinch. Keep in mind that Dragonite's low Speed tier means very fast Pokemon such as Tapu Koko along with most Choice Scarf users manage to outspeed Dragonite at +1. Some Choice Scarf users such as Nihilego, Greninja, and Terrakion even outspeed it after two speed boosts. Dragonite should avoid any status conditions, as being afflicted with them will hamper or completely shut down its ability to sweep. Team Options Aerodactyl and Imprison Landorus-T make for good suicide leads to both sets and prevent Stealth Rock early-game while being able to bring Dragonite in safely via Double-Edge recoil or Explosion. Autotomize + Metronome Celesteela is a fantastic offensive teammate, with Dragonite being able to beat Toxapex and Chansey, while Celesteela can deal with Pokemon such as Mega Scizor, Ferrothorn, and Azumarill that Dragonite struggles with. They also have great defensive synergy, with them resisting or taking neutral damage from all of each other's type weaknesses. Choice Scarf users such as Landorus-T or Thundurus-T can support Dragonite with Defog and bring it in safely with U-turn or Volt Switch, while also providing a high Speed tier so Dragonite's Extreme Speed isn't the team's only answer to fast threats like Mega Lopunny. Mega Charizard Y is able to immensely pressure Steel-types such as Celesteela, while Dragonite can break past special walls such as Alolan Muk.

Moves Outrage is a very powerful STAB attack, allowing Dragonite to break past defensive Pokemon such as Swampert and Gliscor. Extreme Speed enables Dragonite to revenge kill or check weakened faster Pokemon such as Victini and Latios. Fire Punch provides important coverage for Steel-types that resist Extreme Speed and Outrage, such as Skarmory, Celesteela, and Scizor. Superpower allows Dragonite to deal with otherwise insurmountable Normal-types such as Porygon2 while also being effective against Steel-types like Heatran. Earthquake is an option over Superpower to deal with foes such as Toxapex and Alolan Muk without having to lock into Outrage. Set Details Maximum Attack investment with an Adamant nature and Choice Band combine to make Dragonite a powerful wallbreaker. Maximum Speed investment allows Dragonite to outspeed virtually all defensive Pokemon as well as slower offensive Pokemon such as Adamant Diggersby and Mega Scizor. Multiscale allows Dragonite to safely revenge kill most foes, even if they're faster, without fear of being OHKOed. Usage Tips Utilize Dragonite's power and coverage to break past defensive cores and force switches throughout the battle. Be sure to use Extreme Speed to take on weakened faster foes such as Greninja and priority users such as Mamoswine. Do not use Outrage too early in a battle, as the opponent can take advantage of Dragonite by switching to common Fairy-types like Tapu Koko and Azumarill in order to gain a free turn. Take advantage of Multiscale, in order to effectively check foes such as Tapu Koko and Mega Sharpedo. In a given matchup, determine whether Dragonite needs to be preserved to deal with a key threat such as Greninja or Mega Diancie. If this is not the case, it can be used more liberally to punch holes. Be sure to keep Stealth Rock off the field before bringing in Dragonite, as it relies heavily on Multiscale to tank attacks. In that same notion, avoid switching Dragonite into any attack unless completely necessary. Be wary of status, as burn inhibits its ability to function as a wallbreaker, passive damage nullifies Multiscale, and paralysis allows even defensive Pokemon to outspeed Dragonite. Team Options As a powerful wallbreaker with strong priority, Dragonite helps its teammates with its ability to weaken common walls while also serving as a blanket check to dangerous offensive threats. Garchomp provides very beneficial Stealth Rock support that allows Dragonite to more easily OHKO Pokemon late-game. Latios and Latias are extremely important teammates, as they're great revenge killers and can provide Defog support, which removes troublesome Stealth Rock. Latias also can provide Healing Wish for Dragonite, granting it an additional chance to take advantage of Multiscale. Kyurem-B is a powerful mixed attacker that pairs well with Dragonite, as their combined coverage is able to break past the majority of foes, most notably taking on Water and Flying teams. Dragonite also appreciates Kyurem-B's ability to take on Ice-types thanks to its Ice neutrality. Hydreigon is a great special wallbreaker that pairs effectively with Dragonite, as it is able to take on physical walls that Dragonite cannot easily deal with such as Skarmory and Toxapex. Mega Latias is an amazing defensive setup sweeper with Calm Mind and Stored Power that appreciates Dragonite's ability to remove special walls such as Chansey. Mega Altaria and Kommo-o are great setup sweepers and pair well with Dragonite, as Dragonite is able to weaken common Pokemon that wall them such as Porygon2 and Mandibuzz, respectively.

Outrage is Dragonite’s main STAB move of choice, hitting anything that doesn’t resist it very hard. Earthquake hits most things that Outrage can’t for solid damage, including Steel-types such as Aegislash, Heatran, and Mega Metagross. Extreme Speed picks off weakened foes before they can hit it, Mamoswine is most notable in this since Dragonite outspeeds it before Mamoswine gets a chance to pick it off with Ice Shard due to Extreme Speed's +2 speed priority. Fire Punch hits Steel-types that are neutral or immune to Ground-type moves, such as Celesteela, Ferrothorn, and Scizor. Thunder Punch hits Water-types such as Gyarados and Tapu Fini harder than any of its coverage moves. Superpower also hits Steel-types very hard with the addition of also hitting Normal-types such as Porygon2 and Mega Kangaskhan very hard. Choice Band gives Dragonite the immediate wallbreaking power it desires. Adamant gives Dragonite more power to its attacks. This Dragonite set is best used mid-game to soften things up to clear the way for another Pokemon to sweep. It can be used late-game as well to clean things up with Extreme Speed. Stealth Rock support helps Dragonite massively, being able to pick Pokemon off after the additional damage it provides Sweepers appreciate having the opposing team weakened, so Dragonite will often want to be used with them. Dragonite still struggles to deal with Fairy-types, so a Steel-type to switch into these moves is highly recommended.

Dragon Dance increases Dragonite’s Attack and Speed to new heights, outspeeding many Pokemon after one boost while increasing its power as well. Outrage is Dragonite’s main STAB move of choice, hitting anything that doesn’t resist it very hard. Earthquake hits most things that Outrage can’t for solid damage, including Fairy and Steel-types such as Tapu Koko, Aegislash, Heatran, and Mega Metagross. Extreme Speed picks off weakened foes, most notably picking off Pokemon like Mamoswine before they get to Ice Shard Dragonite. Fly can be used to hit Tapu Lele very hard, and when used in tandem with Flyinium Z, Dragonite's usual checks much harder than it could with Dragonite’s other available options including Pokemon like Tapu Fini, Mega Gyarados, and Mega Venusaur. Fire Punch hits Steel-types that are neutral or immune to Ground-type moves, such as Celesteela, Ferrothorn, and Scizor. Lum Berry can be used on Dragonite to avoid status moves for a turn, as Dragonite is very susceptible to all of them. Flyinium-Z when used along with Fly gives Dragonite another STAB to use once in the game, hurting anything that doesn’t resist it for some nice damage. Dragonium-Z prevents Dragonite from being locked into Outrage once, and also gives it an insanely powerful attack that can dent something once. Jolly allows Dragonite to outspeed threats like Tapu Koko, Mega Gengar, and Adamant Choice Scarf Landorus-T, giving it the upper hand in these matchups. Adamant gives Dragonite more power to it attacks, most notably being able to OHKO Tapu Koko guaranteed without a Dragon Dance boost. Although the power boost is appreciated, Dragonite will fail to outspeed Tapu Koko and Mega Gengar after a Dragon Dance. If using Extreme Speed, it’s best to save Dragonite for late game when everything is weakened; this gives it both an easier time of setting up and being able to clean up the opposing team. Otherwise, Dragonite can be used either early-game to weaken teams or late-game to clean everything up after it’s all set up. Be careful of switching Dragonite into attacks though; Multiscale will only work at full health and it can be pretty frail otherwise. Dragonite absolutely despises Ice-type moves and Fairy-types, so a Steel-type to switch into these is highly recommended. Wallbreakers can help wear down Pokemon that Dragonite has a tough matchup against such as Cresselia, Porygon2, Tapu Fini, and Suicune. Stealth Rock support can help Dragonite secure more KOs when sweeping.

This is a sample set. We aren't working on ORAS Monotype analyses at the moment, but check out ORAS Monotype resources for more information about the metagame.

Moves A Choice Band-boosted STAB Outrage from Dragonite hits extremely hard, generally OHKOing anything that isn't a wall or doesn't resist it. Extreme Speed allows it to pick off weakened Pokemon that have set up such as Mega Gyarados or revenge kill certain threats such as Weavile after Stealth Rock. Fire Punch is used to hit Steel-types that would otherwise wall Dragonite such as Skarmory and Ferrothorn and pick up KOs on Mega Scizor and Bisharp. Earthquake gives it great coverage, hitting Steel- and Rock-types for super effective damage, notably KOing Mega Diancie. Superpower can be used over Earthquake, although Dragonite then loses out on the ability to 2HKO Doublade and an effective way to damage Azumarill besides Extreme Speed: Earthquake has a very good chance of OHKOing Azumarill after it uses Belly Drum if it has taken Stealth Rock damage and always does after a little prior damage, while Extreme Speed cannot do the same. Superpower can be used to break the Normal-type defensive core of Porygon2 and Chansey, which can otherwise pose a problem to Flying teams, and hit Steel-types super effectively, picking up an OHKO on Air Balloon Heatran. Set Details Maximum Attack investment maximizes Dragonite's sweeping potential. An Adamant nature is preferred in order to increase its offensive presence and becomes relevant when revenge killing threats with Extreme Speed. It also gives Dragonite a chance to 2HKO both Leftovers and Rocky Helmet Skarmory with Fire Punch. A Choice Band is the item of choice, increasing Dragonite's damage output. Multiscale ensures Dragonite can get off a hit on a Pokemon without the risk of being KOed. Usage Tips Dragonite is best used as a hit-and-run attacker, doing damage and then switching out. It should be used early- or mid-game to wallbreak for its team, helping setup sweepers clean late-game. Preserving Multiscale should be the top priority, so the field should be kept clear of entry hazards. Dragonite should absolutely avoid status. Toxic poison and burn remove Multiscale, and a burn also halves its damage output. It can also work as a revenge killer with Extreme Speed and can clean late-game. Outrage should not be used when there are Pokemon that can revenge kill Dragonite such as Lopunny, Diancie, Magnezone, and Ditto, or when there are Steel-types, such as Scizor or Doublade, and Fairy-types, such as Belly Drum Azumarill, which can set up on it while it is locked into Outrage. Team Options Because Skarmory and Zapdos have the ability to wall almost every hit and can set and remove entry hazards, which is invaluable for preventing Multiscale from breaking, they pair well with Dragonite. Additionally, Zapdos can help whittle down walls that Dragonite can't break with Toxic and can get off a slow Volt Switch to bring in Dragonite safely. Skarmory switches into the Rock-, Fairy-, and Ice-type moves that threaten Dragonite like Ice Shard and increases offensive pressure by setting up Stealth Rock; however, it should be careful around Fairy-types like Diancie and Clefable, which can run Fire-type coverage moves like Hidden Power Fire and Flamethrower. Thundurus can offensively support Dragonite by spreading status through Prankster Thunder Wave, allowing it to beat threats without having to risk breaking its Multiscale. Mega Charizard Y can be used to switch into a predicted Will-O-Wisp and deal with the Ice-types and the physical walls that Dragonite cannot break. Landorus also pairs well with Dragonite, as it can OHKO or 2HKO almost every physical wall that Dragonite cannot break through. Dragonite's wallbreaking capabilities are largely appreciated by Mega Gyarados, helping it sweep late-game. Landorus-T's Choice Scarf set can be used to revenge kill Rock- and Steel-type foes that resist Extreme Speed. The defensive set can work as a great defensive pivot and can set up Stealth Rock while providing a slow U-turn to bring Dragonite in safely. Gliscor can also pair well with Dragonite, using its stallbreaking capabilities to stall out walls that threaten Dragonite like Porygon2 and bulky Water-type Pokemon like Alomomola.

This is a sample set. We aren't working on ORAS Monotype analyses at the moment, but check out ORAS Monotype resources for more information about the metagame.

Moves Dragon Dance boosts Dragonite's Attack and Speed, making it a great sweeper or cleaner. It outspeeds Pokemon such as Mega Diancie, Latios, and Mega Gallade after one boost. Extreme Speed outprioritizes other attacks such as Sucker Punch and Ice Shard, as well as status moves from Prankster Pokemon such as Thundurus and Whimsicott. It's also good for picking off weakened Pokemon. Outrage is Dragonite's most powerful STAB attack, hitting multiple types that don't resist the move hard. Dragon Claw can be used instead of Outrage so that Dragonite doesn't get locked into the attack; however, there is a considerable difference in power, so Outrage gives Dragonite much-needed KOs that Dragon Claw cannot. Fire Punch allows Dragonite to deal massive damage to Skarmory, which otherwise walls Dragonite, and OHKO Mega Scizor and Ferrothorn. Earthquake gives it coverage on Mega Diancie, Azumarill, and Heatran, although it is walled by bulky Steel-types like Skarmory and Ferrothorn. Set Details Maximum Attack EVs with an Adamant nature allow Dragonite to hit harder, notably almost always OHKOing specially defensive Zapdos after a Dragon Dance boost. Multiscale allows Dragonite to set up Dragon Dance more easily by halving damage at full health. A Lum Berry is needed for Dragonite to freely set up Dragon Dance once and avoid any status that will keep it from sweeping. Lum Berry keeps Multiscale's ability active in case a Pokemon tries to Will-O-Wisp or Toxic it. Alternatively, it helps cure Dragonite of confusion from Outrage. Usage Tips Always keep Dragonite away from status moves and Stealth Rock because they will ruin Dragonite's chances of setting up safely. The Lum Berry can be used to set up on Pokemon that threaten Dragonite with a burn, such as Slowbro and Alomomola, although it should be preserved for as long as possible. Dragonite can be used as a mid- or late-game cleaner once all of its threats are weakened or gone. Despite Multiscale halving the damage Dragonite takes, it's highly recommended that Dragonite does not stay in on any Ice-type attacks, as it will suffer heavy damage from or be OHKOed by them. Team Options Zapdos and Skarmory make for good partners because both are able to remove entry hazards with Defog. Skarmory can switch into physical attackers and Fairy-types while setting up or removing entry hazards for Dragonite. Zapdos can provide support with Toxic and a slow Volt Switch, which gives Dragonite an opportunity to come in safely and set up. Dragonite appreciates wallbreakers such as Mega Charizard Y as partners. Mega Charizard Y can also deal with Ice-types and switch into a predicted Will-O-Wisp that would be problematic for Dragonite. Landorus-T and Gyarados can soften attacks aimed at Dragonite with Intimidate, allowing for Dragonite to set up Dragon Dance more effectively. Landorus-T deserves a special mention, as it can break through walls with its fearsome Attack. Dragonite appreciates defensive Landorus-T's ability to set up Stealth Rock and use a slow U-turn so it can come in safely. Mega Gyarados can switch into predicted Ice-type attacks for Dragonite and check Psychic-types such as Mew, Jirachi, Slowbro, and Mega Medicham. Both Mega Gyarados and Dragonite can put offensive pressure on the opposing team, as both Pokemon can set up with Dragon Dance. Togekiss can switch into a predicted Dragon-type attack for Dragonite. With its access to Prankster, Thundurus can paralyze opposing Pokemon with Thunder Wave, providing speed control for Dragonite.

Moves Outrage is Dragonite's STAB move of choice, hitting for ridiculous amounts of power right from the get-go thanks to the Choice Band. Extreme Speed is what sets Dragonite apart from other Dragon-types, giving it a strong priority move with which to pick off faster threats. Earthquake hits troublesome Steel-types such as Heatran and Aegislash for super effective damage. Fire Punch rounds out Dragonite's coverage against Pokemon such as Ferrothorn, Skarmory, and Scizor. Iron Head or Iron Tail can be used over Fire Punch to hit Fairy-types such as Sylveon and Togekiss super effectively; however, it is usually best to just let a teammate deal with them. Set Details Maximum Attack and Speed investment increases Dragonite's wallbreaking abilities as much as possible, and an Adamant nature is used to increase Dragonite's Attack even further. The Choice Band gives Dragonite immediate power equal to that of a Dragon Dance boost, allowing it to do large amounts of damage right away, such as OHKOing Thundurus, Mega Salamence (after Intimidate), maximum HP Mega Gengar, physically defensive Ferrothorn, physically defensive Mega Latias, and Mega Kangaskhan and 2HKOing physically defensive Zapdos, Cresselia, Suicune, Hippowdon, and Porygon2 lacking Trace. While this EV spread is rather simple, it is possible to change Dragonite's EVs to be able to tank certain hits better at the cost of some power and speed. An alternative spread is 236 Atk / 212 SpD / 60 Spe. This allows Dragonite to still outspeed most Rotom-W and Suicune, as well as giving Dragonite a great chance at surviving Life Orb Greninja's Ice Beam as long as Multiscale is still active. Dropping the Attack EVs doesn't sacrifice too much power, as Dragonite can still OHKO Greninja and get the 2HKO on Rotom-W. However, Dragonite is usually better off leaving those Pokemon to its teammates, meaning you can stay with the original EV spread. Usage Tips Choice Band Dragonite acts as a great wallbreaker and late-game cleaner due to the immediate power of the Choice Band allowing it to easily finish weakened teams with Outrage and Extreme Speed. Because this Dragonite does not aim to spend a turn boosting, it is much easier to switch it into the battle without worrying about its Multiscale being broken; however, it still benefits greatly from having it intact to take on Pokemon such as Mega Salamence, Thundurus, Garchomp, Raikou, and Blaziken, so take this into account when switching. All of Dragonite's moves are easily exploitable by Pokemon that are immune to them, so be wary of any Fairy-, Ghost-, or Flying-type Pokemon or Levitate or Flash Fire users on the opponent's team, as they can easily use Dragonite for a free switch. Therefore, if you plan on sweeping with Choice Band Dragonite, it is of utmost importance that you clear the field of any of these Pokemon before locking Dragonite into a certain move. Team Options Hippowdon and Mega Lucario are very popular teammates for Choice Band Dragonite. Hippowdon is used as a lead to set up Stealth Rock and put the foe to sleep with Yawn, and when it has been KOed, either Mega Lucario is brought in to set up with Swords Dance or Nasty Plot or Dragonite can come in to immediately start doing damage. If Mega Lucario is brought in after Hippowdon to set up, Dragonite acts as the cleaner with its powerful Extreme Speed, usually after Mega Lucario has been KOed itself so that Dragonite can maintain its Multiscale. Mega Lucario and Dragonite work brilliantly together, as Mega Lucario can effectively beat opposing Fairy-, Ice-, and Rock-type Pokemon for Dragonite, while Dragonite is immune to Ground-type moves and has a good matchup against Fire-type Pokemon. Choice Band Dragonite suffers from its average Speed stat, meaning that many faster Pokemon such as Mega Kangaskhan, Mega Charizard X and Y, Serperior, and Mega Salamence can give it trouble. For this reason, paralysis support is really helpful, allowing Dragonite to go ahead of these Pokemon and pummel them with its powerful moves. Porygon2 is perhaps the best partner, as it is a great switch-in to these threats with its fantastic mixed bulk and ability to punish them with Thunder Wave. Serperior is also able to paralyze Ground-type Pokemon such as Garchomp and Landorus-T with Glare or just outright beat them with Leaf Storm. Choice Band Dragonite also benefits from teammates that can beat opposing Fairy-, Ice-, and Dragon-type Pokemon; good partners include Suicune, Mawile, Scizor, and Rotom-W.

Moves Dragon Dance boosts Dragonite's Attack to monstrous levels and its Speed to a high enough level to outspeed threats such as Garchomp, Latios, Latias, Serperior, Raikou, and Greninja after only one boost. Outrage may seem too risky to lock into, but its monstrous power is well worth it. While Extreme Speed may seem redundant with Dragon Dance's Speed boosting capabilities, it allows Dragonite to go ahead of most other priority moves, most notably Ice Shard, meaning that Dragonite can pick off weakened users such as Mamoswine and Weavile instead of being KOed itself. It's also a great move in general and is great for picking something off if Dragonite hasn't yet boosted its Speed. Earthquake is the preferred coverage option, as it allows Dragonite to heavily damage the Steel-type Pokemon that resist Outrage, most notably Aegislash, Heatran, and Mawile. Fire Punch has the benefit of hitting Ferrothorn, Scizor, and Skarmory, but it leaves Dragonite walled by Heatran. Set Details Maximum Attack and Speed investment is used to increase Dragonite's sweeping potential, and an Adamant nature boosts Dragonite's power even further. Jolly can be used instead to outspeed Mega Gengar at +1, but Dragonite appreciates the increase in power a lot more. A Lum Berry combines fantastically with Multiscale, practically guaranteeing Dragonite to boost with Dragon Dance at least once; it also cures the confusion inflicted by Outrage if it isn't used up before then. If you aren't worried about status conditions, you can try using a Weakness Policy instead. If Multiscale is intact, Dragonite can stomach most super effective hits and come out with a +3 in Attack if it boosts on the same turn, which will allow it to do devastatingly high amounts of damage to the foe. Usage Tips Dragon Dance Dragonite is one of the safest leads in the game, as it is very easy to grab a first-turn boost with Dragon Dance and then immediately go on the offensive. Against Fake Out leads such as Mega Lopunny or common status spammers such as Sableye and Thundurus, it is best to switch out to a teammate so that you can keep Multiscale and the Lum Berry intact. Despite being a fantastic lead, Dragonite can also function as a terrific cleaner, as it can pick off a weakened foe with Extreme Speed or take the opportunity to boost with Dragon Dance if the foe does not threaten it. While Dragonite may function exceptionally well at any time in a match, it desperately needs to keep its Multiscale active, as it isn't actually very bulky without it; accordingly, you need to be careful when switching, as taking unnecessary damage will void the Multiscale. For this reason, it is best to either lead with Dragonite or bring it in after a teammate has been KOed or with the aid of a slow Volt Switch or U-turn user. Once Dragonite is set up, you can start using Outrage for maximum damage against the foe. This is really only a risky play if the opponent has a Fairy-type Pokemon to switch to; if they don't, Dragonite is basically free to use Outrage. Earthquake should only be used if Dragonite is faced with a Steel-type that resists Outrage. Team Options Dragonite's most popular teammates are Hippowdon and Mega Lucario; these three are a very popular core amongst Japanese players. Hippowdon is used as a lead that can set up Stealth Rock to break opposing Focus Sashes, as well as put the foe to sleep with Yawn, and once Hippowdon has been KOed, you can bring in Dragonite at full health to set up a Dragon Dance. Mega Lucario is used to beat the Fairy- and Ice-type Pokemon that Dragonite has trouble with, and Dragonite helps against the Ground-types that Mega Lucario doesn't want to face. Dragonite can be paired with almost anything that takes care of opposing Fairy-, Ice-, and Dragon-types; these Pokemon include Suicune, Mawile, Metagross, Azumarill, Scizor, and Rotom-W. Notably, Mega Gengar can be used to trap and eliminate troublesome Fairy-type Pokemon for Dragonite. Porygon2 is a great bulky partner for Dragonite, being a great switch-in to Greninja, and provides valuable paralysis support with Thunder Wave, helping Dragonite against faster threats. Dragonite hates Stealth Rock, as it removes its Multiscale upon entering the field, so stopping it from being set up in the first place is the most feasible course of action. Mega Sableye is probably the best at doing this, as it can either make use of its non-Mega forme to quickly Taunt a foe trying to set up Stealth Rock or send it back onto their side of the field with Magic Bounce.