Dragons have long captured the imaginations of gamers around the world. These majestic creatures, with their awe-inspiring size and mythical abilities, have become iconic figures in the realm of video games. From soaring through the skies to breathing fire upon their enemies, dragons have left an indelible mark on the gaming landscape. In this blog post, we will explore some of the most epic dragons in the video game world.
Alduin (The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim)
Alduin is a dragon, but not just any dragon. He is the firstborn of the deity Akatosh, the Dragon God of Time. According to the lore of The Elder Scrolls, Alduin was created to fulfill a specific role in the cycle of time. He is destined to bring about the end of the world, known as the “Kalpa,” and then begin a new one.
However, Alduin’s hunger for power and dominance led him astray. Instead of following his divine purpose, he sought to conquer and rule over Skyrim. This rebellion against his true nature sets the stage for the epic conflict that unfolds in the game. Alduin is not just a fearsome dragon; he possesses a range of formidable powers and abilities that make him a formidable foe. As the World-Eater, he has the ability to devour the souls of fallen dragons, absorbing their power and becoming even stronger.
In addition to his immense physical strength and durability, Alduin can breathe fire and unleash devastating shouts, known as Thu’um, which can shake the very foundations of Skyrim. These shouts can be used to summon meteor storms, unleash powerful gusts of wind, or even bend the will of lesser beings to Alduin’s command.
Bahamut (Final Fantasy series)
Bahamut is a legendary creature that has become an iconic figure in the Final Fantasy series. Known as the King of Dragons, Bahamut is a recurring summon (known as Eidolons, Espers, or Summons) in the games, often portrayed as a powerful and majestic dragon. In some games, Bahamut serves as a guardian or protector of the world, lending his strength to aid the protagonists in their battles against evil forces.
Bahamut’s signature attack is often Mega Flare, a powerful non-elemental attack that deals massive damage to all enemies on the battlefield. He has inspired countless interpretations in fan art, music, and even spin-off games like Bahamut Lagoon.
Spyro (Spyro the Dragon series)
Spyro the Dragon is a beloved character from the iconic video game series called “Spyro the Dragon.” Created by Insomniac Games, Spyro first made his debut on the original PlayStation console in 1998. The series quickly gained popularity and became a staple in the gaming community.
Spyro is a small purple dragon known for his courageous spirit, witty personality, and his ability to breathe fire. He resides in the magical world of dragons, known as the Dragon Realms. Spyro’s mission is to protect his homeland from various threats, including the notorious villain Gnasty Gnorc and his minions. Spyro is not alone in his adventures. He is accompanied by his loyal dragonfly companion named Sparx, who acts as his health indicator and assists him in collecting gems throughout the game. Spyro also encounters various characters along his journey, both friendly and hostile.
In recent years, Spyro the Dragon has made a triumphant return with the release of the “Spyro Reignited Trilogy” in 2018. This remastered collection includes updated versions of the original three games, allowing both longtime fans and new players to experience the adventures of Spyro in stunning high-definition graphics. The return of Spyro has reignited the passion and nostalgia for the series, introducing a new generation of gamers to the lovable purple dragon. With the success of the remastered trilogy, there is hope for future Spyro games and further exploration of the Dragon Realms.
Hakkon Wintersbreath (Dragon Age: Inquisition – Jaws of Hakkon DLC)
Hakkon Wintersbreath is introduced in the “Jaws of Hakkon” downloadable content (DLC) for Dragon Age: Inquisition, released in 2015. Hakkon Wintersbreath is a high dragon residing in the Frostback Basin, a new region introduced in the DLC. As a frost dragon, he possesses ice-based abilities and is visually distinct from other dragons in the game.
Hakkon Wintersbreath is a powerful Avvar war god worshiped by a fanatical cult known as the Hakkonites. Legends claim he descended from the heavens, bringing order and strength to the harsh Avvar tribes, before ultimately sacrificing himself to protect them from a great evil. While shrouded in myth, some believe Hakkon was a powerful mage who ascended godhood through ancient rituals and magic.
Centuries after Hakkon’s supposed sacrifice, the Hakkonites, led by the warlord Rykker, believe the time has come to resurrect their god. They seek to channel the power of the dragon Ameridan, slain by the first Inquisition, to imbue a powerful Avvar warrior with Hakkon’s spirit. The Inquisitor and their companions stumble upon this plot and must race against time to stop the Hakkonites and prevent the resurrection of a potentially dangerous deity.
Shenron (Dragon Ball series)
Shenron, also known as the “Eternal Dragon,” is a magical creature brought to life by the Dragon Balls. Created by the Namekian Grand Elder, Guru, Shenron exists to fulfill the desires of those who gather all seven Dragon Balls and summon him. The Dragon Balls themselves are mystical artifacts scattered across the Earth, Namek, and other planets, each possessing the ability to summon Shenron when brought together.
Shenron holds immense significance in the Dragon Ball series, serving as a driving force for many of the characters’ actions. The pursuit of the Dragon Balls and the summoning of Shenron often form the basis of various story arcs, motivating characters to embark on epic quests and face formidable adversaries.
While primarily known from the anime and manga, Shenron often plays a significant role in Dragon Ball video games. Players can summon the Eternal Dragon to make wishes in various games within the franchise.
Black Dragon Kalameet (Dark Souls Remastered)
The Dark Souls series features powerful and challenging dragons as formidable foes, with memorable encounters like the one with the Hellkite Dragon. Kalameet is one of the last remaining ancient dragons who have survived the Age of Ancients and is said to have brought calamity wherever he roamed. A corrupted aspect of the black dragon Neltharion, serving as a major antagonist in various expansions, known for his immense power and tragic backstory.
Black Dragon Kalameet can be found in the Royal Wood, an area accessed through the Artorias of the Abyss DLC. As players venture deeper into the Royal Wood, they will come across an ominous bridge guarded by the intimidating dragon. The encounter with Kalameet is entirely optional, but those seeking a true test of their skills will not want to miss the opportunity to face this legendary creature.
Deathwing (World of Warcraft)
Deathwing, also known as Neltharion the Earth-Warder, was once a mighty Dragon Aspect tasked with protecting the world. However, corruption and madness consumed him, turning him into a cataclysmic force of destruction. His transformation was triggered by the Old Gods, ancient and malevolent beings seeking to plunge Azeroth into darkness.
Once a symbol of strength and order, Deathwing became a harbinger of chaos and devastation. His immense power and cunning made him a formidable foe, as he sought to reshape the world in his image and bring about the Cataclysm. With the Cataclysm expansion, Deathwing emerged from his lair in the elemental plane of Deepholm, shattering the barriers between realms. His destructive presence unleashed earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and tidal waves that ravaged Azeroth. Cities crumbled, landscapes were reshaped, and countless lives were lost.
As Deathwing’s reign of terror intensified, heroes from both the Alliance and the Horde rallied together to face this unprecedented threat. They ventured into treacherous regions, battled his minions, and ultimately confronted Deathwing himself. Deathwing’s impact on the world of Azeroth cannot be understated. His cataclysmic actions reshaped continents, altered the balance of power, and left a lasting mark on the inhabitants of the world.
Furthermore, Deathwing’s story serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the dangers of succumbing to corruption and the consequences of unchecked power. His fall from grace stands as a reminder that even the mightiest can be consumed by darkness.
Demon Dragon (Tears of the Kingdom)
The true form of Demon King Ganondorf, His emergence coincides with the Blight’s return and signifies the culmination of Ganondorf’s corrupting influence over the world. Once beaten the first time by Link, Ganondorf will remove Sonia’s Secret Stone from his forehead and go into draconification, where he will lose his mind and body while becoming into the epic Demon Dragon.
The Demon Dragon boasts a colossal size, dwarfed only by the Skyloft mountains. His design fuses a traditional dragon form with dark, corrupted features, reflecting Ganondorf’s transformation. He possesses immense physical strength, spews destructive energy blasts, and utilizes devastating claw and tail attacks.
Sinh, the Slumbering Dragon (Dark Souls II)
Sinh, the Slumbering Dragon, is an ancient and powerful creature that resides in the Dragon’s Sanctum, a hidden location within the Crown of the Sunken King DLC of Dark Souls II. According to the game’s lore, Sinh was once a peaceful dragon, but was corrupted by the spread of the Abyss. Some speculate he’s connected to the Dragon Aerie located above Shulva, further hinting at his possible role as a protector.
As the Abyss grew within Sinh, it caused him immense pain and suffering. To alleviate his anguish, Sinh chose to slumber, burying himself deep within the Sanctum. His slumber is not only a means of self-preservation but also a way to prevent the Abyss from spreading further.
Sinh boasts a majestic design, reminiscent of Eastern dragons with long, flowing whiskers and shimmering scales. He primarily attacks with powerful lunges, swipes of his claws and tail, and fire breath that engulfs the arena. Uniquely, Sinh can shed his tail during the fight, granting him new and unpredictable attacks while transforming the battlefield with toxic sludge.
Ridley (Metroid series)
Dragon Ridley, also known as Ridley, was first introduced in the original Metroid game released in 1986. Created by the talented developers at Nintendo, Ridley was designed to be the arch-nemesis of Samus Aran, a space-faring bounty hunter and the game’s protagonist. Ridley’s character has evolved over the years, appearing in various forms and iterations throughout the Metroid series.
He serves as Samus Aran’s arch-nemesis, responsible for the death of her parents when she was a child. This fuels her relentless pursuit of him throughout the games. Ridley is often affiliated with the Space Pirates, a band of intergalactic outlaws responsible for stealing and weaponizing the dangerous Metroid parasites.
Dragon Ridley is an imposing figure, resembling a large, winged reptilian creature. Standing at an impressive height, Ridley’s body is covered in tough, scaly skin, which provides excellent protection against attacks. With sharp talons and a long tail, Ridley is a formidable opponent in both aerial and ground combat. It possesses an array of powerful abilities that make it a formidable foe.
Its physical strength allows it to overpower opponents in close combat, while its agility and flight capabilities make it a formidable adversary in the air. Ridley is also known for its ability to breathe fire, which it uses to unleash devastating attacks on its enemies. Its cunning and strategic thinking make it a challenging opponent to defeat.
Dragonlord Placidusax (Elden Ring)
Dragonlord Placidusax, Elden Ring’s Ancient Two-Headed Demigod, is an imposing double-headed dragon, which isn’t just a fearsome boss fight; it is also a pivotal figure steeped in the game’s lore and shrouded in mystery. Placidusax was once an Elden Lord, ruling before Marika and the Golden Order established their dominance.
He served alongside an unnamed god, presumably wielding immense power over time itself, symbolized by the Ancient Dragon Smithing Stones dropped upon his defeat. Placidusax’s two-headed form suggests a connection to a lost age, possibly even pre-dating the Erdtree and its influence on the Lands Between.
This boss fight takes place amidst the ruins of Farum Azula where Placidusax serves as an optional boss in Elden Ring, offering a challenging and visually stunning battle against his two distinct heads.
One of the defining characteristics of Dragonlord Placidusax is his ability to breathe fire. His fiery breath can engulf entire areas, leaving players with limited room to maneuver. This forces players to carefully time their dodges and find openings to strike back. In addition to his fire-breathing abilities, Dragonlord Placidusax is also a master of aerial combat. He takes to the skies, soaring above the battlefield, making it challenging for players to land successful attacks.
Ruined Dragon “Lord Of Lightning” (Super Mario Odyssey)
Residing in the Ruined Kingdom, the Ruined Dragon is an imposing creature with a skeletal appearance. Its bones are covered in a ghostly blue glow, giving it an eerie and mysterious aura. The dragon possesses the power of lightning, which it can unleash through its electrified breath and tail.
During the fight, it attacks by spewing purple lightning bolts that spawn rolling spiked wheels made of electricity. The more times it’s hit, the more wheels are generated, increasing the challenge. Additionally, the dragon can create electric barriers and move swiftly across the battlefield, keeping Mario on his toes.
Dragonite (Pokemon series)
Known as the “Mystic Pokémon,” Dragonite is a Dragon/Flying type Pokémon that possesses incredible strength and a gentle nature. Dragonite is the final evolution of the Dratini evolutionary line, evolving from Dragonair starting at level 55. Dragonair, in turn, evolves from Dratini starting at level 30.
Dragonite possesses an impressive array of abilities and moves that make it a formidable opponent in battles. As a Dragon-type Pokémon, it has an advantage over many other types, including Grass, Fire, Water, and Electric. Its ability, Inner Focus, prevents it from flinching during battles, making it difficult to interrupt its attacks. Dragonite can learn a wide variety of moves, including powerful Dragon-type moves like Dragon Claw and Outrage. It can also utilize Flying-type moves such as Hurricane and Aerial Ace. Additionally, Dragonite can master moves from other types, such as Ice Beam and Thunderbolt, making it a versatile Pokémon that can adapt to different battle situations.
Dragonite is one of the original 151 Pokémon introduced in the first generation of Pokémon games, Pokémon Red and Blue, making it a nostalgic favorite for many fans of the series.
Charizard (Pokemon series)
Charizard, the final evolution of the starter Pokémon Charmander, is one of the most iconic and well-loved figures in the entire Pokémon franchise. He is a powerful Fire/Flying-type Pokémon known for his fiery temper, impressive flying abilities, and loyal bond with trainers.
Charizard was originally designed to be the final evolution of all three Kanto starters, but this concept was scrapped due to time constraints. He was the first Pokémon to receive a Mega Evolution form in Pokémon X and Y, which give it different appearances and abilities.
One of the original 151 Pokémon introduced in the first generation, Charizard is a large, dragon-like Pokémon with orange scales, a cream-colored underside, and blue eyes. Its fierce appearance, powerful abilities, and memorable role as Ash’s loyal companion in the Pokémon anime have cemented its status as one of the most iconic and beloved Pokémon of all time.
Rayquaza (Pokemon)
Rayquaza is one of the legendary Pokémon known as the Weather Trio, alongside Groudon and Kyogre. It is said to reside in the ozone layer high above the earth, where it maintains balance and control over the weather. In Pokémon lore, Rayquaza is revered as a guardian deity that quells conflicts between Groudon and Kyogre, preventing them from engaging in destructive battles that could threaten the world.
Rayquaza is a serpentine Pokémon with green skin and a long, slender body. It has yellow eyes and a pair of wings on its back, allowing it to soar through the sky with ease. The most striking feature of Rayquaza is its large, fin-like appendages that extend from its head and wrap around its neck. These appendages can change color depending on its mood and are said to glow brightly when it mega evolves.
In Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire, Rayquaza has the ability to mega evolve into Mega Rayquaza. Mega Evolution is a temporary transformation that significantly boosts a Pokémon’s stats and grants it new abilities. Mega Rayquaza gains an even more impressive appearance, with its fin-like appendages growing larger and its body becoming more streamlined. Mega Rayquaza’s power is so immense that it does not require a Mega Stone to mega evolve, making it one of the few Pokémon to bypass this requirement.
Elder Dragon Gaismagorm (Monster Hunter Rise)
There are only a handful of Elder Dragons in Monster Hunter with none coming close to Elder Dragon Gaismagorm, the final boss of Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak. Gaismagorm is a visually stunning Elder Dragon, known for its immense size and ethereal appearance. Its body is adorned with vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and luminescent markings that give it an otherworldly aura. With its elongated horns and majestic wings, Gaismagorm is a sight to behold.
As an Elder Dragon, Gaismagorm possesses incredible power and unique abilities that make it a formidable opponent. Its elemental affiliation with the Thunder element allows it to harness and manipulate electricity, creating electrifying attacks that can be devastating if not properly anticipated. Gaismagorm also manipulates the Quiro, throwing charged crystals that explode with devastating energy, adding an element of ranged danger to the encounter.
Unlike most Elder Dragons, Gaismagorm is immune to Water and Ice elemental damage, forcing hunters to adapt their strategies and focus on other elemental weaknesses like Blast and Iceblight. While the origin of both remains shrouded in mystery, legends mention Gaismagorm as an ancient Elder Dragon slumbering deep within the earth.
Ender Dragon (Minecraft)
In the vast and blocky world of Minecraft, there are numerous creatures and challenges to encounter. One of the most iconic and formidable foes is the Ender Dragon. This massive, winged creature resides in the End dimension, guarding the End Portal and providing players with an epic battle to test their skills.
The Ender Dragon is an impressive sight to behold. It is a massive, black dragon with glowing purple eyes and a powerful set of wings. This boss has a total of 200 health points, making it a formidable opponent. The Ender Dragon possesses the ability to fly, shoot destructive purple fireballs, and charge at players with incredible speed and force.
Upon defeat, the Ender Dragon drops a large amount of experience orbs, which players can collect to gain levels. The Ender Dragon also drops a Dragon Egg, a decorative item that serves as a trophy for defeating the boss.In some versions of Minecraft, defeating the Ender Dragon also unlocks access to the End Gateway Portal, allowing players to travel beyond the central End island.
Darkeater Midir (Dark Souls III)
Midir, also referred to as the “Consume of Dark,” is an optional boss that resides in the depths of the Ringed City, guarding the secrets of the abyss. Darkeater Midir is an ancient dragon, one of the few remaining in the world of Dark Souls III. He was raised by the gods as a descendant of the Archdragons, the ancient rulers of the world. Midir was tasked with containing the spread of the Abyss, a dark and corrupting force that threatens to consume the world. Over time, however, Midir himself became corrupted by the Abyss, leading to his transformation into Darkeater Midir.
This ancient dragon is shrouded in darkness and possesses a relentless ferocity that can overwhelm even the most seasoned players. Darkeater Midir is depicted as an enormous dragon with dark scales and glowing red eyes. He possesses multiple wings and a long, serpentine body. Overall, Darkeater Midir is a legendary boss in Dark Souls, known for its awe-inspiring design, relentless attacks, and the sense of accomplishment that comes with overcoming such a formidable foe.
The Ur-Dragon (Dragon’s Dogma)
The Ur-Dragon is a mythical and ancient creature that has existed for centuries. It is said to be the source of all dragons in the world of Dragon’s Dogma. The Ur-Dragon is often referred to as the “Ultimate Dragon” or the “Dragon of Dragons.” It is an ancient creature with immense power and is considered the pinnacle of dragonkind. This colossal beast has a unique appearance, with multiple heads, wings, and a body covered in scales that shimmer with a dark, ethereal energy.
Encountering the Ur-Dragon is a rare and special event in the game. It is an online boss battle where players from around the world can participate simultaneously. The Ur-Dragon’s health is shared across all players, and each player has a limited time to deal as much damage as possible. Once the Ur-Dragon’s health is depleted, it is defeated, and all participants are rewarded with valuable loot and experience points.
Defeating the Ur-Dragon is no easy task. It requires careful planning, strategy, and a well-equipped party of skilled fighters. The creature’s attacks are devastating, and its resilience makes it a formidable adversary. However, the satisfaction of overcoming such a legendary foe is unparalleled.
Seath the Scaleless (Dark Souls)
Seath was one of the ancient dragons in the world of Dark Souls but was born without the stone scales that granted other dragons immortality. Feeling inferior and envious, he allied with Gwyn, the Lord of Sunlight, and betrayed his fellow dragons during the war against the Everlasting Dragons. Seath became obsessed with research and knowledge, particularly in the study of sorcery. He sought the secrets of immortality, which led him to experiment with dragon scales, crystals, and the nature of the soul. The creation of the Primordial Crystal grants him near-immortality by regenerating his health over time.
Seath is depicted as a large, serpentine dragon with iridescent scales covering his body. Unlike other dragons in the game, he lacks scales, giving him a pale, translucent appearance. He also has a pair of large, crystal-like appendages extending from his back.
Yiazmat (Final Fantasy XII)
Yiazmat, the Undying, is a legendary optional boss and Hunt Mark in Final Fantasy XII and its remaster, Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac Age. Known as the “Deathgaze”, it boasts an impressive 50 million hit points, making the battle a true test of endurance and strategy
Defeating Yiazmat grants the “Hunter Extraordinaire” trophy,as well as the Zodiac Spear, which is considered as one of the best weapons in the game.