Dragonite has always embodied the heart of the Pokémon TCG. Strong yet kind, powerful yet approachable, it is a Pokémon that resonates with collectors and players across generations. Over the decades, Dragonite cards have carried iconic artwork, inventive mechanics, and lasting appeal.
This list highlights the ten best Dragonite cards, chosen for their design, collectibility, gameplay influence, and place in the game’s history.
10. Dragonite (3) – Delta Species
This dual-type Dragonite from the Delta Species set stands out as one of the few Dragonites with an alternate typing: Metal and Colorless. Its Poké-Body “Delta Charge” enables Energy acceleration, giving it a practical edge in casual play. Collectors prize it for representing the unusual and experimental flavor of the Delta Species era. The artwork reflects a more stoic Dragonite, perfectly matching its alternate identity.
9. Dragonite GX (248) – SM Unified Minds (Secret Rare)
As a rainbow secret rare, this Dragonite GX is striking for its vivid foil and presence. While it never defined top-level tournaments, its GX moves offered heavy-hitting options for fans of high-damage decks. Today it is remembered less for dominance and more for presentation. Collectors often seek it as part of the full GX rainbow chase from the Unified Minds era.
8. Dark Dragonite (5) – Legendary Collection (Reverse Holo)
The Legendary Collection reprint of Dark Dragonite gained fame thanks to the unforgettable “firework” reverse holo pattern. With the same “Summon Minions” Pokémon Power as its Team Rocket counterpart, it let players search for Basic Pokémon. Beyond mechanics, the combination of Dark Dragonite’s imposing look and the bold reverse holo effect makes it one of the flashiest cards from early reprint sets.
7. Dragonite ex (90) – EX Dragon
A hallmark of the EX era, Dragonite ex delivered power in every sense. Its “Dragon Wave” attack packed damage at a time when high-HP ex cards shaped battles. The artwork emphasizes Dragonite’s raw strength, showing it in a true battle-ready stance. For mid-2000s collectors, this card is a touchstone of the EX series and a reminder of when Dragon-types gained spotlight treatment.
6. Dragonite ex δ (91) – EX Dragon Frontiers
This Delta Species version turned Dragonite into a Grass-type, breaking from its traditional Dragon identity. The silver-bordered design and the delta symbol gave it an experimental edge. It may not have ruled tournaments, but it became a collector’s favorite for its bold reimagining. As part of Dragon Frontiers, a set renowned for creativity, it still stands as one of the most unusual Dragonite cards ever printed.
5. Dragonite V (192/203) – Evolving Skies (Alternate Art)
Modern players and collectors alike recognize this card as one of the most beautiful Dragonites ever made. The artwork shows Dragonite drifting peacefully mid-flight, embodying its gentle side rather than its battle prowess. Though its gameplay role was modest, the full-art alternate design from Evolving Skies has secured long-term collector demand. It perfectly captures why Dragonite remains beloved: a powerful Pokémon with a soft nature.
4. Dragonite (9) – Expedition (Holo Rare)
From the e-Card era, this Dragonite was compatible with the Game Boy Advance e-Reader, making it one of the most unique cards in TCG history. Its “Tailwind” Poké-Power granted free retreat for the Active Pokémon, a useful utility at the time. The art depicts Dragonite joyfully soaring across a clear sky, tying gameplay and imagery together. Because of its e-Reader link and limited-era distribution, it is highly sought after today.
3. Dark Dragonite (5) – Team Rocket (Holo Rare)
This Dragonite broke expectations when it appeared as a “Dark” Pokémon in the Team Rocket set. Its “Step In” Power allowed quick switches into the Active spot, giving it tactical utility. Beyond gameplay, the art portrayed Dragonite with a mischievous, almost sinister edge, contrasting its usual gentle nature. For collectors of early WotC sets, this card represents both nostalgia and novelty.
2. Light Dragonite (14) – Neo Destiny (Holo Rare)
One of the most distinctive Dragonites ever printed, Light Dragonite from Neo Destiny shows the Pokémon at its most peaceful. Its “Miraculous Wind” Power shut down all other Pokémon Powers, offering strong defense while fitting its serene theme. The watercolor-style art perfectly captures the Light Pokémon concept. As part of the limited Light and Dark experiment in Neo Destiny, it is a centerpiece for Dragonite collectors and a favorite for fans who appreciate the softer side of the Dragon Pokémon.
1. Dragonite (4) – Fossil (Holo Rare)
The original Fossil holo Dragonite remains the definitive card for the species. Its “Step In” Power provided a flexible switch effect, while its cheerful, rounded artwork cemented Dragonite as a fan favorite among the original 150. Collectors chase it in 1st Edition and mint-graded forms, making it one of the most recognizable cards in Pokémon TCG history. For many, this card was their first encounter with Dragonite, and it still defines the character’s legacy.
Dragonite’s TCG history mirrors its place in the Pokémon world: powerful yet approachable, fierce yet gentle. From nostalgic vintage cards to modern alternate arts, each version captures a different side of its personality. For collectors, these ten cards represent the very best of what Dragonite has offered across decades of Pokémon TCG history.
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