Dragon-type Pokémon exhibit a unique dynamic in their battle mechanics, particularly regarding their weaknesses. Here’s how Dragon-type Pokémon can be weak to their own type:
Type Interactions: In the Pokémon games, Dragon-type Pokémon are weak to attacks from other Dragon-types. This means that when a Dragon-type Pokémon is hit by a Dragon-type move, it takes double damage. This design choice was made for balancing reasons, ensuring that Dragon-types have vulnerabilities despite their overall strength14.
Historical Context: Initially, in the first generation of Pokémon games, Dragon-types were also weak against Ice and Fairy types. However, the introduction of Fairy types in Generation VI added another layer to their weaknesses while maintaining their susceptibility to other Dragon moves12.
Strategic Implications: This inherent weakness means that trainers should be cautious when using Dragon-types against each other. Instead of relying solely on Dragon-type moves, it is often more strategic to use Ice or Fairy-type Pokémon to counter opposing Dragons effectively. Ice-type moves are particularly potent against common Dragon-types, dealing quadruple damage due to their dual weaknesses23.
Dragon-type Pokémon are primarily weak to:
Dragon-type moves (double damage)
Ice-type moves
Fairy-type moves
This unique interaction emphasizes the need for strategic planning in battles involving Dragon-types, as they can be both powerful and vulnerable at the same time145.