Gyarados: The Ferocious Pokémon (#130) – Stats, Evolution, Lore, and Trading Card Guide

Gyarados is one of the most iconic and fearsome Pokémon in the entire franchise. Known for its intimidating appearance and devastating power, Gyarados has captured the imagination of Pokémon trainers since its debut in Pokémon Red and Blue. In this comprehensive biography, we’ll explore Gyarados stats, evolution, lore, and its coveted status in the Pokémon trading card game.

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Gyarados Overview

• Pokédex Number: #130
• Type: Water/Flying
• Evolution Chain: Magikarp → Gyarados

Gyarados is classified as the Atrocious Pokémon, reflecting its aggressive nature and legendary temper. It stands tall at 21’04’’ (6.5 m) and weighs 518.1 lbs (235 kg), making it one of the largest non-legendary Pokémon in the franchise.

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Gyarados Evolution: From Magikarp to Powerhouse

The Gyarados evolution story is one of Pokémon’s most famous tales of transformation. Gyarados evolves from the humble Magikarp, a Pokémon notorious for its weak splash attack and limited battle utility. At level 20, Magikarp undergoes a dramatic metamorphosis, evolving into Gyarados—a symbol of patience and reward for trainers who invest in its growth.

This evolution chain—Magikarp to Gyarados—draws inspiration from the Chinese legend of the carp that leapt over the Dragon Gate and became a dragon. This mythological connection adds depth to Gyarados lore and makes its evolution one of the most satisfying in all of Pokémon.

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Gyarados Stats and Battle Strengths

Gyarados is a powerhouse in battle, boasting impressive base stats that make it a favorite among competitive trainers:

• HP: 95
• Attack: 125
• Defense: 79
• Special Attack: 60
• Special Defense: 100
• Speed: 81

With its high Attack stat, Gyarados is a physical sweeper capable of dealing massive damage. Its Water/Flying typing grants it a unique set of resistances and vulnerabilities. Gyarados is immune to Ground-type moves and resists Steel, Bug, Fire, Water, and Fighting types. However, it is notably 4x weak to Electric-type attacks and vulnerable to Rock-type moves.

Gyarados’s movepool includes powerful attacks like Hydro Pump, Hyper Beam, Outrage, and the devastating Dragon Dance setup. Its Hidden Ability, Moxie, allows it to boost its Attack with every KO, making Gyarados a formidable force in both casual and competitive Pokémon battles.

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Gyarados Lore: A Legend of Rage and Power

The lore of Gyarados is steeped in tales of destruction and fury. According to the Pokédex, when Magikarp evolves into Gyarados, its brain structure changes drastically, causing it to become wildly violent. In ancient times, Gyarados were said to rampage for an entire month, leaving devastation in their wake.

This reputation for rage and power makes Gyarados both feared and respected in the Pokémon world. Its appearance is often considered a sign of catastrophe, and many legends warn of the havoc Gyarados can unleash when angered.

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Gyarados in the Pokémon Trading Card Game

Gyarados trading cards are highly sought after by collectors and players alike. The original Base Set Gyarados card, released in 1999, is a classic with its striking holographic artwork and impressive stats. Over the years, Gyarados has appeared in numerous expansions, including Shining Gyarados, Mega Gyarados-EX, and alternate art versions.

In the Pokémon TCG, Gyarados cards often feature high HP and potent attacks, mirroring its in-game strengths. Many Gyarados trading cards are prized for their rarity and aesthetic appeal, making them valuable additions to any collection.

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Conclusion

Gyarados stands as a testament to patience, power, and transformation in the Pokémon universe. With its unforgettable evolution from the weak Magikarp, formidable battle stats, and rich lore, Gyarados continues to be a fan favorite and a competitive staple. Whether you’re seeking to master its strengths in battle, delve into Gyarados lore, or hunt for a rare Gyarados trading card, this legendary Pokémon remains a symbol of the extraordinary hidden within the ordinary.

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Keywords: Pokémon, Gyarados stats, Gyarados evolution, Gyarados lore, Gyarados trading card, Pokédex #130, Water/Flying type, Magikarp, Gyarados.