10 Pokémon Inspired By Real-World Mythological Creatures
7. Gyarados Is Inspired By Asian Dragons
No one could have predicted James' seemingly useless Magikarp would become a literal game-changer. To most Trainers—including Team Rocket—the idea of dragging around a flopping fish isn't exactly appealing.
Though it may seem like a fool's errand to tote about a sea creature whose signature move is "Splash," Magikarp evolves into one of the most powerful monsters: A dragon.
Gyrados is inspired by mythological Asian dragons. Known for their violence and unpredictability, mythological dragons love causing all kinds of destruction—especially hurricanes. Because of the monster's Water-type, Gyrados might be based on the kami Ryujin, who similarly rocks a giant mouth and has the power of the ocean backing it up.
Even the Pokédex describes the scaled water serpent as, "Once Gyarados goes on a rampage, its ferociously violent blood doesn't calm until it has burned everything down. There are records of this Pokémon's rampages lasting a whole month."
Word to the wise: Stay out of his hydro-pump attack's way.