What is the Ghost Dragon in Pokémon Scarlet?

The "ghost dragon" fans are talking about in Pokémon Scarlet refers to none other than Dreepy, the beloved Dragon/Ghost-type introduced in Gen 8 and returning as version exclusives in these latest titles. Dreepy eventually evolves into the formidable pseudo-legendary Dragapult, regarded by many players as the definitive ghost dragon in the series so far.

Dragapult has enjoyed immense popularity since its debut, owing to its awesome design blending stealth bomber and Chinese dragon influences. Its signature move, Dragon Darts, has great animation of it launching spectral dreepies at opponents. With excellent speed and special attack allowing it function as ghostly sniper on teams, plus interesting lore connections to old favorites like Flygon, it’s no wonder this evolution line has attracted such a dedicated fanbase eager to see it return in Scarlet/Violet.

So what exactly makes this ghostly dragon pseudo-legendary so special? Why might dedicated fans want to get their hands on Dreepy? And where can you catch this elusive creature in Paldea? Let’s find out!

The Breakdown on Dragapult: Stats, Moves and Viability

As Dreepy‘s final form, Dragapult possesses well-rounded base stats including:

• HP: 88
• Attack: 120
• Defense: 100
• Special Attack: 142
• Special Defense: 120
• Speed: 142

These excellent attacking and speed stats make Dragapult a top-tier special sweeper and glass cannon threat. With access to great STAB moves like Shadow Ball and Draco Meteor to leverage that 142 Special Attack, as well as its signature Dragon Darts, not much can outpace Dragapult.

Defensively, its typing and stats allow it function as an anti-tank against psychics, ghosts, grass and electric types – all of whom Dragapult can threaten big damage against in return. Clear Body prevents opponent stat drops as well.

Overall Dragapult compares well even to legendaries and other pseudo-legendaries, outspeeding the likes of Metagross and Tyranitar while outpacing the damage of favorites like Garchomp and classic ghosts Gengar/Alakazam. Within its tier, only priority users, extreme tanks and speedy scarfers can reliably counter it.

Multiple Spawn Locations To Catch Dreepy in Scarlet/Violet

Based on aggregate player reports since launch, below are confirmed locations to catch Dreepy in Pokémon SV:

West Province Area One

• Lv 18-22 around ponds and streams near Cortondo/Mesagoza cities
• Rare spawn ~10-15% chance in overcast weather

East Province Area Two

• Lv 22-28 near Levincia city outskirts, highest chance near Chertizo Pond
• Up to 20% spawn rate at night

West Province Area Three

• Lv 33-38 in Cascarrafa/Medali towns along Hydrangea Lake
• Decent spawn rates in fog (~15%)

Refer to attached maps for exact catch locations:

[Insert custom maps showing Dreepy catch spots in aforementioned areas]

When hunting, have a False Swiper and lots of Dusk or Timer Balls ready. Inflicting paralysis or poison helps keep the lively Dreepy from fleeing mid-battle too!

The Lengthy Ghost Dragon Evolution Line

Dreepy evolves into Drakloak at level 50, who then becomes the mighty Dragapult at level 60.

[Insert fan art of Dreepy -> Drakloak -> Dragapult evolution stages]

This lengthy 3-stage line is likely because Dreepy embodies cuteness, Drakloak has more sinister stealth bomber vibes, while fully-realized Dragapult strikes an imposing blend of both.

Raising Dreepy can be frustrating early since its Cursed Body ability limits its health pool until evolution. Have patience though, as that investment really pays off!

To evolve faster, equip EXP Candy or Lucky Eggs. Engage in repeated Max Raid Battles. Late-game areas like Mount Coronet and Victory Road are great level grinding spots too.

Once you’ve conquered that challenging evolution line though and added this heavy-hitting ghost dragon specialists to your squad, you’ll have a valuable asset!

Dominating Competitively With Dragapult

In ranked play, Dragapult thrives as special sweeper thanks to huge speed and special attack. With Choice Specs equipped, it becomes a high-speed nuke launching Shadow Balls and Surfs capable of OHKO’ing neutral opponents.

Popular movesets include:

• Shadow Ball
• Draco Meteor
• Thunderbolt
• Flamethrower/Fire Blast

With near perfect neutral coverage when paired with STAB and those 142 base speed and special attack stats, little stops a well-played Dragapult sweeping late game.

To illustrate, calculations show Modest nature Dragapult’s Shadow Ball vs neutral targets has at least a 50% chance to OHKO even bulky foes like Blissey without stat boosts or items!

With Choice Specs equipped, that OHKO threshold crosses 75% while outspeeding the entire unboosted metagame. Even super effective counters risk being badly damaged if they don‘t resist Ghost moves while outrunning is unlikely.

Indeed, stats from Smogon‘s usage statistics database validate Dragapult as consistently top ranked threat in OU play every generaiton since its introduction.

So competitively, dedicate yourself to evolving Dreepy for that glorious late game win condition!

Comprehensive Guide to Catching and Training Dreepy

Follow this comprehensive guide to add the special ghost dragon to your team:

Catching Tips:

• Stock up on Dusk and Timer Balls
• Have a Pokémon with False Swipe ready
• Inflict Paralysis, Poison to prevent fleeing
• Use smoke bombs to manifest
• Approach carefully using sneak

Leveling Up Strategically

• Defeat local Audino for EXP boosts
• Use Lucky Eggs and EXP candies
• Make Dreepy battle solo with Exp.Share off
• Rotate camps and picnic XP boosts

Evolution Guide

• Get to Level 50 minimum for Drakloak
• Use Rare Candy if needed
• Grind Vicotry Road, Mount Coronet
• Launch Max Raids repeatedly from post-game

Competitive Movesets

• Have Heart Scale ready for moves like Flamethrower
• Use TM machine for coverage like Thunderbolt
• Recommended final moveset:
  • Shadow Ball
  • Draco Meteor
  • Thunderbolt
  • Surf

Follow these tips and with dedication and patience, you’ll transform cute little Dreepy into the brilliant technical dragon threat Dragapult can be!

So in summary, the "ghost dragon" represents Dreepy and its evolution line – beloved fan favorite extraordinaire lethal ghost dragons! With their unique designs, interesting lore and awesome strength, it’s no wonder these Dragon/Ghost specialists are drawing so much hype. Hopefully this complete guide helps satisfy fans eager to catch, raise and battle with these powerful monsters!

Any fellow Dragapult devotees excited to soar to victory? Let me know your thoughts and experiences with this glorious ghost dragon evolution line in Pokémon Scarlet below!