Legendary Pokémon are the most prestigious in all the lands. They're rare, powerful, and typically have illustrious or mythical backstories. They're occasionally labeled as the mascots of their respective video games and they're given some of the most beautiful designs in the franchise.
As is the case with every awesome Pokémon, the Legendaries receive extra love in the form of fan art. Whether the creatures are intimidating or adorable, talented fans will find brilliant ways to pay homage to their favorites. Here are 10 pieces of Legendary Pokémon art we absolutely adore.
10 Dynamic Trio
Seoxys is a Canadian freelance artist that experiments with both 2D and 3D art styles. Commission information and contact forms can be found on her Instagram bio or Deviantart page.
This fusion of the original Legendary trio is so good that we can't believe it's not a real Pokémon. Articuno, Moltres, and Zapdos are all equally represented, which means Seoxys took her time to give each being the attention they deserve. The illustration is as blazing hot as it is icy and electric. All that's left is creating a clever name for the creature.
9 Zapdos
Kezrek is a digital artist whose portfolio is loaded with a diverse set of creature art. Therefore, it's no surprise that she portrays Pokémon so well. This artwork features Zapdos in its natural element and posing like the legend it is.
The detail that makes this piece stand out so much is the word "Instinct" rendered within the lightning. This serves as a nod to one of three teams that players can join in Pokémon GO. Team Mystic is represented by Articuno, Team Valor's symbol depicts Moltres, and Team Instinct features an image of Zapdos.
8 Suicune
Chobi-Pho has created many gorgeous Pokémon pieces, but this particular Suicune artwork is arguably the most majestic of them all. The Legendary being was front and center on the cover of Pokémon Crystal where it looks just as impressive as it does in this fan art.
Of course, the inclusion of the Northern Lights heightened the image to new levels. They flawlessly complement Suicune's color scheme and add an air of royalty and elegance. The texture of the art is smooth and soothing, much like the personality of the Legendary Water-type Pokémon.
7 Latias
Latias is already adorable enough in her own way, but German artist Tanukky delves even deeper into the cuteness within her portfolio. This isn't the only "Little Latias" on the fan's page, but they're all incredibly charming so it's hard to choose a singular favorite.
The tiny Legendary Pokémon is endearing and makes us wish we could catch one in the video games. The flower is a sweet addition that makes Latias look even softer, but the entire image benefits most from its vibrant colors. Another piece on Tanukky's page depicts Little Latias with a baby Eevee and it's also worth a glance.
6 Entei
Ilse Gort is an artist from the Netherlands who drew this Entei portrait as a passion project of sorts, but luckily she posted her work online so we could revel in it. Entei is a notable Fire-type Legendary Pokémon with a roar as mighty as its appearance. A creature so powerful warrants only the most impressive fan art.
This rendition of Entei is boosted by the incredible attention to detail regarding the hair. The texture places this artwork somewhere along the lines of semi-realism, especially when coupled with the striking red eyes.
5 Xerneas
Xerneas is a relatively new Legendary Pokémon from Generation VI, so fans of the old-school games might not be familiar. As the mascot for Pokémon X, Xerneas is a Fairy-type stag-like creature with embellished antlers. It's basically the video game version of Bambi, but with some added flair.
Filipino artist Mark331 brought Xerneas to life within a suitable setting that exudes tranquility and grace. The Pokémon itself is rendered flawlessly, but the rainbow of colors on its antlers are the most pleasing details. As the Pokédex entries mention, the horns on its head shine when it is sharing everlasting life.
4 The Musical Birdies
Have you ever wondered what the mighty trio that is Articuno, Zapdos, and Moltres would look like as small birds with cool sunglasses? Well, wonder no more because SoftMonKeychains handled the visuals for us. "The Musical Birdies", as she calls them, are utterly adorable and we would love to hear whatever tunes they have to sing.
This fan art is unique and has a charisma that can't be ignored. The Legendary birds share palpable happiness and they're ready to play that huge sold-out show they've been preparing for all month. You can read about the personalities bestowed on them by the artist on the picture's caption.
3 Legendary Babies
Apparently, a ton of fans want baby Legendary Pokémon and talented artists are more than willing to provide. Chiakiro, a fan from Finland, specializes in semi-realistic illustrations. Her portfolio bears images of several other Pokémon in the same art style, but nothing quite beats the "Legendary Babies".
While the previous entry depicts Articuno, Zapdos, and Moltres in a cartoon-like fashion, this interpretation aims for realism. Chiakiro succeeds in making the fantasy creatures appear life-like despite their unusual physical characteristics. Sure, baby Moltres is on fire, but all that matters is that it's happy and can handle the heat.
2 Mega Rayquaza
RenePolumorfous is a self-taught freelance artist/cosplayer from Greece who specializes in realistic portrayals of beasts, creatures, and dragons. In other words, Pokémon is right up her alley. The evidence is in this phenomenal image of Generation III's Rayquaza after its Mega Evolution.
The picture of the Legendary Dragon/Flying-type Pokémon is equal parts impressive and intimidating. Its size in comparison to the human and the Mega Blaziken shown standing before it is daunting. We can't even begin to fathom a monster so massive. However, Mega Rayquaza's stats indicate that, in the real world, it would probably appear exactly as RenePolumorfous illustrated.
1 Life Keeper Xerneas
RenePolumorfous has such a remarkable portfolio that we had to include another one of her artworks on the list. This time, it's a rendition of Pokémon X's mascot, Xerneas. The title of the piece, "Life Keeper", alludes to the horns that are said to share eternal life.
"Life Keeper" emanates the mysticism that a Legendary Pokémon should possess. The blend of colors is stunning and the size of the antlers alone is mind-blowing. Xerneas is presented like a creature in a wild dream (or nightmare, depending on the context). Regardless, it's quite a magical sight.