FTM: Dark - Tyranitar, 'Gojira'

The original Gold and Silver games will always be special to me. Red and Blue introduced me to the wondrous game which would keep me in its unforgiven grip for years to come, sure, but the next generation was the time when I took my quest seriously. Teams were made, routes were scoured for new species, battles were lost only to be won later, and to unravel the machineries and features behind that game was a source of contentment in itself. So after conquering the elite four and beating Red to a pulp, I was left with the inevitable question: What now? As for me, I ended up learning about pokémon in the only way I could: train them myself to see when they evolved and what they learned. I guess the internet was already there for some quick and accessible answers, BUT NO, had to do it myself. But undertaking that task myself and experience it all in first perspective really made for a stronger impression and better commitment to the game, or at least now that I think about it now that years have passed.

At this point I'm sure several of you are wondering what any of this is even remotely connected to a picture of Tyranitar whatsoever, but rest assured, I'm getting to it.

After training a whole bunch of dudes and beasts alike, I ended up with Larvitar as my next subject. Unlike Gen I, I actually didn't know of all the species contained with the Johto region, so the discovery of Larvitar alone was surprising. As he later evolved into Pupitar, and learning cool stuff like Rock Slide and Crunch along the way, I quickly started to like that rocky shell. And then he evolved again.

I am going to be perfectly clear about this. Watching Pupitar turn into the monstrous behemoth commonly known as Tyranitar is one of my all-time best gaming moments which has eternally been burnt into my cerebral core. He's big, dark type, and he's armed to his teeth with the deadliest moves Gen II had to offer at the time. I'd like to call him badass, but I'm afraid that would be an understatement. So yeah, instant spot on the team right then and there.

Naturally, as time continues to pass, so did my hype, but this sturdy t-rex will always be my number one pseudo-legendary. The more recent sprites and artwork of him is more slim and smooth, so this drawing is more of a homage to his earliest appearance, which shows more of his bulk and rugged hide. Rock on, big guy.

This image was drawn as a part of my take on Aqua's Favorite Type Meme, this one is submitted for the explanation behind my choice and to show it off in its original resolution (press Download).