Where To Find Dragons in Dragon's Dogma 2

As the name very well suggests, dragons are a focal point in Dragon's Dogma 2, whereby the Arisen is tasked with tracking down the dragon that is bonded to them and slaying them to save the world. While the great dragon poses a major threat to the survival of players, it is not the only fire-breathing reptile that they'll encounter as they journey through the kingdoms of Battahl and Vermund.

Lesser Dragons and Drakes are littered throughout Dragon's Dogma 2 and are the source of very valuable resources known as Wyrmslife Crystals, which are particularly important in the later stages of the game. While this is heavily sought after, they're also a great test of the strength of a player's build, and are also an express ticket to leveling players up on account of the significant XP rewards you receive for slaying them. As such, this guide will direct you on how to find and kill dragons in Dragon's Dogma 2.

Dragon’s Dogma 2: How To Respawn Boss Enemies

Knowing when and how bosses respawn is key knowledge to have in Dragon's Dogma 2's late game. Especially when farming enhancement materials.

How To Beat Drakes & Lesser Dragons in DD2

A Drake holding the Arisen in Dragon’s Dogma 2

Lesser Dragons and Drakes are among the most difficult enemies to overcome in Dragon's Dogma 2, which likely comes as no surprise to players given their reputation in mythology and the fact that the game's story is centered around them. Nonetheless, players will need to come in with a game plan in order to survive an encounter with these fire-breathing beasts. It is important first, however, that players are able to differentiate between a Drake and Lesser Dragon, as the creature you encounter may sway your battle strategy.

The Difference Between Lesser Dragon and Drake in DD2, Explained

While both pose a significant threat to the Arisen and their party of Pawns, it is important to note the main differences between Drakes and Lesser Dragons in Dragon's Dogma 2, as a sound knowledge of this will better prepare you to fight them. The two creatures possess distinctly different offensive abilities and weaknesses, so it is worth scoping out the beast before getting close enough to engage with it.

A Drake is considered to be the weaker of the two dragon types, but this doesn't mean that they won't send the Arisen to their doom if they are not adequately prepared. These creatures are weak to ice magic abilities and their biggest weakness to attack is their heart, which players will note is wide open and able to be struck.

While this is a blaring weakness that can easily be exploited, it is the offensive abilities that really set Drakes apart, as they are capable of performing magical attacks to obliterate any threats. Expect to see displays of fire or lightning magicks when encountering this beast, so it is important to always be on the move.

On the other hand, a Lesser Dragon possesses offensive abilities that coincide with a more traditional understanding of the mythological creatures. Expect a plethora of attacks with the beast's claws, tail, and teeth, as well as an impressive display of fire attacks.

While Lesser Dragons also bear a weakness to ice attacks and have a weak point in their heart, players will want to focus their attention on the glowing purple cysts that cover the Dragon's body. These will heal once you've ruptured them all, so be mindful to try and keep away from its limbs and teeth and focus your attention on these cysts.

How To Defeat Drakes & Lesser Dragons in DD2

Dragon's Dogma 2 Magick Archer fighting a dragon

With their weaknesses in mind, players will want to take a few things into consideration before taking on a Drake or Lesser Dragon. These beasts are designed to be some of the hardest combat encounters in the game and ultimately will prepare you for what is ahead, so it is a great way to test the strength of your build and the composition of your team of Pawns. Here are some things to consider when taking on a dragon:

Choose Your Vocation Wisely - choose the vocation that best suits your playstyle. Naturally, it is safest to go for a class that favors ranged and magic attacks like the Archer or Sorcerer, but you can still be effective as a Fighter or Warrior. The important thing here is biding your time, getting in and getting straight back out before the beast has a chance to counter you.
Always Be On The Move - this is especially important against Drakes, as standing in one spot will result in the Arisen being fried by a particularly potent elemental magic attack, which only ends in a quick death.
Consider Your Team Composition - as with any tough battle, ensure you cover as many bases as you can with your team of Pawns. It's important to have some firepower offensively, but don't overlook the value of a Pawn that supports you with curatives and healing or by granting your weapons an elemental boon.
Focus Only On The Weaknesses - dragons have incredibly tough, scaly skin that will repel most attacks almost effortlessly, so don't waste your time and stamina on trying to puncture them. Instead, focus your energy and time on hitting the weak points on the dragon's body. Consider using elemental attacks in particular when aiming for the heart or cysts for a more effective attack on the beast.

Character in robe armor surrounded by magick and Medusa turning people into stone

Dragon's Dogma 2: Best Armor For Magick Defense

Looking to protect yourself from magic in Dragon's Dogma 2? These are the best armor pieces for the job.

All Dragon Locations in Dragon's Dogma 2

While not as easily found as the likes of Minotaurs or Griffins, there are a few areas that dragons call home that players can venture to and engage in a hotly contested battle with.

These locations apply to the pre-ending playthrough, whereas players who encounter the true ending to the game will find other locations indicated by red beacons.

All Known Lesser Dragon & Drake Locations

Location	Kingdom	How To Find
Northern Harve Ruins	Vermund	Take the road to the north of Harve Village. The dragon can be seen sitting in a clear field just by the ruins.
Ancient Battleground	Vermund	Can be found on the western side of the Ancient Battleground, usually fighting a Cyclops to begin with.
Eastern Vermund	Vermund	The closest landmark is the Nameless Village, but it is across the river. Backtrack from the village and across the river, then head north.
Bridge of Theodracus	Vermund	Cross the bridge to the northwest of Harve Village. The dragon can be found somewhat hidden in the forest and won't engage with you unless you provoke it.
North of Bridge of Theodracus	Vermund	Take the main road to the north after the Bridge of Theodracus and take the left in the fork in the road. As the road hugs the river, you'll find the dragon there.
Merve Village	Vermund	You'll likely find this creature during the "Readvent Of Calamity" quest. If you don't, then keep an eye out whenever you visit Merve as it will likely appear at some point.
Dragonsbreath Tower	Battahl	Take the winding road up to the Tower on the far west of Battahl. You will pass Medusa's lair along the way.
Tomb of Renu’Lebarr	Battahl	Almost directly north of Dragonsbreath Tower. Take the road back north of the tower and turn to the west and follow the passage along there again.
Volcanic Island Camp	Agamen Volcanic Island	Go directly north of the Volcanic Island Camp until you reach a beach. The dragon will be awaiting you there.
West of Excavation Site	Agamen Volcanic Island	From the Excavation Site, take the road to the north then turn to the south again and follow the road there. You'll find the dragon lurking among molten rock and lava.