Goodra are among Kalos' strongest pokemon, an answer to fearsome beasts such as Tyranitar and Dragonite far more popular worldwide, but they are also among the most underestimated. Skilled trainers from other regions often mistake Goodra for a weaker dragon, only to be surprised at how their powerful blows are seamlessly absorbed into their foe's thick layer of goo, with their own pokemon slower for their troubles. Goodra endure this reputation primarily because of their appearance, although large and bulky, appears sluggish and somewhat whimsical; the sight of constantly dripping goo connotes children's entertainment, not champions. But Dragonite, despite their best efforts, have been a source of fright in Kanto as well as Kalos, and many have opined that they look no scarier than Goodra.
Legends of dragons terrorizing villages, warring with knights, and abducting maidens have never starred Goodra; if it features at all, it as a benevolent and often overwhelmed protector of the innocent from far more dangerous dragons. Perhaps the origins of Goodra's rarely receiving the respect their power merits can be found in the truth conveyed by these tales - for Goodra, although dangerous to rival pokemon, have rarely posed a threat to human settlements or even individuals. The only thing people have ever feared from the Goodra is becoming covered in slime after a show of affection, which can be remedied with a shower or a swim; a wrong move around a Salamence, on the other hand, has often meant being eaten.
A few have sought to remedy Goodra's public image, but far more have used it as a source of motivation for their pokemon, and continued to gain advantages by playing on their opponent's ignorance – for few pokemon trainers will sacrifice anything that helps them win.