Introduced in Generation VI of the Pokémon games, the fairy types have been one of the more controversial inclusions to the franchise. There are avid fans who adore these often cute and cuddly creatures, some are glad they are effective counters to the powerful Dragons and Dark types, while others are annoyed that cute fairy types can counter the mighty Dragons and fearsome Dark types.

In any case there are many fans who have been gushing over these adorable monsters and have shown their appreciation through fan art. Here are some notable works of art depicting these Pokémon.

10 Clefairy

The fairy Pokémon most fans are most familiar with is probably CLefairy. Initially a Normal type in Generation I it has since been converted over to a fairy-type which seems very fitting for the pink furball from the moon.

Here, TsaoShin does a fine job depicting this Pokémon in all of its fluffy glory. It’s hard to imagine this thing going up against Dragons, but odds are many fans of this particular Pokémon would rather spend time cuddling with it then sending it out to fight.

9 Alolan Ninetales

This beautiful piece shows the Alolan form of Ninetales from Generation VII. On those colorful islands it is an Ice/Fairy type rather than the familiar fire. It was considered a diety when first encountered by the islanders and it’s not hard to see why.

Jaqueline Florencio has done an amazing job with this art piece showing the Alolan Ninetales as a shimmering icy creature of grace and beauty. While it is gorgeous to look at you can’t help but feel there’s a lot of raw power and ferocity underneath that sparkling exterior.

8 AZ And His Floette

AZ and his floette are a very interesting part of the lore in Pokémon X & Y. His Floette participated in a massive Pokémon war and died. Upset at the loss he created a machine that successfully brought Floette back to life. Enraged at the loss he turned the weapon on the two sides in the war and Floette left him, only to return through the player’s actions.

Maria Jang created this piece to show the odd pair together after Floette has forgiven its trainer. It’s incredible to think the death of such a small creature could have been the catalyst for widespread death and destruction.

7 Granbull

Granbull is certainly an odd Pokémon to be considered a fairy type. Sure it’s pink, but until Generation VI it was considered a Normal type and the underbite doesn’t seem in line with how fairy Pokémon typically appear. That said it is known for being timid which seems fitting for fairy-types.

Ruth Tay illustrated this piece that’s considered a more realistic depiction of how Granbull would appear in the real world. This fairy mutt would certainly be an interesting companion to have around the house and honestly be a great pet, as long as you don’t make it mad enough to bite you.

6 Life Keeper

This gorgeous artwork by RenePolumorfous is the legendary Xerneas, it’s a Pokémon said to be capable of granting eternal life and was once a tree for thousands of years before awakening. Many fans believe it to be a lesser form of Arceus given their similar appearances and deer-like figures.

This piece seems to give Xerneas a sense of glory and also menace. This creature capable of giving life seems just as capable of taking it away in this picture and will do so to any that threaten it or the life around it.

5 Lycanveon

This is a creative twist on the fairy Pokémon Sylveon, the fairy evolution of Eevee. Lycanveon was created by TsaoShin and it retains similarities to Sylveon, with some notable alterations that make it more intimidating.

Amidst the bows and colorful ribbons is a beast with fangs and razor sharp claws. It’s described as a fusion piece and is a fine bit of fanart. It does raise the interesting question of what lycans would be like in this universe, are there humans who transform into certain Pokémon on full moons? It’s an interesting thought with terrifying potential.

4 Mega Altaria

Altaria is the only Pokémon that is a Dragon/Fairy hybrid. This crossover of rivals combined with a Mega evolution form results in Mega Altaria, a bird-like creature wreathed in clouds. It’s said that it’s song will produce dreamy wonderment in whoever hears it.

DenaJarawr digitally recreated this Pokémon and illustrated a pair of Swablu to accompany it. It’s the kind of creature you’d be excited to see given it’s gentle temperament and soothing song. It would be fascinating to see a Mega Altaria descending out of the clouds like it is in this piece.

3 Realistic Galarian Weezing

Easily the most out of place entry on this list, the Galarian Weezing is truly a grotesque sight to behold after seeing all the beautiful and enchanting fairies. Nevertheless this form of Weezing is a Poison/Fairy hybrid which is why it appears here.

Randi Sánchez did a great job depicting this monstrosity in all it’s glory. The Galarian form of Weezing is said to ingest toxins and produce clean air as a result, this Weezing must be in a particularly polluted place and has a lot of work to do.

2 Sylveon

Here we see the enchanting Sylveon in a more traditional depiction. Using soft baby colors Joakaha did a great job making Sylveon look adorable.

Considering this Pokémon is only obtained if the Eevee it evolves from has enough affection for the trainer you know this is a tender and caring Pokémon. Even the games describe it as a calming Pokémon that will snuggle with its trainer. Don’t let its demeanor and appearance fool you however, in Pokémon Shield there’s a fairy tale that claims it was able to bring down a fierce Dragon type.

1 Zacian

Zacian is the mascot of the recent game Pokémon Sword and the final fairy type to appear on this list. Granted it’s a Fairy/Steel, but it stands apart from many other pure fairy and hybrid fairy types for having an intimidating appearance and ferocious combat potential.

Tagawa created this work of art to illustrate what Zacian would look like when engaging foes in battle with its sword. It’s a great piece that’s full of colorful detail.

NEXT: Pokémon Sword And Shield: The 15 Strongest Pokémon, Ranked