Collector’s Guide: Dark Blastoise (Team Rocket #3)

Quick Facts

Dark Blastoise is a Stage 2 Water-type Pokémon from the Team Rocket set, illustrated by Mitsuhiro Arita. It has 70 HP and features two attacks: Hydrocannon, which deals 30 damage plus additional damage based on attached Water Energy, and Rocket Tackle, which inflicts self-damage but can prevent damage on the next opponent’s turn. This card is classified as a Rare Holo and has a retreat cost of 2. It is weak to Lightning-type attacks with a ×2 multiplier. The card’s legality status is unknown.

Key Printings

• Set: Team Rocket (base5)
• Card Number: 3
• Rarity: Rare Holo
• Illustrator: Mitsuhiro Arita
• Stage: Stage 2 (evolves from Dark Wartortle)
• Type: Water
• HP: 70

Variants & Identifiers

This printing does not have known print variants. Key identifiers include the set code “base5-3” and the card’s unique attacks and artwork by Mitsuhiro Arita. The card is part of the original Team Rocket expansion, notable for its dark-themed Pokémon.

Care & Storage Tips

To preserve the holofoil and card condition, store Dark Blastoise in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the card surface to maintain its collector value. Use a top loader or binder with individual pockets for long-term storage.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

• Team Rocket (base5): Introduced Dark Pokémon and featured darker, more aggressive artwork and themes. Dark Blastoise stands out as a powerful Water-type Stage 2 Pokémon with unique attacks that emphasize energy management and tactical defense.

Legality: unknown