Collector’s Guide: Dark Weezing (Team Rocket #31)

Quick Facts

• Pokémon: Dark Weezing
• Set: Team Rocket (Base)
• Card Number: 31
• Rarity: Rare
• HP: 60
• Type: Grass
• Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Koffing)
• Illustrator: Shin-ichi Yoshida
• Legality: unknown

Dark Weezing features two attacks: Mass Explosion, which deals damage based on the number of Koffings, Weezings, and Dark Weezings in play and also damages those Pokémon, and Stun Gas, which can Poison or Paralyze the opponent’s Active Pokémon.

Key Printings

This guide focuses on the exact printing from the Team Rocket base set, card number 31. This is the only known printing with these specific attributes and artwork by Shin-ichi Yoshida.

Variants & Identifiers

• No alternate print variants are known for this card.
• Identifiers include the set code base5, card number 31, and the rarity symbol indicating Rare.
• The card is a Stage 1 Grass-type Pokémon with a retreat cost of 1 and a Psychic weakness (×2).
• Flavor text: “Researchers have observed these Pokémon reproducing in industrial waste sites.”

Care & Storage Tips

• Store the card in a protective sleeve to preserve the artwork and prevent edge wear.
• Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture to avoid fading and warping.
• Use a rigid top-loader or binder with individual pockets for added protection.
• Handle with clean hands to prevent oils or dirt from damaging the card surface.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

• Team Rocket (Base): This set introduced Dark Pokémon cards, including Dark Weezing, which adds a thematic twist with its Grass typing and unique attacks. The set is notable for its darker artwork and gameplay mechanics focusing on disruption and poison effects.

This Dark Weezing card remains a sought-after piece for collectors interested in the Team Rocket era and Dark Pokémon theme. Its unique attacks and classic illustration make it a standout in the base set lineup.