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  • Collector’s Guide: Torchic (Dark Explorers #15)

    Collector’s Guide: Torchic (Dark Explorers #15)

    Torchic (Dark Explorers 15) Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Torchic from the Dark Explorers set is a common card numbered 15 with 60 HP. This fiery Pokémon features the attack Live Coal, showcasing its ember-based offense. Its straightforward design fits well within any collection focused on early-stage Fire-type Pokémon.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Dark Explorers 15 Common 60 Atsuko Nishida
    • Type: Fire
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Water ×2
    • Attacks:
    • Peck (10 damage, 1 Fire energy)
    • Live Coal (20 damage, 1 Fire + 1 Colorless energy)
    • Flavor Text: A fire burns inside, so it feels very warm to hug. It launches fireballs of 1,800 degrees F.
    • Set Code: bw5-15
    • Image:

    Key Printings

    Appearing in the Black & White series’ Dark Explorers expansion, this exact printing is card number 15 and a Common rarity. It has no abilities and is illustrated by Atsuko Nishida.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this Torchic card. It is identified by the set code bw5 and card number 15. The card’s market reference query is “Torchic Dark Explorers 15.”

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
    • This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. No additional tournament play notes are available.

    Care & Storage Tips

    As a common card with no special variants, standard protective sleeves and storage in a binder or card box are recommended to preserve the card’s condition. Avoid exposure to moisture and direct sunlight to maintain the vibrant illustration by Atsuko Nishida.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Dark Explorers (bw5): This set includes the Torchic card as a Basic Fire-type with straightforward attacks and a warm flavor text. It fits well into collections focusing on early Black & White series cards or Fire-type Pokémon.

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    Torchic (Dark Explorers) #15

  • Collector’s Guide: Torchic (Dark Explorers #14)

    Collector’s Guide: Torchic (Dark Explorers #14)

    Torchic (Dark Explorers 14) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Torchic from the Dark Explorers set is a Common Basic Fire-type, numbered 14, with 50 HP. Its single attack, Reckless Charge, offers straightforward, thematic gameplay—solid for casual play and a neat pickup for collectors.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Dark Explorers 14 Common 50 Masakazu Fukuda
    • Type: Fire
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Water (×2)
    • Attack: Reckless Charge (30 damage, costs Fire + Colorless; this attack deals 10 damage to Torchic itself)
    • Flavor Text: A fire burns inside, so it feels very warm to hug. It launches fireballs of 1,800 degrees F.
    • Set Code: bw5
    • Card ID: bw5-14
    • Image:

    Key Printings

    This guide focuses on the Dark Explorers printing of Torchic, card number 14. It is a Common rarity card with no evolutions or abilities listed. The card’s single attack, Reckless Charge, balances moderate damage with self-inflicted damage—fitting Torchic’s fiery, reckless flavor.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this Torchic card. Identification is straightforward via its set code (bw5), card number (14), and illustrator (Masakazu Fukuda). Artwork and attack text match the Dark Explorers release.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This Torchic card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its straightforward attack and low HP make it more suitable for casual play or collection rather than competitive decks.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the vivid artwork and maintain condition, store this card in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching to keep surface quality intact. Though a Common, it still benefits from careful handling.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Dark Explorers (bw5): Torchic appears as a Basic Fire-type with a simple, thematic attack that fits the set’s exploration vibe—clean mechanics and a fiery spirit.

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    Torchic (Dark Explorers) #14

  • Collector’s Guide: Entei-EX (Dark Explorers #13)

    Collector’s Guide: Entei-EX (Dark Explorers #13)

    Entei-EX Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Entei-EX from the Dark Explorers set is a Rare Holo EX card numbered 13. This Basic EX Pokémon has 180 HP and the standout attack Grand Flame. Shizurow’s vivid artwork captures Entei’s fiery presence in battle.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Dark Explorers 13 Rare Holo EX 180 Shizurow
    • Type: Fire
    • Stage: Basic, EX
    • Retreat Cost: 3
    • Weakness: Water ×2
    • Rules: Pokémon-EX rule applies: when knocked out, opponent takes 2 Prize cards.
    • Attacks:
    • Fire Fang (30 damage): Burns the Defending Pokémon.
    • Grand Flame (90 damage): Allows attachment of a Fire Energy from discard to a Benched Pokémon.

    Key Printings

    This printing is from Dark Explorers, numbered 13, classified as a Rare Holo EX. It is a Basic EX Pokémon card with no evolutions from previous forms. The artwork by Shizurow highlights Entei’s intense, fiery theme.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It can be identified by its set code “bw5-13” and the Rare Holo EX rarity. The card’s subtype is Basic, EX, and it carries no regulation mark. The image for this printing is available at /images/bw5/bw5-13.jpg.

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
    • This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
      The Pokémon-EX rule applies, meaning if Entei-EX is knocked out, the opponent takes two Prize cards.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the holofoil and artwork, store the card in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture. Use a rigid top-loader or a binder with individual pockets to prevent bending or surface damage. Avoid excessive handling to maintain collector value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Dark Explorers: Entei-EX debuts as a powerful Fire-type Basic EX Pokémon with strong attacks and high HP. Its inclusion adds a fiery edge to the Black & White series, with no known alternate printings or variants. The set emphasizes exploration and darker themes, with Entei-EX standing out as a Rare Holo collectible.

    Entei-EX (Dark Explorers) #13

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    Entei-EX (Dark Explorers) #13

  • Collector’s Guide: Larvesta (Dark Explorers #21)

    Collector’s Guide: Larvesta (Dark Explorers #21)

    Larvesta (Dark Explorers 21) Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Larvesta from the Dark Explorers set is a Common card numbered 21 with 60 HP. This fiery Pokémon features the attack Super Singe, showcasing its blazing potential in battle. Its straightforward design fits well within the dynamic Dark Explorers lineup.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Dark Explorers 21 Common 60 Kouki Saitou
    • Type: Fire
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Water ×2
    • Attack: Super Singe — Deals 10 damage and burns the Defending Pokémon
    • Flavor Text: The base of volcanoes is where they make their homes. They shoot fire from their five horns to repel attacking enemies.
    • Image:

    Key Printings

    This guide focuses on the Larvesta card from the Black & White series set “Dark Explorers,” card number 21. It is a Common rarity card with no known alternate printings or special variants.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants or alternate versions of this Larvesta card. Identification is straightforward via its set code “bw5” and card number 21.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This Larvesta is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats according to the provided data. No additional tournament or play notes are available.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the vivid artwork and maintain card condition, store this Larvesta card in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its Common rarity, it is accessible but still benefits from careful handling to retain collector value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Dark Explorers (bw5): This set features Larvesta as a Basic Fire-type Pokémon with a simple but effective attack that inflicts burn status. It fits well into early-stage decks focusing on Fire-type strategies. The set’s artwork and design emphasize the volcanic theme inherent to Larvesta’s character.

    This Larvesta card is a solid collectible for fans of Fire-type Pokémon and those completing the Dark Explorers set.

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    Larvesta (Dark Explorers) #21

  • Collector’s Guide: Larvesta (Dark Explorers #20)

    Collector’s Guide: Larvesta (Dark Explorers #20)

    Larvesta Collector’s Guide: Dark Explorers #20

    Character Intro

    Larvesta from the Dark Explorers set is a Common card numbered 20 with 80 HP. This vibrant Pokémon features the attack Flare, adding a fiery touch to gameplay. Its straightforward design makes it a solid choice for collectors and players alike.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Dark Explorers 20 Common 80 match
    • Type: Fire
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 3
    • Weakness: Water ×2
    • Attacks:
    • Ram (20 damage, 2 Colorless energy)
    • Flare (40 damage, 2 Fire + 1 Colorless energy)
    • Flavor Text: “This Pokémon was believed to have been born from the sun. When it evolves, its entire body is engulfed in flames.”
    • Regulation Mark: None

    Key Printings

    This guide focuses on the Larvesta card from the Dark Explorers set (set code bw5), numbered 20. It is a Common rarity card with no known alternate printings or promotional versions.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants or alternate art versions for this Larvesta card. Identification is straightforward via the set code bw5 and card number 20. The illustrator credited is match, and the card’s image can be referenced at /images/bw5/bw5-20.jpg.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality status: unknown. This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats as per the provided data. No special rules or abilities are associated with this card beyond its two straightforward attacks.

    Care & Storage Tips

    As a Common card with moderate retreat cost and no special abilities, Larvesta should be stored in a protective sleeve to preserve its vibrant artwork by match. Keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture to maintain card integrity, especially given its collectible value within the Dark Explorers set.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Dark Explorers (bw5): Larvesta appears as a Basic Fire-type Pokémon with solid HP and two simple attacks. This set highlights Larvesta’s fiery origins and evolutionary potential through its flavor text and design. No additional print variants or special editions are noted for this card.

    Larvesta (Dark Explorers) #20

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    Larvesta (Dark Explorers) #20

  • Collector’s Guide: Ivysaur (Dark Explorers #2)

    Collector’s Guide: Ivysaur (Dark Explorers #2)

    Ivysaur (Dark Explorers 2) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Ivysaur from the Dark Explorers set is an Uncommon card numbered 2. It has a sturdy 90 HP and features the attack Poison Powder. This card offers a balanced presence for collectors interested in mid-stage Pokémon.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Dark Explorers 2 Uncommon 90 sui
    • Type: Grass
    • Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Bulbasaur)
    • Attacks:
    • Sleep Powder: Puts the Defending Pokémon to Sleep, dealing 20 damage.
    • Poison Powder: Poisons the Defending Pokémon, dealing 50 damage.
    • Weakness: Fire ×2
    • Resistance: Water -20
    • Retreat Cost: 3 Colorless Energy
    • Flavor Text: “When the bud on its back starts swelling, a sweet aroma wafts to indicate the flower’s coming bloom.”
    • Illustrator: sui
    • Card Number: 2/108 (Dark Explorers)
    • Image:

    Key Printings

    This exact printing appears in the Dark Explorers set, identified as card number 2. It is an Uncommon rarity card, making it moderately accessible for collectors focusing on the Black & White era.

    Variants & Identifiers

    No alternate print variants are documented for this card. Key identifiers include its set code “bw5,” the absence of a regulation mark, and its unique illustrator signature by sui. The card is a Stage 1 Grass-type with a notable retreat cost of 3.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality status: unknown. This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats based on available data.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the card’s vibrant artwork and condition, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its moderate rarity, maintaining mint condition can enhance its collectible value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Dark Explorers: This set features Ivysaur as a reliable Stage 1 Grass-type with dual status-inflicting attacks, emphasizing strategic play and thematic design consistent with the Black & White series.

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    Ivysaur (Dark Explorers) #2

  • Collector’s Guide: Heatmor (Dark Explorers #19)

    Collector’s Guide: Heatmor (Dark Explorers #19)

    Heatmor Collector’s Guide: Dark Explorers #19

    Character Intro

    Heatmor from the Dark Explorers set is a Rare Pokémon card numbered 19. It has 90 HP and features the striking attack Firebreathing. A fiery pick for collectors seeking a distinctive Black & White–era Basic Fire-type.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Dark Explorers 19 Rare 90 Mitsuhiro Arita
    • Type: Fire
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Water ×2
    • Attacks:
    • Hot Lick: Deals 10 damage, with an additional 50 damage if the Defending Pokémon is Durant.
    • Firebreathing: Deals 50+ damage; flip a coin to add 20 more damage on heads.
    • Flavor Text: Using their very hot, flame-covered tongues, they burn through Durant’s steel bodies and consume their insides.
    • Legal Status: unknown
    • Image:

    Key Printings

    The only known printing of this Heatmor card is from the Dark Explorers set, numbered 19. It is classified as a Rare card and features no evolutions from previous stages.

    Variants & Identifiers

    This Heatmor card has no known print variants or alternate versions. It is identified by its set code “bw5-19” and the unique artwork by Mitsuhiro Arita. The card does not have a regulation mark, and no special subtypes beyond “Basic” are listed.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not currently listed as legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Players and collectors should verify tournament rules before use.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the vibrant artwork and maintain card condition, store this Heatmor card in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Use rigid top loaders or binders with acid-free pages to prevent bending and surface wear.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Dark Explorers: This set includes Heatmor as a Rare Basic Fire-type Pokémon, showcasing its unique attacks and flavor text. It is a notable card for collectors interested in the Black & White series, especially those focusing on Fire-type Pokémon.

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    Heatmor (Dark Explorers) #19

  • Collector’s Guide: Torkoal (Dark Explorers #18)

    Collector’s Guide: Torkoal (Dark Explorers #18)

    Torkoal (Dark Explorers 18) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Torkoal from the Dark Explorers set is an uncommon Basic Fire-type card with 90 HP. It features the Heat Blast attack alongside utility from Flame Cloak. As card number 18, it’s a solid, thematic addition to Black & White–era collections.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Dark Explorers 18 Uncommon 90 Masakazu Fukuda
    • Type: Fire
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Weakness: Water ×2
    • Flavor Text: It burns coal inside its shell for energy. It blows out black soot if it is endangered.
    • Attacks:
    • Flame Cloak: Flip a coin; if heads, attach a Fire Energy card from your discard pile to this Pokémon. Deals 10 damage.
    • Heat Blast: Deals 60 damage.

    Key Printings

    This printing is from the Dark Explorers set, card number 18. It is an Uncommon rarity card illustrated by Masakazu Fukuda. No release date is specified for this printing.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It is identified by the set code “bw5” and the card ID “bw5-18”. The Pokémon is Basic and has no evolutions listed.

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
    • According to the provided data, this card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the vivid artwork and maintain condition, store this Torkoal in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its Uncommon rarity, careful handling is recommended to retain collector value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Dark Explorers: Torkoal appears as a Basic Fire-type Pokémon with the energy-recovery Flame Cloak and a solid Heat Blast attack. Its flavor text and sturdy HP make it a memorable piece in the Black & White series.

    Torkoal Dark Explorers 18

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    Torkoal (Dark Explorers) #18

  • Collector’s Guide: Kyogre-EX (Dark Explorers #26)

    Collector’s Guide: Kyogre-EX (Dark Explorers #26)

    Kyogre-EX Collector’s Guide (Dark Explorers #26)

    Character Intro

    Kyogre-EX (#26) from the Dark Explorers set is a Rare Holo EX Basic Pokémon with 170 HP. Headlined by the pivoting attack Smash Turn, this striking Shizurow-illustrated card is a standout pick for EX collectors.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Dark Explorers 26 Rare Holo EX 170 Shizurow
    • Pokémon: Kyogre-EX
    • Type: Water
    • Stage: Basic, EX
    • Retreat Cost: 4
    • Weakness: Lightning ×2
    • Resistance: None
    • Regulation Mark: Unknown
    • Series: Black & White
    • Set Code: bw5
    • Card ID: bw5-26
    • Image:

    Key Printings

    Printed only in Dark Explorers as number 26. It is a Rare Holo EX with no known alternate print variants for this exact release.

    Variants & Identifiers

    • No alternate print variants or special editions are listed for this card.
    • The card is identified by its set code “bw5” and number “26.”
    • Illustrator credit goes to Shizurow, a notable artist for the Black & White series.

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
    • This Kyogre-EX is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
    • It features the Pokémon-EX rule: when knocked out, the opponent takes 2 Prize cards.
    • Attacks include “Smash Turn,” which deals 30 damage and allows switching with a Benched Pokémon, and “Dual Splash,” which can damage two of the opponent’s Pokémon simultaneously.

    Care & Storage Tips

    Protect the holo and card edges by sleeving immediately; keep away from sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching, and use a top loader or a rigid-page binder for long-term storage.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Dark Explorers (bw5): Features Kyogre-EX as a powerful Water-type Basic EX Pokémon with high HP and versatile attacks. It stands out as a Rare Holo EX card, illustrated by Shizurow, and is a key collectible for fans of the Black & White series. The set’s release date is unknown, but it remains a sought-after piece for collectors focusing on EX cards.

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    Kyogre-EX (Dark Explorers) #26

  • Collector’s Guide: Vaporeon (Dark Explorers #25)

    Collector’s Guide: Vaporeon (Dark Explorers #25)

    Vaporeon (Dark Explorers 25) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Vaporeon from the Dark Explorers set is an Uncommon card numbered 25 with 110 HP. Its standout attack, Spiral Drain, adds strategic depth to gameplay, and the card’s bulk makes it a resilient choice in battle.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Dark Explorers 25 Uncommon 110 Akira Komayama
    • Type: Water
    • Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Eevee)
    • Retreat Cost: 2 Colorless Energy
    • Weakness: Lightning ×2
    • Resistances: None
    • Abilities: None
    • Attacks:
    • Muddy Water (20 damage to one of opponent’s Benched Pokémon; no Weakness or Resistance applied)
    • Spiral Drain (60 damage; heals 20 damage from itself)
    • Flavor Text: “Its cell composition is similar to water molecules. As a result, it can melt away into water.”
    • Image:

    Key Printings

    This exact printing is from the Black & White series, specifically the Dark Explorers set, card number 25. It is an Uncommon rarity Stage 1 Water-type Pokémon card evolving from Eevee.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It can be identified by:
    – Set code “bw5-25”
    – Illustrator Akira Komayama
    – Distinctive attacks “Muddy Water” and “Spiral Drain”

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats according to the provided data.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve this card’s condition, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the surface, especially since it features detailed artwork by Akira Komayama.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Dark Explorers: Features this Vaporeon as an Uncommon Stage 1 Water-type with a healing attack and the ability to damage Benched Pokémon, aligning with the set’s focus on intriguing Pokémon evolutions and dynamic gameplay options.

    This guide covers all known details for the Dark Explorers Vaporeon card, providing collectors and players with essential information for identification and care.

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    Vaporeon (Dark Explorers) #25