Collector’s Guide: Dark Gyarados (Team Rocket #25)

Quick Facts

Dark Gyarados is a Stage 1 Water-type Pokémon from the Team Rocket set, numbered 25. It has 70 HP and features the Pokémon Power Final Beam, which can deal damage to the opponent’s Pokémon when Dark Gyarados is Knocked Out, depending on a coin flip and attached Water Energy. Its attack, Ice Beam, deals 30 damage and may Paralyze the Defending Pokémon on a successful coin flip. The card has a retreat cost of 2, a weakness to Grass (×2), and resistance to Fighting (-30). The card’s flavor text notes that Dark Gyarados, normally found in deep ocean waters, has recently been seen in shallow waters.

Key Printings

• Set: Team Rocket (base5)
• Card Number: 25
• Rarity: Rare
• Illustrator: Kagemaru Himeno
• Stage: Stage 1 (evolves from Magikarp)
• Legality: unknown

Variants & Identifiers

This printing of Dark Gyarados does not have known print variants. It is identified by its set code base5-25 and the Team Rocket logo. The card is part of the original Team Rocket expansion, recognizable by its dark-themed artwork and the Water-type symbol.

Care & Storage Tips

To preserve the condition and value of this rare card:
– Store in a protective sleeve and rigid top-loader or card holder.
– Keep away from direct sunlight to prevent fading of the illustration by Kagemaru Himeno.
– Avoid exposure to moisture and extreme temperatures.
– Handle with clean hands or gloves to prevent oils and dirt from damaging the card surface.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

• Team Rocket (base5): Introduced Dark Pokémon and featured darker, more villainous themes. Dark Gyarados stands out as a powerful Water-type with a unique Pokémon Power and a strong attack, fitting the set’s theme of shadowy and corrupted Pokémon.