Tag: Collector’s Guide

Collector’s Guide: Vanillish (Darkness Ablaze #46)
Vanillish – Darkness Ablaze (swsh3-46) Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Vanillish from the Darkness Ablaze set is an uncommon Pokémon card numbered 46. It has 80 HP and features the attack Freezing Headbutt. A straightforward, cool addition to any collection.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Darkness Ablaze 46 Uncommon 80 Shibuzoh.
- Type: Water
- Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Vanillite)
- Retreat Cost: 2
- Weakness: Metal ×2
- Resistance: None
- Regulation Mark: D
- Flavor Text: By drinking pure water, it grows its icy body. This Pokémon can be hard to find on days with warm, sunny weather.
- Attack: Freezing Headbutt – Deals 30 damage and may Paralyze the opponent’s Active Pokémon on a coin flip.
Key Printings

This exact printing of Vanillish appears in the Darkness Ablaze expansion of the Sword & Shield series, identified by the set code swsh3 and card number 46. It is an uncommon rarity card with no known alternate print variants.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this card. Key identifiers include its Water type, Stage 1 subtype, and the regulation mark D. The illustrator credit goes to Shibuzoh., and the card is visually recognizable by its icy blue design and the “Freezing Headbutt” attack.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality status: unknown. This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Players should verify tournament rules before including it in decks.

Care & Storage Tips

Store the card in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the surface, and keep it in a cool, dry environment to maintain the artwork and structural integrity.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Darkness Ablaze (swsh3): This set features Vanillish as a Water-type Stage 1 Pokémon with a unique paralysis-inducing attack. It fits into the set’s icy and fiery thematic contrasts, offering collectors a cool addition to their Sword & Shield collections.
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September 30, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Vanilluxe (Darkness Ablaze #47)
Vanilluxe Collector’s Guide: Darkness Ablaze #47

Character Intro

Vanilluxe from Darkness Ablaze is a Rare card numbered 47. As a Stage 2 Water-type with 150 HP, it leans on Bitter Cold to pressure the opponent with potential paralysis, while Frost Smash delivers a clean, chilly 90 damage that fits its frosty theme.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Darkness Ablaze 47 Rare 150 kodama
- Type: Water
- Stage: Stage 2 (Evolves from Vanillish)
- Ability: Bitter Cold — Once per turn, if active, flip a coin; on heads, opponent’s Active Pokémon is Paralyzed
- Attack: Frost Smash — 90 damage, costs Water + Colorless energy
- Weakness: Metal ×2
- Retreat Cost: 2
- Regulation Mark: D
- Flavor Text: When its anger reaches a breaking point, this Pokémon unleashes a fierce blizzard that freezes every creature around it, be they friend or foe.
- Illustrator: kodama
- Image:
Key Printings

This exact printing of Vanilluxe appears in the Darkness Ablaze set, numbered 47. It is classified as a Rare card and features artwork by kodama. The card’s print variants are unknown, indicating this may be the sole official version from this set.

Variants & Identifiers
- Set Code: swsh3
- Subtypes: Stage 2
- Types: Water
- Print Variants: None listed
- Market Reference Query: Vanilluxe Darkness Ablaze 47
Legality & Play Notes
- Legality: unknown
- This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its strategic ability to paralyze opponents and solid HP make it a notable collector’s piece, though its tournament viability is uncertain.
Care & Storage Tips

To preserve the vibrant artwork and condition of this rare Vanilluxe card, store it 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 scratches.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Darkness Ablaze: Introduces Vanilluxe as a Water-type Stage 2 with a unique paralyzing ability and a strong attack, highlighted by kodama’s crisp illustration. The card is a rare find for collectors focusing on the Sword & Shield series.
This Vanilluxe card is a visually captivating and strategically interesting addition to any collection, especially for fans of icy Water-type Pokémon.

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September 30, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Cubchoo (Darkness Ablaze #48)
Cubchoo (Darkness Ablaze 48) Collectors Guide

Character Intro

Cubchoo from the Darkness Ablaze set is a Common card numbered 48. With 70 HP and the attack Icicle, it’s a simple, charming Basic Pokémon that slots neatly into a Sword & Shield-era binder.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Darkness Ablaze unknown 48 Common 70 Saya Tsuruta
- Type: Water
- Stage: Basic
- Retreat Cost: 2
- Weakness: Metal ×2
- Resistance: None
- Regulation Mark: D
- Attacks:
- Chop (10 damage, 1 Colorless Energy)
- Icicle (30 damage, 1 Water + 1 Colorless Energy)
- Flavor Text: When this Pokémon is in good health, its snot becomes thicker and stickier. It will smear its snot on anyone it doesn’t like.
- Abilities: None
Key Printings

This exact printing of Cubchoo appears in Darkness Ablaze as a Common, card number 48. It’s a Basic Water-type Pokémon illustrated by Saya Tsuruta.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this card. Identifiers include the set code “swsh3” and regulation mark “D.” It is commonly referenced as “Cubchoo Darkness Ablaze 48.”

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
This Cubchoo card 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 condition and artwork, store in a protective sleeve away from sunlight and moisture. As a Basic with a moderate Retreat Cost, it’s easy to handle during casual play; collectors should prioritize keeping it mint.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Darkness Ablaze (swsh3): Cubchoo appears as a Basic Water-type with straightforward attacks, expressive flavor text, and detailed illustration—an easy, satisfying pickup for Sword & Shield set builders.
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September 30, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Beartic (Darkness Ablaze #49)
Beartic (Darkness Ablaze 49) Collectors Guide

Character Intro

Beartic from the Darkness Ablaze set is a Rare card numbered 49. With 140 HP and the headline attack Frozen Slice, it makes a striking, sturdy addition to any collection.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Darkness Ablaze 49 Rare 140 Masakazu Fukuda
- Type: Water
- Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Cubchoo)
- Retreat Cost: 3
- Weakness: Metal ×2
- Resistance: None
- Regulation Mark: D
Key Printings

This Beartic card appears in Darkness Ablaze with the card number 49.

Attacks
- Slash — 40 damage for two Colorless Energy
- Frozen Slice — 150 damage; this Pokémon also does 50 damage to itself
Abilities
- None
Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this exact printing. The card is identified by the set code “swsh3-49” and is part of the Sword & Shield series. The illustrator Masakazu Fukuda’s signature style is a key identifying feature.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
Based on the provided data, this card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.

Care & Storage Tips

To preserve the card’s vibrant artwork and condition, store it in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its rarity and detailed illustration, handling with clean hands or gloves is recommended.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Darkness Ablaze: Introduced Beartic as a powerful Water-type Stage 1 Pokémon with high HP and strong attacks, emphasizing a balance of offense and self-damage risk with Frozen Slice. The set showcases detailed artwork and a unique icy theme for this Pokémon.
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September 30, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Carnivine (Darkness Ablaze #5)
Carnivine (Darkness Ablaze 5) Collectors Guide

Character Intro

Carnivine from the Darkness Ablaze set is an Uncommon card numbered 5. With 90 HP and the attack Giga Drain, it offers a dynamic option for battles. The lively design captures Carnivine’s unique character within the set.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Darkness Ablaze 5 Uncommon 90 Masakazu Fukuda
- Type: Grass
- Stage: Basic
- Retreat Cost: 1
- Weakness: Fire ×2
- Resistance: None
- Regulation Mark: D
- Flavor Text: It binds itself to trees in marshes. It attracts prey with its sweet-smelling drool and gulps them down.
- Image:
Key Printings

This exact printing is from the Darkness Ablaze set, card number 5. It is an Uncommon rarity card featuring two attacks:
– Return: Deals 20 damage and lets you draw cards until you have five in hand.
– Giga Drain: Deals 40 damage and heals Carnivine by the same amount.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this card. Key identifiers include:
– Set code: “swsh3”
– Regulation mark: “D”
– Illustrator: Masakazu Fukuda
– Card is a Basic Pokémon with the subtype “Basic”
– Part of the Sword & Shield series

Legality & Play Notes
- Legality: unknown
- This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats according to the provided data.
Care & Storage Tips

To preserve the card’s condition, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its Uncommon rarity and detailed illustration, keeping the surface free from scratches and bends is essential for collectors.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Darkness Ablaze (swsh3): Features Carnivine as an Uncommon Basic Grass-type Pokémon with a focus on card draw and healing mechanics. The set emphasizes dynamic gameplay and vivid artwork, with this card fitting into the theme through its marshland flavor text and tactical attacks.
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September 30, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Wishiwashi (Darkness Ablaze #50)
Wishiwashi Collector’s Guide: Darkness Ablaze (swsh3-50)

Character Intro

Wishiwashi from the Darkness Ablaze set is a common Pokémon card numbered 50. It has a modest 30 HP and features the attack Wave Splash. This simple yet distinctive card fits neatly into any collection focused on the set.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Darkness Ablaze 50 Common 30 sui
- Type: Water
- Stage: Basic
- Retreat Cost: 1 Colorless
- Weakness: Lightning ×2
- Resistance: None
- Regulation Mark: D
- Subtypes: Basic
- Series: Sword & Shield
Key Printings

The key printing for Wishiwashi in the Darkness Ablaze set is card number 50, a Common rarity Basic Pokémon. Illustrated by sui, it showcases the Pokémon’s schooling behavior.

Attacks
- “Deep Sea Swirl” — shuffle your hand into your deck and draw 8 cards.
- “Wave Splash” — 20 damage for a Water energy cost.
Variants & Identifiers

This printing has no known variants or alternate printings. It can be identified by the set code “swsh3” and the card number 50. The regulation mark “D” helps place it within the Sword & Shield series timeline. The card image can be found at /images/swsh3/swsh3-50.jpg.

Legality & Play Notes
- Legality: unknown
- This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
  Its low HP and simple attacks suggest it is more suited for casual play or collectors rather than competitive decks.
Care & Storage Tips

As a Common card with delicate artwork, store Wishiwashi in a protective sleeve to prevent edge wear and surface scratches. Keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to preserve the vibrant colors and prevent warping.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Darkness Ablaze (swsh3): Wishiwashi appears as a Basic Water-type Pokémon with a unique hand-refreshing attack and a modest damage-dealing move. This set emphasizes dynamic Water-type strategies and features this card as a simple yet thematic addition.
This concise guide should assist collectors and players in identifying and appreciating the Wishiwashi card from Darkness Ablaze.

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September 30, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Mareanie (Darkness Ablaze #51)
Mareanie Collector’s Guide: Darkness Ablaze #51

Character Intro

Mareanie from the Darkness Ablaze set is a Common Pokémon card numbered 51. It has 70 HP and features the attack Poison Tentacles. With its vibrant design, it’s a straightforward addition to any collection.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Darkness Ablaze 51 Common 70 Tomokazu Komiya
- Type: Water
- Stage: Basic
- Retreat Cost: 2
- Weakness: Lightning ×2
- Regulation Mark: D
- Flavor Text: “The first symptom of its sting is numbness. The next is an itching sensation so intense that it’s impossible to resist the urge to claw at your skin.”
Key Printings

This exact printing of Mareanie appears in the Darkness Ablaze expansion of the Sword & Shield series. It features two attacks: Regeneration, which heals 30 damage from Mareanie, and Poison Tentacles, which deals 20 damage and poisons the opponent’s Active Pokémon.

Variants & Identifiers

This card has no known print variants. It is identified by the set code swsh3-51 and is a Common rarity card. The illustration by Tomokazu Komiya is a key visual identifier.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
This card is currently not listed as legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.

Care & Storage Tips

To preserve the vivid artwork and maintain condition, store Mareanie in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its Common rarity, it’s accessible for collectors but still benefits from careful handling.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Darkness Ablaze (swsh3): Mareanie #51 is a Basic Water-type Pokémon with healing and poisoning abilities, contributing to the set’s diverse strategic options. The card’s regulation mark D places it within the Sword & Shield era, though its tournament legality remains unknown.
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September 30, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Pansage (Darkness Ablaze #6)
Pansage Collector’s Guide: Darkness Ablaze #6

Character Intro

Pansage from the Darkness Ablaze set is a common card numbered 6 with 60 HP. This lively Pokémon features straightforward attacks—Seed Bomb and Bite—making it a practical addition to any collection.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Darkness Ablaze 6 Common 60 Mina Nakai
- Type: Grass
- Stage: Basic
- Retreat Cost: 1
- Weakness: Fire ×2
- Resistances: None
- Regulation Mark: D
- Attacks:
- Seed Bomb (10 damage, costs 1 Grass energy)
- Bite (20 damage, costs 2 Colorless energy)
- Abilities: None
- Evolves From: None
- Flavor Text: “It’s good at finding berries and gathers them from all over. It’s kind enough to share them with friends.”
- Image:
Key Printings

This guide covers the exact printing of Pansage from the Darkness Ablaze set, card number 6. It is a Common rarity card with no known alternate printings or special variants.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this card. Identifiers include the set code “swsh3” and regulation mark “D,” useful for collectors verifying authenticity and edition.

Legality & Play Notes
- Legality status: unknown.
- This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
Care & Storage Tips
- Store in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture.
- Avoid bending or exposure to extreme temperatures.
- Preserve the vivid artwork by Mina Nakai by keeping the card in a clean, stable environment.
Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Darkness Ablaze (swsh3): Introduced Pansage as a Basic Grass-type Pokémon with simple but effective attacks like Seed Bomb and Bite. This set emphasizes vibrant illustrations and accessible gameplay, with Pansage fitting neatly into the theme of nature and friendship.
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September 30, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Vikavolt V (Darkness Ablaze #60)
Vikavolt V Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Vikavolt V from the Darkness Ablaze set is a Rare Holo V card numbered 60. This striking Pokémon boasts 210 HP and features the powerful attack Super Zap Cannon. Its vivid design captures the electric intensity of Vikavolt in battle.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Darkness Ablaze 60 Rare Holo V 210 Ayaka Yoshida
- Card Name: Vikavolt V
- Set: Darkness Ablaze (swsh3)
- Card Number: 60
- HP: 210
- Type: Lightning
- Stage: Basic, V
- Retreat Cost: 3
- Weakness: Fighting ×2
- Regulation Mark: D
- Illustrator: Ayaka Yoshida
- Image:
Key Printings

This guide focuses on the single known printing of Vikavolt V from the Darkness Ablaze set. It is a Rare Holo V card with no known alternate printings or promotional versions.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no listed print variants for this card. Identification is straightforward via its set code (swsh3-60), rarity (Rare Holo V), and illustrator (Ayaka Yoshida).

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
– This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
– It features the V rule: When your Pokémon V is Knocked Out, your opponent takes 2 Prize cards.
– Attacks:
– Paralyzing Bolt (50 damage) prevents your opponent from playing Item cards during their next turn.
– Super Zap Cannon (190 damage) requires discarding 2 Energy from Vikavolt V.

Care & Storage Tips

To preserve the holo finish and artwork, store Vikavolt V in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture. Use a top loader or a binder with rigid pages for long-term protection, and avoid excessive handling to maintain condition and value.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Darkness Ablaze (swsh3): Vikavolt V debuts as a powerful Lightning-type Basic V with disruptive and high-damage attacks. This set is known for its dynamic Pokémon V cards, and Vikavolt V stands out with its solid HP and tactical utility. The card’s regulation mark D places it in a specific competitive rotation, though its exact legality is unknown.
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September 30, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Toxapex (Darkness Ablaze #52)
Toxapex Collector’s Guide: Darkness Ablaze #52

Character Intro

Toxapex from Darkness Ablaze is an Uncommon card with 130 HP. Its standout attack, Poisonous Whip, adds a tactical edge by pressuring opponents over time. The artwork captures Toxapex’s resilient nature in a vibrant, engaging style.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Darkness Ablaze 52 Uncommon 130 Masakazu Fukuda
- Type: Water
- Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Mareanie)
- Retreat Cost: 3
- Weakness: Lightning ×2
- Resistances: None
- Regulation Mark: D
- Flavor Text: To survive in the cold waters of Galar, this Pokémon forms a dome with its legs, enclosing its body so it can capture its own body heat.
- Illustrator: Masakazu Fukuda
- Image URL: /images/swsh3/swsh3-52.jpg
Key Printings

This Toxapex is from the Darkness Ablaze expansion of the Sword & Shield series, card number 52 at Uncommon rarity. Its artwork and design emphasize defensive and poisonous traits, making it both visually striking and strategically interesting for collectors and players.

Variants & Identifiers
- Identifiers: set code “swsh3-52,” Darkness Ablaze set symbol, and Regulation Mark “D.”
- Print Variants: None known for this exact card.
- Attacks:
- Recover — Discard an Energy to heal all damage from Toxapex.
- Poisonous Whip — Deals 80 damage and poisons the opponent’s Active Pokémon.
Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
- Standard: Not currently legal
- Expanded: Not currently legal
- Unlimited: Not currently legal
- Casual/Other: Playability unknown
Care & Storage Tips

As an Uncommon from a recent set, preserving condition helps maintain value. Store in a sleeve (and top loader for extra protection), keep away from sunlight, moisture, and extreme temperatures, and avoid bending or scratching the surface—especially the illustrated area by Masakazu Fukuda.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Darkness Ablaze (swsh3): A diverse set with dynamic artwork and strategic abilities. Toxapex stands out as a durable Water-type with healing and poisoning capabilities, fitting decks that emphasize control and endurance.
This guide covers the exact printing of Toxapex from Darkness Ablaze #52, helping collectors and players identify, appreciate, and care for this card.

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September 30, 2025