Tag: Collector’s Guide

  • Collector’s Guide: Escavalier (Dark Explorers #74)

    Collector’s Guide: Escavalier (Dark Explorers #74)

    Escavalier Collector’s Guide (Dark Explorers #74)

    Character Intro

    Escavalier from the Dark Explorers set is a Rare card numbered 74 with a solid 90 HP. Its standout attack, Cavalry Lance, adds a strategic edge to battles. The design and stats make it a notable addition for collectors focusing on Rare cards.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Dark Explorers 74 Rare 90 Masakazu Fukuda
    • Type: Metal
    • Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Karrablast)
    • Weakness: Fire ×2
    • Resistance: Psychic -20
    • Retreat Cost: 3
    • Attacks:
    • Joust: Discards a Pokémon Tool card attached to the Defending Pokémon before dealing 30 damage (cost: 1 Metal).
    • Cavalry Lance: Deals 70 damage and grants no Weakness to this Pokémon during the opponent’s next turn (cost: 2 Metal, 1 Colorless).
    • Flavor Text: “They fly around at high speed, striking with their pointed spears. Even when in trouble, they face opponents bravely.”
    • Illustrator: Masakazu Fukuda
    • Image:

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Escavalier appears in the Dark Explorers set, card number 74. It is classified as a Rare card and features artwork by Masakazu Fukuda. The release date of this printing is unknown.

    Variants & Identifiers

    No print variants are documented for this card. Identification is straightforward via its set code “bw5-74,” rarity, and illustrator. The card’s unique combination of Metal typing, Stage 1 evolution from Karrablast, and its specific attacks also help distinguish it.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its attacks provide strategic options such as tool removal and temporary immunity to Weakness, which could be valuable in casual play.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the vibrant artwork and card condition, store Escavalier in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its rarity, consider using a top loader or binder with individual pockets for added protection.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Dark Explorers: This set includes Escavalier as a Rare Metal-type Stage 1 Pokémon, emphasizing tactical play with its tool-discarding and Weakness-negating attacks. The set’s artwork and card design reflect the intense, fast-paced nature of Escavalier’s battle style.

    This guide covers the exact Dark Explorers printing of Escavalier (bw5-74) with all known details and identifiers.

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    Escavalier (Dark Explorers) #74

  • Collector’s Guide: Klink (Dark Explorers #75)

    Collector’s Guide: Klink (Dark Explorers #75)

    Klink (Dark Explorers 75) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Klink from the Dark Explorers set is a Common Basic Metal-type Pokémon card with 60 HP. Numbered 75 in the set, it features the attack Smash Turn, offering a strategic switching option during gameplay.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Dark Explorers 75 Common 60 Midori Harada
    • Type: Metal
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 3
    • Weakness: Fire ×2
    • Resistance: Psychic -20
    • Attack: Smash Turn (20 damage, switch with a benched Pokémon)
    • Flavor Text: “Interlocking two bodies and spinning around generates the energy they need to live.”
    • Regulation Mark: Unknown
    • Legality: unknown

    Key Printings

    This guide focuses on the exact printing from the Dark Explorers set, card number 75. It is a Common rarity card illustrated by Midori Harada. No other printings or reprints of this exact card are documented here.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Identification relies on:
    – Set code “bw5”
    – Card number 75
    – Illustrator credit to Midori Harada
    – Metal type and the attack name Smash Turn

    Legality & Play Notes

    The legality of this card is unknown. It is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats according to available data. Players should verify current tournament rules before including this card in decks.

    Care & Storage Tips

    As a Common card with a retreat cost of 3, preserving condition is key. Store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture to maintain the vibrant illustration by Midori Harada. Avoid bending or scratching the surface to keep it in optimal shape.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Dark Explorers: Klink appears as a Basic Metal-type Pokémon with a switching attack. It fits well into mechanical-themed decks and provides strategic bench movement with Smash Turn. The set does not provide further evolutions or abilities for this card.

    Klink Dark Explorers 75

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    Klink (Dark Explorers) #75

  • Collector’s Guide: Bisharp (Dark Explorers #79)

    Collector’s Guide: Bisharp (Dark Explorers #79)

    Bisharp Collector’s Guide: Dark Explorers #79

    Character Intro

    Bisharp from the Dark Explorers set is a rare card numbered 79. It features 100 HP and a sharp Metal Claw attack. This sleek Pokémon stands out with its balanced stats and focused design.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Dark Explorers 79 Rare 100 Naoki Saito
    • Type: Metal
    • Stage: Stage 1 (evolves from Pawniard)
    • Attacks:
    • Aerial Ace: Flip a coin; if heads, this attack does 20 more damage (20+ damage).
    • Metal Claw: Deals 80 damage.
    • Weakness: Fire ×2
    • Resistance: Psychic -20
    • Retreat Cost: 2 Colorless Energy
    • Flavor Text: Bisharp pursues prey in the company of a large group of Pawniard. Then Bisharp finishes off the prey.
    • Regulation Mark: Unknown
    • Print Variants: None known

    Key Printings

    This guide focuses on the Bisharp card from the Black & White series’ Dark Explorers expansion, card number 79. It is a rare card illustrated by Naoki Saito, notable for its clean design and faithful representation of Bisharp’s in-game characteristics.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this Bisharp card. Identification is straightforward by its set code “bw5-79,” rarity as Rare, and the distinctive artwork by Naoki Saito. The card’s type, attacks, and retreat cost also help confirm its identity.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its play viability and tournament usage are therefore uncertain.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the card’s condition, store it in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its rarity and detailed artwork, maintaining a clean surface free of scratches will help retain its collector value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Dark Explorers: This set includes Bisharp as a Stage 1 Metal-type Pokémon with solid offensive capabilities. The set is known for its thematic focus on darker and more strategic Pokémon, with Bisharp fitting perfectly into this motif. The card’s lack of abilities is balanced by its strong attacks and useful resistances.

    Bisharp Dark Explorers 79

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    Bisharp (Dark Explorers) #79

  • Collector’s Guide: Crustle (Dark Explorers #8)

    Collector’s Guide: Crustle (Dark Explorers #8)

    Crustle Collector’s Guide: Dark Explorers #8

    Character Intro

    Crustle from the Dark Explorers set is an Uncommon, 110 HP Stage 1 Grass-type that leans on the tactical bench pressure of Heavy Bullet. As card number 8 in the set, it’s a sturdy pick for both collectors and players.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Dark Explorers 8 Uncommon 110 Ryo Ueda
    • HP: 110
    • Type: Grass
    • Stage: Stage 1 (evolves from Dwebble)
    • Weakness: Fire ×2
    • Retreat Cost: 3
    • Attacks:
    • Cut (30 damage; costs Grass + Colorless)
    • Heavy Bullet (70 damage; costs Grass + 2 Colorless; flip a coin to deal 20 damage to one of opponent’s Benched Pokémon)
    • Flavor Text: “It possesses legs of enormous strength, enabling it to carry heavy slabs for many days, even when crossing arid land.”
    • Illustrator: Ryo Ueda
    • Image:

    Key Printings

    This Crustle appears in the Black & White series’ Dark Explorers set as card number 8 with Uncommon rarity. Ryo Ueda’s artwork emphasizes Crustle’s robust, resilient Grass-type identity.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this exact Crustle. Identifiers include the set code “bw5-8,” the Dark Explorers logo, and Grass-type coloring. Its retreat cost of 3 and the attack “Heavy Bullet” further distinguish it from other Crustle printings.

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
    • This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
    • Its play viability and tournament presence are therefore uncertain.

    Care & Storage Tips

    Store in a protective sleeve, away from direct sunlight and moisture. As an Uncommon with detailed artwork, keeping it flat and clean helps preserve both condition and display appeal.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Dark Explorers: Features Crustle as a solid Stage 1 Grass-type with strong physical attacks and bench-targeting capabilities, complementing its rugged, enduring theme from the Black & White era.

    This guide covers the essential details for collectors and players interested in the Crustle card from the Dark Explorers set.

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    Crustle (Dark Explorers) #8

  • Collector’s Guide: Chansey (Dark Explorers #80)

    Collector’s Guide: Chansey (Dark Explorers #80)

    Chansey (Dark Explorers 80) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Chansey from the Dark Explorers set is a Common card numbered 80 with 100 HP. This cheerful Pokémon features the attack Double-Edge, offering straightforward gameplay that fits the set’s adventurous theme.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Dark Explorers 80 Common 100 Kagemaru Himeno
    • Type: Colorless
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 3
    • Weakness: Fighting ×2
    • Attacks:
    • Sing (1 Colorless): The Defending Pokémon is now Asleep.
    • Double-Edge (3 Colorless): Deals 60 damage but Chansey does 30 damage to itself.
    • Flavor Text: A kindly Pokémon that lays highly nutritious eggs and shares them with injured Pokémon or people.
    • Regulation Mark: Unknown
    • Legality: unknown

    Key Printings

    This card is from the Dark Explorers set (set code bw5), numbered 80, and is classified as Common rarity. It is illustrated by Kagemaru Himeno, whose art captures Chansey’s gentle demeanor.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this exact printing. Identify it by the Dark Explorers set symbol, number 80, Kagemaru Himeno artwork, Retreat Cost of 3, and the Sing and Double-Edge attacks.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown. According to the provided data, this card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its high Retreat Cost and self-damaging Double-Edge may influence play strategy in casual formats.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve condition, store in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the card surface, especially around the illustrated area by Kagemaru Himeno, to maintain its collectible appeal.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Dark Explorers: Features Chansey as a Basic Colorless Pokémon with supportive and self-sacrificing attacks, fitting its nurturing character. It stands out with 100 HP and the combination of Sing and Double-Edge.

    Chansey (Dark Explorers) #80

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    Chansey (Dark Explorers) #80

  • Collector’s Guide: Chansey (Dark Explorers #81)

    Collector’s Guide: Chansey (Dark Explorers #81)

    Chansey – Dark Explorers #81 Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Chansey from the Dark Explorers set is a common card numbered 81. This classic Basic Pokémon has 100 HP and the attack Continuous Tumble, making it a simple, chance-driven pick for collectors and casual play.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Dark Explorers 81 Common 100 Mizue
    • Type: Colorless
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Weakness: Fighting ×2
    • Flavor Text: A kindly Pokémon that lays highly nutritious eggs and shares them with injured Pokémon or people.
    • Attack: Continuous Tumble – Flip a coin until you get tails. This attack does 30 damage times the number of heads.
    • Abilities: None
    • Evolves From: None

    Key Printings

    Part of the Black & White series, this Dark Explorers Chansey is a Common card numbered 81. Its Continuous Tumble attack can deal variable damage based on coin flips, adding an element of chance to gameplay.

    Variants & Identifiers

    • No known print variants.
    • Identified by set code “bw5” and card number 81.
    • Illustrator: Mizue (distinctive art style).
    • No regulation mark.

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
    • This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its gameplay utility may be limited due to its rarity and attack mechanics.

    Care & Storage Tips

    Protect the artwork and condition by using sleeves, and store away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the surface to maintain value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Dark Explorers: Chansey appears as a Common Basic Pokémon with a coin-flip-based attack, fitting casual decks that enjoy chance-based strategies. The artwork highlights Chansey’s nurturing theme.

    Chansey Dark Explorers 81

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    Chansey (Dark Explorers) #81

  • Collector’s Guide: Blissey (Dark Explorers #82)

    Collector’s Guide: Blissey (Dark Explorers #82)

    Blissey (Dark Explorers 82) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Blissey from the Dark Explorers set is a Rare Holo card numbered 82. It carries a sturdy 130 HP, features the Softboiled ability, and attacks with Double-Edge. Expect resilient, supportive play with a straightforward offensive option.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Dark Explorers 82 Rare Holo 130 Kouki Saitou
    • Evolves from: Chansey
    • Type: Colorless
    • Stage: Stage 1
    • Retreat Cost: 3
    • Weakness: Fighting ×2
    • Resistance: None
    • Regulation Mark: Unknown
    • Flavor Text: “The eggs it lays are filled with happiness. Eating even one bite will bring a smile to anyone.”

    Key Printings

    This Blissey card is from the Black & White series, specifically the Dark Explorers set (set code bw5). It is a Rare Holo variant, distinguished by its shimmering foil and detailed illustration by Kouki Saitou.

    Variants & Identifiers

    This printing has no known print variants. It is identified by the card number 82 in the Dark Explorers set.

    Ability & Attack

    • Softboiled: can heal 30 damage from your Active Pokémon if you flip heads once per turn.
    • Double-Edge: deals 90 damage but causes Blissey to take 60 damage itself.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its playability in casual or other formats is not specified.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the holofoil surface and artwork, store the card in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching. Use a rigid top-loader or a binder with individual pockets for optimal protection.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Dark Explorers (bw5): A Black & White–era release known for detailed artwork and rare holos. Blissey stands out as a high-HP, supportive Stage 1 Colorless-type with a healing ability and a powerful attack.

    Blissey Dark Explorers 82

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    Blissey (Dark Explorers) #82

  • Collector’s Guide: Eevee (Dark Explorers #83)

    Collector’s Guide: Eevee (Dark Explorers #83)

    Eevee (Dark Explorers 83) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Eevee from the Dark Explorers set is a common card numbered 83. This lively Pokémon has 60 HP and features the attack Surprise Attack. Its straightforward design fits well within the set’s adventurous theme.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Dark Explorers 83 Common 60 MAHOU
    • Type: Colorless
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Fighting ×2
    • Attack: Surprise Attack (20 damage; flip a coin, if tails, attack does nothing)
    • Flavor Text: “Because its genetic makeup is irregular, it quickly changes its form due to a variety of causes.”
    • Abilities: None

    Key Printings

    This exact printing is from the Black & White series, specifically the Dark Explorers set, card number 83. It is a common rarity card featuring the illustrator MAHOU. No alternate printings or special editions are noted for this card.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this Eevee card. It can be identified by its set code “bw5-83,” common rarity, and the distinct artwork by MAHOU. The card’s single Colorless energy attack and Fighting weakness also help distinguish it.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats according to the provided data. Its simple attack and low HP suggest it is more suited for casual play or collectors rather than competitive decks.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve this common card’s condition, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the surface, especially the illustrated front by MAHOU. Keeping it in a binder or card box will maintain its collectible value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Dark Explorers (bw5): This set includes this Eevee card as a basic, common Pokémon with a straightforward attack and modest HP. It reflects the Black & White series’ focus on diverse Pokémon and clean artwork styles.

    Eevee (Dark Explorers) #83

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    Eevee (Dark Explorers) #83

  • Collector’s Guide: Eevee (Dark Explorers #84)

    Collector’s Guide: Eevee (Dark Explorers #84)

    Eevee (Dark Explorers 84) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Eevee from the Dark Explorers set is a common card numbered 84 with 50 HP. It features straightforward attacks like Tail Whap, making it a charming, accessible addition to any collection.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Dark Explorers 84 Common 50 Sumiyoshi Kizuki
    • Type: Colorless
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Fighting ×2
    • Attacks:
    • Smash Kick (10 damage, 1 Colorless energy)
    • Tail Whap (20 damage, 2 Colorless energy)
    • Flavor Text: Because its genetic makeup is irregular, it quickly changes its form due to a variety of causes.
    • Illustrator: Sumiyoshi Kizuki
    • Set: Black & White – Dark Explorers (bw5)
    • Regulation Mark: Unknown
    • Print Variants: None known

    Key Printings

    This Eevee is from the Dark Explorers expansion of the Black & White series. As a Common rarity card, it’s broadly available and a nice pickup for fans of Eevee and the Black & White era.

    Variants & Identifiers

    No print variants are documented. Identification is straightforward via the set code “bw5-84,” its Common rarity, and the illustrator credit to Sumiyoshi Kizuki.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats according to available data. Its simple attack set and low HP make it better suited for casual play or display.

    Care & Storage Tips

    Store in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its age and unknown release date, careful handling helps preserve the artwork and card integrity.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Dark Explorers (bw5): Features Eevee as a Basic Colorless Pokémon with straightforward attacks and flavor text highlighting its unique genetics—fitting the Black & White theme of exploring diverse forms and evolutions.

    Eevee Dark Explorers 84

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    Eevee (Dark Explorers) #84

  • Collector’s Guide: Chatot (Dark Explorers #85)

    Collector’s Guide: Chatot (Dark Explorers #85)

    Chatot (Dark Explorers 85) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Chatot from the Dark Explorers set is an uncommon Pokémon card numbered 85. It has 70 HP and features straightforward attacks, including Peck. This card offers a simple yet charming addition to any collection.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Dark Explorers 85 Uncommon 70 MAHOU
    • Type: Colorless
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Lightning (×2)
    • Resistance: Fighting (-20)
    • Attacks:
    • Tone-Deaf: Flip a coin; if heads, the Defending Pokémon becomes Confused. Deals 10 damage.
    • Peck: Deals 30 damage.

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Chatot appears in the Black & White series set “Dark Explorers” with the card number 85. It is an Uncommon rarity card illustrated by MAHOU and features no abilities, only two straightforward attacks.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Identifiers include the set code “bw5” and the card ID “bw5-85”. The card is a Basic Pokémon with the subtype “Basic” and the Colorless type.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its simple attacks and moderate HP make it a straightforward choice for casual play but less common in competitive decks.

    Care & Storage Tips

    As an Uncommon card from the Dark Explorers set, preserving the card’s condition is important for collectors. Store it in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture to maintain the vibrant illustration by MAHOU.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Dark Explorers (bw5): This set includes the Chatot card as number 85, featuring a clean design and simple attack mechanics. It fits well into collections focusing on the Black & White series and Colorless-type Pokémon.

    Chatot Dark Explorers 85

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    Chatot (Dark Explorers) #85