Collector’s Guide: Dark Rapidash (Team Rocket #44)

Quick Facts

Dark Rapidash is a Stage 1 Fire-type Pokémon card from the Team Rocket set, illustrated by Kagemaru Himeno. It has 60 HP, no retreat cost, and a Water-type weakness (×2). The card features two attacks: Rear Kick, dealing 20 damage for two Colorless Energy, and Flame Pillar, which deals 30 damage with a Fire Energy cost and can optionally damage an opponent’s Benched Pokémon by discarding a Fire Energy attached to Dark Rapidash.

Key Printings

• Set: Team Rocket (base5)
• Card Number: 44
• Rarity: Uncommon
• Illustrator: Kagemaru Himeno
• Stage: Stage 1 (evolves from Ponyta)
• HP: 60
• Type: Fire
• Weakness: Water (×2)
• Retreat Cost: 0
• Legality: unknown

Variants & Identifiers

This printing has no known variants or alternate printings. It is identified by the set code “base5” and card number 44. The card’s flavor text reads: “A wild, uncontrollable Pokémon. When running, it looks like a comet streaking through the sky.”

Care & Storage Tips

To preserve the condition and value of this Dark Rapidash card:
– Store in a protective sleeve and rigid top-loader.
– Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture to prevent fading and warping.
– Handle with clean hands to avoid oils and dirt.
– Store in a cool, dry place to maintain card integrity.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

• Team Rocket (base5): This set introduced Dark Pokémon variants, including Dark Rapidash, which features a darker, more aggressive design and unique gameplay mechanics. Dark Rapidash stands out with its ability to target Benched Pokémon via Flame Pillar, adding strategic depth.