Empoleon (BREAKthrough 38) Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Empoleon from the BREAKthrough set is a Rare Holo card numbered 38, boasting 140 HP. It features the ability Dignified Fighter and the attack Hydro Splash, making it a striking addition to any collection.

Quick Facts

• Type: Water
• Stage: Stage 2 (Evolves from Prinplup)
• Ability: Dignified Fighter — boosts damage of your Basic Pokémon’s attacks by 20 before Weakness and Resistance
• Attack: Hydro Splash — deals 70 damage, costs Water + Colorless energy
• Weakness: Grass ×2
• Retreat Cost: 2
• Flavor Text: “The three horns that extend from its beak attest to its power. The leader has the biggest horns.”
• Set: XY BREAKthrough
• Card Number: 38
• Rarity: Rare Holo
• Image:

Key Printings

This guide focuses on the Empoleon card from the XY BREAKthrough set, card number 38. It is a Rare Holo with no known alternate printings or promotional variants.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this Empoleon card. Identification is straightforward via its set code “xy8-38,” rarity as Rare Holo, and the distinctive illustration by Satoshi Shirai.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its ability, Dignified Fighter, enhances Basic Pokémon attacks, making it potentially useful in casual play, but official tournament status is unclear.

Care & Storage Tips

To preserve the vibrant holofoil and detailed artwork, store this card in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the surface to maintain its collector value.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

• XY BREAKthrough: This set features Empoleon as a powerful Stage 2 Water-type with a unique ability that supports Basic Pokémon, adding strategic depth. The card fits well within the set’s theme of dynamic evolutions and strong abilities.