Author: General Ops

Collector’s Guide: Dark Muk (Team Rocket Returns #16)
Dark Muk Collector’s Guide: Team Rocket Returns #16

Character Intro

Dark Muk from the Team Rocket Returns set is a rare card numbered 16 with 80 HP. It features the distinctive ability Sticky Goo and the attack Slimy Water. This card captures the eerie essence of Muk with its grimy design.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Team Rocket Returns 16 Rare 80 Mitsuhiro Arita
- Pokémon: Dark Muk
- Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Grimer)
- Types: Grass, Darkness
- Weakness: Psychic ×2
- Retreat Cost: 1
- Abilities: Sticky Goo (Poké-Body) increases opponent’s retreat cost by two Colorless Energy while Dark Muk is active.
- Attacks:
- Slimy Water: Deals 10 damage times the number of Colorless Energy in the defending Pokémon’s retreat cost.
- Acidic Poison: Deals 10 damage and causes the defending Pokémon to be Burned and Poisoned.
Key Printings

This exact printing of Dark Muk appears in the Team Rocket Returns set, identified as card number 16. It is classified as a Rare card and features Mitsuhiro Arita’s detailed illustration. No release date is documented for this printing.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this card. Identification is straightforward via its set code (ex7-16) and the dual Grass and Darkness typing, which is unusual and noted in the card’s rules text.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. It features a unique Poké-Body that can strategically increase the opponent’s retreat cost, and its attacks combine status effects with damage output, making it tactically versatile in casual play.

Care & Storage Tips

To preserve the vibrant artwork and maintain card condition, store Dark Muk in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its rarity and unique dual typing, keeping it in a top-loader or binder with acid-free pages is recommended for long-term collection.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Team Rocket Returns (ex7): Dark Muk debuts as a Rare Stage 1 card with a distinctive Grass and Darkness type combination. It features strategic abilities and attacks that emphasize control over opponent movement and status conditions. This set is known for expanding the Dark Pokémon archetype with flavorful and tactical cards.
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October 12, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Dark Raticate (Team Rocket Returns #17)
Dark Raticate Collector’s Guide (ex7-17)

Character Intro

Dark Raticate is a Rare card from the Team Rocket Returns set, numbered 17. It has 70 HP and features the attack Spread Poison. This card offers a distinctive addition to any collection focused on Team Rocket themes.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Team Rocket Returns 17 Rare 70 Kouki Saitou
- Type: Darkness
- Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Rattata)
- Retreat Cost: 0
- Weakness: Fighting ×2
- Resistances: None
- Abilities: None
- Attacks:
- Dark Seed: Prevents the Defending Pokémon from retreating during your opponent’s next turn and places 5 damage counters on it afterward.
- Spread Poison: Poisons the Defending Pokémon and deals 10 damage to one of your opponent’s Benched Pokémon.
Key Printings

The key printing of Dark Raticate is from the Team Rocket Returns set, identified by card number 17. This rare card is notable for its unique combination of disruption and poison effects, making it a memorable piece for collectors of Darkness-type Pokémon.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this card. Identification is straightforward via its set code “ex7,” card number 17, and the distinctive illustration by Kouki Saitou. The card’s lack of a regulation mark and unknown release date are additional identifiers.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its play viability is limited to casual or collector-focused gameplay due to its rarity and unique attack effects.

Care & Storage Tips

Store in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its rarity and detailed artwork, consider a top loader or a graded case for long-term protection. Handle with clean hands to avoid oils or dirt damaging the surface.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Team Rocket Returns (ex7): This set reintroduces Dark Pokémon with a menacing edge, and Dark Raticate stands out as a rare Stage 1 card with tactical attacks that hinder opponents and spread poison. Its presence enriches the Darkness-type lineup with strategic depth and collectible appeal.
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October 12, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Dark Sandslash (Team Rocket Returns #18)
Dark Sandslash Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Dark Sandslash from the Team Rocket Returns set is a Rare card numbered 18 with 70 HP. It features the intriguing ability Poison Payback and the attack Swift. This card offers a distinctive blend of offense and strategy for collectors and players alike.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Team Rocket Returns 18 Rare 70 Masakazu Fukuda
- Types: Fighting, Darkness
- Stage: Stage 1
- Retreat Cost: 0
- Weakness: Grass ×2
- Abilities: “Poison Payback” Poké-Body poisons attackers when Dark Sandslash is damaged
- Attack: “Swift” deals 50 damage unaffected by any effects on the defending Pokémon
- Regulation Mark: Unknown
- Flavor Text: Unknown
Key Printings

The key printing of Dark Sandslash is from the Team Rocket Returns set, card number 18. This rare card is notable for its unique dual Fighting and Darkness typing and its ability to poison opposing Pokémon when attacked.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this card. Identification is straightforward by its set code “ex7-18” and its distinctive illustration by Masakazu Fukuda. The card’s rarity is marked as Rare, and it carries no regulation mark.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its unique ability “Poison Payback” can strategically punish opponents for attacking, while the “Swift” attack bypasses common defensive effects.

Care & Storage Tips

To preserve the vivid artwork and maintain card condition, store Dark Sandslash in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its rarity and unknown release date, careful handling is recommended to retain collector value.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Team Rocket Returns: Dark Sandslash appears as a rare Stage 1 Pokémon with a potent poison-inducing ability and a reliable attack, fitting the darker theme of the set.
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October 12, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Dark Tyranitar (Team Rocket Returns #19)
Dark Tyranitar Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Dark Tyranitar from the Team Rocket Returns set is a Rare card numbered 19. It boasts a robust 120 HP and features the fierce attack Bite Off. This card stands out with its striking design and solid stats for collectors.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Team Rocket Returns 19 Rare 120 Nakaoka
- Type: Darkness
- Stage: Stage 2
- Weakness: Fighting ×2
- Resistance: Psychic -30
- Retreat Cost: 2
- Evolves From: Dark Pupitar
- Set Code: ex7
- Series: ex
- Regulation Mark: Unknown
- Legality: unknown
Key Printings

The key printing of Dark Tyranitar is from the Team Rocket Returns set (ex7), card number 19. This rare card is notable for its powerful attacks:
- “Grind” — scales damage with attached Energy.
- “Spinning Tail” — damages all opponent’s Pokémon.
- “Bite Off” — deals extra damage to Pokémon-ex.
Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this Dark Tyranitar card. It can be identified by its card number (19), rarity (Rare), and illustrator (Nakaoka). The card’s Darkness type and Stage 2 subtype also help distinguish it within the Team Rocket Returns set.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its powerful attacks and solid HP make it a notable collector’s piece, though its tournament viability is unclear due to unknown legality.

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 unknown release date, maintaining its pristine state is essential for long-term value.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Team Rocket Returns (ex7): This set includes Dark Tyranitar as a rare Stage 2 Darkness-type Pokémon, continuing the dark theme of the set. The card’s unique attacks and strong HP make it a standout collectible within this series.
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October 12, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Dark Ampharos (Team Rocket Returns #2)
Dark Ampharos Collector’s Guide

Overview

Dark Ampharos from the Team Rocket Returns set is a Rare Holo card numbered 2. With 120 HP, the Poké-Body Darkest Impulse, and the attack Shock Bolt, it’s a striking choice for both collectors and players.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Team Rocket Returns 2 Rare Holo 120 Emi Miwa

Card Details
- Pokémon: Dark Ampharos
- Evolves from: Dark Flaaffy
- Types: Lightning, Darkness
- Stage: Stage 2
- Retreat Cost: 2
- Weakness: Fighting ×2
- Poké-Body Ability: Darkest Impulse (damages opponent’s evolving Pokémon)
- Attacks: Ram (30 damage), Shock Bolt (70 damage, discards all Lightning Energy)
- Card ID: ex7-2
- Series: ex
- Set Code: ex7
- Regulation Mark: Unknown
- Flavor Text: None
Gameplay Notes
- Darkest Impulse places damage counters on the opponent’s Pokémon as they evolve, punishing evolution-heavy strategies.
- Ram offers consistent 30 damage.
- Shock Bolt delivers 70 damage but requires discarding all attached Lightning Energy, so plan energy attachments accordingly.
Collecting & Identification
- Key Printing: This exact Dark Ampharos appears in Team Rocket Returns as card number 2, a Rare Holo variant in the ex series.
- Variants: There are no known print variants.
- Identifiers: Set code “ex7,” card number “2,” dual Lightning/Darkness typing, and the Poké-Body “Darkest Impulse.”
Legality

Legality: unknown

Care & Storage

To preserve the holofoil surface, store Dark Ampharos in a protective sleeve away from sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching, and keep it in a cool, dry environment to prevent warping or fading.

Set Context
- Team Rocket Returns (ex7): Features Dark Ampharos as a Rare Holo Stage 2 card with a unique Poké-Body and dual typing, adding strategic depth and collectible appeal.
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October 12, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Dark Tyranitar (Team Rocket Returns #20)
Dark Tyranitar Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Dark Tyranitar from Team Rocket Returns is a Rare card, number 20, with 120 HP. It features the Poké-Body Sand Damage and the attack Second Strike, showcasing strategic versatility. The card captures Tyranitar’s imposing presence with a robust design ideal for collectors.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Team Rocket Returns 20 Rare 120 Kyoko Koizumi
- Pokémon: Dark Tyranitar
- Stage: Stage 2
- Type: Fighting, Darkness
- Weakness: Grass ×2
- Retreat Cost: 3
- Evolves From: Dark Pupitar
- Poké-Body: Sand Damage — places damage counters on opponent’s Benched Basic Pokémon between turns
- Attack: Second Strike — deals 50+ damage, with an additional 20 damage if the Defending Pokémon already has at least 2 damage counters
- Regulation Mark: Unknown
- Flavor Text: None
Key Printings

This exact printing is card number 20 in the Team Rocket Returns set (ex7). It is a Rare card illustrated by Kyoko Koizumi, notable for its dual Fighting and Darkness typing and the Sand Damage Poké-Body.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this card. It is uniquely identified by its set code “ex7-20” and the combination of Fighting and Darkness types, along with its distinctive Poké-Body and attack.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. It features a unique Poké-Body that can only be used once between turns, adding a strategic element to gameplay.

Care & Storage Tips

To preserve the card’s rare status and vibrant illustration by Kyoko Koizumi, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the card surface to maintain its collector value.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Team Rocket Returns (ex7): This set includes Dark Tyranitar as a rare Stage 2 card, emphasizing the dark and fighting aspects of the Pokémon with a powerful Poké-Body and attack combination. The set’s focus on Team Rocket themes complements the card’s menacing design and strategic playstyle.
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October 12, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Delibird (Team Rocket Returns #21)
Delibird – Team Rocket Returns (ex7-21) Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Delibird from the Team Rocket Returns set is a Rare card featuring 70 HP. It has the unique ability Gift Exchange and a distinctive attack called Souvenir. This card holds a special place as number 21 in the set.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Team Rocket Returns 21 Rare 70 Yuka Morii
- Type: Water
- Stage: Basic
- Retreat Cost: 1
- Weakness: Metal ×2
- Poké-Power: Gift Exchange — allows shuffling a card from hand into the deck and drawing a card, usable only if Delibird is Active and not affected by Special Conditions.
- Attack: Souvenir — flip 3 coins with effects ranging from placing damage counters to removing them on the Defending Pokémon.
Key Printings

This exact printing is identified as card number 21 in the Team Rocket Returns set (ex7). It is a rare card with no known alternate print variants. The card’s unique Water typing and its combination of abilities make it a distinctive piece for collectors focusing on the ex series.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this card. Identifiers include the set code ex7, card number 21, and rarity marked as Rare. The card’s artwork by Yuka Morii and its Water type are key visual identifiers. The image of the card can be found at: /images/ex7/ex7-21.jpg.

Legality & Play Notes
- Legality: unknown
- This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
  Its Poké-Power and attack offer strategic options but are limited by conditions such as Special Conditions and coin flip outcomes.
Care & Storage Tips

To preserve the card’s vibrant artwork and rare status, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Use a rigid top-loader or a binder with individual pockets to prevent bending or surface damage. Handle with clean hands to avoid oils and dirt.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Team Rocket Returns (ex7): This set reintroduced classic Team Rocket themes with a mix of Dark and Water-type Pokémon. Delibird stands out as a rare Water-type Basic Pokémon with a unique ability and attack, adding variety to the set’s lineup. The set’s release date is unknown, but it remains a notable entry in the ex series for collectors.
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October 12, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Furret (Team Rocket Returns #22)
Furret Collector’s Guide: Team Rocket Returns #22

Character Intro

Furret from the Team Rocket Returns set is a rare card numbered 22 with 80 HP. This sleek Pokémon features the attack Quick Tail Smash, offering a straightforward option in battle. Its design captures Furret’s agile and nimble nature.

Quick Facts
- HP: 80
- Type: Colorless
- Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Sentret)
- Attacks:
- Quick Change: Swap up to 3 cards from your hand with cards from your deck.
- Quick Tail Smash: Deals 30 damage, with a coin flip to possibly increase damage to 80 or do nothing.
- Weakness: Fighting ×2
- Retreat Cost: 1
- Illustrator: Yuka Morii
- Rarity: Rare
- Set: Team Rocket Returns (ex7)
- Card Number: 22
set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Team Rocket Returns 22 Rare 80 Yuka Morii

Key Printings

This Furret card is identified as ex7-22 from the Team Rocket Returns expansion. It is a rare card with no known alternate printings or promotional versions. The artwork by Yuka Morii captures Furret’s agile nature with clean, detailed lines.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this card. Key identifiers include its set code “ex7,” card number 22, and the unique attacks “Quick Change” and “Quick Tail Smash.” The card’s Colorless type and Stage 1 subtype further distinguish it.

Legality & Play Notes
- Legality: unknown
- This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
- Its strategic attacks offer deck manipulation and conditional damage, but current tournament play status is unknown.
Care & Storage Tips

To preserve this rare Furret card, store it in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the surface, especially the illustrated area by Yuka Morii. Use a rigid top-loader or binder for long-term storage.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Team Rocket Returns (ex7): This set reintroduces classic Team Rocket themes with a mix of Dark and Colorless Pokémon. Furret stands out as a rare Stage 1 card with unique deck manipulation capabilities and a coin-flip based attack, fitting the set’s strategic playstyle.
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October 12, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Ledian (Team Rocket Returns #23)
Ledian (Team Rocket Returns 23) Collectors Guide

Character Intro

Ledian 23 from Team Rocket Returns is a Rare Grass-type Stage 1 with 70 HP. It features the Poké-Body Powder Protection and the attacks Split Spiral Punch and Tackle.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Team Rocket Returns 23 Rare 70 Kagemaru Himeno
- Type: Grass
- Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Ledyba)
- Retreat Cost: 1
- Weakness: Fire (×2)
- Abilities: Powder Protection (Poké-Body) reduces damage from attacks by Pokémon with an owner in their name by 40
- Attacks:
- Split Spiral Punch: 20 damage, may confuse the opponent on a coin flip
- Tackle: 50 damage
Key Printings

This exact printing is identified as card number 23 in the Team Rocket Returns set (ex7). It is a rare card illustrated by Kagemaru Himeno, known for her intricate and vivid artwork. The card’s image can be viewed at /images/ex7/ex7-23.jpg.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this Ledian card. It is uniquely identified by its set code ex7-23 and its rarity as Rare. The card’s market reference query is “Ledian Team Rocket Returns 23.”

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its strategic Powder Protection ability and decent attack damage make it an interesting choice for casual play or collection, but tournament viability is unknown.

Care & Storage Tips

To preserve the card’s rare status and detailed illustration, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the card surface to maintain its condition and value.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Team Rocket Returns (ex7): This set features Ledian as a rare Grass-type Stage 1 Pokémon with a unique defensive ability and solid attack options. The set is known for its thematic focus on Team Rocket and includes several cards with owner-related mechanics, making Ledian’s Powder Protection particularly thematic.
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October 12, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Magby (Team Rocket Returns #24)
Magby (Team Rocket Returns 24) Collectors Guide

Character Intro

Magby from Team Rocket Returns is a Rare Basic Pokémon, card number 24, with 50 HP. It features the Baby Evolution ability and the Detour attack, offering a blend of collectible appeal and tactical utility for players and collectors alike.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Team Rocket Returns 24 Rare 50 Yukiko Baba
- Type: Fire
- Stage: Basic
- Retreat Cost: 1
- Weakness: Water ×2
- Ability: Baby Evolution (evolve Magby from hand and heal it once per turn)
- Attack: Detour (uses effect of a Supporter card in play)
Key Printings

This printing is card number 24 from Team Rocket Returns (ex7). It is a Rare card with no known alternate print variants. The Yukiko Baba artwork stands out within the ex-series.

Variants & Identifiers

No print variants or alternate versions of this Magby are documented. Identify it by set code “ex7-24,” rarity “Rare,” and the Poké-Power Baby Evolution.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its Baby Evolution ability and Detour attack provide interesting tactical options, though tournament play status is unclear.

Care & Storage Tips

Store in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching—preserving the illustrator’s artwork is key to maintaining value.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Team Rocket Returns (ex7): Includes Magby as a Rare Basic Fire-type with a unique evolution ability and a Supporter-interactive attack, adding strategic depth to the ex-series lineup.
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October 12, 2025