Author: General Ops

  • Collector’s Guide: Dark Golbat (Team Rocket Returns #34)

    Dark Golbat Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Dark Golbat is an Uncommon card from the Team Rocket Returns set, numbered 34. It has 70 HP and features the attack Night Ambush. A distinctive addition for collectors focused on the Team Rocket Returns lineup.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Team Rocket Returns 34 Uncommon 70 Masakazu Fukuda
    • Type: Grass, Darkness
    • Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Zubat)
    • Attack: Night Ambush (Deals 30 damage to one opponent’s Pokémon; Dark Golbat cannot attack next turn)
    • Weakness: Psychic ×2
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Flavor Text: Unknown
    • Regulation Mark: None

    Key Printings

    The only known printing of this Dark Golbat card is from the Team Rocket Returns set (ex7), numbered 34. It is classified as an Uncommon rarity card and is part of the ex series.

    Variants & Identifiers

    This card has no known print variants. It can be identified by its dual Grass and Darkness type, the unique Night Ambush attack, and the illustration by Masakazu Fukuda. The card ID is ex7-34.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. It is both Grass and Darkness type, which is an unusual combination in the Pokémon TCG.

    Care & Storage Tips

    Store in a protective sleeve, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its Uncommon rarity and unique dual typing, maintaining clean edges and preserving the artwork supports long-term collector value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Team Rocket Returns (ex7): Dark Golbat appears as a strategic Stage 1 Pokémon with a Grass and Darkness type combination, featuring the Night Ambush attack. This set reintroduces Team Rocket-themed cards with distinctive mechanics and artwork.

    Dark Golbat (Team Rocket Returns) #34

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    Dark Golbat (Team Rocket Returns) #34

  • Collector’s Guide: Dark Golduck (Team Rocket Returns #35)

    Dark Golduck Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Dark Golduck from the Team Rocket Returns set is an uncommon card numbered 35. It features 70 HP and the attack Cold Crush. This card captures a shadowy version of Golduck with a sleek design.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Team Rocket Returns 35 Uncommon 70 Nakaoka
    • Pokémon: Dark Golduck
    • Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Psyduck)
    • Types: Water, Darkness
    • HP: 70
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Lightning ×2
    • Abilities: None
    • Attacks:
    • Darkness Shield: Flip a coin; if heads, prevent all effects of an attack, including damage, done to each of your Active Pokémon during your opponent’s next turn. (20 damage, Water + Colorless)
    • Cold Crush: May discard an Energy attached to Dark Golduck to discard an Energy attached to the Defending Pokémon. (40 damage, Water + 2 Colorless)
    • Illustrator: Nakaoka
    • Set Code: ex7-35
    • Series: ex
    • Rarity: Uncommon
    • Regulation Mark: Unknown
    • Flavor Text: None

    Key Printings

    The only known printing of this Dark Golduck card is from the Team Rocket Returns set, identified by the set code ex7-35. This version is notable for its uncommon rarity and the distinctive artwork by Nakaoka. No other print variants are documented.

    Variants & Identifiers

    This Dark Golduck card has no known print variants. It is identified by its number 35 in the Team Rocket Returns set and features the unique combination of Water and Darkness types. The card’s retreat cost, weakness, and attack details further help collectors and players recognize this specific printing.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats according to available data. Players should verify current tournament rules for any changes.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the condition of this uncommon Dark Golduck card, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the surface, especially the illustrated front by Nakaoka. Use a rigid top-loader or binder with individual pockets for long-term storage.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Team Rocket Returns (ex7): This set reintroduces Dark Pokémon with a twist, and Dark Golduck stands as a solid Stage 1 option with defensive and energy disruption capabilities. Its uncommon rarity makes it a desirable find for collectors focusing on the darker side of the Pokémon TCG universe.

    Dark Golduck

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    Dark Golduck (Team Rocket Returns) #35

  • Collector’s Guide: Dark Gyarados (Team Rocket Returns #36)

    Dark Gyarados Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Dark Gyarados from the Team Rocket Returns set is an uncommon card numbered 36 with 80 HP. It features the ability Dark Scale and the attack Dark Streak, showcasing a menacing presence in battle. This card captures the fierce energy of Gyarados with a shadowy twist.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Team Rocket Returns 36 Uncommon 80 Nakaoka
    • Type: Water, Darkness
    • Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Magikarp)
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Weakness: Lightning (×2)
    • Resistance: Fighting (-30)
    • Poké-Body: Dark Scale — If Dark Gyarados is your Active Pokémon and is Knocked Out by an opponent’s attack, put 3 damage counters on the Attacking Pokémon.
    • Attacks:
    • Sharp Fang: 30 damage, costs Water + Colorless
    • Dark Streak: 40 damage, costs Water + 2 Colorless; flip a coin, if heads, each Defending Pokémon is now Paralyzed

    Key Printings

    The key printing of Dark Gyarados is from the Team Rocket Returns set, identified as card number 36. This uncommon card is notable for its dual Water and Darkness typing and a strategic Poké-Body that punishes attackers.

    Variants & Identifiers

    • No known print variants for this exact printing
    • Set code: “ex7-36”
    • Illustrator: Nakaoka
    • Features combined Water and Darkness type symbols
    • Includes the Poké-Body “Dark Scale”

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its unique ability and typing make it a notable collector’s piece rather than a staple in competitive play.

    Care & Storage Tips

    • Store in a protective sleeve and keep away from direct sunlight and moisture.
    • Avoid bending or scratching the card surface.
    • Consider a rigid top-loader for long-term storage.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Team Rocket Returns: This set introduced Dark Gyarados as a powerful Stage 1 Water/Darkness type with a punishing Poké-Body and solid attacks, adding depth to the Dark-themed cards in the ex series.

    Dark Gyarados

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    Dark Gyarados (Team Rocket Returns) #36

  • Collector’s Guide: Dark Houndoom (Team Rocket Returns #37)

    Dark Houndoom Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Dark Houndoom from the Team Rocket Returns set is an Uncommon Pokémon card numbered 37. It boasts 70 HP, the Poké-Power Fire Breath, and the attack Fire Payback, offering a vivid glimpse into Dark Houndoom’s intense battle style.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Team Rocket Returns 37 Uncommon 70 Nakaoka
    • Type: Fire, Darkness
    • Stage: Stage 1
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Water ×2
    • Ability: Fire Breath (Poké-Power) can Burn the Defending Pokémon if Dark Houndoom is active and not affected by Special Conditions.
    • Attack: Fire Payback deals 40 damage plus 20 more if you have fewer Benched Pokémon than your opponent.
    • Set Code: ex7
    • Card ID: ex7-37
    • Flavor Text: Unknown
    • Regulation Mark: Unknown
    • Image: Dark Houndoom

    Key Printings

    This printing appears in Team Rocket Returns, identified by set code ex7 and card number 37. As an Uncommon, it is moderately accessible within the set.

    Variants & Identifiers

    No print variants are documented. Identifiers include its Fire/Darkness typing, the Poké-Power Fire Breath, the attack Fire Payback, and illustrator credit to Nakaoka.

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
    • This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its dual typing and Poké-Power may offer strategic value in casual play, but official tournament use is not documented.

    Care & Storage Tips

    Store in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its Uncommon rarity and illustrated artwork, preserve the surface and edges to maintain long-term collector value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Team Rocket Returns (ex7): Reintroduces Dark Pokémon with a twist; Dark Houndoom stands out with its combined Fire and Darkness typing and tactical Poké-Power, making it a thematic collectible.
    • Other Sets: No other printings of this exact card are documented.

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    Dark Houndoom (Team Rocket Returns) #37

  • Collector’s Guide: Dark Magcargo (Team Rocket Returns #38)

    Dark Magcargo Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Dark Magcargo from the Team Rocket Returns set is an uncommon card numbered 38. It features 80 HP and includes the attack Energy Press. This card captures the fiery essence of Magcargo with a distinct dark twist.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Team Rocket Returns 38 Uncommon 80 Nakaoka
    • Types: Fire, Darkness
    • Stage: Stage 1
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Weakness: Water ×2
    • Abilities: None
    • Attacks:
    • Energy Press: Does 10 damage plus 10 more damage for each basic Energy card attached to all of your Active Pokémon.
    • Linear Attack: Deals 40 damage to one of your opponent’s Pokémon (no Weakness or Resistance applied for Benched Pokémon).
    • Rules: This Pokémon is both Fire and Darkness type.
    • Illustrator: Nakaoka
    • Image:

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Dark Magcargo appears in the “Team Rocket Returns” set (ex7), numbered 38. It is classified as an Uncommon card and features artwork by Nakaoka. No other print variants are documented for this card.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants or alternate versions of this Dark Magcargo card. Identification relies on the set code “ex7,” card number 38, and the unique dual Fire and Darkness typing.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: 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

    To preserve the vivid artwork and maintain card condition, store Dark Magcargo in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its Uncommon rarity, handling with care will help retain its collector value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Team Rocket Returns (ex7): This set reintroduced Dark-type Pokémon with a twist, including Dark Magcargo as a Fire/Darkness hybrid Stage 1. It features strategic attacks that leverage Energy attachments and targeted damage, fitting the set’s theme of shadowy and powerful Pokémon.

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    Dark Magcargo (Team Rocket Returns) #38

  • Collector’s Guide: Dark Magneton (Team Rocket Returns #39)

    Dark Magneton Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Dark Magneton from the Team Rocket Returns set is an uncommon card numbered 39. With 70 HP and the striking Poison Pulse attack, it channels an eerie, Team Rocket vibe with bold, moody artwork.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Team Rocket Returns 39 Uncommon 70 Emi Miwa
    • Card Number: 39
    • Set: Team Rocket Returns (ex7)
    • Stage: Stage 1 (evolves from Magnemite)
    • Type: Lightning, Darkness
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Fighting ×2
    • Abilities: None
    • Attacks:
    • Magnetic Lines: Moves a basic Energy card from the Defending Pokémon to another of your opponent’s Pokémon if they have at least two Pokémon in play, dealing 20 damage.
    • Poison Pulse: Deals 40 damage and poisons the Defending Pokémon.

    Key Printings

    This exact Dark Magneton appears in Team Rocket Returns (set code ex7) as card number 39. It is Uncommon and illustrated by Emi Miwa. No alternate printings or reprints of this specific card are noted.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants. Identifiers include its dual Lightning and Darkness type, Stage 1 evolution from Magnemite, and attacks that blend energy manipulation with poisoning. The illustration and rarity further distinguish it within Team Rocket Returns.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality status: unknown.
    This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. With a retreat cost of 1 and a Fighting-type weakness, it rewards tactical play via energy redistribution and poison pressure.

    Care & Storage Tips

    Store in a sleeve away from sunlight and moisture. As an Uncommon with detailed artwork, keep surfaces free of scratches and bends. Use rigid top loaders or binder pages with individual pockets for best protection.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Team Rocket Returns (ex7): Features Dark Magneton as an Uncommon Stage 1 with dual Lightning and Darkness typing and strategic attacks. The set centers on Team Rocket themes, reflected in Poison Pulse and energy manipulation.

    Dark Magneton (Team Rocket Returns) #39

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    Dark Magneton (Team Rocket Returns) #39

  • Collector’s Guide: Dark Electrode (Team Rocket Returns #4)

    Dark Electrode Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Dark Electrode from the Team Rocket Returns set is a Rare Holo card numbered 4. With 70 HP, the Poké-Power Darkness Navigation, and the attack Energy Bomb, it blends power and strategy for collectors and players alike.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Team Rocket Returns 4 Rare Holo 70 Kouki Saitou
    • Pokémon: Dark Electrode
    • Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Voltorb)
    • Types: Lightning, Darkness
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Fighting ×2
    • Poké-Power: Darkness Navigation — allows attaching a Darkness or Dark Metal Energy from the deck if no Energy is attached.
    • Attack: Energy Bomb — deals 30 damage and lets you move all Energy cards attached to Dark Electrode to your Benched Pokémon.
    • Card ID: ex7-4
    • Set Code: ex7

    Key Printings

    The key printing of Dark Electrode is from the Team Rocket Returns set, identified as card number 4. It is a Rare Holo card, making it a desirable piece for collectors focusing on holofoil rarity and the ex series.

    Variants & Identifiers

    This card has no known print variants. It is uniquely identified by its set code (ex7), card number (4), and illustrator (Kouki Saitou). The card’s dual Lightning and Darkness typing and its Poké-Power “Darkness Navigation” are distinctive features.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality status: unknown.
    This Pokémon is both Lightning and Darkness type, with a Fighting weakness and a retreat cost of 1. Its Poké-Power offers strategic energy attachment, but it cannot be used if Dark Electrode is affected by a Special Condition.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the holofoil surface and maintain card condition, store Dark Electrode in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the card, and keep it in a temperature-controlled environment to prevent warping.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Team Rocket Returns (ex7): The sole known printing of Dark Electrode, featuring its rare holofoil finish and unique dual-type mechanics. This set is notable for its dark-themed Pokémon and strategic energy manipulation abilities.

    Dark Electrode

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    Dark Electrode (Team Rocket Returns) #4

  • Collector’s Guide: Dark Pupitar (Team Rocket Returns #40)

    Dark Pupitar Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Dark Pupitar is an uncommon card from the Team Rocket Returns set, numbered 40. It has 70 HP and features the attack Explosive Evolution. This card offers a solid addition to any collection focused on that set.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Team Rocket Returns 40 Uncommon 70 Tomoaki Imakuni
    • Pokémon: Dark Pupitar
    • Stage: Stage 1 (evolves from Larvitar)
    • Types: Fighting, Darkness
    • Weakness: Grass (×2)
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Rules: This Pokémon is both Fighting and Darkness type.

    Key Printings

    This exact printing is from the Team Rocket Returns set, identified as card number 40 and at Uncommon rarity. It features two attacks: Explosive Evolution, which can damage all opponent’s Pokémon and allows evolution from Dark Pupitar, and Double Tackle, which deals damage to each Defending Pokémon. The card has no abilities.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Key identifiers include the set code “ex7,” the card number 40, and the illustrator Tomoaki Imakuni. The card’s dual Fighting and Darkness type and its unique attacks make it distinguishable within the Team Rocket Returns set.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its dual-type status and attack effects may offer interesting strategic options, but current tournament legality is unknown.

    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 unknown release date, maintaining its artwork and edges is crucial for long-term collector value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Team Rocket Returns (ex7): This set reintroduces Dark-type Pokémon with a darker theme. Dark Pupitar stands out with its dual Fighting and Darkness typing and unique attacks that emphasize evolution and multi-target damage. The set’s focus on Team Rocket’s shadowy influence is reflected in this card’s design and mechanics.

    Dark Pupitar

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    Dark Pupitar (Team Rocket Returns) #40

  • Collector’s Guide: Dark Pupitar (Team Rocket Returns #41)

    Dark Pupitar Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Dark Pupitar is an uncommon card from the Team Rocket Returns set, numbered 41. With 80 HP and a single attack, Rock Tumble, it captures Pupitar’s rugged essence in a straightforward, powerful design.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Team Rocket Returns 41 Uncommon 80 Emi Miwa
    • Pokémon: Dark Pupitar
    • Stage: Stage 1 (evolves from Larvitar)
    • Type: Fighting, Darkness
    • HP: 80
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Weakness: Grass ×2
    • Resistance: None
    • Rules: This Pokémon is both Fighting and Darkness type.
    • Illustrator: Emi Miwa
    • Card Number: ex7-41
    • Set: Team Rocket Returns (ex7)
    • Image:

    Key Printings

    This printing of Dark Pupitar comes from Team Rocket Returns (set code ex7), card number 41. It is an Uncommon card with no special print variants.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Identification relies on the set code ex7, card number 41, and its unique Fighting/Darkness dual typing. The illustrator Emi Miwa’s style further distinguishes this release.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    According to the provided data, this card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its dual Fighting and Darkness typing and features like Dark Streak and Rock Tumble suggest interesting strategic options, though tournament status is unknown.

    Care & Storage Tips

    Preserve the artwork and condition by storing this Dark Pupitar in a protective sleeve, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its uncommon rarity and unknown legality, keeping it mint is advisable for both collectors and potential players.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Team Rocket Returns (ex7): Introduced Dark Pupitar as a versatile Fighting/Darkness Stage 1 Pokémon with tactical attacks and solid HP. The set emphasizes Team Rocket themes and darker Pokémon types, and this card fits that motif.

    This guide captures the known details about Dark Pupitar from Team Rocket Returns, providing collectors and enthusiasts with a clear, concise reference.

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    Dark Pupitar (Team Rocket Returns) #41

  • Collector’s Guide: Dark Weezing (Team Rocket Returns #42)

    Dark Weezing Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Dark Weezing from the Team Rocket Returns set is an uncommon card numbered 42. It features 80 HP and the intriguing ability Methane Leak. Its attack, Darkness Charge, adds a strategic edge to gameplay. This card offers a distinctive addition for collectors and players alike.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Team Rocket Returns 42 Uncommon 80 Mitsuhiro Arita
    • Types: Grass, Darkness
    • Stage: Stage 1
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Weakness: Psychic ×2
    • Abilities: Methane Leak (Poké-Body)
    • Attacks: Smog (Poison effect), Darkness Charge (50 damage, self-damage)
    • Regulation Mark: Unknown
    • Flavor Text: Unknown
    • Legal Status: unknown
    • Image:

    Key Printings

    The only known printing of Dark Weezing is from the Team Rocket Returns expansion, identified by set code ex7 and card number 42. This printing is classified as Uncommon and showcases Mitsuhiro Arita’s detailed illustration.

    Variants & Identifiers

    No print variants or alternate artworks are documented for this Dark Weezing card. It is uniquely identified by its dual Grass and Darkness typing and the Poké-Body ability Methane Leak, which places damage counters on Poisoned Pokémon each turn.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not currently recognized as legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its dual typing and ability to poison opponents make it a strategic choice in casual play.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve this card’s condition, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the surface, especially to maintain the clarity of Mitsuhiro Arita’s artwork.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Team Rocket Returns (ex7): Dark Weezing appears as a potent Stage 1 Pokémon with a unique Grass/Darkness typing and a damaging Poké-Body ability, fitting the set’s theme of villainous Pokémon.

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    Dark Weezing (Team Rocket Returns) #42