Author: General Ops

  • Collector’s Guide: Hippopotas (Darkness Ablaze #93)

    Collector’s Guide: Hippopotas (Darkness Ablaze #93)

    Hippopotas Collector’s Guide: Darkness Ablaze #93

    Character Intro

    Hippopotas (#93) from Darkness Ablaze is a Common Basic with 100 HP. It features the straightforward Double Stomp attack and offers a sturdy, reliable presence.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Darkness Ablaze 93 Common 100 Shin Nagasawa
    • Type: Fighting
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 4 Colorless Energy
    • Weakness: Grass ×2
    • Resistance: None
    • Regulation Mark: D
    • Flavor Text: It moves through the sands with its mouth open, swallowing sand along with its prey. It gets rid of the sand by spouting it from its nose.
    • Attacks:
    • Tackle: Deals 10 damage with a single Colorless Energy cost.
    • Double Stomp: Costs three Fighting and one Colorless Energy; flip 2 coins, this attack does 30 more damage for each heads, starting at 70 damage.

    Key Printings

    The key printing of Hippopotas in Darkness Ablaze (#93) is a Common rarity card with no evolutions or abilities. It stands out for its high retreat cost and strategic Double Stomp attack, which can deal significant damage depending on coin flips.

    Variants & Identifiers

    This printing has no known variants or alternate printings. It is identified by the set code “swsh3” and the card number 93. The illustration by Shin Nagasawa is unique to this version. The card’s regulation mark is “D,” which helps identify its place in the Sword & Shield series.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This Hippopotas card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats according to the provided data. Its high retreat cost and coin-dependent attack make it a tactical choice for collectors rather than competitive play.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the card’s vibrant illustration and condition, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its common rarity, it is still valuable to collectors who appreciate the Darkness Ablaze series. Avoid bending or scratching the card to maintain its collectible value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Darkness Ablaze: Hippopotas appears as a Basic Fighting-type Pokémon with a focus on sand-themed flavor text and a versatile attack set. This set emphasizes dynamic battling strategies and features artwork by Shin Nagasawa, contributing to the card’s visual appeal.

    swsh3-93

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    Hippopotas (Darkness Ablaze) #93

  • Collector’s Guide: Hippowdon (Darkness Ablaze #94)

    Collector’s Guide: Hippowdon (Darkness Ablaze #94)

    Hippowdon Collector’s Guide: Darkness Ablaze #94

    Character Intro

    Darkness Ablaze Hippowdon (#94) is a Rare Stage 1 Fighting-type with a sturdy 150 HP and the powerful Land Crush attack. It offers a solid presence for collectors and players alike.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Darkness Ablaze 94 Rare 150 KEIICHIRO ITO
    • Type: Fighting
    • Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Hippopotas)
    • Retreat Cost: 4
    • Weakness: Grass ×2
    • Resistance: None
    • Regulation Mark: D
    • Flavor Text: Stones can get stuck in the ports on their bodies. Dwebble help dislodge such stones, so Hippowdon look after these Pokémon.

    Key Printings

    This exact printing appears in the Darkness Ablaze expansion of the Sword & Shield series as a Rare card numbered 94. It features two attacks:
    – Triple Smash: Deals 80 damage per heads flipped on three coins.
    – Land Crush: A straightforward 150 damage attack.

    Variants & Identifiers

    This card has no known print variants. It can be identified by its set code “swsh3-94,” Fighting type, and the illustrator KEIICHIRO ITO. The card’s image can be referenced at /images/swsh3/swsh3-94.jpg.

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
    • This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the vivid artwork and maintain card condition, store Hippowdon in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its rarity, handle with care to avoid edge wear and surface scratches.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Darkness Ablaze: Hippowdon appears as a rare Fighting-type Stage 1 card with strong attacks and a high retreat cost, emphasizing its tank-like durability and offensive potential.

    Hippowdon (Darkness Ablaze) #94

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    Hippowdon (Darkness Ablaze) #94

  • Collector’s Guide: Rhyperior V (Darkness Ablaze #95)

    Collector’s Guide: Rhyperior V (Darkness Ablaze #95)

    Rhyperior V Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Rhyperior V is a Rare Holo V card from the Darkness Ablaze set, numbered 95. With 230 HP and the standout attack Heavy Rock Artillery, it delivers a sturdy, hard-hitting presence in play and a striking visual for collectors.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Darkness Ablaze 95 Rare Holo V 230 Eske Yoshinob
    • Type: Fighting
    • Stage: Basic, V
    • Retreat Cost: 4
    • Weakness: Grass ×2
    • Regulation Mark: D
    • Rules: V rule applies — when your Pokémon V is Knocked Out, your opponent takes 2 Prize cards.

    Key Printings

    This guide focuses on the Darkness Ablaze printing of Rhyperior V, card number 95. It is a Rare Holo V card with high HP and impactful Fighting-type attacks. The art by Eske Yoshinob provides a vivid, detailed depiction.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Key identifiers include the set code “swsh3” and card number 95. The card’s market reference query is “Rhyperior V Darkness Ablaze 95.” The image of this card can be found at /images/swsh3/swsh3-95.jpg.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. It carries the standard V rule where knocking out this Pokémon awards your opponent two Prize cards. Its high retreat cost of 4 and weakness to Grass types are important considerations for gameplay.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the card’s Rare Holo V condition, store it in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the card surface, especially the holographic areas. Use a rigid top-loader or a binder with individual pockets for long-term storage.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Darkness Ablaze (swsh3): This set includes the powerful Rhyperior V as card number 95, featuring strong Fighting-type attacks and a high HP pool. The set is known for its dynamic Basic V Pokémon, with this card standing out due to its heavy damage output and strategic discard effect. Release date is unknown.

    Rhyperior V (Darkness Ablaze) #95

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    Rhyperior V (Darkness Ablaze) #95

  • Collector’s Guide: Diggersby (Darkness Ablaze #96)

    Collector’s Guide: Diggersby (Darkness Ablaze #96)

    Diggersby Collector’s Guide: Darkness Ablaze #96

    Character Intro

    Diggersby from the Darkness Ablaze set is a rare card numbered 96. It boasts a sturdy 130 HP and features the powerful attack Land Crush. This card offers a solid addition to any collection seeking robust Pokémon.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Darkness Ablaze 96 Rare 130 0313
    • Type: Fighting
    • Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Bunnelby)
    • Retreat Cost: 3
    • Weakness: Grass ×2
    • Resistances: None
    • Regulation Mark: D

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Diggersby appears in the Darkness Ablaze set, identified by card number 96. It features two attacks:
    – Hammer In — 90 damage for a moderate Fighting and Colorless energy cost
    – Land Crush — 140 damage requiring more Fighting energy

    The card’s rarity is Rare, making it a desirable piece for collectors focusing on the Sword & Shield series.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It is identified by the set code “swsh3” and the card ID “swsh3-96.” The illustrator is listed as 0313, and the regulation mark is D. The card’s image can be found at /images/swsh3/swsh3-96.jpg.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats according to the provided data. No additional tournament or play notes are available.

    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 illustration, handle with clean hands and consider a rigid case to maintain its value and appearance.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Darkness Ablaze: This set features Diggersby as a powerful Fighting-type Stage 1 Pokémon with strong attacks suitable for aggressive playstyles. The card’s artwork and flavor text emphasize its strength and utility in excavation and construction, fitting the set’s dynamic theme.

    Diggersby (Darkness Ablaze) #96

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    Diggersby (Darkness Ablaze) #96

  • Collector’s Guide: Passimian (Darkness Ablaze #97)

    Collector’s Guide: Passimian (Darkness Ablaze #97)

    Passimian Collector’s Guide: Darkness Ablaze #97

    Character Intro

    Passimian from the Darkness Ablaze set is a Common card with 110 HP. It features the attack Rock Hurl, showcasing its dynamic combat style. This card is number 97 in the set, making it a straightforward addition for collectors.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Darkness Ablaze 97 Common 110 SATOSHI NAKAI
    • Type: Fighting
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1 Colorless
    • Weakness: Psychic ×2
    • Resistance: None
    • Regulation Mark: D
    • Flavor Text: Displaying amazing teamwork, they follow the orders of their boss as they all help out in the search for their favorite berries.

    Key Printings

    This exact printing is from the Darkness Ablaze expansion, card number 97. It is a Common rarity Basic Pokémon card with no evolutions. The card’s two attacks are “Call for Family,” which lets you search your deck for up to two Basic Pokémon to bench, and “Rock Hurl,” a 70-damage attack unaffected by resistance.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this Passimian card. It can be identified by its Fighting type, the regulation mark D, and the illustrator credit to SATOSHI NAKAI. The card image can be referenced at /images/swsh3/swsh3-97.jpg.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality status: unknown. This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Players should verify tournament legality before use.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve this card’s vibrant artwork and condition, 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

    • Darkness Ablaze: Introduced Passimian as a Common Fighting-type Basic Pokémon with solid HP and useful benching support through “Call for Family.” The set emphasizes dynamic battling strategies with strong Fighting-type options.

    Passimian (Darkness Ablaze) #97

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    Passimian (Darkness Ablaze) #97

  • Collector’s Guide: Galarian Sirfetch’d (Darkness Ablaze #98)

    Collector’s Guide: Galarian Sirfetch’d (Darkness Ablaze #98)

    Galarian Sirfetch’d Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Galarian Sirfetch’d from the Darkness Ablaze set is a Rare card numbered 98. With 130 HP and the standout attack Meteor Assault, its vibrant, striking design makes it a notable addition to any collection.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Darkness Ablaze 98 Rare 130 Ryota Murayama
    • Type: Fighting
    • Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Galarian Farfetch’d)
    • Weakness: Psychic ×2
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Regulation Mark: D
    • Flavor Text: Only Farfetch’d that have survived many battles can attain this evolution. When this Pokémon’s leek withers, it will retire from combat.

    Key Printings

    The key printing of Galarian Sirfetch’d is from the Darkness Ablaze expansion, card number 98. It features two attacks:
    – Pierce — 40 damage for one Fighting energy
    – Meteor Assault — 180 damage, with a restriction on repeated use until the Pokémon leaves the Active Spot

    Variants & Identifiers

    This card has no known print variants. It is identified by its set code “swsh3-98” and regulation mark “D.” The illustrator credited is Ryota Murayama, whose artwork is distinctive for this card.

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
    • This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats according to the provided data.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the vibrant artwork and maintain card condition, store Galarian Sirfetch’d in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its rarity status, handle with clean hands and avoid bending or scratching the surface.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Darkness Ablaze: Introduces Galarian Sirfetch’d as a rare Fighting-type Stage 1 Pokémon with strong offensive capabilities and a unique battle lore tied to its evolution and signature leek.

    Galarian Sirfetch'd (Darkness Ablaze) #98

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    Galarian Sirfetch'd (Darkness Ablaze) #98

  • Collector’s Guide: Galarian Slowbro V (Darkness Ablaze #99)

    Collector’s Guide: Galarian Slowbro V (Darkness Ablaze #99)

    Galarian Slowbro V Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Galarian Slowbro V from the Darkness Ablaze set is a Rare Holo V card numbered 99. It carries a sturdy 210 HP and features the Rapid-Fire Poison ability. Its attack, Tripping Shot, rounds out a dynamic playstyle.

    Abilities & Attack

    • Ability: Rapid-Fire Poison
    • Attack: Tripping Shot — 3-energy cost (two Darkness, one Colorless)

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Darkness Ablaze 99 Rare Holo V 210 5ban Graphics
    • Card ID: swsh3-99
    • Type: Darkness
    • Stage: Basic, V
    • Retreat Cost: 3
    • Weakness: Fighting ×2
    • Resistance: None
    • Regulation Mark: D
    • Rules: V rule applies—when this Pokémon V is Knocked Out, opponent takes 2 Prize cards.
    • Image URL: /images/swsh3/swsh3-99.jpg

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Galarian Slowbro V appears in the Darkness Ablaze set, identified by card number 99. It is a Rare Holo V featuring the distinctive 5ban Graphics illustration style. No other printings or reprints of this exact card are documented.

    Variants & Identifiers

    • No known print variants
    • Darkness type
    • Ability: Rapid-Fire Poison
    • Attack: Tripping Shot with a 3-energy cost (two Darkness, one Colorless)
    • Regulation Mark: D
    • Standard V Pokémon rules apply

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats according to the provided data.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the card’s Rare Holo V finish and detailed 5ban Graphics artwork, store it in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the card to maintain its collector value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Darkness Ablaze: Galarian Slowbro V debuts as a powerful Darkness-type Basic V with a unique poison ability and a high-damage attack that restricts opponent movement, making it a notable addition to the set’s aggressive strategies.

    Galarian Slowbro V (Darkness Ablaze) #99

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    Galarian Slowbro V (Darkness Ablaze) #99

  • Collector’s Guide: Mightyena (Vivid Voltage #104)

    Collector’s Guide: Mightyena (Vivid Voltage #104)

    Mightyena (Vivid Voltage 104) Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Mightyena from the Vivid Voltage set is an Uncommon Darkness-type Stage 1 Pokémon card numbered 104. It evolves from Poochyena, has 110 HP, and features the attacks Ferocious Bellow and Pitch-Black Fangs (100 damage). This card offers a straightforward addition to any collection with its solid stats and distinctive design.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Vivid Voltage 104 Uncommon 110 Aya Kusube
    • Type: Darkness
    • Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Poochyena)
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Grass ×2
    • Resistances: None
    • Regulation Mark: D

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Mightyena appears in the Sword & Shield Vivid Voltage set, identified by card number 104. It is an Uncommon card illustrated by Aya Kusube. The card includes two attacks:
    – Ferocious Bellow: reduces damage from the opponent’s next attack.
    – Pitch-Black Fangs: deals 100 damage.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Key identifiers include the Darkness type, Stage 1 subtype, and the regulation mark D. The card’s market reference query is “Mightyena Vivid Voltage 104,” useful for collectors and traders.

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
    • This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. No additional tournament or play notes are available.

    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, maintaining the sharpness of the illustration by Aya Kusube is important for collectors. Avoid bending or scratching the card surface.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Vivid Voltage: This set includes Mightyena as a solid Darkness-type Stage 1 Pokémon with tactical attacks. It complements the set’s diverse lineup with its pack-hunting theme and strategic abilities.

    swsh4-104

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    Mightyena (Vivid Voltage) #104

  • Collector’s Guide: Sableye (Vivid Voltage #105)

    Collector’s Guide: Sableye (Vivid Voltage #105)

    Sableye Collector’s Guide: Vivid Voltage #105

    Character Intro

    Sableye from the Vivid Voltage set is an Uncommon Basic card numbered 105. With 70 HP and the disruptive Torment attack, this Darkness-type Pokémon offers collectors a modest yet distinctive addition with its distinct design.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Vivid Voltage 105 Uncommon 70 KEIICHIRO ITO
    • HP: 70
    • Type: Darkness
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Grass ×2
    • Attacks:
    • Filch: Draw a card (Cost: 1 Colorless)
    • Torment: Deals 30 damage and prevents the opponent’s Active Pokémon from using one chosen attack on their next turn (Cost: 2 Colorless)
    • Flavor Text: “This Pokémon is feared. When its gemstone eyes begin to glow with a sinister shine, it’s believed that Sableye will steal people’s spirits away.”
    • Illustrator: KEIICHIRO ITO
    • Regulation Mark: D
    • Set Code: swsh4
    • Series: Sword & Shield
    • Legal Status: unknown

    Key Printings

    This Sableye card is from the Sword & Shield series, specifically the Vivid Voltage set. It is a Basic Pokémon card with an Uncommon rarity and features two attacks that emphasize disruption and card draw.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It is identified by the card number 105 in the Vivid Voltage set and the regulation mark D. The card’s artwork is credited to KEIICHIRO ITO.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    According to the provided data, this card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.

    Care & Storage Tips

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

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Vivid Voltage (swsh4): This set includes the featured Sableye card, showcasing a Darkness-type Basic Pokémon with disruptive abilities and moderate HP. The set is known for its diverse range of Pokémon and dynamic artwork styles.

    swsh4-105

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    Sableye (Vivid Voltage) #105

  • Collector’s Guide: Drapion V (Vivid Voltage #106)

    Collector’s Guide: Drapion V (Vivid Voltage #106)

    Drapion V Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Drapion V from the Vivid Voltage set is a striking Rare Holo V card numbered 106. With a robust 210 HP and the powerful attack Hazardous Claws, it pairs vivid artwork with solid battle potential.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Vivid Voltage 106 Rare Holo V 210 Eske Yoshinob
    • Type: Darkness
    • Stage: Basic, V
    • Retreat Cost: 3
    • Weakness: Fighting ×2
    • Regulation Mark: D
    • Rules: V rule applies—when your Pokémon V is Knocked Out, your opponent takes 2 Prize cards.

    Attacks & Battle Profile

    • Wrack Down — 70 damage.
    • Hazardous Claws — 130 damage; paralyzes and poisons the opponent’s Active Pokémon. Discard 2 Energy from Drapion V.

    Key Printings

    This guide focuses on the Drapion V card from the Vivid Voltage set, identified as card number 106. It is a Rare Holo V variant notable for its high HP and powerful attacks.

    Variants & Identifiers

    No alternate print variants are documented for this Drapion V printing. Key identifiers include its Darkness type, Basic V stage, and regulation mark D. The illustrator is Eske Yoshinob. The card’s image can be referenced at /images/swsh4/swsh4-106.jpg.

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
    • This card is not currently listed as legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Players should verify tournament rules before including Drapion V in competitive decks.

    Care & Storage Tips

    Protect the rare holo finish by sleeving the card and keeping it away from direct sunlight and moisture. Use a rigid top-loader or a binder with individual pockets to prevent bending or surface scratches. Handle with clean hands or gloves to maintain condition.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Vivid Voltage: Drapion V debuts as a powerful Darkness-type Basic V Pokémon with strong offensive capabilities and a high HP pool. The set is known for its vibrant artwork and diverse card mechanics, with Drapion V standing out as a rare holo V collectible.

    Drapion V (Vivid Voltage) #106

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    Drapion V (Vivid Voltage) #106