Category: sword_shield

  • Collector’s Guide: Larvitar (Darkness Ablaze #86)

    Collector’s Guide: Larvitar (Darkness Ablaze #86)

    Larvitar (Darkness Ablaze 86) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Larvitar from the Darkness Ablaze set is a Common card numbered 86. It has 70 HP and features the attack Pierce, with a straightforward design that makes it a solid addition for collectors focusing on this set. It also has Sand Spray for early chip damage.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Darkness Ablaze 86 Common 70 Sanosuke Sakuma
    • Type: Fighting
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Grass ×2
    • Attacks:
    • Sand Spray (10 damage, 1 Fighting Energy)
    • Pierce (20 damage, 2 Colorless Energy)
    • Flavor Text: Born deep underground, it comes aboveground and becomes a pupa once it has finished eating the surrounding soil.
    • Regulation Mark: D
    • Image:
      swsh3-86

    Key Printings

    This exact Larvitar appears in the Darkness Ablaze expansion of the Sword & Shield series. It is a Common rarity card, numbered 86 in the set. As a Basic Pokémon, it shows no previous-stage evolution on the card and has no special abilities.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants or alternate versions of this Larvitar card. Identification is straightforward via its set code “swsh3-86,” Fighting type, and the illustrator credit to Sanosuke Sakuma.

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
    • This Larvitar card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. No additional tournament rules or restrictions are noted.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the card’s condition, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the surface. A binder sleeve or top-loader helps maintain the artwork and structural integrity.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Darkness Ablaze: Larvitar appears as a Basic Fighting-type Pokémon with straightforward attacks and a grounded flavor text emphasizing its underground origins. It fits well within the set’s theme of powerful and evolving Pokémon but remains a simple, common card without special abilities or evolutions.

    Catch This Card on eBay

    Search live listings for Pokemon TCG Larvitar Darkness Ablaze.


    Browse eBay listings

    This section contains affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

    Larvitar (Darkness Ablaze) #86

  • Collector’s Guide: Pupitar (Darkness Ablaze #87)

    Collector’s Guide: Pupitar (Darkness Ablaze #87)

    Pupitar (Darkness Ablaze 87) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Pupitar from Darkness Ablaze is an Uncommon card (#87) with 80 HP featuring the attack Rocket Evolution. A straightforward, engaging addition to any collection.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Darkness Ablaze 87 Uncommon 80 Sekio
    • Type: Fighting
    • Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Larvitar)
    • Retreat Cost: 3
    • Weakness: Grass ×2
    • Resistance: None
    • Regulation Mark: D
    • Flavor Text: Even sealed in its shell, it can move freely. Hard and fast, it has outstanding destructive power.
    • Image:
      swsh3-87

    Key Printings

    This guide focuses on the Pupitar card from the Darkness Ablaze set, card number 87. It is an Uncommon rarity card illustrated by Sekio. No other print variants are listed for this exact printing.

    Variants & Identifiers

    • Card ID: swsh3-87
    • Set Code: swsh3
    • Subtypes: Stage 1
    • No alternate print variants or special editions are noted 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 vivid artwork and maintain card condition, store this Pupitar card in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its Uncommon rarity, handling with clean hands and keeping it in a stable environment will help retain its value and appearance.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Darkness Ablaze: An Uncommon, Fighting-type Stage 1 Pokémon with solid HP and two attacks, including Rocket Evolution, which allows evolving directly from this card by searching the deck. The set’s focus on dynamic Fighting-type Pokémon is well represented by this Pupitar printing.
    • Other Sets: Unknown for this specific printing.

    Catch This Card on eBay

    Search live listings for Pokemon TCG Pupitar Darkness Ablaze.


    Browse eBay listings

    This section contains affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

    Pupitar (Darkness Ablaze) #87

  • Collector’s Guide: Tyranitar (Darkness Ablaze #88)

    Collector’s Guide: Tyranitar (Darkness Ablaze #88)

    Tyranitar Collector’s Guide (Darkness Ablaze #88)

    Character Intro

    Tyranitar from the Darkness Ablaze set is a Rare Holo card numbered 88. This powerful Pokémon boasts 180 HP and features the dynamic attack Mountain Swing. Its striking design makes it a notable addition to any collection.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Darkness Ablaze 88 Rare Holo 180 nagimiso
    • Type: Fighting
    • Stage: Stage 2 (Evolves from Pupitar)
    • Retreat Cost: 4
    • Weakness: Grass ×2
    • Resistances: None
    • Regulation Mark: D
    • Flavor Text: Its body can’t be harmed by any sort of attack, so it is very eager to make challenges against enemies.

    Key Printings

    This exact printing is from the Darkness Ablaze set, card number 88, featuring a Rare Holo rarity. It is illustrated by nagimiso and showcases Tyranitar’s powerful presence with two strong attacks:

    • Bedrock Breaker — Deals 120 damage and discards a Stadium in play.
    • Mountain Swing — Deals 250 damage and discards the top 5 cards of your deck.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Key identifiers include:
    – Fighting type
    – Stage 2 subtype
    – Regulation mark D
    – The card’s unique illustrator signature
    – The set code “swsh3,” which helps confirm authenticity

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its high retreat cost and powerful attacks make it a strategic card for collectors interested in its gameplay potential, though official tournament use is not established.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the card’s Rare Holo finish and vibrant illustration, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Use rigid top loaders or binders with individual pockets to prevent bending and surface scratches. Avoid exposure to extreme temperatures to maintain card integrity.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Darkness Ablaze: This set introduced Tyranitar with a strong Fighting-type presence and high HP, emphasizing aggressive attacks that manipulate the game state by discarding Stadium cards or deck cards. The set is known for its dynamic artwork and powerful Stage 2 Pokémon.

    swsh3-88

    Catch This Card on eBay

    Search live listings for Pokemon TCG Tyranitar Darkness Ablaze.


    Browse eBay listings

    This section contains affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

    Tyranitar (Darkness Ablaze) #88

  • Collector’s Guide: Trapinch (Darkness Ablaze #89)

    Collector’s Guide: Trapinch (Darkness Ablaze #89)

    Trapinch Collector’s Guide: Darkness Ablaze #89

    Character Intro

    Trapinch is a Common Pokémon card from the Darkness Ablaze set, numbered 89. It has 60 HP and features the attack Land’s Pulse. This card offers a straightforward addition to any collection.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Darkness Ablaze 89 Common 60 Asako Ito
    • Type: Fighting
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Grass ×2
    • Attack: Land’s Pulse (Costs 1 Fighting energy; does 10+ damage, with an additional 10 damage if a Stadium is in play)
    • Regulation Mark: D
    • Legal Status: unknown
    • Image:
      swsh3-89

    Key Printings

    The key printing of Trapinch is Darkness Ablaze #89. It’s a Common Fighting-type with a single attack, Land’s Pulse, which gains extra damage when a Stadium is in play—making it a widely available and simple inclusion for players and collectors.

    Variants & Identifiers

    This printing has no known alternate print variants. Identifiers include set code “swsh3,” regulation mark “D,” and illustrator Asako Ito. The card is a Basic Pokémon and does not evolve from any other Pokémon.

    Legality & Play Notes

    The legality of this Trapinch card is unknown. It is not currently listed as legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Players should verify tournament rules before including it in competitive decks.

    Care & Storage Tips

    Even as a Common, store Trapinch in sleeves to protect Asako Ito’s detailed artwork. Keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture, and organize by set code (swsh3) and number (89) for easy cataloging.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Darkness Ablaze (swsh3): Trapinch appears as a Basic Fighting-type with a single attack that synergizes with Stadium cards. This set focuses on dynamic gameplay elements, and Trapinch’s flavor text adds atmospheric depth to its desert habitat.

    Catch This Card on eBay

    Search live listings for Pokemon TCG Trapinch Darkness Ablaze.


    Browse eBay listings

    This section contains affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

    Trapinch (Darkness Ablaze) #89

  • Collector’s Guide: Shelmet (Darkness Ablaze #9)

    Collector’s Guide: Shelmet (Darkness Ablaze #9)

    Shelmet Collector’s Guide: Darkness Ablaze #9

    Character Intro

    Shelmet from the Darkness Ablaze set is a common card numbered 9 with 70 HP. It features the attack Spray Fluid, offering a straightforward option for gameplay. This card’s simple design fits well in many collections.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Darkness Ablaze 9 Common 70 Megumi Mizutani
    • HP: 70
    • Type: Grass
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 3 Colorless Energy
    • Weakness: Fire ×2
    • Resistance: None
    • Regulation Mark: D
    • Flavor Text: When attacked, it tightly shuts the lid of its shell. This reaction fails to protect it from Karrablast, however, because they can still get into the shell.
    • Illustrator: Megumi Mizutani
    • Image:
      swsh3-9

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Shelmet appears in the Darkness Ablaze set, numbered 9. It is a Common rarity card with no evolutions or abilities. Its single attack, “Spray Fluid,” deals 10 damage for one Colorless Energy, making it a straightforward and accessible card for collectors.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Key identifiers include its Grass type, the regulation mark D, and the unique illustrator credit to Megumi Mizutani. The card’s retreat cost of 3 and its single attack “Spray Fluid” also help distinguish it from other Shelmet printings.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats, according to the provided data. Its simple attack and moderate retreat cost suggest it is more suited for casual play or collection rather than competitive decks.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve this card’s vibrant artwork and condition, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its common rarity, it is ideal for beginner collectors but still benefits from careful handling to maintain its value and appearance.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Darkness Ablaze: Shelmet appears as a Basic Grass-type Pokémon with modest HP and a simple attack. It fits well within the set’s theme of dynamic and diverse Pokémon, illustrated with a delicate style by Megumi Mizutani. This printing is a solid addition for collectors focusing on the Darkness Ablaze series or Grass-type Pokémon.

    Catch This Card on eBay

    Search live listings for Pokemon TCG Shelmet Darkness Ablaze.


    Browse eBay listings

    This section contains affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

    Shelmet (Darkness Ablaze) #9

  • Collector’s Guide: Mimikyu (Darkness Ablaze #81)

    Collector’s Guide: Mimikyu (Darkness Ablaze #81)

    Mimikyu Collector’s Guide: Darkness Ablaze #81

    Character Intro

    Mimikyu from the Darkness Ablaze set is a Rare card numbered 81 with 70 HP. It features the intriguing ability Heal Jamming and a sharp attack called Claw Slash. This card offers a unique blend of strategy and subtle power for collectors and players alike.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Darkness Ablaze 81 Rare 70 Ryota Murayama
    • Type: Psychic
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Darkness ×2
    • Resistance: Fighting -30
    • Regulation Mark: D
    • Set Code: swsh3
    • Series: sword_shield

    Key Printings

    This exact printing is from the Darkness Ablaze set, card number 81. It is a Rare card featuring the Psychic-type Mimikyu with the ability Heal Jamming, which prevents your opponent’s Benched Pokémon from being healed. Its attack, Claw Slash, deals 30 damage and costs one Psychic and one Colorless energy.

    Ability

    • Heal Jamming — prevents your opponent’s Benched Pokémon from being healed.

    Attack

    • Claw Slash — 30 damage for one Psychic and one Colorless energy.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It can be identified by its set code “swsh3-81,” rarity as Rare, and the distinctive illustration by Ryota Murayama. The card’s regulation mark is D, which helps distinguish it within the Sword & Shield series.

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
    • This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats according to the provided data. Players should verify current tournament legality before use.

    Care & Storage Tips

    • Store in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture.
    • Avoid bending or scratching the surface to maintain condition and collector value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Darkness Ablaze: Introduced this unique Psychic-type Mimikyu with the Heal Jamming ability and a simple but effective Claw Slash attack. The set emphasizes thematic darkness and eerie Pokémon designs, with this card standing out due to its unsettling costume flavor text.

    swsh3-81

    Catch This Card on eBay

    Search live listings for Pokemon TCG Mimikyu Darkness Ablaze.


    Browse eBay listings

    This section contains affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

    Mimikyu (Darkness Ablaze) #81

  • Collector’s Guide: Sinistea (Darkness Ablaze #82)

    Collector’s Guide: Sinistea (Darkness Ablaze #82)

    Sinistea Collector’s Guide: Darkness Ablaze #82

    Overview

    Sinistea is a Common Pokémon card from the Darkness Ablaze set, numbered 82. It has a modest 30 HP and features the intriguing attack Furtive Drop. This card offers a unique addition to any collection with its subtle charm.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Darkness Ablaze 82 Common 30 Kouki Saitou
    • Type: Psychic
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Darkness ×2
    • Resistance: Fighting -30
    • Attack: Furtive Drop (Put 2 damage counters on your opponent’s Active Pokémon; costs 1 Colorless)
    • Regulation Mark: D
    • Flavor Text: This Pokémon is said to have been born when a lonely spirit possessed a cold, leftover cup of tea.
    • Evolves From: None

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Sinistea appears in the Darkness Ablaze expansion of the Sword & Shield series. It is a Common rarity card, numbered 82 in the set. The card is illustrated by Kouki Saitou and features a clean, straightforward design consistent with the set’s aesthetic.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this specific Sinistea card. Key identifiers include its set code “swsh3-82,” Psychic typing, and the unique attack “Furtive Drop,” which places damage counters rather than dealing direct damage. The regulation mark “D” helps distinguish its legality era.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This Sinistea card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats according to the provided data. Its low HP and simple attack suggest it is more suited for casual play or collection rather than competitive battling.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve this Common card’s condition, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its delicate Psychic-type artwork and low HP, maintaining mint or near-mint condition will help retain collector value. Avoid bending or exposure to extreme temperatures.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Darkness Ablaze: Sinistea #82 is a small but intriguing addition to this set, embodying the ghostly and mysterious themes with its unique origin story and subtle attack. It complements the set’s focus on Psychic and Darkness-type Pokémon, adding flavor and variety to the collection.

    swsh3-82

    Catch This Card on eBay

    Search live listings for Pokemon TCG Sinistea Darkness Ablaze.


    Browse eBay listings

    This section contains affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

    Sinistea (Darkness Ablaze) #82

  • Collector’s Guide: Polteageist (Darkness Ablaze #83)

    Collector’s Guide: Polteageist (Darkness Ablaze #83)

    Polteageist Collector’s Guide: Darkness Ablaze #83

    Character Intro

    Polteageist from the Darkness Ablaze set is an Uncommon Pokémon card numbered 83 with 60 HP. Its Tea Break ability fuels card draw by discarding a Pokémon with the Mad Party attack, while Mad Party scales damage based on your discard pile. A charming, tactical addition to any collection.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Darkness Ablaze 83 Uncommon 60 kirisAki
    • Type: Psychic
    • Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Sinistea)
    • Ability: Tea Break — Discard a Pokémon with the Mad Party attack from your hand to draw 2 cards once per turn.
    • Attack: Mad Party — Deals 20 damage times the number of Pokémon with Mad Party in your discard pile.
    • Weakness: Darkness (×2)
    • Resistance: Fighting (-30)
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Flavor Text: “This species lives in antique teapots. Most pots are forgeries, but on rare occasions, an authentic work is found.”
    • Regulation Mark: D

    Key Printings

    The key printing of Polteageist is from the Darkness Ablaze set, card number 83. This Uncommon Psychic type features the strategic Tea Break ability, making it notable for Sword & Shield-era collectors.

    Variants & Identifiers

    No print variants are listed for this card. Identification is straightforward by set code swsh3, card number 83, and the unique illustration by kirisAki. The card’s Psychic type and Stage 1 subtype further help distinguish it.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its ability and attack encourage synergy with other Pokémon that have the Mad Party attack, making it a niche but interesting choice for casual play.

    Care & Storage Tips

    Store the card in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its Uncommon rarity and detailed artwork, a binder or top-loader helps maintain condition and appearance.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Darkness Ablaze (swsh3): Polteageist #83 is featured as an Uncommon Psychic-type Stage 1 Pokémon with a unique ability that supports deck cycling and discard pile synergy. The set focuses on dark and fiery themes, with this card adding a ghostly, antique charm.

    swsh3-83

    Catch This Card on eBay

    Search live listings for Pokemon TCG Polteageist Darkness Ablaze.


    Browse eBay listings

    This section contains affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

    Polteageist (Darkness Ablaze) #83

  • Collector’s Guide: Diglett (Darkness Ablaze #84)

    Collector’s Guide: Diglett (Darkness Ablaze #84)

    Diglett (Darkness Ablaze 84) Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Diglett from the Darkness Ablaze set is a common Pokémon card numbered 84. With 50 HP and the straightforward attack Scratch, it’s an easy, no-frills pickup for collectors focused on early-stage Pokémon.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Darkness Ablaze 84 Common 50 Hideki Ishikawa
    • Type: Fighting
    • Stage: Basic
    • Attack: Scratch (20 damage, costs 1 Fighting energy)
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Grass ×2
    • Resistance: None
    • Regulation Mark: D
    • Flavor Text: If a Diglett digs through a field, it leaves the soil perfectly tilled and ideal for planting crops.
    • Image:
      swsh3-84

    Key Printings

    This printing is from Darkness Ablaze, card number 84. It is a common rarity with artwork by Hideki Ishikawa. No alternate print variants are documented for this card.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this Diglett card. It is identified by the set code “swsh3” and regulation mark “D.” The card’s Fighting type and basic stage classification are key identifiers.

    Legality & Play Notes

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

    Care & Storage Tips

    As a common card with a single Fighting energy attack, preserving the card’s condition is essential. Store it in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture to maintain the vibrant illustration by Hideki Ishikawa.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Darkness Ablaze: Introduced this Diglett as a simple, effective Fighting-type Basic Pokémon with a single attack and modest HP, fitting the set’s diverse roster of Pokémon.

    Catch This Card on eBay

    Search live listings for Pokemon TCG Diglett Darkness Ablaze.


    Browse eBay listings

    This section contains affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

    Diglett (Darkness Ablaze) #84

  • Collector’s Guide: Vibrava (Darkness Ablaze #90)

    Collector’s Guide: Vibrava (Darkness Ablaze #90)

    Vibrava (Darkness Ablaze 90) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Vibrava from Darkness Ablaze is an Uncommon card (number 90) with 80 HP and the attack Sand Pulse. It’s a straightforward, engaging addition to a collection.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Darkness Ablaze 90 Uncommon 80 Sumiyoshi Kizuki
    • Type: Fighting
    • Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Trapinch)
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Grass ×2
    • Resistance: None
    • Regulation Mark: D
    • Flavor Text: The ultrasonic waves it generates by rubbing its two wings together cause severe headaches.
    • Attack: Sand Pulse (20 damage + 10 damage to each of opponent’s Benched Pokémon)

    Attack Spotlight: Sand Pulse

    Chip damage to the Active plus spread to the Bench gives Vibrava light bench-control pressure with minimal Energy investment.

    Key Printings

    This exact printing appears in Darkness Ablaze as card number 90, Uncommon, illustrated by Sumiyoshi Kizuki. No other printings or reprints of this exact card are documented.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It is identified by the set code “swsh3” and the card number 90. The card’s Fighting type and Stage 1 subtype further distinguish it.

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
    • This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
      Its unique attack that damages both Active and Benched Pokémon can influence bench control strategies, but its tournament viability is unclear.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the artwork and condition, store in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the surface, especially near edges and corners.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Darkness Ablaze: Introduced Vibrava as a Fighting-type Stage 1 Pokémon with a unique bench-targeting attack, adding tactical depth to the set’s Fighting-type lineup. The card’s design and flavor text emphasize its ultrasonic abilities.

    swsh3-90

    Catch This Card on eBay

    Search live listings for Pokemon TCG Vibrava Darkness Ablaze.


    Browse eBay listings

    This section contains affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

    Vibrava (Darkness Ablaze) #90