Tag: black_white

Collector’s Guide: Kyogre-EX (Dark Explorers #26)
Kyogre-EX Collector’s Guide (Dark Explorers #26)

Character Intro

Kyogre-EX (#26) from the Dark Explorers set is a Rare Holo EX Basic Pokémon with 170 HP. Headlined by the pivoting attack Smash Turn, this striking Shizurow-illustrated card is a standout pick for EX collectors.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Dark Explorers 26 Rare Holo EX 170 Shizurow
- Pokémon: Kyogre-EX
- Type: Water
- Stage: Basic, EX
- Retreat Cost: 4
- Weakness: Lightning ×2
- Resistance: None
- Regulation Mark: Unknown
- Series: Black & White
- Set Code: bw5
- Card ID: bw5-26
- Image:
Key Printings

Printed only in Dark Explorers as number 26. It is a Rare Holo EX with no known alternate print variants for this exact release.

Variants & Identifiers
- No alternate print variants or special editions are listed for this card.
- The card is identified by its set code “bw5” and number “26.”
- Illustrator credit goes to Shizurow, a notable artist for the Black & White series.
Legality & Play Notes
- Legality: unknown
- This Kyogre-EX is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
- It features the Pokémon-EX rule: when knocked out, the opponent takes 2 Prize cards.
- Attacks include “Smash Turn,” which deals 30 damage and allows switching with a Benched Pokémon, and “Dual Splash,” which can damage two of the opponent’s Pokémon simultaneously.
Care & Storage Tips

Protect the holo and card edges by sleeving immediately; keep away from sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching, and use a top loader or a rigid-page binder for long-term storage.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Dark Explorers (bw5): Features Kyogre-EX as a powerful Water-type Basic EX Pokémon with high HP and versatile attacks. It stands out as a Rare Holo EX card, illustrated by Shizurow, and is a key collectible for fans of the Black & White series. The set’s release date is unknown, but it remains a sought-after piece for collectors focusing on EX cards.
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October 16, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Glaceon (Dark Explorers #30)
Glaceon (Dark Explorers 30) Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Glaceon from the Dark Explorers set is a rare card numbered 30, boasting 90 HP. This sleek Pokémon features the attack Reflect Energy, adding strategic depth to gameplay. Its cool design fits well within the set’s icy theme.

Quick Facts
- HP: 90
- Type: Water
- Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Eevee)
- Attacks: Quick Attack (10+ damage), Reflect Energy (40 damage)
- Retreat Cost: 1 Colorless Energy
- Weakness: Metal ×2
- Rarity: Rare
- Illustrator: Ryo Ueda
- Set: Dark Explorers (bw5)
- Flavor Text: “By controlling its body heat, it can freeze the atmosphere around it to make a diamond-dust flurry.”
set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Dark Explorers 30 Rare 90 Ryo Ueda

Key Printings

This exact printing is from the Dark Explorers set, identified by the set code bw5 and card number 30. It features no special print variants and is illustrated by Ryo Ueda. The card’s attacks include Quick Attack, which can deal extra damage on a coin flip, and Reflect Energy, which allows energy manipulation between Pokémon.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this card. Identifiers include its Water type, Stage 1 subtype, and the absence of abilities. The card’s weakness to Metal and retreat cost of 1 are consistent with its balanced design. The official market reference query is “Glaceon Dark Explorers 30.”

Legality & Play Notes

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

Care & Storage Tips

To preserve the card’s detailed artwork and maintain its condition, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the card surface, especially since it is a rare printing. Proper storage will help retain its value and visual appeal.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Dark Explorers (bw5): This set features Glaceon as a Stage 1 evolution of Eevee, emphasizing energy manipulation and quick strikes. The card fits well within the set’s theme of exploration and discovery, with a focus on elemental powers.
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October 16, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Piplup (Dark Explorers #27)
Piplup (Dark Explorers 27) Collectors Guide

Character Intro

Piplup from the Dark Explorers set is a common card numbered 27 with 60 HP. Featuring the attack Fury Attack, it offers straightforward play options. Its modest stats make it an accessible choice for collectors and players alike.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Dark Explorers 27 Common 60 Kouki Saitou
- Type: Water
- Stage: Basic
- Retreat Cost: 1
- Weakness: Lightning ×2
- Attack: Fury Attack — Flip 3 coins; this attack does 10 damage times the number of heads.
- Flavor Text: “A poor walker, it often falls down. However, its strong pride makes it puff up its chest without a care.”
- Regulation Mark: Unknown
- Legality: unknown
Key Printings

This exact printing of Piplup appears in the Black & White series, specifically the Dark Explorers set, numbered 27. It is a common card with no evolutions or abilities listed.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this card. Identification is straightforward via the set code “bw5” and card number 27. The artwork by Kouki Saitou is a key visual identifier.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality status for this card is unknown. It is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats according to available data.

Care & Storage Tips

As a common card with no special variants, standard protective sleeves and storage in a cool, dry place are recommended to preserve the card’s condition. Avoid exposure to direct sunlight to maintain the vibrant illustration by Kouki Saitou.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Dark Explorers: This set includes Piplup as a basic Water-type Pokémon with a straightforward attack mechanic. It fits well into beginner decks or collectors focusing on the Black & White era.
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October 16, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Prinplup (Dark Explorers #28)
Prinplup Collector’s Guide: Dark Explorers #28

Character Intro

Prinplup from the Dark Explorers set is an uncommon card numbered 28. It features a sturdy 80 HP and the attack Fury Attack. This card offers a solid addition for collectors focusing on this intriguing set.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Dark Explorers 28 Uncommon 80 Suwama Chiaki
- Type: Water
- Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Piplup)
- Retreat Cost: 2 Colorless Energy
- Weakness: Lightning ×2
- Resistances: None
- Attacks:
- Razor Wing (20 damage, 1 Colorless Energy)
- Fury Attack (Flip 3 coins; does 30 damage times heads, costs 1 Water + 2 Colorless Energy)
- Flavor Text: “Because every Prinplup considers itself to be the most important, they can never form a group.”
- Illustrator: Suwama Chiaki
Key Printings

This Prinplup card is from the Black & White series set Dark Explorers, identified by set code bw5 and card number 28. It is classified as an Uncommon rarity card. No other printings or reprints of this exact card are documented.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this Prinplup card. It can be identified by its set code bw5, card number 28, and the unique artwork by Suwama Chiaki. The card’s market reference query is “Prinplup Dark Explorers 28.”

Legality & Play Notes

Legality status: unknown. This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Players should verify tournament rules before including this card in decks.

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 detailed artwork, maintaining mint condition will help retain collector value.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Dark Explorers (bw5): This set features Prinplup as a Water-type Stage 1 Pokémon with balanced HP and versatile attacks. The set focuses on a mix of evolving Pokémon and thematic dark and water types, with Prinplup representing a proud and solitary character within this environment.
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October 16, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Empoleon (Dark Explorers #29)
Empoleon Collector’s Guide (Dark Explorers #29)

Character Intro

Empoleon (Dark Explorers 29) is a Rare Holo Stage 2 Water-type Pokémon with 140 HP. It features the Ability Diving Draw and the attack Attack Command, offering a solid presence for collectors and players alike.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Dark Explorers 29 Rare Holo 140 Naoki Saito
- Type: Water
- Stage: Stage 2 (Evolves from Prinplup)
- Retreat Cost: 2
- Weakness: Lightning ×2
- Resistance: None
- Flavor Text: “If anyone were to hurt its pride, it would slash them with wings that can cleave through an ice floe.”
Key Printings

This exact printing of Empoleon appears in the Black & White series, specifically the Dark Explorers set, identified by card number 29. It is a Rare Holo card with no known alternate print variants.

Variants & Identifiers
- Card ID: bw5-29
- Set Code: bw5
- Subtypes: Stage 2
- No known print variants or special editions for this card.
- Market reference query: “Empoleon Dark Explorers 29”
- Image available at: /images/bw5/bw5-29.jpg
Legality & Play Notes
- Legality: unknown
- Ability: Diving Draw allows discarding one card to draw two cards once per turn before attacking, providing useful hand cycling.
- Attack: Attack Command deals 10 damage times the total number of Pokémon in play, making it potentially powerful in crowded board states.
Care & Storage Tips

To preserve the holo finish and Naoki Saito’s artwork, store the card in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching to maintain collector value.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Dark Explorers: Empoleon appears as a Rare Holo Stage 2 Water-type with a unique Ability and a scalable attack, fitting decks that benefit from multiple Pokémon on the field. The set is part of the Black & White series and features a variety of Pokémon with strategic abilities and attacks.
This Empoleon card is a vivid representation of the Dark Explorers set’s focus on dynamic gameplay and striking artwork.

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October 16, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Venusaur (Dark Explorers #3)
Venusaur (Dark Explorers 3) Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Venusaur from the Dark Explorers set is a Rare Holo card numbered 3 with 140 HP. It features the Floral Fragrance Ability and the Poison Powder attack, making it a distinctive addition to any collection.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Dark Explorers 3 Rare Holo 140 Masakazu Fukuda
- Type: Grass
- Stage: Stage 2
- Evolves From: Ivysaur
- Ability: Floral Fragrance (search your deck for a Pokémon once per turn)
- Attack: Poison Powder (70 damage, poisons defending Pokémon)
- Weakness: Fire ×2
- Resistance: Water -20
- Retreat Cost: 4
- Flavor Text: “After a rainy day, the flower on its back smells stronger. The scent attracts other Pokémon.”
- Set Code: bw5
- Card Number: 3
- Rarity: Rare Holo
Key Printings

This printing comes from the Black & White series’ Dark Explorers expansion. It is a Rare Holo notable for its high HP and search-support Ability, with artwork by Masakazu Fukuda that delivers a detailed, vibrant Venusaur.

Variants & Identifiers

No print variants are listed for this card. Identify it by set code “bw5,” card number “3,” and Rare Holo rarity. The card has a retreat cost of 4; regulation mark is unknown.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its high retreat cost and once-per-turn Pokémon search make it more of a collector’s showcase than a competitive staple.

Care & Storage Tips

To protect the holofoil and artwork, use a sleeve and store away from sunlight and moisture. For long-term preservation, consider a top loader or a binder with rigid pages.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Dark Explorers: Features Venusaur as a powerful Grass-type Stage 2 with a useful search Ability and solid attack, fitting the set’s theme of exploration and discovery.
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October 16, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Tympole (Dark Explorers #31)
Tympole Collector’s Guide: Dark Explorers #31

Character Intro

Tympole is a Common Pokémon card from the Dark Explorers set (card 31). It has 60 HP and features the attack Spiral Drain. With its simple, functional design, it offers a straightforward addition to any collection.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Dark Explorers 31 Common 60 Kouki Saitou
- Type: Water
- Stage: Basic
- Retreat Cost: 1
- Weakness: Grass ×2
- Attack: Spiral Drain (Water + Colorless) — Deals 20 damage and heals 20 damage from Tympole
- Flavor Text: They warn others of danger by vibrating their cheeks to create a high-pitched sound.
- Regulation Mark: Unknown
- Evolves From: None
Key Printings

This exact printing appears in the Black & White series’ Dark Explorers set as card number 31. It is a common rarity card with no known alternate print variants.

Variants & Identifiers

No print variants or special editions are documented. Identification is straightforward via the set code “bw5” and card number 31. The Kouki Saitou artwork and Water-type symbol further confirm its identity.

Legality & Play Notes

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

Care & Storage Tips

As a common card with delicate artwork, store Tympole in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture to preserve card stock and color integrity.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Dark Explorers: Tympole appears as a Basic Water-type Pokémon with a healing attack, fitting the set’s theme of exploration and discovery. This set does not provide additional evolutions or abilities for Tympole, focusing on its simple yet effective Spiral Drain attack.
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October 16, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Palpitoad (Dark Explorers #32)
Palpitoad (Dark Explorers 32) Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Palpitoad from the Dark Explorers set is an Uncommon card numbered 32 with 80 HP. This aquatic Pokémon features the attack Bubble Beam, adding a splash of strategy to your deck. Its straightforward design makes it a solid choice for collectors seeking versatile Water-type cards.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Dark Explorers 32 Uncommon 80 Kouki Saitou
- Type: Water
- Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Tympole)
- Retreat Cost: 2
- Weakness: Grass ×2
- Resistance: None
- Attack: Bubble Beam (Flip a coin; if heads, the Defending Pokémon is Paralyzed; 30 damage)
- Abilities: None
- Flavor Text: “It lives in the water and on land. It uses its long, sticky tongue to capture prey.”
- Set Code: bw5
- Series: Black & White
- Card Number: 32
Key Printings

This exact printing of Palpitoad appears in the Dark Explorers set, identified by the set code bw5 and card number 32. It is an Uncommon rarity card with no known alternate printings or special variants.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this Palpitoad card. Key identifiers include the illustrator Kouki Saitou’s artwork and the card’s unique attack, Bubble Beam, which can paralyze the opponent’s Pokémon on a coin flip.

Legality & Play Notes

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

Care & Storage Tips

To preserve this card’s condition, store it in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the surface, especially around the illustrated area by Kouki Saitou.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Dark Explorers (bw5): This set features Palpitoad as a Stage 1 Water-type Pokémon with a useful status effect attack. It fits well into Water-themed decks but is currently not tournament-legal. The set is known for its diverse Pokémon and dynamic artwork styles.
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October 16, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Vanillite (Dark Explorers #33)
Vanillite (Dark Explorers 33) Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Vanillite from the Dark Explorers set is a Common Pokémon card numbered 33. It features 50 HP and a single attack, Double Spin. A simple, charming addition to any Black & White-era collection.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Dark Explorers 33 Common 50 Kouki Saitou
- Type: Water
- Stage: Basic
- Retreat Cost: 1
- Weakness: Metal (×2)
- Attack: Double Spin — Flip 2 coins; this attack does 10 damage times the number of heads.
- Flavor Text: The temperature of their breath is -58° F. They create snow crystals and make snow fall in the areas surrounding them.
- Illustrator: Kouki Saitou
- Image:
Key Printings

This guide focuses on the Vanillite card from the Dark Explorers set, identified as card number 33. It is a Common rarity card with no evolutions printed on this version.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this card. It is identified by its set code “bw5” and the card number 33. The card features the Water type and is a Basic Pokémon with a single Colorless energy attack.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality status: unknown. This card is not 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 Vanillite card in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or exposure to extreme temperatures to keep the card in collectible condition.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Dark Explorers: This set includes the Vanillite card as a Common Basic Water-type Pokémon with a straightforward attack and modest HP. It fits well into collections focusing on the Black & White series and features artwork by Kouki Saitou.
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October 16, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Vanillish (Dark Explorers #34)
Vanillish Collector’s Guide: Dark Explorers #34

Character Intro

Vanillish from the Dark Explorers set is an uncommon card numbered 34. It features 70 HP and Frost Breath among its attacks. This frosty Pokémon offers a cool addition to any collection.

Quick Facts
- HP: 70
- Type: Water
- Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Vanillite)
- Attacks: Triple Spin (20× damage based on coin flips), Frost Breath (50 damage)
- Weakness: Metal (×2)
- Retreat Cost: 1
- Rarity: Uncommon
- Illustrator: Kouki Saitou
- Set: Dark Explorers (bw5)
- Number: 34
set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Dark Explorers 34 Uncommon 70 Kouki Saitou

Key Printings

This printing is from the Dark Explorers set (set code bw5-34). It features the Water-type Vanillish with two attacks: Triple Spin, which relies on coin flips for damage, and Frost Breath, a straightforward 50 damage attack. The artwork by Kouki Saitou captures the icy essence of this Pokémon.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this card. It is uniquely identified by its set code bw5-34 and the artwork credited to Kouki Saitou. The card’s rarity is Uncommon, and it has no special regulation mark.

Legality & Play Notes
- Legality: unknown
- This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
- No additional tournament or play notes are available.
Care & Storage Tips

To preserve the crisp artwork and maintain the card’s condition, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its Uncommon rarity, handle with clean hands and keep it in a rigid top-loader or binder to avoid edge wear.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Dark Explorers: Includes Vanillish as a Stage 1 Water-type Pokémon evolving from Vanillite. The set emphasizes icy and dark-themed Pokémon, with Vanillish’s attacks reflecting its chilly nature and strategic coin-flip mechanic.
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October 16, 2025