Tag: Dark Explorers

Collector’s Guide: Bulbasaur (Dark Explorers #1)
Bulbasaur (Dark Explorers 1) Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Bulbasaur from the Dark Explorers set is a common card numbered 1 with 60 HP. This charming Pokémon features the attack Razor Leaf, showcasing its natural prowess. It also has Tackle, underscoring its straightforward, beginner-friendly design. Its straightforward design makes it a staple for collectors exploring this set.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Dark Explorers 1 Common 60 Mitsuhiro Arita
- Type: Grass
- Stage: Basic
- Retreat Cost: 2
- Weakness: Fire (×2)
- Resistance: Water (-20)
- Attacks:
- Tackle (10 damage, costs 1 Grass)
- Razor Leaf (30 damage, costs 1 Grass + 2 Colorless)
- Flavor Text: “For some time after its birth, it grows by gaining nourishment from the seed on its back.”
- Set Code: bw5-1
- Series: Black & White
- Print Variants: None known
Key Printings

This exact printing is from the Dark Explorers set, numbered 1, and is classified as a Common card. It features no abilities but has two straightforward attacks: Tackle and Razor Leaf. The card’s illustrator, Mitsuhiro Arita, is well-known for his detailed and vibrant artwork, making this Bulbasaur a visually appealing collectible.

Variants & Identifiers

No print variants or alternate versions of this specific Bulbasaur card from Dark Explorers are documented. Identification is straightforward via the set code “bw5-1” and the card number “1.” The card’s rarity is Common, and it carries no regulation mark.

Legality & Play Notes
- Legality: unknown
  This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats according to available data. Its straightforward attacks and moderate HP make it a simple Basic Pokémon, but its tournament viability is unclear.
Care & Storage Tips

To preserve this card’s condition, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its common rarity, it is accessible but still benefits from careful handling to maintain its illustrated artwork by Mitsuhiro Arita. Avoid bending or exposure to extreme temperatures to keep the card in collectible shape.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Dark Explorers: This set includes Bulbasaur as card number 1, showcasing a classic Basic Grass-type with simple attacks and a naturalistic flavor text. It fits well within the Black & White series’ theme of exploring Pokémon habitats and behaviors.
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October 16, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Shelmet (Dark Explorers #10)
Shelmet Collector’s Guide: Dark Explorers #10

Character Intro

Shelmet from the Dark Explorers set is a Common card numbered 10 with 60 HP. This compact Pokémon features the attack Body Slam, offering straightforward gameplay. Its simple design fits well into many decks.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Dark Explorers 10 Common 60 Shigenori Negishi
- Type: Grass
- Stage: Basic
- Retreat Cost: 3
- Weakness: Fire ×2
- Attack: Body Slam (20 damage; flip a coin to potentially paralyze the Defending Pokémon)
- Flavor Text: When attacked, it defends itself by closing the lid of its shell. It can spit a sticky, poisonous liquid.
- Image:
Key Printings

This exact Shelmet card appears in the Black & White series set “Dark Explorers” as card number 10. It is a Common rarity card illustrated by Shigenori Negishi. No alternate printings or special variants are documented for this card.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants or alternate versions of this Shelmet card. Identification is straightforward by its set code “bw5-10,” Common rarity, and the distinctive artwork by Shigenori Negishi.

Legality & Play Notes
- Legality: unknown
- This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
- Its moderate HP and single attack with a coin flip effect make it more of a collector’s piece than a competitive staple.
Care & Storage Tips
- Store in a protective sleeve.
- Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture.
- Handle carefully to preserve the artwork and edges, even for a Common.
Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Dark Explorers: Shelmet debuts as a Basic Grass-type Pokémon with a simple but effective Body Slam attack. The set features detailed artwork and a focus on Pokémon with unique defensive traits, making this card a solid representation of Shelmet’s character.
This Shelmet card is a charming addition for collectors interested in the Black & White era and Grass-type Pokémon with defensive abilities.

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October 16, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Rare Candy (Dark Explorers #100)
Rare Candy (Dark Explorers 100) Collectors Guide

Character Intro

Rare Candy from the Dark Explorers set is an Uncommon card numbered 100. It accelerates evolution by letting players reach Stage 2 quickly, streamlining gameplay. Collectors value its utility and Ryo Ueda’s distinctive artwork within the set.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Dark Explorers 100 Uncommon Ryo Ueda
- Card ID: bw5-100
- Type: Item
- Stage: Item
- Retreat Cost: 0
- Series: black_white
- Set Code: bw5
- Subtypes: Item
- Weaknesses: None
- Resistances: None
- Evolves From: None
- Flavor Text: Unknown
Key Printings

This printing of Rare Candy appears in Dark Explorers as card number 100. Illustrated by Ryo Ueda and classified as an Uncommon Item, its primary function is to let players evolve a Basic Pokémon directly into a Stage 2 Pokémon—bypassing Stage 1—subject to specific play restrictions.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this card. It is identified by set code “bw5” and card number “100.” The Ryo Ueda artwork is consistent across this printing. The card has no regulation mark, and types/weaknesses are not applicable.

Legality & Play Notes
- Legality: unknown
- Rules: Choose 1 of your Basic Pokémon in play. If you have a Stage 2 card in your hand that evolves from that Pokémon, put that card on the Basic Pokémon. (This counts as evolving that Pokémon.) You can’t use this card during your first turn or on a Basic Pokémon that was put into play this turn.
- You may play as many Item cards as you like during your turn (before your attack).
- The card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
Care & Storage Tips

Store the card in a sleeve, away from sunlight and moisture, and avoid bending or scratching the surface. Use a rigid top-loader or a binder with individual pockets for long-term preservation, especially to protect the illustrator’s artwork.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Dark Explorers: Features Rare Candy as an Uncommon Item enabling quick evolution to Stage 2. Part of the black_white series with artwork by Ryo Ueda; its straightforward effect and clean design make it both useful and collectible.
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October 16, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Twist Mountain (Dark Explorers #101)
Twist Mountain (bw5-101) Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Twist Mountain is an Uncommon Trainer card from the Dark Explorers set, numbered 101. It’s a Stadium card that stands out for collectors focused on Dark Explorers, especially those interested in Restored Pokémon mechanics.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Dark Explorers 101 Uncommon Ryo Ueda
- Card ID: bw5-101
- Stage: Stadium
- Retreat Cost: 0
- Subtypes: Stadium
- Pokémon: Twist Mountain
- Set Code: bw5
- Types: None
- Evolves From: None
- Weaknesses/Resistances: None
Key Printings

Appearing exclusively in Dark Explorers as card 101, Twist Mountain is a Stadium that remains in play until another Stadium replaces it. Its coin-flip ability supports Restored Pokémon strategies.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this Twist Mountain. Identify it by set code “bw5,” number “101,” and the Ryo Ueda illustration.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown

Rules: Once during each player’s turn, that player may flip a coin. If heads, that player may play a Restored Pokémon from their hand onto their Bench. This card stays in play when you play it. Discard this card if another Stadium card comes into play. If another card with the same name is in play, you can’t play this card.

Care & Storage Tips

Protect the artwork and condition by sleeving the card and storing it away from sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching—especially relevant given the lack of known print variants.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Dark Explorers: Twist Mountain debuts as a strategic Stadium card with a unique coin-flip mechanic to facilitate Restored Pokémon play. Its uncommon rarity and striking illustration make it a notable inclusion in this set.
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October 16, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Ultra Ball (Dark Explorers #102)
Ultra Ball (Dark Explorers 102) Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Ultra Ball is an Uncommon Trainer card from the Dark Explorers set, numbered 102. It’s a practical option for players seeking versatile support during matches.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Dark Explorers 102 Uncommon 5ban Graphics
- Card Number: 102
- Rarity: Uncommon
- Illustrator: 5ban Graphics
- Stage: Item
- Retreat Cost: 0
- Subtypes: Item
- Series: black_white
- Set Code: bw5
- Image:
Key Printings

This printing of Ultra Ball appears in the Dark Explorers expansion of the Black & White series, identified by set code “bw5” and card number 102. No other print variants are listed for this card.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants or alternate artworks for this Ultra Ball. Its identifiers include the set code “bw5,” Uncommon rarity status, and the 5ban Graphics illustrator credit.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown

Effect

This Item card allows the player to discard 2 cards from their hand to search their deck for a Pokémon, reveal it, and add it to their hand. The deck is then shuffled.

Players may play any number of Item cards during their turn before attacking, making Ultra Ball a versatile and frequently used card in gameplay.

Care & Storage Tips

Store the card in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the surface to maintain collectible value, and use a temperature-controlled environment to prevent warping or discoloration.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Dark Explorers (bw5): This set features Ultra Ball as an Uncommon Item card, integral for deck searching strategies. Illustrated by 5ban Graphics, it complements the set’s focus on tactical gameplay with reliable support cards.
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October 16, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Entei-EX (Dark Explorers #103)
Entei-EX Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Entei-EX from Dark Explorers is a Rare Ultra Basic Pokémon-EX with 180 HP. Numbered 103, it features the standout attack Grand Flame and vivid 5ban Graphics artwork, making it a striking addition to any collection.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Dark Explorers 103 Rare Ultra 180 5ban Graphics
- Pokémon: Entei-EX
- Type: Fire
- Stage: Basic, EX
- Retreat Cost: 3
- Weakness: Water ×2
- Resistance: None
- Rules: Pokémon-EX rule: When a Pokémon-EX has been Knocked Out, your opponent takes 2 Prize cards.
- Set Code: bw5
- Series: black_white
- Print Variants: None known
- Flavor Text: Unknown
- Regulation Mark: Unknown
Key Printings

This exact printing of Entei-EX appears in the Dark Explorers set as card number 103. It is a Rare Ultra card notable for its high HP and two attacks:
– Fire Fang, which inflicts Burn status
– Grand Flame, which allows energy retrieval from the discard pile

Variants & Identifiers

No known print variants. Identify this card by:
– Set code: “bw5”
– Card number: 103
– Illustration: 5ban Graphics
– Subtype: Basic, EX
– Type: Fire
– Retreat cost: three energy

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
According to the provided data, this card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Remember the Pokémon-EX rule: when this Pokémon is Knocked Out, the opponent takes 2 Prize cards.

Care & Storage Tips

Protect the artwork and condition by sleeving the card and keeping it away from sunlight and moisture. Given its Rare Ultra status, consider a top loader or rigid case for long-term storage. Avoid bending or scratching to preserve collector value.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Dark Explorers (bw5): Entei-EX debuts as a powerful Fire-type Basic Pokémon-EX with high HP and impactful attacks, showcasing aggressive play and energy manipulation that appeal to collectors and players alike.
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October 16, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Kyogre-EX (Dark Explorers #104)
Kyogre-EX Collector’s Guide (Dark Explorers #104)

Character Intro

Kyogre-EX from the Dark Explorers set is a Rare Ultra card numbered 104. With 170 HP, it’s a sturdy Basic EX that pressures boards through Smash Turn’s mobility and Dual Splash’s spread damage.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Dark Explorers 104 Rare Ultra 170 5ban Graphics
- Type: Water
- Stage: Basic, EX
- Retreat Cost: 4
- Weakness: Lightning ×2
- Resistances: None
- Abilities: None
- Attacks:
- Smash Turn: Deals 30 damage and allows switching with a Benched Pokémon.
- Dual Splash: Hits two of your opponent’s Pokémon for 50 damage each (no Weakness/Resistance applied to Benched Pokémon).
- Pokémon-EX Rule: When knocked out, opponent takes 2 Prize cards.
Key Printings

This exact printing of Kyogre-EX appears in the Dark Explorers set as card number 104. It is classified as a Rare Ultra card and is illustrated by 5ban Graphics. The card is Basic and EX, emphasizing its standalone power without evolution.

Variants & Identifiers
- No known print variants exist for this card.
- Identifiers: set code “bw5-104,” 5ban Graphics artwork, Retreat Cost of 4, and dual Water-type attacks.
Legality & Play Notes

Legality status: unknown.
As a Pokémon-EX, when Kyogre-EX is knocked out, your opponent takes 2 Prize cards. This rule significantly impacts gameplay strategy.

Care & Storage Tips

Store this Kyogre-EX card in a protective sleeve and keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid bending or exposure to moisture to preserve condition and collector value.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Dark Explorers: Introduced Kyogre-EX as a powerful Water-type Basic EX Pokémon with strong attacks and high HP. It stands out with its Rare Ultra rarity and distinctive 5ban Graphics illustration. The set’s release date remains unknown.
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October 16, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Raikou-EX (Dark Explorers #105)
Raikou-EX Collector’s Guide (Dark Explorers #105)

Character Intro

Raikou-EX from the Dark Explorers set is a Rare Ultra card featuring 170 HP. Numbered 105 in the set, it stands out with its vivid design and formidable presence. This striking card showcases the powerful Thunder Fang attack, embodying Raikou’s electric prowess.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Dark Explorers 105 Rare Ultra 170 5ban Graphics
- Type: Lightning
- Stage: Basic, EX
- Retreat Cost: 1 Colorless Energy
- Weakness: Fighting ×2
- Resistances: None
- Rules: When a Pokémon-EX is Knocked Out, opponent takes 2 Prize cards.
Key Printings

This exact printing of Raikou-EX is from the Dark Explorers set, identified by set code bw5 and card number 105. It is a Rare Ultra card with no known alternate print variants.

Variants & Identifiers
- There are no known print variants for this Raikou-EX.
- Identifiers include its card ID bw5-105 and the illustrator credit to 5ban Graphics.
- The card’s attacks are “Thunder Fang” and “Volt Bolt,” with the latter requiring discarding all attached Lightning Energy for a powerful strike.
Legality & Play Notes
- Legality: unknown
- This Raikou-EX is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
- It carries the Pokémon-EX rule where knocking it out awards your opponent two Prize cards, a critical consideration for gameplay strategy.
Care & Storage Tips

To preserve the vibrant artwork and card condition, store this Raikou-EX in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its rarity and collectible status, consider a top loader or binder with individual pockets for safe long-term storage.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Dark Explorers: This set introduced Raikou-EX as a powerful Lightning-type Basic EX Pokémon with strong attacks and a notable HP pool. It fits well into collections focusing on the Black & White series and features the distinctive 5ban Graphics style.
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October 16, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Groudon-EX (Dark Explorers #106)
Groudon-EX Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Groudon-EX from Dark Explorers is a Rare Ultra Basic Pokémon-EX with 180 HP. Anchored by the attack Giant Claw, it’s a bold, hard-hitting addition that showcases the set’s emphasis on power.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Dark Explorers 106 Rare Ultra 180 5ban Graphics
- Type: Fighting
- Stage: Basic, EX
- Weakness: Water ×2
- Resistance: Lightning -20
- Retreat Cost: 4
- Pokémon-EX Rule: When knocked out, opponent takes 2 Prize cards
Key Printings

Overview

This guide covers the Dark Explorers printing of Groudon-EX, card number 106. It is a Basic EX Pokémon with no evolutions and no abilities.

Attacks
- Tromp: Deals damage to all opponent’s Benched Pokémon.
- Giant Claw: Increases damage if the Defending Pokémon is already damaged.
Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this card. It is identified by set code “bw5-106” with illustrator credit to 5ban Graphics. The card’s rarity is Rare Ultra, and it features the Fighting type symbol prominently.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Players should note the Pokémon-EX rule that awards the opponent 2 Prize cards upon knockout, making strategic play essential.

Care & Storage Tips

As a Rare Ultra card with detailed artwork, store it in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight to preserve color. Use a rigid top-loader or a binder with individual pockets to prevent bending and surface damage.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Dark Explorers: Groudon-EX appears as a powerful Fighting-type EX Pokémon with impactful attacks and a high HP pool. It fits the set’s theme of strong, dynamic Pokémon but lacks abilities, focusing instead on raw attack power.
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October 16, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Darkrai-EX (Dark Explorers #107)
Darkrai-EX Collector’s Guide (Dark Explorers 107)

Character Intro

Darkrai-EX from the Dark Explorers set is a Rare Ultra card featuring 180 HP. With the Dark Cloak ability and the Night Spear attack, it combines sleek design with strong strategic potential.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Dark Explorers 107 Rare Ultra 180 5ban Graphics
- Type: Darkness
- Stage: Basic, EX
- Ability: Dark Cloak — Grants no Retreat Cost to your Darkness Energy-attached Pokémon
- Attack: Night Spear — Deals 90 damage and 30 damage to one of your opponent’s Benched Pokémon
- Weakness: Fighting ×2
- Resistance: Psychic -20
- Retreat Cost: 2
- Pokémon-EX Rule: Opponent takes 2 Prize cards when knocked out
- Set Code: bw5
- Series: black_white
- Print Variants: None known
- Flavor Text: Unknown
- Regulation Mark: Unknown
- Release Date: Unknown
- Legal Status: unknown
Key Printings

The key printing of Darkrai-EX is from the Dark Explorers set (bw5), numbered 107. This Rare Ultra card is notable for its high HP and impactful ability, making it a sought-after collectible within the EX series.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this exact Darkrai-EX card. Identification is straightforward via its set number (107), rarity (Rare Ultra), and illustrator (5ban Graphics). The card’s Darkness type and unique ability also help distinguish it.

Legality & Play Notes
- Legality: unknown
- This Darkrai-EX card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
- Its Pokémon-EX rule means knocking it out awards the opponent two Prize cards, a critical factor in gameplay strategy.
Care & Storage Tips

To preserve the vibrant artwork and maintain card condition, store Darkrai-EX in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture. Use rigid top loaders or binders with individual pockets to prevent bending or surface damage.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Dark Explorers (bw5): This set introduced Darkrai-EX as a powerful Darkness-type Basic EX Pokémon with a unique ability that reduces retreat costs. It stands out as a Rare Ultra card with strong HP and a versatile attack that targets both active and benched Pokémon.
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October 16, 2025