Collector’s Guide: Rocket’s Zapdos ex (Team Rocket Returns 106)
Character Intro
Rocket’s Zapdos ex is a Rare Holo EX from the Team Rocket Returns set, card number 106. This Darkness-type Basic ex Pokémon has 100 HP, the Poké-Body Darkness Guard for extra defense, and two attacks—Plasma and Raging Thunder—that enable both energy recursion and high damage output.
Quick Facts
| set_name | release_date | number | rarity | hp | illustrator |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Team Rocket Returns | 106 | Rare Holo EX | 100 | Ryo Ueda |
- Type: Darkness
- Stage: Basic, ex
- Retreat Cost: 1
- Weakness: Lightning ×2
- Poké-Body: Darkness Guard reduces damage by 10 if Darkness Energy is attached
- Attacks:
- Plasma: Search discard pile for a Lightning Energy and attach it (10 damage)
- Raging Thunder: Deals 60 damage but also 30 damage to one of your own Pokémon
- Rules: When knocked out, opponent takes 2 Prize cards
- Image: /images/ex7/ex7-106.jpg
Key Printings
Printed only in Team Rocket Returns as card number 106. It is a Rare Holo EX, with no alternate printings or reprints documented.
Variants & Identifiers
No known print variants. Identification is straightforward via set code “ex7-106,” rarity, and illustrator credit to Ryo Ueda. Its Darkness typing and the unique Poké-Body help distinguish it from other Zapdos cards.
Legality & Play Notes
Legality: unknown
This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. It features the typical Pokémon-ex rule where the opponent takes 2 Prize cards upon knockout, which is a critical strategic consideration.
Care & Storage Tips
To preserve the holofoil and Ryo Ueda’s artwork, store in a protective sleeve away from sunlight and moisture. Use a top-loader or a binder with rigid pages to prevent bending and surface scratches. Given its rarity and unknown release date, keeping it in high-grade condition is important for long-term value.
Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Team Rocket Returns: Rocket’s Zapdos ex debuts as a powerful Darkness-type Basic ex with a defensive Poké-Body and an energy-recycling attack, fitting the set’s theme of Team Rocket’s shadowy Pokémon. No further printings or variants are known beyond this set.
Catch This Card on eBay
Search live listings for Pokemon TCG Rocket's Zapdos ex Team Rocket Returns.
This section contains affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.