# 2012 Pokémon Dark Explorers #31

> The 2012 Dark Explorers release features Tympole #31, a Basic Water-type Pokémon card with a distinctive reverse holo finish and Spiral Drain attack.

Canonical URL: https://supercatch.com/product/pokemon-dark-explorers-tympole-31-reverse-holo

## Identity

- **Year**: 2012
- **Manufacturer brand**: Pokémon
- **Set / series**: Dark Explorers
- **Card number**: #31
- **Product type**: TCG_CARD

## Description

Released in 2012 as part of the Dark Explorers set, this Tympole card occupies card number 31 in the Pokémon Trading Card Game catalog. As a Basic Water-type Pokémon with 60 HP, it serves as a foundational piece for players building early-game decks. The card is easily identified by its reverse holo finish, which applies a reflective foil treatment to the illustration, distinguishing it from the standard common versions in the same release.

Tympole’s gameplay revolves around sustainability and disruption. Its primary ability, Spiral Drain, allows the player to deal 20 damage to the opponent’s Active Pokémon while simultaneously healing 20 damage from Tympole itself. This unique mechanic makes it a practical choice for attrition-based strategies, where maintaining card advantage and resource management is critical. The card’s retreat cost of one Colorless energy ensures it can be moved to the Bench relatively easily, providing flexibility during matches.

Collectors often seek out the reverse holo variant of Tympole for its visual appeal and the way it highlights the character’s design. For those completing the Dark Explorers set, this card represents an essential component of the full collection. The Pokédex entry notes that Tympole warns others of danger by vibrating its cheeks to create a high-pitched sound, adding flavor to its in-game persona.

Whether you are looking to expand your collection of Pokémon TCG cards from the early 2010s or need a specific card for your deck, Tympole #31 offers both nostalgic value and functional utility. The Dark Explorers series remains a popular chapter in Pokémon history, and this reverse holo card stands out for its distinctive finish and reliable gameplay mechanics.

## FAQ

### What is the attack of Tympole in Dark Explorers?

Tympole features the attack Spiral Drain, which deals 20 damage to the opponent's Active Pokémon and heals 20 damage from Tympole itself. This ability makes it a strong defensive option for early-game strategies.

### Is Tympole #31 a reverse holo card?

Yes, the specific listing for Tympole #31 in the Dark Explorers set is a reverse holo variant. This means the foil treatment is applied to the illustration rather than the background, offering a distinct visual finish compared to the common version.

### Who illustrated the Dark Explorers Tympole card?

The artwork for Tympole #31 in the Dark Explorers expansion was created by Kouki Saitou.

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Last verified: 2025-11-29.