Articuno

Description

Released in 2015 as part of the Roaring Skies expansion, this Pokémon trading card features the legendary bird Articuno. Identified by card number 16, it stands as a fundamental piece of the series for enthusiasts tracking specific set completions. The card is printed with a Rare rarity designation and features the distinctive Reverse Holo finish, a treatment that has become highly desirable among collectors for its visual appeal and retro aesthetic. Designed by Naoki Saito, the card represents a key entry in the Pokémon TCG catalog from this era. Articuno is classified as a Basic Water-type Pokémon with 120 Hit Points. Its strategic value in gameplay is defined by its attacks. The "Water Find Ice" ability allows players to search their deck for up to three Water Energy cards, reveal them, and add them to their hand, before shuffling the deck. This utility makes it a functional component for Water-centric strategies. Its secondary attack, "Freezing Wind," deals 100 damage, requiring one Water and one Colorless Energy card to execute. With a modest retreat cost of one Colorless energy, Articuno offers flexibility in positioning during matches. For collectors, this Reverse Holo variant provides a tangible connection to the Roaring Skies set's design language. The shimmering treatment distinguishes it from standard foils, offering a different visual experience that appeals to those who appreciate the tactile and optical qualities of TCG printing. Whether building a comprehensive set of the 2015 Roaring Skies release or focusing on Legendary Bird Pokémon, this card serves as an essential catalog item. The combination of its iconic subject, specific set affiliation, and unique finish ensures its continued relevance in the secondary market. Collectors often seek out this card number to complete their Roaring Skies collections, valuing the consistency of the Reverse Holo treatment across the expansion.