The 2004 Team Rocket Returns Dark Slowking is a Holo Rare Pokémon trading card featuring unique Psychic and Darkness typing with strategic gameplay abilities.
Dark Slowking
2004 • Pokémon • Team Rocket Returns
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Description
Released in 2004 as card number 9 in the Team Rocket Returns expansion, Dark Slowking represents a significant evolution in the Pokémon Trading Card Game's strategic landscape. As a Stage 1 Pokémon that evolves from Slowpoke, this card bridges the gap between its water-type predecessor and a powerful dual-type combatant. The combination of Psychic and Darkness types allowed it to interact with game mechanics in ways few other cards could at the time, making it a distinct addition to any comprehensive collection. Designed by Kouki Saitou, the card features a Holo Rare finish that catches the light and distinguishes it within the base set. The card boasts 80 HP, providing enough durability to stay in play while delivering impactful attacks. The gameplay potential of Dark Slowking centers on its unique abilities and attacks. Its Cunning ability allows the player to disrupt the opponent by shuffling their deck, adding a layer of psychological strategy to matches. The Litter attack is particularly notable, as its damage output scales based on discarded Pokémon Tool cards and Rocket's Secret Machine cards, rewarding players who build their hands around these specific resources. This mechanic encourages deck-building creativity and makes the card a fascinating study in early 2000s TCG design philosophy. Dark Slowking stands out as a key figure in this subset, offering a glimpse into the evolving rulesets of the era. Whether you are looking to complete a set, analyze the history of dual-type Pokémon in the TCG, or simply appreciate the artistry of Kouki Saitou, this card offers substantial collector value. Its enduring presence in the metagame's history makes it a relevant piece for understanding the progression of Pokémon card design.
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Card Details
The catalog profile below summarizes the card identity, featured subject, and notable collectible traits.
Catalog Profile
The core identity of the card within the set.
Featured Subject
The subject, team, league, and sport context tied to this card.
Featured
Dark Slowking
Game
Pokémon
TCG Attributes
Rarity, print treatment, and game-specific stats for this card.
Holo Rare
Kouki Saitou
Card Stock
English
Holo
80
Psychic, Darkness
Stage 1
Slowpoke
Grass ×2
1
199
Card Text
Abilities, attacks, oracle text, and flavor text printed on the card.
Ability: Cunning
Once during your turn (before your attack), you may look at the top card of your opponent's deck. Then, you may shuffle his or her deck. This power can't be used if Dark Slowking is affected by a Special Condition.
Attack: Litter (20+)
You may discard a combination of up to 2 Pokémon Tool cards and Rocket's Secret Machine cards from your hand. If you do, this attack does 20 damage plus 30 more damage for each card you discarded.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What type is Dark Slowking in the Team Rocket Returns set?
Dark Slowking is a dual-type Psychic and Darkness Pokémon. This combination was relatively rare in the 2004 Team Rocket Returns expansion, offering unique interaction opportunities with other cards in the game.
How does the Cunning ability work on this card?
The Cunning ability allows the player to look at the top card of their opponent's deck and then shuffle the opponent's deck. This can be used once during the player's turn before attacking, providing a strategic disruption tool.
Who is the artist of the Dark Slowking card?
The card was illustrated by Kouki Saitou, whose work is featured prominently in the Team Rocket Returns set. His style helped define the visual identity of the shadow-themed Pokémon introduced in this 2004 expansion.
Cards Named Dark Slowking
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