The serene aquatic backdrop contrasts with the palpable sense of power and readiness for battle, which is hinted at by Blastoises poised yet ready-for-anything stance
Yusuke Kozaki : Known for dynamic, high-energy illustrations Sowsow : Created many beloved Special Illustration Rares in the Scarlet & Violet era, including the famous Umbreon ex SIR from Prismatic Evolutions HYOGONOSUKE : Known for vibrant, detailed backgrounds in alternate art/SIR cards Sanosuke Sakuma : Created the iconic Moonbreon (Umbreon VMAX Alt Art) from Evolving Skies 5ban Graphics : A studio responsible for many of the 3D-rendered Pokemon images on standard cards If you see a popular illustrator's name on a card, it can be a subtle indicator of collectibility beyond just the rarity tier
Plus, it can give you some insight against an opponent who is using one of the starter decks as a base for what they bring to the table against you
This video by TrustYourPilot Pokmon on YouTube covers each pack-exclusive card in the Pocket set, examining how the Charizard version is the best of the three options
Generally this is a bit clunky, it is poor stats and tempo on the front end and while a great final product getting there via 5 mana and a period of 2 toughness is dodgy
It also introduced Supporter cards , shifting how Trainers worked mid-game