In the Pokémon canon, Magikarp is best known for being exceptionally weak—at least until it evolves into Gyarados. Although the same applies to the Magikarp card from ninth-generation Pokémon TCG set Triplet Beat [SV1a] gameplay-wise, it’s nonetheless a worthy addition to any collection.

This Art Rare (AR) card features a Full Art illustration by Shinji Kanda that makes use of an art style seldom seen on Pokémon TCG cards. The image that shows Magikarp splashing upwards from the base of a small waterfall in a forest appears aesthetically unconventional at first glance—yet somehow perfectly captures the essence of the image at the same time.

Magikarp is also pictured with its iconic blank look as it springs out of the water. It’s an image which any Pokémon fan will immediately recognize—even in this unconventional rendering.

Even the card itself refers to Magikarp’s weakness in combat as it has just 30 HP and the Expert Splasher attack which does just 10 damage with a 1-in-4 chance of doing 30 damage instead. That being said, this might actually enhance the card’s value to collectors because of that reference to the Pokémon video games.

In English, this card is card 203/193 in the Paldea Evolved [PAL] set.

The latest sale price of a Magikarp (Triplet Beat [SV1a] 080/073) card of AR rarity is 2,450 JPY (~US$16).

In other TCG-related news, check out the Gengar VMAX card from the Gengar VMAX High-Class Deck [SGG]. Alternatively, you can also head over to the SNKRDUNK App via the banner below and find the top trending and latest single cards and boxes.