Highlights
Obsidian Flames, the upcoming Pokemon TCG set, will introduce a brand new card for Bonsly, a baby Pokemon that hasn't received a TCG card for 16 years.In TCG sets, it is uncommon to see Baby Pokemon like Bonsly since they are not typically deemed useful. Hence, Bonsly's inclusion in Obsidian Flames holds a special significance.
The upcoming Pokemon TCG set Obsidian Flames has recently revealed all the cards, including a new Bonsly card. After 16 years, Bonsly will finally have its own new TCG card, featuring a simple attack that can confuse the opponent's Pokemon. Although it may not gain much popularity in the competitive scene, collectors are likely to appreciate this addition. Baby Pokemon tend to have less representation in Pokemon TCG sets overall.
Baby Pokemon occupy a unique position where it appears that many individuals, including game developers, are uncertain about how to handle them. These adorable creatures, such as Pichu and Magby, undeniably hold a certain charm. However, their lack of practicality is one reason why they are rarely seen in the video games or trading card game. It is quite uncommon to find baby Pokemon featured on new cards in the TCG, which makes the inclusion of Bonsly in the upcoming Obsidian Flames set particularly noteworthy.
Obsidian Flames will join the expanding collection of Pokemon Scarlet and Violet TCG sets as the newest addition. The artwork for all the Japanese cards was recently revealed, confirming the presence of a new Bonsly card. This card depicts the young Rock-type Pokemon wandering through a forest, with a Pokemon Center visible in the background. It is the first new card for Sudowoodo's baby Pokemon since the Space-Time Creation Pokemon TCG set released in 2007. Remarkably, this is only the fourth card that Bonsly has ever received, surpassing Mantyke as the Pokemon with the lowest number of TCG cards in existence (previously tied for last place).
Once Bonsly's Japanese card is translated, it reveals that its upcoming card will possess an attack that requires no energy, inflicts 10 damage, and leaves the opponent's Pokemon in a state of confusion. It is peculiar, however, that this card will make its debut without a new Sudowoodo card for Bonsly to evolve into. Nevertheless, it is highly improbable that this card will have much significance in the competitive Pokemon TCG scene. Most likely, it will solely appeal to collectors who have been unable to obtain a new Bonsly since the early 2000s.
The Obsidian Flames set will include some unique additions, including the introduction of Gen 9's Palafin on its inaugural TCG card. Additionally, it will mark the debut of Tera Type Pokémon, showcasing intriguing type transformations like an Electric Tyranitar, Psychic Vespiqueen, and Dark Charizard. This aligns perfectly with the current giveaway for the Dark-type Tera Charizard in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet. Hopefully, we can expect to see more baby Pokémon receiving attention in the TCG soon.