History
Ho-Oh, the majestic Fire/Flying-type Legendary Pokémon, is an iconic figure from the Johto region, revered for its beauty and its association with rainbows. According to legend, Ho-Oh is the guardian of the skies and the creator of the three Legendary Beasts – Raikou, Entei, and Suicune – whom it is said to have resurrected from the ashes of the Burned Tower. Its presence often signifies happiness and the promise of new beginnings, leaving a rainbow trail in its wake.
The Neo Revelation expansion, released during the second generation era, marked a significant milestone for the Pokémon Trading Card Game. It introduced new mechanics and iconic Pokémon from Johto, capturing the imagination of trainers worldwide. The Ho-Oh 18/64 card, though non-holographic, is a testament to this era. It offers a faithful and powerful representation of this mythical Pokémon, allowing collectors to own a piece of TCG history.
The artwork for this card is by Aya Kusube, an artist renowned for her dynamic and expressive style. She depicts Ho-Oh in full flight, majestic and imposing, dominating a sky filled with vibrant colors. Kusube's ability to capture Ho-Oh's movement and power, while emphasizing its divine aura and connection to natural phenomena like the rainbow, makes this card particularly appealing and true to the Pokémon's spirit.
Fun facts
- Ho-Oh was the very first Generation II Pokémon to appear in the anime, long before the release of the Gold and Silver video games.
- The Ho-Oh 18/64 card from the Neo Revelation expansion is a non-holographic version, distinguishing it from the holographic rare version (7/64) from the same set.
- Artist Aya Kusube has illustrated numerous Pokémon cards, often characterized by dynamic scenes and vivid colors, as evidenced by this majestic depiction of Ho-Oh.