Umbreon

Market outlook

Rising Outlook 7/10

Demand for BW Era 1st Edition cards, especially Team Plasma variants, is increasing among collectors. The limited supply of 1st Edition prints and nostalgia for Generation V Pokémon support upward momentum[1][2].

Next months. Next 3–6 months: Prices likely to rise 5–10% due to seasonal collector activity and auction demand[2].

Long term. 1–3 years: Sustained growth possible if BW Era remains a top collector focus; 1st Edition copies may see 20–30% appreciation if market trends favor vintage Japanese cards[1].

History

Umbreon (ブラッキー) is a Dark-type Pokémon originally introduced in Generation II as the Eevee evolution triggered by high friendship at night. It features a sleek black body with glowing yellow rings that activate during combat, symbolizing its mysterious and defensive nature. In the Pokémon TCG, this Umbreon is depicted as a Team Plasma member, aligning with the Black & White series' storyline where Generation V Pokémon and Team Plasma are central[1].

This Umbreon card was first released in Japan on December 14, 2012, as part of the dual expansions 'Spiral Force' and 'Thunder Knuckle,' which together form the eighth expansion block of the Pokémon Card Game BW Era[1]. The English version was released later on May 8, 2013, under the name 'Plasma Freeze'[1].

• The card is numbered 031/051 and has the rarity 'Rare' (Holo Rare) in the Japanese Thunder Knuckle set[2].
• It is a Stage 1 Darkness-type Pokémon with 100 HP, Weakness to Fighting x2, and Resistance to Psychic -20[3].
• This version is a 1st Edition print, making it more collectible than Unlimited editions[1].

Rarity and print run

Tier

Rare

Print run

Medium

First printed in

Spiral Force / Thunder Knuckle (BW Era, Japan)

Demand

Medium

Supply

Low

• 1st Edition print increases collectibility significantly over Unlimited
• Part of the dual Japanese expansion (Spiral Force/Thunder Knuckle), which had limited global distribution[1]
• Team Plasma Umbreon is a fan-favorite variant, boosting demand[3]

Collector notes

Condition. Key flaws to check include centering (LP = Lightly Played indicates slight border wear), edge dings, corner creases, and surface scratches. On holographic cards, ensure the foil isn't peeled or dull. The 1st Edition stamp must be crisp and properly aligned[2].

Storage. Store in a rigid top loader or Sean Box, ideally with a penny sleeve. Keep in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent foil degradation. For long-term preservation, consider graded or Beckett grading if the card is in high grade[2].

Authenticity. Fakes often have dull or misaligned holograms, incorrect font on the card text, or missing/blurry 1st Edition stamps. Authentic cards from Bandai or Pokémon Japan have precise printing and consistent color saturation. Verify the set code (BW8) and card number (031/051) against official checklists[3][5].