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When it comes to iconic Water-type Pokémon, Blastoise is undoubtedly at the top. This turtle with dual water cannons is not only a nostalgic favorite from the first generation, but also a powerhouse with an impressive evolution line. In this blog, I will tell you all about Blastoise, where it comes from, its evolutions, and the most popular and expensive cards from this tank of Pokémon.


Who is Blastoise?

Blastoise is the final evolution of Squirtle, the well-known starter from Kanto. As you know, its journey begins as the cute and energetic Squirtle, then evolves into the more defensive Wartortle , and ends as Blastoise: an imposing, armor-wearing giant with water cannons on its back. In the games, anime, and TCG, Blastoise has always been a Pokémon that exudes strength and reliability.

What makes Blastoise special is his unique combination of defensive stats and powerful Water-type attacks. In the anime, he was the pride of Gary Oak, and in the card game, he has been a crowd favorite since the Base Set . His appearance on cards is always impressive, with details that emphasize his strength and calmness.


Evolutionary line of Blastoise

Blastoise's power of course starts with its first form:

  • Squirtle – One of the three original starters from Pokémon Red/Blue. Small, fast, and with a love of water.
  • Wartortle – The intermediate stage, with its recognizable plume tail and longer ears. Slightly more defensive in nature.
  • Blastoise – The final form, with two big water cannons. Tactical, strong and a real leader.

Blastoise later gained a Mega Evolution in Pokémon X/Y and a Gigantamax form in Sword & Shield. In its Mega form, it is even more robust and its attacks deal even more damage. The Gigantamax version shows it with an impressive arsenal of cannons on its back, making it one of the most fearsome water-type Pokémon in the TCG.


A Story: The Turtle Who Became a Champion

Picture this: a young trainer chooses his first Pokémon. Not a fiery Charmander or a quick-witted Bulbasaur, but Squirtle —the water-shooting underdog. Together they train, battle gym leaders, and grow in power. After countless battles, it evolves into Wartortle, and eventually into Blastoise—the champion who can defeat even dragons with a well-aimed Hydro Pump.

That is what Blastoise symbolizes: growth, strength, and loyalty. A friend who fights with you, and stays put when the going gets tough. In TCG terms, that translates to cards that often have a strong board presence while also looking visually powerful.

Most Popular and Expensive Blastoise Cards

Blastoise has a ton of cards in the TCG, but a few stand out in terms of popularity and value:

✨ Blastoise (Base Set Holo, 1999)

  • PSA 10 value: €1,900 – €2,190
  • One of the most iconic cards ever. Whoever had this in the 90s was the boss of the schoolyard.

✨ Blastoise EX (XY Evolutions, 2016)

  • Mint Value: €50– €61
  • Retro design with modern shine. Popular among collectors for nostalgia and playability.

✨ Blastoise VMAX (Sword & Shield Promo)

  • Mint Value: €19 – €50
  • Gigantamax version with impressive artwork and powerful attacks.

✨ Dark Blastoise (Team Rocket, 2000)

  • PSA 10 value: €900 – €1,393
  • A darker version of our hero. Rare and mysterious, beloved by vintage collectors.

Why Blastoise is always a good choice

Even today, Blastoise remains a popular choice among collectors. Not only are his cards beautiful and playable, they continue to appreciate in value. Whether you fall for his classic Base Set charm, his modern VMAX power, or his cool Mega form, Blastoise is and will remain an icon.

If there was one Water-type Pokémon you had to have in your collection, it would be this giant with its dual water cannons. A symbol of strength, strategy, and pure nostalgia.