Infernape #173

This Infernape card, numbered 173/167, stands out as a highly desirable secret rare and an Illustration Rare within the Twilight Masquerade expansion. Its status as a secret rare, indicated by a card number beyond the set's official count, implies a more challenging pull rate, significantly contributing to its collectibility and inherent value. The card's Illustration Rare designation means it features a unique, full-art illustration by Krgc, which is a key driver for its appeal among collectors seeking visually distinct cards.

Krgc's artwork for this Infernape vividly portrays the Pokémon's essence, reflecting its Pokedex description of using a "special kind of martial arts involving all its limbs" and its flavor text highlighting its "fiery nature" and unmatched "quickness." This dynamic illustration perfectly complements Infernape's "Pyro Dance" Ability, which offers strategic utility by allowing players to attach a Basic Fire Energy, a Basic Fighting Energy, or one of each from their hand to their Pokémon once per turn. This energy acceleration can be pivotal in building board presence, making this Stage 2 Pokémon not only a visual highlight but also a potentially impactful card in gameplay.