Eternatus is among the most dangerous and enigmatic Legendary Pokémon in the series. Known as the Gigantic Pokémon, it crash-landed in Galar thousands of years ago, carrying the energy that became the source of Dynamax. This arrival triggered the Darkest Day, a catastrophic event that once pushed the region to the brink of collapse.
Unlike other Legendaries tied to balance or protection, Eternatus represents unstable, destructive power. Its skeletal dragon form and glowing core give it an alien presence unlike any native Pokémon. Learning its lore is key to understanding both Galar’s past and the origins of Dynamax.
Nature and Power
Vital stats highlight Eternatus’s imposing frame:
- Type: Poison/Dragon
- Height: 20 m (standard) → 100 m (Eternamax)
- Weight: 950 kg
- Ability: Pressure
- Base stat total: 690 (regular); 1,125 (Eternamax)
Its chest core absorbs ambient energy, maintaining its activity and allowing it to control Dynamax phenomena.
Eternatus Key Lore
- Origins and the Darkest Day: Eternatus crash-landed in Galar about 20,000 years ago. Its arrival caused the Darkest Day, unleashing Dynamax energy that sent Pokémon into chaos until Zacian and Zamazenta helped seal it away.
- Eternatus and Dynamax: Eternatus is the source of all Dynamax energy in Galar. Chairman Rose’s attempt to use this power for an energy crisis backfired, awakening Eternatus and reviving the Darkest Day.
- Eternamax Eternatus: When unleashed, Eternatus absorbed all Dynamax energy and transformed into its colossal Eternamax form. With help from Zacian, Zamazenta, and the player, it was defeated and captured, bringing peace back to Galar.
Eternatus Pokémon TCG Graded Cards
1. Eternatus VMAX #177/189 (Darkness Ablaze)
Eternatus VMAX from Darkness Ablaze introduced players to one of the most dominant decks of the Sword & Shield era. Its “Eternal Zone” ability allowed up to eight Darkness-type Pokémon on the bench, creating explosive synergy with attackers like Crobat V. The card’s massive HP and scaling damage made it a competitive powerhouse for months, anchoring Dark-type strategies in both local play and major tournaments. Collectors value this card not only for its gameplay legacy but also for being the first VMAX print of Eternatus.
2. Eternatus VMAX #TG22/TG30 (Lost Origin Trainer Gallery)
The Trainer Gallery reprint in Lost Origin gave Eternatus VMAX new life for collectors. This version features alternate artwork showcasing Eternatus alongside the villainous Chairman Rose, tying directly into the Sword and Shield storyline. While its gameplay impact mirrored the Darkness Ablaze release, the Trainer Gallery printing became highly desirable thanks to its unique character-focused illustration. For collectors who value lore-driven art, this is one of the most striking Eternatus cards available.
3. Eternatus VMAX #SV122/SV122 (Shining Fates: Shiny Vault)
Eternatus VMAX in the Shining Fates Shiny Vault subset showcases the Legendary in its rare shiny form. With a black-and-gold palette, the design elevates its already menacing appearance and makes it one of the most sought-after shiny VMAX cards from the era. Players recognized its strength, but collectors chased it more for rarity and aesthetic than tournament play. As a Shiny Vault chase card, it remains a centerpiece for anyone completing a master set.
4. Radiant Eternatus #105/159 (Crown Zenith)
Radiant Eternatus from Crown Zenith brought a unique spin to deck building. Its “Climactic Gate” ability let players cheat two VMAX Pokémon directly into play, creating instant powerhouse setups at the cost of ending the turn. This made it a niche but explosive inclusion in certain strategies, especially for decks that needed heavy attackers early. Beyond gameplay, its radiant finish, vibrant shine, and limited availability within Crown Zenith cement its place as a collector’s favorite.
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