When people think of Chi-Yu, they see fire-type Pokemon more often than not. Its artwork usually involves a volcano or other lava-based surface. However, one cannot overlook this Pokemon is a dual-type: both fire and dark. That makes the Dark energy-based rendition of this creature from Abyss Eye/Pitch Black all the more intriguing.
Chi-Yu is an Intriguing Part of the Pokedex
Calling Chi-Yu just “a fish” would be a grave mistake. Although it is not a traditional “swimming” Pokemon, the creature is one of the four treasures of ruin. It may not look like it when it looks right at you, but this is not a creature to underestimate. Plus, it is also one of the several legendary Pokemon in the game and lore to date, thus showing it the proper respect is required.
Granted, seeing a fire pokemon with fins looks a bit unusual. It is not something we have seen much of in the Pokemon world, but it is a welcome addition. As a ruinous Pokemon – because of its status as a treasure of ruin – Chi-Yu will not evolve. That situation may change in the future, but for now, there are no plans to introduce an evolutionary line.
Stats-wise, there are some very interesting things to note. First, it is a dual-type Pokemon, which is always rather exciting. Second, Chi-Yu weighs almost nothing. Its entire body is made of fire, which has little mass. That is why, in the TCG, you will see this Pokemon listed as 4.9 kilograms, even though it has a physical body. Think of it as weighing as much as a house cat, but with a body of fire, and fins. Actually, forget this comparison entirely….
Another curious aspect is its resemblance to a goldfish, to a degree. The orange color, the beads around the eyes, and its swimming-esque movement all draw interesting similarities to goldfish. However, it’s also a face with a body and no “limbs” to speak of. Some might say it also lacks anything resembling a “face”, despite having large eyes.
Different Artists, Different Depictions
Given its Fire/Dark nature, it was a matter of time before we saw two very contrasting depictions of Chi-yu. Most people are used to the Fire-type version found in recent Pokemon TCG sets. However, Abyss Eye (Pitch Black in English) shows us things can be done differently. It has a very dark and moody version of Chi-Yu, starkly contrasting the “colorful” version we have gotten used to.
The version below, by Dsuke, shows the “traditional” rendition of this ruinous Pokemon. It is quite literal in terms of its official Pokedex entry, with plenty of volcanic elements in the background. There is also latent kinetic energy in how the card is illustrated, highlighting Dsuke’s artistic direction.
IKEDA Saki deliberately took a very different approach. The card shows Chi-Yu, but in a very different setting and state. It is the more “symbolic” approach, as the Pokemon’s true form is linked to cursed ancient beads. Moreover, in the video game community, people consider this Pokemon cursed for its ridiculous power.
One might even say IKEDA Saki’s rendition is more of a “horror” version of Chi-Yu. It is not hard to see where that sentiment comes from, as the background almost looks like a haunted location. It is also one of my favorite cards from the entire Abyss Eye set, because it “upsets” the status quo in a powerful way.
Final Thoughts
It is interesting to see different artists take very different approaches to Chi-Yu. Whether that is their own decision, or something enforced by Nintendo, remains up in the air. But one thing is sure: you can appreciate one, or both, or neither. Art and Pokemon are entirely subjective, and not everyone has to like the same things.
Even so, two artists can depict the same Pokémon in completely different ways while remaining faithful to its lore. Chi-yu is both fiery and “cursed”, and it is good to see both types in the Pokemon TCG.
