How many Pokémon cards has Kouki Saitou illustrated?

Since joining Creatures Inc. in the early 2000s, this artist has illustrated over 600 unique cards. His work spans from the e-Card series through the current Scarlet & Violet expansions, making him one of the most prolific contributors in the game's history.

What are the main characteristics of Kouki Saitou's art style?

His style is characterized by heavy digital brushwork, realistic muscle anatomy on Pokémon, and high-energy diagonal compositions. Collectors often identify his work by the distinct luminosity in the eyes and the specific way he renders environmental textures like rock and water.

Which Kouki Saitou cards are most valuable to collectors?

The 2002 Aquapolis Umbreon (Holo) remains a top-tier pursuit, with PSA 10 copies reaching prices between $2,500 and $4,000 in 2024. Other high-value items include the 2003 Skyridge Umbreon and various early EX-era Secret Rares.

Has Kouki Saitou worked on projects other than Pokémon?

Yes, he provided the character designs and illustrations for the 2011 Nintendo DS title 'Solatorobo: Red the Hunter.' This project showcased his ability to design complex anthropomorphic characters and steampunk environments outside of the TCG medium.

Artist

KOUKI SAITOU

Prolific Japanese illustrator specializing in Pokémon Trading Card Game art. Kouki Saitou is known for clean linework and expressive character poses, contributing to numerous sets across the modern Pokémon TCG era.

ARTIST PROFILE

Years

Active since 2010s

Nationality

Japanese

Movement

Trading Card Game Art

Mediums

Digital Illustration

Known For

Trading Cards

Notable Works

Mewtwo V • Gardevoir ex • Various Trainer cards

Rarity:

Average

You've seen all works by Kouki Saitou in the collection

Defining the anatomical precision of the Sinnoh and Paldea eras

Hippowdon Lv.45 - Diamond & Pearl Base Set [29/130]

Released in late 2007, this card features a low-angle perspective and textured shading that became a hallmark of the Diamond & Pearl era. Mint condition copies graded PSA 10 have sold for approximately $200 in 2023 auctions.

Frequently asked questions

EXPLORE MORE

Trading Cards value and rarity guide Browse the full archive

KOUKI SAITOU

ARTIST PROFILE

Venusaur (Holo Rare) - Pokémon GO [003/078]

Iron Moth - Scarlet & Violet: Paradox Rift (Holo Rare) [028/182]

Dewott - Black & White "Noble Victories" (Japanese) [023/L-P]

Hippowdon Lv.45 - Diamond & Pearl Base Set (Rare Holo) [29/130]

Lugia (Japanese) - 25th Anniversary Collection [s8a 005/028]

Pikachu (Foil) - XY Base Set (46/162)

Radiant Charizard - VSTAR Universe (Radiant Rare) [s12a-015/172]

Bibarel Lv.29 - Stormfront (Common) [60/100]

Emolga (Basic) - Noble Victories (Common) [32/98]