While Articuno ex is slightly underpowered compared to some of the best Pokmon in the format, it has two different variants that help it stand up to other meta threats
For the first time, English and Japanese sets (like OP-07 and OP-08) release simultaneously worldwide
Here's how it works: you cast the creature card, and sometimes it enters "Prepared" while other times you'll need to find a way to make it "Prepared." Once it's "Prepared" you can then cast the spell on its box (following the mana cost and any timing restrictions)
The display commander is printed on a much thicker material, is foil-etched and has the size of a regular Magic: the Gathering card
It turns cards like Merfolk SecretkeeperMerfolk Secretkeeper and Fractured SanityFractured Sanity into nukes of a mill spell, and allows Altar of the BroodAltar of the Brood, Ruin CrabRuin Crab and Hedron CrabHedron Crab to be absolute menaces
You'll be seeing this guy, just not in Red