Collector’s Guide: Pidgeotto (Base Set 2 #28)

Quick Facts

• Pokémon: Pidgeotto
• HP: 60
• Type: Colorless
• Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Pidgey)
• Rarity: Rare
• Illustrator: Ken Sugimori
• Set: Base Set 2
• Card Number: 28
• Weakness: Lightning (×2)
• Resistance: Fighting (-30)
• Retreat Cost: 1

Pidgeotto has two attacks: Whirlwind, which forces your opponent to switch their Active Pokémon with one of their Benched Pokémon after dealing 20 damage, and Mirror Move, which replicates the damage of the last attack Pidgeotto received.

The card’s flavor text reads:
“Very protective of its sprawling territory, this Pokémon will fiercely peck at any intruder.”

Key Printings

This guide focuses on the exact printing of Pidgeotto from the Base Set 2 expansion, card number 28. This printing is notable for its classic Ken Sugimori artwork and its inclusion in the Base Set 2 series, a reprint set that revisits original Base Set cards with updated card frames.

Variants & Identifiers

• Set Code: base4
• Subtypes: Stage 1
• Print Variants: None listed for this exact printing
• Regulation Mark: None
• Legality: unknown

Collectors can identify this card by its Base Set 2 logo and the card number 28 in the bottom right corner. The card’s rarity symbol is Rare.

Care & Storage Tips

To preserve the condition and value of this Pidgeotto card:

• Store in a protective sleeve and rigid top-loader or card holder.
• Keep away from direct sunlight to prevent fading of the artwork and text.
• Avoid exposure to moisture and extreme temperatures.
• Handle with clean hands to prevent oils and dirt from damaging the card surface.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

• Base Set 2: This set reprints many classic Base Set cards with updated card frames and logos. Pidgeotto #28 retains its original artwork by Ken Sugimori and is classified as a Rare card. It features attacks that emphasize strategic switching and damage reflection, fitting the tactical style of early Pokémon TCG gameplay.

Legality: unknown