Poliwag (Base Set 2 #88) Collector’s Guide

Quick Facts

Poliwag from Base Set 2 (#88) is a Basic Water-type Pokémon card with 40 HP. It features a single attack, Water Gun, which deals 10 damage plus an additional 10 damage for each extra Water Energy attached (up to 20 extra damage). The card has a retreat cost of 1 and a weakness to Grass-type attacks (×2). Illustrated by Ken Sugimori, this card is classified as Common rarity. The card’s flavor text notes that Poliwag’s newly grown legs prevent it from running, and it prefers swimming over standing.

• HP: 40
• Type: Water
• Stage: Basic
• Attack: Water Gun (10+ damage)
• Weakness: Grass ×2
• Retreat Cost: 1
• Rarity: Common
• Illustrator: Ken Sugimori
• Legality: unknown

Key Printings

This exact printing appears in the Base Set 2 expansion, identified by set code base4 and card number 88. It is a straightforward reprint of the original Base Set Poliwag, maintaining classic artwork and mechanics.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this card. Key identifiers include:

• Set Name: Base Set 2
• Card Number: 88
• Illustrator: Ken Sugimori
• Rarity: Common
• Type: Water
• Attack: Water Gun with variable damage based on attached Water Energy

Care & Storage Tips

To preserve the condition and value of this Poliwag card:

• Store in a protective sleeve and rigid top-loader or binder.
• Keep away from direct sunlight to prevent fading.
• 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 cards from the original Base Set with updated card frames and minor text adjustments. Poliwag #88 retains its simple and effective Water Gun attack, making it a nostalgic staple for collectors focusing on early Water-type Pokémon.