The HeartGold & SoulSilver (HGSS) Series focused on Johto nostalgia, aligning with the Nintendo DS remakes. It introduced new foil styles, LEGEND cards, and Pokémon Prime.
1) HeartGold & SoulSilver Base Set
- Japanese release: October 2009
- English release: February 2010
- Highlights:
- Introduced Pokémon Prime (special holo style, strong abilities)
- Introduced LEGEND cards (two-card Pokémon, e.g., Ho-Oh LEGEND)
- Featured Johto starters and Legendaries (Lugia, Ho-Oh)
- Set symbol: Poké Ball with gold outline
2) HS—Unleashed
- Japanese release: December 2009 (Revived Legends)
- English release: May 2010
- Highlights:
- Expanded LEGEND Pokémon (Entei & Raikou, Suicune & Entei, etc.)
- More Pokémon Prime (Croconaw, Tyranitar, Kingdra)
- Set symbol: silver water droplet
3) HS—Undaunted
- Japanese release: March 2010 (Clash at the Summit)
- English release: August 2010
- Highlights:
- Featured Eeveelution Primes (Espeon, Umbreon)
- LEGEND cards included Rayquaza & Deoxys, Kyogre & Groudon
- Set symbol: shield crest
4) HS—Triumphant
- Japanese release: July 2010 (Clash at the Summit)
- English release: November 2010
- Highlights:
- Large set with many Pokémon Prime (Electrode, Gengar, Machamp)
- LEGEND cards: Darkrai & Cresselia, Palkia & Dialga
- Set symbol: three-pronged star
5) Call of Legends
- English release only: February 2011
- Highlights:
- Compilation/reprint set with select HGSS cards
- Introduced Shiny Legendary Pokémon with alternate color artwork
- Notable cards: Shiny Lugia, Shiny Ho-Oh
- Set symbol: shooting star
Summary Timeline
- 2010 — HeartGold & SoulSilver, Unleashed, Undaunted, Triumphant
- 2011 — Call of Legends
The HGSS Series highlighted Johto nostalgia and creative mechanics. It closed the Generation IV era, leading into the Black & White Series with Unova Pokémon and new gameplay features.