Giovanni’s Gyarados Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Giovanni’s Gyarados is a Rare Holo from the Gym Challenge set, numbered 5. With 90 HP and the standout Dragon Tornado attack, its vivid artwork captures the fierce energy of Gyarados under Giovanni’s command.

Quick Facts

• Type: Water
• Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Giovanni’s Magikarp)
• Retreat Cost: 3
• Weakness: Grass ×2
• Resistance: Fighting -30
• Attacks:
• Summon Storm: Flip 2 coins; if both heads, deal 20 damage to each other Pokémon without applying Weakness or Resistance.
• Dragon Tornado: Deals 40 damage and can switch the opponent’s active Pokémon with a benched one unless it knocks out the defending Pokémon.

Key Printings

This exact printing appears in the Gym Challenge set as card number 5. It is a Rare Holo variant with Ken Sugimori’s classic artwork. No other print variants are documented for this card.

Variants & Identifiers

• Set Code: gym2
• Card Number: 5
• Rarity: Rare Holo
• Illustrator: Ken Sugimori
• No known alternate printings or promo versions.
• Image URL: /images/gym2/gym2-5.jpg

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its unique attacks provide tactical options, but its playability in official tournaments is not established.

Care & Storage Tips

To preserve the holofoil finish and overall condition, store Giovanni’s Gyarados in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Use a rigid top-loader or a binder with individual pockets to prevent bending and surface scratches.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

• Gym Challenge: Giovanni’s Gyarados is a standout Stage 1 Water-type card in this set, notable for its rare holo status and strategic attacks. It complements the Gym Challenge theme by evolving from Giovanni’s Magikarp and fits well into Water-type decks focused on bench control and area damage.