Author: General Ops

Collector’s Guide: Crushing Hammer (Sword Shield #159)
Crushing Hammer (Sword Shield 159) Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Crushing Hammer is an Uncommon Trainer Item from the Sword Shield set, numbered 159. A practical pick for players seeking strategic disruption.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Sword Shield 159 Uncommon sadaji
- Card Name: Crushing Hammer
- Set: Sword Shield (swsh1)
- Card Number: 159
- Rarity: Uncommon
- Type: Item
- Stage: Item
- Retreat Cost: 0
- Regulation Mark: D
- Illustrator: sadaji
- Image:
Key Printings

This guide covers the single known printing of Crushing Hammer from the Sword Shield base set (swsh1), numbered 159. No other printings or reprints are documented.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this card. Identification is straightforward via its set code (swsh1), card number (159), and the illustrator’s signature (sadaji).

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
- Effect: Flip a coin; if heads, discard an Energy from one of your opponent’s Pokémon.
- As an Item, you may play any number of Item cards during your turn, making this a versatile tool in deck strategies.
Care & Storage Tips

Store the card in a protective sleeve, away from direct sunlight and moisture. With its uncommon rarity and clean artwork, keeping edges sharp and the surface pristine will best preserve collector value.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Sword Shield (swsh1): The original printing of Crushing Hammer, featuring simple yet effective gameplay utility and artwork by sadaji. No known reprints or alternate versions exist within this or subsequent sets.
Catch This Card on eBay

Search live listings for Pokemon TCG Crushing Hammer Sword Shield.

Browse eBay listings

This section contains affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
September 30, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Blipbug (Sword Shield #16)
Blipbug (Sword Shield #16) Collectors Guide

Character Intro

Blipbug is a Common Pokémon card from the Sword Shield set, numbered 16. With 50 HP and a single attack, Gnaw, it’s a simple, straightforward addition to any collection.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Sword Shield 16 Common 50 nagimiso
- Type: Grass
- Stage: Basic
- Retreat Cost: 1
- Weakness: Fire ×2
- Regulation Mark: D
- Flavor Text: Often found in gardens, this Pokémon has hairs on its body that it uses to assess its surroundings.
- Attack: Gnaw (20 damage, costs 1 Grass energy)
- Abilities: None
Key Printings

This guide covers the exact printing of Blipbug from the Sword Shield set, card number 16. It is a common rarity card with no known alternate printings or special editions.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this Blipbug card. Identification is straightforward via the set code “swsh1,” card number 16, and the illustrator credit to nagimiso. The card’s regulation mark is D, which helps place it within the Sword Shield series timeline.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown. Based on the provided data, this Blipbug card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. No additional tournament or play notes are available.

Care & Storage Tips

As a common card with modest value, use standard protective sleeves and store it in a binder or card box to preserve condition. Avoid direct sunlight and moisture to maintain the vibrant illustration by nagimiso.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Sword Shield (swsh1): Introduces Blipbug as a Basic Grass-type Pokémon with a straightforward attack and a garden-themed flavor text. It fits into the early Sword Shield series with a regulation mark of D and no special abilities or variants.
Catch This Card on eBay

Search live listings for Pokemon TCG Blipbug Sword Shield.

Browse eBay listings

This section contains affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
September 30, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Energy Retrieval (Sword Shield #160)
Energy Retrieval (Sword Shield #160) Collectors Guide

Character Intro

Energy Retrieval is an Uncommon Trainer card from the Sword Shield set. Numbered 160, it lets players recover Energy cards from their discard pile, aiding efficient resource management during battles.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Sword Shield 160 Uncommon Ryo Ueda
- Card Type: Item
- Stage: Item
- Retreat Cost: 0
- Regulation Mark: D
- Series: Sword Shield
- Card ID: swsh1-160
- Pokémon: Energy Retrieval
- Subtypes: Item
- Attacks/Abilities: None
- Rules Text: “Put up to 2 basic Energy cards from your discard pile into your hand. | You may play any number of Item cards during your turn.”
- Weaknesses/Resistances: None
Key Printings

This guide focuses on the original Sword Shield printing of Energy Retrieval, card number 160. It is an Uncommon card illustrated by Ryo Ueda, with no known alternate printings or reprints.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants or alternate art versions for this exact printing of Energy Retrieval. The card is identified by its set code “swsh1” and card number 160.

Legality & Play Notes
- Legality: unknown
- Energy Retrieval is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its effect allows players to recover up to two basic Energy cards from the discard pile, making it a useful support card in decks that rely on energy recycling.
Care & Storage Tips

To preserve the card’s condition, store Energy Retrieval in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its Uncommon rarity, maintaining its edges and surface will help retain collector value.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Sword Shield (swsh1): Energy Retrieval appears as an Uncommon Item card designed to facilitate energy recovery. It fits into the Sword Shield series’ focus on streamlined gameplay mechanics and strategic resource management.
Catch This Card on eBay

Search live listings for Pokemon TCG Energy Retrieval Sword Shield.

Browse eBay listings

This section contains affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
September 30, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Energy Search (Sword Shield #161)
Energy Search (Sword Shield 161) Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Energy Search is an Uncommon Trainer card from the Sword Shield set, numbered 161. It offers a straightforward way to find Energy cards, making it a practical addition to many decks. Its simple design reflects its focused utility in gameplay, and collectors will appreciate its role within the Sword Shield series.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Sword Shield 161 Uncommon Studio Bora Inc.
- Card Name: Energy Search
- Set: Sword Shield (swsh1)
- Card Number: 161
- Rarity: Uncommon
- Stage: Item
- Subtype: Item
- Retreat Cost: 0
- Regulation Mark: D
- Illustrator: Studio Bora Inc.
- Image:
Key Printings

This Energy Search appears exclusively in the Sword Shield base set (swsh1) as card number 161. It has no evolutions or alternate forms and carries an uncommon rarity with regulation mark D.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this card. It is identified by card number 161, set code swsh1, and the illustrator credit to Studio Bora Inc.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
- Effect: Search your deck for a basic Energy card, reveal it, and put it into your hand. Then, shuffle your deck.
- Play Notes: Because players may play any number of Item cards during their turn, Energy Search serves as a reliable tool for managing energy needs and smoothing early-game setup.
Care & Storage Tips

Store the card in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its uncommon rarity and clean artwork, preserving edges and surface gloss will help maintain collector value.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Sword Shield (swsh1): A functional, essential Item card that supports energy retrieval strategies. Its straightforward design and utility make it a staple in many decks, though its release date and HP remain unknown.
Catch This Card on eBay

Search live listings for Pokemon TCG Energy Search Sword Shield.

Browse eBay listings

This section contains affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
September 30, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Energy Switch (Sword Shield #162)
Energy Switch (Sword Shield 162) Collectors Guide

Character Intro

Energy Switch is an uncommon Trainer card from the Sword Shield set, numbered 162. It offers strategic versatility by letting players move Energy between their Pokémon, making it a valuable tool for efficient energy management.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Sword Shield 162 Uncommon Toyste Beach
- Card ID: swsh1-162
- Stage: Item
- Subtypes: Item
- Retreat Cost: 0
- Regulation Mark: D
- Series: Sword Shield
- Pokémon: Energy Switch
- Weaknesses: None
- Resistances: None
- Types: None
Key Printings

This printing of Energy Switch is from the original Sword Shield set, identified by set code swsh1 and card number 162. It is an uncommon card illustrated by Toyste Beach. No alternate printings or special editions are documented.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this card. It can be identified by card number (162), set code (swsh1), and illustrator credit (Toyste Beach). The card’s image is available at /images/swsh1/swsh1-162.jpg.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
Rules: Move a basic Energy from 1 of your Pokémon to another of your Pokémon. | You may play any number of Item cards during your turn.

Care & Storage Tips

To preserve condition, store the card in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the surface to maintain collectible value. Keep it in a cool, dry place to prevent warping or discoloration.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Sword Shield (swsh1): The original set featuring Energy Switch as an uncommon Item card designed for efficient energy management. This set introduced many foundational cards for the Sword Shield series, with Energy Switch playing a supportive role in gameplay strategies.
Catch This Card on eBay

Search live listings for Pokemon TCG Energy Switch Sword Shield.

Browse eBay listings

This section contains affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
September 30, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Evolution Incense (Sword Shield #163)
Evolution Incense Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Evolution Incense is an Uncommon Trainer Item from the Sword Shield set, numbered 163. It streamlines evolving your Pokémon by fetching the Evolution you need, making it useful for both players and collectors.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Sword Shield 163 Uncommon Ryo Ueda
- Card ID: swsh1-163
- Stage: Item
- Subtypes: Item
- Retreat Cost: 0
- Regulation Mark: D
- Series: Sword Shield
- Types: None
- Weaknesses: None
- Resistances: None
Key Printings

This guide covers the Sword Shield base-set printing of Evolution Incense, card number 163. It is an Uncommon Item card illustrated by Ryo Ueda, with no HP or attacks. Its primary function is to search your deck for an Evolution Pokémon and add it to your hand.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this card. It is identified by set code “swsh1” and card number “163.” The regulation mark “D” places it within the Sword Shield era of the Pokémon TCG.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
Rules: Search your deck for an Evolution Pokémon, reveal it, and put it into your hand. Then, shuffle your deck. You may play any number of Item cards during your turn.

Care & Storage Tips

Store Evolution Incense in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture. As an Uncommon card with strong utility, maintaining clean edges and surfaces will help preserve collector value.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Sword Shield (swsh1): Evolution Incense debuted as a key Item card designed to facilitate Evolution Pokémon strategies. It remains a staple for players focusing on evolution-based decks, though its exact release date is unknown.
Catch This Card on eBay

Search live listings for Pokemon TCG Evolution Incense Sword Shield.

Browse eBay listings

This section contains affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
September 30, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Great Ball (Sword Shield #164)
Great Ball (Sword Shield 164) Collectors Guide

Character Intro

Great Ball is an Uncommon Trainer card from the Sword Shield set, numbered 164. It’s a practical addition for collectors focused on the Sword Shield lineup.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Sword Shield 164 Uncommon Toyste Beach
- Card ID: swsh1-164
- Stage: Item
- Subtypes: Item
- Retreat Cost: 0
- Regulation Mark: D
- Illustrator: Toyste Beach
- Image URL: /images/swsh1/swsh1-164.jpg
Key Printings

This exact printing appears in the Sword Shield base set (set code swsh1, card number 164). As an Uncommon, it’s a moderately accessible collectible for fans of the series.

Variants & Identifiers

No known print variants. Identify it by number 164, set code swsh1, and the Toyste Beach illustration.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
- Effect: Look at the top 7 cards of your deck, reveal a Pokémon you find there, and put it into your hand. Shuffle the other cards back into your deck.
- Play pattern: You may play any number of Item cards during your turn, making this a versatile support option.
Care & Storage Tips

Store in a sleeve and keep away from sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching to maintain visual and physical integrity.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Sword Shield (swsh1): Debut appearance as an Uncommon Item, enhancing deck-search strategies with a clean, functional illustration by Toyste Beach.
Catch This Card on eBay

Search live listings for Pokemon TCG Great Ball Sword Shield.

Browse eBay listings

This section contains affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
September 30, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Hop (Sword Shield #165)
Hop (Sword Shield 165) Collectors Guide

Character Intro

Hop is an Uncommon Supporter card from the Sword Shield set, numbered 165. It captures the character’s energetic spirit and makes a lively addition to Sword Shield-era collections.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Sword Shield 165 Uncommon Ken Sugimori
- Card ID: swsh1-165
- Stage: Supporter
- Retreat Cost: 0
- Rules: Draw 3 cards. You may play only 1 Supporter card during your turn.
- No abilities or attacks
- No weaknesses or resistances
- Evolves from: None
- Types: None
Key Printings

This exact printing appears in the original Sword Shield set (set code swsh1), card number 165. As an uncommon Supporter, it’s a moderately accessible pickup for collectors focused on the Sword Shield era.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants. The card is identified by its card ID swsh1-165 and the regulation mark D. The illustration by Ken Sugimori is a clear visual identifier.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
According to the provided data, this card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its effect draws three cards, with the usual Supporter restriction of only 1 Supporter per turn.

Care & Storage Tips

Protect the card in a sleeve, away from sunlight and moisture. Given its uncommon rarity and collectible appeal, consider a top loader or a binder with individual pockets for added protection.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Sword Shield (swsh1): Hop appears as an uncommon Supporter with a simple draw-three-cards effect. It carries the regulation mark D, is illustrated by Ken Sugimori, and has no known alternate printings or special variants.
Catch This Card on eBay

Search live listings for Pokemon TCG Hop Sword Shield.

Browse eBay listings

This section contains affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
September 30, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Hyper Potion (Sword Shield #166)
Hyper Potion (Sword Shield 166) Collectors Guide

Character Intro

Hyper Potion is an Uncommon Trainer Item from the Sword Shield set, numbered 166. It offers practical in-game support for many decks, with a straightforward design that reflects its reliable role.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Sword Shield 166 Uncommon Ryo Ueda
- Card ID: swsh1-166
- Stage: Item
- Subtype: Item
- Retreat Cost: 0
- Regulation Mark: D
- Rules: Heal 120 damage from 1 of your Pokémon that has at least 2 Energy attached. If you healed any damage in this way, discard 2 Energy from it. You may play any number of Item cards during your turn.
- Types: None
- Weaknesses: None
- Resistances: None
Key Printings

Known from the Sword Shield set (166). Uncommon; no alternate printings or special editions noted.

Variants & Identifiers

No known print variants. Identify via set code “swsh1” and card number “166.” Illustrator: Ryo Ueda.

Legality & Play Notes
- Legality: unknown
- This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
- Its healing effect requires discarding Energy, balancing its restorative power.
Care & Storage Tips

Store in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the card surface to maintain its collectible value.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Sword Shield: Introduced as part of the initial Sword Shield expansion, Hyper Potion serves as a reliable healing Item card. It supports energy management strategies by healing significant damage at the cost of discarding Energy.
Catch This Card on eBay

Search live listings for Pokemon TCG Hyper Potion Sword Shield.

Browse eBay listings

This section contains affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
September 30, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Lucky Egg (Sword Shield #167)
Lucky Egg Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Lucky Egg is an uncommon Trainer card from the Sword Shield set, numbered 167. Its straightforward design offers reliable support and strategic depth without added complexity. Collectors appreciate its balanced role within the Sword Shield lineup.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Sword Shield 167 Uncommon Studio Bora Inc.
- Card Number: 167
- Rarity: Uncommon
- Stage: Pokémon Tool
- Retreat Cost: 0
- Regulation Mark: D
- Illustrator: Studio Bora Inc.
- Image:
Key Printings

Lucky Egg appears exclusively in the Sword Shield set with the set code swsh1. It does not evolve from any other card and is classified solely as a Pokémon Tool without any attacks or abilities.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this Lucky Egg card. It can be identified by its unique card number 167, rarity status as Uncommon, and the regulation mark D. The artwork by Studio Bora Inc. is a key visual identifier.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown

Rules associated with this card include:
– Attaching it to a Pokémon that does not already have a Pokémon Tool.
– Drawing cards up to seven if the attached Pokémon is Knocked Out by an opponent’s attack.
– The ability to play any number of Item cards during a turn.

Care & Storage Tips

To maintain the card’s condition, store Lucky Egg in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its uncommon rarity and unique illustration, preserving the card’s edges and surface is essential for collectors.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Sword Shield (swsh1): Lucky Egg debuts as a Pokémon Tool card with no attacks or abilities but offers strategic card draw benefits. It stands out for its clean design and functional gameplay rules, making it a subtle yet valuable piece in the Sword Shield collection.
Catch This Card on eBay

Search live listings for Pokemon TCG Lucky Egg Sword Shield.

Browse eBay listings

This section contains affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
September 30, 2025