Author: General Ops

  • Collector’s Guide: Sabrina’s Kadabra (Gym Challenge #58)

    Sabrina’s Kadabra Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Sabrina’s Kadabra from the Gym Challenge set is an uncommon card numbered 58. This Psychic Pokémon has 70 HP and the attack Psyshot. Its design captures the mysterious aura typical of Kadabra.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 58 Uncommon 70 Ken Sugimori
    • Type: Psychic
    • Stage: Stage 1
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Psychic ×2
    • Attacks:
    • Life Drain: Flip a coin; if heads, reduce the Defending Pokémon’s HP to 10 by placing damage counters.
    • Psyshot: Deals 30 damage with a cost of one Psychic and two Colorless energies.
    • Abilities: None
    • Flavor Text: Unknown
    • Regulation Mark: None

    Key Printings

    Printed only in the Gym Challenge set under the code gym2-58. As an uncommon, it’s moderately accessible for Gym-series collectors.

    Variants & Identifiers

    No known print variants for this exact printing. Identify by:
    – Set code “gym2”
    – Card number 58
    – Ken Sugimori artwork
    – Psychic type and Stage 1 subtype

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats according to available data.

    Care & Storage Tips

    Store in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its uncommon rarity and Ken Sugimori illustration, maintaining mint condition can enhance its collector value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: Features Gym Leader-themed cards, including Sabrina’s Kadabra, highlighting Psychic-type strategies with Life Drain and Psyshot. The set is known for its nostalgic appeal and distinctive Ken Sugimori artwork.

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  • Collector’s Guide: Sabrina’s Mr. Mime (Gym Challenge #59)

    Collector’s Guide: Sabrina’s Mr. Mime (Gym Challenge #59)

    Sabrina’s Mr. Mime Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Sabrina’s Mr. Mime is an uncommon card (#59) from the Gym Challenge set. With 60 HP and the unique Magic Darts attack, it delivers targeted pressure and captures the enigmatic charm associated with Sabrina’s team.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 59 Uncommon 60 Ken Sugimori
    • Type: Psychic
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Psychic ×2
    • Attack: Magic Darts (flip 3 coins, 10 damage per heads to chosen opponent’s Pokémon, ignores Weakness and Resistance)
    • Evolves From: None
    • Flavor Text: Unknown

    Key Printings

    This exact printing appears in Gym Challenge with set code “gym2” and card number 59. It features clean Ken Sugimori artwork and the Magic Darts attack, which can strategically target any opposing Pokémon.

    Variants & Identifiers

    No known print variants. Identifiers include its Psychic typing, Basic stage, Uncommon rarity, and the distinctive Magic Darts attack. It carries no regulation mark.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats according to the provided data. Its Magic Darts attack bypasses Weakness and Resistance, offering tactical flexibility in casual play.

    Care & Storage Tips

    Protect the Ken Sugimori illustration and overall condition by storing the card in a sleeve, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching to preserve value and eye appeal.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: An uncommon Psychic Basic Pokémon with a coin-flip attack that fits the Gym Leader theme, highlighting both strategic play and collectibility.

    Sabrina's Mr. Mime

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    Sabrina's Mr. Mime (Gym Challenge) #59

  • Collector’s Guide: Giovanni’s Machamp (Gym Challenge #6)

    Collector’s Guide: Giovanni’s Machamp (Gym Challenge #6)

    Giovanni’s Machamp Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Giovanni’s Machamp from the Gym Challenge set is a Rare Holo card numbered 6. This powerhouse sports 100 HP, the Pokémon Power Fortitude, and the hard-hitting Hurricane Punch attack for dynamic in-game pressure.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 6 Rare Holo 100 Ken Sugimori
    • Card ID: gym2-6
    • Stage: Stage 2 (evolves from Giovanni’s Machoke)
    • Type: Fighting
    • Retreat Cost: 3
    • Weakness: Psychic ×2
    • Abilities: Fortitude (Pokémon Power)
    • Attack: Hurricane Punch (Flip 4 coins; 30 damage per heads)
    • Set Code: gym2
    • Series: Gym
    • Flavor Text: Unknown
    • Regulation Mark: Unknown
    • Legality: unknown
    • Image: Giovanni's Machamp

    Key Printings

    The key printing of Giovanni’s Machamp is from the Gym Challenge set, identified as card number 6. This rare holo edition is the only known printing and is distinguished by Ken Sugimori’s classic illustration style.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Identification is straightforward via its set code “gym2,” card number 6, and the rare holo rarity. The card’s unique Pokémon Power, Fortitude, and its four Fighting energy cost Hurricane Punch attack also help distinguish it.

    Legality & Play Notes

    The card’s legality status is unknown. It is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats according to available data. Its Fortitude ability allows it to potentially survive a knockout hit if it is not already affected by a special condition, adding a tactical layer to gameplay.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the card’s holo finish and maintain its condition, store it in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the surface, especially around the edges where wear is most common.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: Giovanni’s Machamp appears as a rare holo Stage 2 Fighting-type card with a unique defensive Pokémon Power and a high-damage attack. It stands out as a collectible centerpiece within this set due to its rarity and iconic illustration.

    This guide covers all known details about this specific printing of Giovanni’s Machamp. Further information such as release date and flavor text remain unknown.

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    Giovanni's Machamp (Gym Challenge) #6

  • Collector’s Guide: Blaine’s Charmander (Gym Challenge #60)

    Collector’s Guide: Blaine’s Charmander (Gym Challenge #60)

    Blaine’s Charmander Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Blaine’s Charmander from the Gym Challenge set is a common card numbered 60. This Fire-type basic Pokémon has 50 HP and the attack Fire Tail Slap. Its simple, nostalgic design makes it a solid pickup for collectors of classic Gym Challenge cards.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 60 Common 50 Ken Sugimori
    • Type: Fire
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Water (×2)
    • Attack: Fire Tail Slap (20 damage; may discard Fire Energy on tails)
    • Set Code: gym2
    • Card ID: gym2-60
    • Image:

    Key Printings

    This printing appears in the Gym Challenge set, identified by set code gym2 and card number 60. As a Common, it’s widely accessible for collectors focusing on the Gym series.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Identification is straightforward via the gym2 set code, number 60, and the Ken Sugimori illustration.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality status: unknown. This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats according to available data.

    Care & Storage Tips

    Store in a sleeve and keep away from sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the surface—especially important for preserving the classic Ken Sugimori artwork.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: A basic Fire-type with a thematic, straightforward attack that aligns with Blaine’s fiery motif. This printing is a common staple within the Gym Leader-focused set.

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    Blaine's Charmander (Gym Challenge) #60

  • Collector’s Guide: Blaine’s Doduo (Gym Challenge #61)

    Collector’s Guide: Blaine’s Doduo (Gym Challenge #61)

    Blaine’s Doduo Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Blaine’s Doduo from the Gym Challenge set is a common card numbered 61. It has 50 HP and features the attack Wild Kick. This straightforward Pokémon offers a classic battling style for collectors and players alike.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 61 Common 50 Ken Sugimori
    • Type: Colorless
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Weakness: Lightning (×2)
    • Resistance: Fighting (-30)
    • Attacks:
    • Wild Kick: Flip a coin; if tails, the attack does nothing. Deals 20 damage.
    • Retaliate: Deals 10 damage times the number of damage counters on Blaine’s Doduo.
    • Evolves From: None
    • Flavor Text: Unknown
    • Regulation Mark: None

    Key Printings

    This printing appears in Gym Challenge with set code “gym2” and card number 61. It is a Common rarity card, accessible for collectors and ideal for Gym Challenge-focused binders. The Ken Sugimori artwork reflects the set’s classic aesthetic.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants. Identification is straightforward via set code “gym2-61,” common rarity, and the Ken Sugimori illustration. The lack of a regulation mark and the specific attack names further distinguish it from other Doduo cards.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats, limiting its use in official tournament play. However, it remains a nostalgic piece for collectors and casual players interested in the Gym Challenge era.

    Care & Storage Tips

    Store in a sleeve, away from sunlight and moisture. Even as a common, it can show wear with handling—use a top-loader or a binder with individual pockets. Avoid extreme temperatures to preserve card stock and artwork.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: Blaine’s Doduo is part of this set, which focuses on Gym Leader-themed cards. The set features a variety of Basic Pokémon with straightforward attacks and classic illustrations by Ken Sugimori. This card fits well within the set’s theme of accessible, beginner-friendly gameplay options.

    Blaine's Doduo

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    Blaine's Doduo (Gym Challenge) #61

  • Collector’s Guide: Blaine’s Growlithe (Gym Challenge #62)

    Collector’s Guide: Blaine’s Growlithe (Gym Challenge #62)

    Blaine’s Growlithe Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Blaine’s Growlithe from the Gym Challenge set is a common card numbered 62. This lively Pokémon has 60 HP and features the attack Body Slam. Its straightforward design makes it a notable addition for collectors interested in classic Gym Challenge cards.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 62 Common 60 Ken Sugimori
    • Type: Fire
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Water (×2)
    • Attacks:
    • Stoke: Attach a Fire Energy from your deck to Blaine’s Growlithe.
    • Body Slam: Deals 20 damage and may Paralyze the opponent on a coin flip.

    Key Printings

    This exact printing appears in the Gym Challenge set as card number 62. It is a Common rarity card with no known alternate printings or special editions.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It is identified by its set code “gym2” and card number 62. The illustration by Ken Sugimori is a key visual identifier.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its playability in casual or other formats is unknown.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the vivid artwork and maintain condition, store Blaine’s Growlithe in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its Common rarity, it is still valuable to collectors focusing on the Gym Challenge set.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: Blaine’s Growlithe is a Basic Fire-type Pokémon with simple but effective attacks, fitting well into early Gym-themed decks. Its inclusion in this set highlights classic Gym Leader Blaine’s Fire-type specialty.

    Blaine's Growlithe

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    Blaine's Growlithe (Gym Challenge) #62

  • Collector’s Guide: Blaine’s Mankey (Gym Challenge #63)

    Blaine’s Mankey Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Blaine’s Mankey is a Common card from the Gym Challenge set, numbered 63. This lively Pokémon has 40 HP and features the attack Fury Swipes. Its straightforward, coin-flip-driven design makes it a notable pick for collectors of classic Gym Challenge cards.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 63 Common 40 Atsuko Nishida
    • Type: Fighting
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Weakness: Psychic (×2)
    • Attacks:
    • Pranks: Flip a coin; if heads, place a card from opponent’s discard pile on top of their deck.
    • Fury Swipes: Flip 3 coins; does 10 damage times the number of heads.
    • Abilities: None
    • Flavor Text: Unknown
    • Regulation Mark: None

    Key Printings

    The key printing of Blaine’s Mankey is from the Gym Challenge set, identified by the set code “gym2” and card number 63. This printing is notable for its clean Fighting-type design and the signature artwork by Atsuko Nishida.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It can be identified by its common rarity, Fighting type, and the unique attacks “Pranks” and “Fury Swipes.” The card has no regulation mark and no special abilities, making it straightforward to authenticate.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality status: unknown. This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its low HP and simple attacks suggest it was designed for early gameplay rather than competitive play.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the vibrant illustration by Atsuko Nishida and maintain condition, store Blaine’s Mankey in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the card, especially since it has no special holographic features that might mask wear.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: A straightforward Basic Fighting-type with tactical disruption via Pranks and flip-based damage from Fury Swipes, fitting the gym-themed focus on classic battling styles.

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  • Collector’s Guide: Blaine’s Ponyta (Gym Challenge #64)

    Collector’s Guide: Blaine’s Ponyta (Gym Challenge #64)

    Blaine’s Ponyta Collector’s Guide

    Overview

    Blaine’s Ponyta from the Gym Challenge set is a common card featuring a vibrant image of the fiery Pokémon. It has 50 HP and a single attack called Hind Kick. This card is numbered 64 in the set, making it a straightforward addition for collectors focusing on classic Gym Challenge cards.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 64 Common 50 Ken Sugimori

    Blaine's Ponyta

    Card Stats

    • Type: Fire
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Water ×2
    • Attack: Hind Kick (20 damage) — If you have any Benched Pokémon, flip a coin; if heads, switch Blaine’s Ponyta with one of your Benched Pokémon.
    • Abilities: None
    • Flavor Text: Unknown
    • Regulation Mark: None

    Key Printings

    The key printing of Blaine’s Ponyta is from the Gym Challenge set, identified by card number 64. This printing is notable for its common rarity and the signature Ken Sugimori illustration, which is a hallmark of early Gym cards.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It is identified by the set code “gym2” and the card number 64. The card’s subtype is Basic, and it carries no special regulation mark.

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
    • This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its playability in casual or other formats is not specified.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the vivid Ken Sugimori artwork and maintain card condition, store Blaine’s Ponyta in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the card to retain its collector value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: Blaine’s Ponyta appears as a Basic Fire-type Pokémon with a simple but strategic attack, fitting the Gym Challenge theme of specialized Gym Leader Pokémon. This set emphasizes character-themed cards with unique attacks and artwork.

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    Blaine's Ponyta (Gym Challenge) #64

  • Collector’s Guide: Blaine’s Rhyhorn (Gym Challenge #65)

    Collector’s Guide: Blaine’s Rhyhorn (Gym Challenge #65)

    Blaine’s Rhyhorn Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Blaine’s Rhyhorn is a Common card from the Gym Challenge set, numbered 65. This sturdy Pokémon has 60 HP and features the attack Horn Charge, with a straightforward design that reflects Rhyhorn’s rugged nature in battle.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 65 Common 60 Ken Sugimori
    • Card ID: gym2-65
    • Type: Fighting
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Weakness: Grass ×2
    • Resistance: Lightning -30
    • Attacks:
    • Horn Charge: Flip a coin; if tails, no damage. Deals 30 damage.
    • Overrun: Flip a coin; if heads, deals 20 damage to one of opponent’s Benched Pokémon (ignores Weakness/Resistance).
    • Flavor Text: Unknown
    • Print Variants: None known
    • Image:

    Key Printings

    The key printing is from the Gym Challenge set, identified by set code gym2 and card number 65. This is the only known printing, making it a straightforward collectible for Gym series fans.

    Variants & Identifiers

    No print variants or alternate versions are documented. It’s easily identified by its Fighting type, common rarity, classic Ken Sugimori artwork, unique attacks, and resistance to Lightning.

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
    • This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats, limiting its use to casual or collector play.
      Its coin-flip based attacks add an element of chance that can appeal to risk-reward minded players.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the Ken Sugimori artwork and maintain condition, store in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching, as common cards can be more prone to wear over time.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: A solid Fighting-type Basic Pokémon with moderate HP and two coin-flip based attacks, fitting the Gym Leader Blaine theme in a straightforward, collectible form.

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    Blaine's Rhyhorn (Gym Challenge) #65

  • Collector’s Guide: Blaine’s Vulpix (Gym Challenge #66)

    Blaine’s Vulpix Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Blaine’s Vulpix from the Gym Challenge set is a common card numbered 66. This lively Pokémon has 50 HP and features the straightforward attack Bite, capturing the essence of Vulpix with a simple yet effective design.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 66 Common 50 Ken Sugimori
    • Type: Fire
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1 Colorless Energy
    • Weakness: Water (×2)
    • Attacks:
    • Bite (10 damage, 1 Colorless Energy)
    • Call Will-o’-the-wisp (Flip 3 coins; for each heads, retrieve a Fire Energy card from discard)
    • Abilities: None
    • Flavor Text: Unknown
    • Regulation Mark: None

    Key Printings

    The key printing of Blaine’s Vulpix is Gym Challenge card number 66. Classified as Common, it showcases clean Ken Sugimori artwork. It is a Basic Pokémon card with no evolutions from previous stages.

    Variants & Identifiers

    No known print variants. Identifiers include set code “gym2” and card number 66. The Ken Sugimori illustration and Fire-type symbol are distinctive markers. Card image: /images/gym2/gym2-66.jpg.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality status: unknown. Based on the provided data, this card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats and is better suited for collecting than competitive play.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the Ken Sugimori illustration and maintain condition, store the card in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching, and use a rigid holder for long-term storage to prevent warping.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: A Basic Fire-type with straightforward attacks and a simple retreat cost, representing Blaine’s roster in the gym-themed set. This card contributes to the Fire-type lineup among the iconic gym leaders featured.

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