Author: General Ops

  • Collector’s Guide: Koga’s Beedrill (Gym Challenge #9)

    Koga’s Beedrill Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Koga’s Beedrill from the Gym Challenge set is a Rare Holo card numbered 9. It has 80 HP and the standout attack Hyper Needle. The vibrant design captures the essence of Koga’s signature Beedrill.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge unknown 9 Rare Holo 80 Ken Sugimori
    • Type: Grass
    • Stage: Stage 2
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Weakness: Fire (×2)
    • Resistance: Fighting (-30)
    • Evolves From: Koga’s Kakuna
    • Attacks:
    • Nerve Poison: Flip a coin; if heads, the Defending Pokémon is Paralyzed and Poisoned. Deals 20 damage with two Grass energy.
    • Hyper Needle: Flip a coin; if tails, the attack does nothing. Cannot be used again while Koga’s Beedrill is in play. Deals 70 damage with three Colorless energy.

    Key Printings

    Koga’s Beedrill appears exclusively in the Gym Challenge set, identified by set code “gym2” and card number 9. This rare holo card is notable for its detailed Ken Sugimori artwork and unique attack mechanics.

    Variants & Identifiers

    No print variants are documented for this card. Key identifiers include its rare holo rarity, Grass type, and the distinctive attacks “Nerve Poison” and “Hyper Needle.” The card’s image can be viewed at: /images/gym2/gym2-9.jpg.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality status: unknown. This card is not marked as legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the holofoil finish and maintain card condition, store Koga’s Beedrill in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the card to keep its value intact.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: Koga’s Beedrill is a rare holo Stage 2 card that adds strategic depth with its status-inflicting and high-damage attacks, making it a visually appealing and tactically interesting collectible from this set.

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  • Collector’s Guide: Misty’s Psyduck (Gym Challenge #90)

    Collector’s Guide: Misty’s Psyduck (Gym Challenge #90)

    Misty’s Psyduck Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Misty’s Psyduck from the Gym Challenge set is a Common card numbered 90. It features 60 HP and a single attack called ESP, capturing Psyduck’s quirky charm in a straightforward design.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 90 Common 60 Ken Sugimori
    • HP: 60
    • Type: Water
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Grass (×2)
    • Attack: ESP (Psychic Energy) — Flip 3 coins; effects vary from drawing a card to copying an opponent’s attack.
    • Illustrator: Ken Sugimori
    • Set Code: gym2
    • Rarity: Common

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Misty’s Psyduck appears in the Gym Challenge set, identified by card number 90. It is a Basic Pokémon card with a single Psychic Energy attack named ESP, notable for its variable effects based on coin flips. The card does not have any abilities and features no evolution line.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It is identified by the set code “gym2” and the card number 90. The card’s type remains Water regardless of the attack copied during gameplay.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats based on the provided data. Its unique ESP attack offers flexible gameplay but may be limited by format restrictions.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the card’s condition, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the surface, especially since the card features classic Ken Sugimori artwork that collectors value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: Misty’s Psyduck appears as a Common Basic Water-type Pokémon with a distinctive ESP attack that can draw cards, deal damage, or mimic opposing attacks, making it a versatile addition to the set.

    Misty's Psyduck

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    Misty's Psyduck (Gym Challenge) #90

  • Collector’s Guide: Misty’s Seel (Gym Challenge #91)

    Collector’s Guide: Misty’s Seel (Gym Challenge #91)

    Misty’s Seel Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Misty’s Seel from the Gym Challenge set is a Common card numbered 91. It has 50 HP and features the attack Frostbite. The card captures Seel’s cool, straightforward vibe.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 91 Common 50 Ken Sugimori
    • Pokémon: Misty’s Seel
    • Type: Water
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Lightning ×2
    • Attacks:
    • Frostbite: Prevents the Defending Pokémon from retreating during your opponent’s next turn (10 damage, Water).
    • Mirage: Opponent flips a coin if the Defending Pokémon attacks next turn; tails means the attack does nothing (10 damage, Water + Colorless).
    • Illustrator: Ken Sugimori
    • Set Code: gym2
    • Card Number: 91
    • Rarity: Common
    • Image: Misty's Seel

    Key Printings

    The key printing of Misty’s Seel is from the Gym Challenge set, identified by the set code “gym2” and card number 91. This is the only known printing for this card, making it straightforward for collectors to identify.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Distinguishing features include card number 91, the Gym Challenge set symbol, Ken Sugimori artwork, Water typing, and its Basic stage.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its attacks emphasize disruption over raw damage, making it a niche pick for casual play or a clean addition to a themed collection.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the Ken Sugimori artwork and maintain condition, store Misty’s Seel in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching, and keep it in a cool, dry environment to prevent warping.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: Misty’s Seel appears as a common Basic Water-type Pokémon with tactical attacks that hinder opponent movement and attacks. This set is known for featuring Gym Leader-themed cards with distinctive artwork by Ken Sugimori.

    This concise guide should help collectors and enthusiasts identify, preserve, and appreciate Misty’s Seel from the Gym Challenge set.

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    Misty's Seel (Gym Challenge) #91

  • Collector’s Guide: Misty’s Staryu (Gym Challenge #92)

    Misty’s Staryu (Gym Challenge #92) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Misty’s Staryu from the Gym Challenge set is a common card numbered 92. This lively Pokémon has 40 HP and features the attack Star Boomerang. Its straightforward design captures the essence of Staryu in battle.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 92 Common 40 Ken Sugimori
    • Type: Water
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Lightning ×2
    • Attack: Star Boomerang (20 damage; flip a coin to return Misty’s Staryu and attached cards to hand)
    • Evolves From: None
    • Flavor Text: Unknown
    • Regulation Mark: None

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Misty’s Staryu appears in the Gym Challenge set, identified by card number 92. It is a common rarity card, making it relatively accessible for collectors focusing on the Gym series. The artwork by Ken Sugimori is a notable feature, as he is a renowned illustrator in the Pokémon TCG community.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It can be identified by:
    – Set code “gym2” and card number 92
    – Water type and 40 HP
    – Star Boomerang attack text
    – Absence of abilities and a single retreat cost

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its playability in current tournament settings is therefore unknown. The Star Boomerang attack offers a tactical option to return the Pokémon and attached cards to hand, which could be useful in casual play.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the condition of this common card, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its age and unknown release date, maintaining the card’s surface and edges is crucial for retaining collector value. Avoid bending or exposure to extreme temperatures.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: This set features Gym Leader-themed cards, including Misty’s Staryu, emphasizing character-specific Pokémon with unique attacks. The set is known for its nostalgic appeal and classic Ken Sugimori artwork, making it a staple for collectors interested in the early Gym series.

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  • Collector’s Guide: Sabrina’s Abra (Gym Challenge #93)

    Sabrina’s Abra Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Sabrina’s Abra from Gym Challenge is a Common card numbered 93. This nimble Pokémon has 40 HP and features the attack Synchronize. Its simple design captures the essence of Abra’s elusive nature.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 93 Common 40 Ken Sugimori
    • Card ID: gym2-93
    • Stage: Basic
    • Type: Psychic
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Weakness: Psychic ×2
    • Attacks: Pound (10 damage, Colorless cost), Synchronize (40 damage, Psychic + Colorless cost; requires Sabrina’s Abra and Defending Pokémon to have the same number of Energy cards attached)
    • Flavor Text: Unknown
    • Abilities: None
    • Resistances: None

    Key Printings

    Printed exclusively in the Gym Challenge set (set code gym2), this Common features classic Ken Sugimori artwork—an appealing choice for fans of early Gym series cards.

    Variants & Identifiers

    No known print variants exist for Sabrina’s Abra from Gym Challenge. Identify it by number 93, its distinctive Psychic-type coloring and artwork, the lack of a regulation mark, and the absence of alternate versions.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its unique attack, Synchronize, requires strategic Energy matching, which may interest collectors but limits competitive play.

    Care & Storage Tips

    Store in a protective sleeve away from sunlight and humidity. Though a Common, its vintage status and Ken Sugimori artwork make preservation important for long-term value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge (gym2): Sabrina’s Abra appears as a Basic Psychic-type with a simple yet strategic attack set. It complements the Gym series’ focus on Gym Leader-themed Pokémon and adds depth to the Psychic lineup, with strong nostalgic value and classic illustrations.

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  • Collector’s Guide: Sabrina’s Abra (Gym Challenge #94)

    Collector’s Guide: Sabrina’s Abra (Gym Challenge #94)

    Sabrina’s Abra Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Sabrina’s Abra from the Gym Challenge set is a common card numbered 94. This lively Pokémon has 50 HP and features the Quick Attack move. Its straightforward design captures the essence of Abra’s swift nature.

    Quick Facts

    • Pokémon: Sabrina’s Abra
    • HP: 50
    • Type: Psychic
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Psychic ×2
    • Illustrator: Ken Sugimori
    • Rarity: Common
    • Set: Gym Challenge (gym2)
    • Card Number: 94
    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 94 Common 50 Ken Sugimori

    Key Printings

    The key printing of Sabrina’s Abra is from the Gym Challenge set, identified by the set code gym2 and card number 94. This printing is notable for its straightforward Psychic-type attacks: “Psyscan,” which allows you to look at your opponent’s hand, and “Quick Attack,” which deals variable damage based on a coin flip.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It is identified by its common rarity, Psychic type, and the distinctive Ken Sugimori artwork. The card’s retreat cost is 1, and it has no resistances or abilities listed.

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
    • This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats, according to the provided data.
    • Its gameplay utility centers on its Psychic-type attacks that offer hand insight and potential damage variability.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the card’s condition, store Sabrina’s Abra in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its common rarity, focus on maintaining the integrity of the artwork and edges, especially since it features classic Ken Sugimori art.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge (gym2): Sabrina’s Abra appears as a Basic Psychic-type card with simple but strategic attacks. It holds nostalgic value for collectors of the Gym Challenge series and represents a classic era of Pokémon TCG design.

    Sabrina's Abra

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    Sabrina's Abra (Gym Challenge) #94

  • Collector’s Guide: Sabrina’s Drowzee (Gym Challenge #95)

    Collector’s Guide: Sabrina’s Drowzee (Gym Challenge #95)

    Sabrina’s Drowzee Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Sabrina’s Drowzee is a Common card from the Gym Challenge set, numbered 95. This card features 50 HP. Its straightforward design makes it a notable addition for collectors focusing on Gym Challenge Pokémon.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 95 Common 50 Ken Sugimori
    • Type: Psychic
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Psychic ×2
    • Attacks:
    • Energy Support: Search your deck for a Psychic Energy card and add it to your hand.
    • Mind Shock: Deals 20 damage without applying Weakness or Resistance effects.

    Key Printings

    This exact printing is from the Gym Challenge set, card number 95. It is a common rarity card illustrated by Ken Sugimori. No alternate printings or reprints are noted for this specific card.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for Sabrina’s Drowzee from Gym Challenge. Identifiers include its set code “gym2” and card ID “gym2-95.” The card’s Psychic type and Basic stage also help distinguish it within the set.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality status: unknown. This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. It features two attacks that support Psychic Energy manipulation and straightforward damage dealing, useful for casual play or collectors focusing on Gym Challenge.

    Care & Storage Tips

    Store the card in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and humidity. Given its common rarity, it is accessible but still benefits from careful handling to maintain its collectible value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: Sabrina’s Drowzee appears as a Basic Psychic-type card with simple but effective attacks. It fits the Gym Challenge theme of Gym Leader-associated Pokémon and is illustrated by the iconic Ken Sugimori. The set’s release date is unknown, but it remains a staple for collectors of early Gym Leader cards.

    Sabrina's Drowzee

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    Sabrina's Drowzee (Gym Challenge) #95

  • Collector’s Guide: Sabrina’s Gastly (Gym Challenge #96)

    Collector’s Guide: Sabrina’s Gastly (Gym Challenge #96)

    Sabrina’s Gastly (Gym Challenge 96) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Sabrina’s Gastly from the Gym Challenge set is a common card numbered 96. This ghostly Pokémon has 30 HP and features the attack Fade Out. Its modest stats make it a subtle addition to any collection.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 96 Common 30 Ken Sugimori
    • Type: Psychic
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Resistance: Fighting (-30)
    • Weaknesses: None listed
    • Attacks:
    • Lick: Deals 10 damage and may Paralyze the opponent if a coin flip is heads.
    • Fade Out: Deals 30 damage and returns Sabrina’s Gastly and all attached Energy cards to your hand, discarding other attached cards.

    Collector Notes

    • Ken Sugimori illustration and classic Gym Challenge aesthetics.
    • Zero retreat cost and Fighting resistance (-30) make for easy pivoting.
    • Fade Out enables a hit-and-run play pattern by bouncing Gastly and its Energy.

    Key Printings

    This exact printing is from the Gym Challenge set, card number 96, and is classified as Common rarity. It is a Basic Pokémon card with no evolutions from previous forms.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It can be identified by its set code “gym2” and card number 96. The illustration by Ken Sugimori and the Psychic type symbol are also key identifiers.

    Legality & Play Notes

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

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the card’s condition, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its common rarity, it is still valuable to collectors who appreciate the Gym Challenge series and Ken Sugimori’s artwork.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: This set features Gym Leader-themed cards, including Sabrina’s Gastly, which emphasizes Psychic-type strategies with unique attacks like Lick and Fade Out. The set is known for its nostalgic appeal and classic illustrations.

    Sabrina's Gastly

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    Sabrina's Gastly (Gym Challenge) #96

  • Collector’s Guide: Sabrina’s Gastly (Gym Challenge #97)

    Sabrina’s Gastly Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Sabrina’s Gastly from the Gym Challenge set is a common card numbered 97 with 40 HP. It features the intriguing ability Gaseous Form and the attack Suffocating Gas, capturing the eerie essence of Gastly in a compact, strategic design.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 97 Common 40 Atsuko Nishida
    • Type: Psychic
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Resistance: Fighting (-30)
    • Weaknesses: None
    • Ability: Gaseous Form (increases HP by 10 for each Psychic Energy attached, effective even if statused)
    • Attack: Suffocating Gas (30 damage, costs two Psychic Energy)

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Sabrina’s Gastly is from the Gym Challenge set, identified by the set code “gym2” and card number 97. It is classified as a Common rarity card. The card’s artwork by Atsuko Nishida is a key feature for collectors who appreciate classic Pokémon TCG art styles.

    Variants & Identifiers

    • There are no known print variants for this card.
    • Identification is straightforward via set code “gym2,” card number 97, and the Psychic-type designation with the Gaseous Form ability.
    • The card’s image can be referenced at /images/gym2/gym2-97.jpg.

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
    • This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats, according to available data.
      Its unique ability and low HP make it more of a collector’s piece than a competitive staple.

    Care & Storage Tips

    Store the card in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight to prevent fading of the artwork by Atsuko Nishida. Avoid exposure to moisture and extreme temperatures to maintain integrity. Given its common rarity, focus on maintaining mint or near-mint condition for best collector value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: This set features Gym Leader-themed cards, including Sabrina’s Gastly, which showcases Psychic-type Pokémon with unique abilities and attacks. The set is known for its nostalgic appeal and classic artwork, making it a favorite among collectors of early Pokémon TCG history.

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  • Collector’s Guide: Sabrina’s Porygon (Gym Challenge #98)

    Sabrina’s Porygon Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Sabrina’s Porygon from the Gym Challenge set is a common card numbered 98. With 40 HP and the distinctive Barrier Attack, this sleek, early-era Pokémon TCG card embodies straightforward design and play.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 98 Common 40 Ken Sugimori
    • Type: Colorless
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Fighting ×2
    • Resistance: Psychic -30
    • Attacks:
    • Sharp Point: Deals 10 damage for 1 Colorless energy.
    • Barrier Attack: Deals 20 damage and reduces damage done to Sabrina’s Porygon by 10 during the opponent’s next turn for 2 Colorless energies.

    Key Printings

    Printed exclusively in the Gym Challenge set under code gym2-98, this common, basic Pokémon has no evolutions or abilities, emphasizing simple, effective mechanics.

    Variants & Identifiers

    • No known print variants.
    • Identifiers: set code gym2-98 and Ken Sugimori artwork.
    • Notable gameplay markers: Psychic resistance and Fighting weakness.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its simple attacks and low HP make it more of a collector’s piece than a modern competitive option.

    Care & Storage Tips

    Store in a protective sleeve, away from sunlight and moisture. Even as a common, preserving the Ken Sugimori illustration and surface condition is key for collection appeal.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: A basic, common Colorless card tied to Sabrina’s Psychic-theme gym, featuring straightforward attacks and modest defensive utility via Barrier Attack.

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