Author: General Ops

  • Collector’s Guide: Blaine’s Ninetales (Gym Challenge #21)

    Collector’s Guide: Blaine’s Ninetales (Gym Challenge #21)

    Blaine’s Ninetales Collector’s Guide

    Overview

    Blaine’s Ninetales from the Gym Challenge set is a rare card numbered 21 with 60 HP. It features the ability Healing Fire and the attack Burn Up, showcasing its fiery prowess. This card captures the essence of Blaine’s signature Pokémon in a vivid design.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 21 Rare 60 Ken Sugimori
    • Type: Fire
    • Stage: Stage 1
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Weakness: Water ×2
    • Abilities: Healing Fire (Pokémon Power)
    • Attack: Burn Up (50 damage)
    • Evolves From: Blaine’s Vulpix
    • Image:

    Card Highlights

    • Key printing: Gym Challenge, card number 21 (Rare).
    • Healing Fire lets you remove damage counters when Fire Energy cards are attached.
    • Burn Up deals 50 damage, with a risk of discarding all Fire Energy cards if a coin flip results in tails.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It is identified by its set code “gym2” and card number 21. The illustrator Ken Sugimori’s signature style is a distinctive feature, and the card’s rarity is classified as Rare.

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
    • This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
      Its unique Healing Fire Pokémon Power and Burn Up attack offer strategic play options, but its current tournament legality is unknown.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the vibrant artwork and maintain card condition, store Blaine’s Ninetales in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the card, especially since it is a rare and potentially valuable collector’s item.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: Blaine’s Ninetales appears as a rare Stage 1 Fire-type Pokémon with a distinctive Healing Fire ability and a powerful Burn Up attack. It evolves from Blaine’s Vulpix and is a notable card within this gym-themed set.

    This guide covers all known details about this exact printing of Blaine’s Ninetales from the Gym Challenge set.

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    Blaine's Ninetales (Gym Challenge) #21

  • Collector’s Guide: Brock’s Dugtrio (Gym Challenge #22)

    Brock’s Dugtrio Collector’s Guide

    Overview

    Brock’s Dugtrio from the Gym Challenge set is a rare card numbered 22. This energetic Pokémon boasts 60 HP and features the powerful Earthdrill attack. Its distinct design captures Dugtrio’s dynamic presence in battle.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 22 Rare 60 Ken Sugimori
    • Card ID: gym2-22
    • Stage: Stage 1 (evolves from Brock’s Diglett)
    • Type: Fighting
    • Weakness: Grass ×2
    • Resistance: Lightning -30
    • Retreat Cost: 1

    Attacks

    • Lie Low: Reduces damage taken during opponent’s next turn by 20 after Weakness and Resistance.
    • Earthdrill: Deals 60 damage but requires Lie Low to have been used the previous turn.

    • Abilities: None

    • Flavor Text: Unknown
    • Regulation Mark: Unknown

    Key Printings

    The key printing of Brock’s Dugtrio is from the Gym Challenge set, identified by set code gym2 and card number 22. This rare card is notable for its classic Ken Sugimori artwork and its strategic Fighting-type moves.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It can be identified by its unique card ID gym2-22 and its placement as card number 22 in the Gym Challenge set. The card’s Fighting type, Stage 1 classification, and signature attacks also help distinguish it.

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
    • This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
    • Its playability in tournaments is therefore uncertain.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the vivid Ken Sugimori artwork and maintain the card’s condition, store Brock’s Dugtrio in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the card to keep its rare status intact for collectors.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: Brock’s Dugtrio appears as a rare Fighting-type Stage 1 card with a focus on damage mitigation and a powerful follow-up attack, continuing the Gym series’ theme of specialized Gym Leader Pokémon.

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  • Collector’s Guide: Giovanni’s Nidoqueen (Gym Challenge #23)

    Collector’s Guide: Giovanni’s Nidoqueen (Gym Challenge #23)

    Giovanni’s Nidoqueen Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Giovanni’s Nidoqueen is a rare card from the Gym Challenge set, numbered 23. With 100 HP and the standout attack Love Lariat, it captures the commanding presence of Nidoqueen under Giovanni’s control.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 23 Rare 100 Ken Sugimori
    • Type: Grass
    • Stage: Stage 2
    • Retreat Cost: 3
    • Weakness: Psychic ×2
    • Attacks:
    • Mega Kick (40 damage, costs 2 Grass + 1 Colorless)
    • Love Lariat (Flip a coin: heads deals 50+ damage if you have Giovanni’s Nidoking on your Bench; tails does nothing; costs 2 Grass + 2 Colorless)
    • Evolves From: Giovanni’s Nidorina
    • Illustrator: Ken Sugimori
    • Rarity: Rare

    Key Printings

    This exact printing appears in the Gym Challenge set, identified by set code “gym2” and card number 23. It is a rare card with no known alternate print variants.

    Variants & Identifiers

    No print variants or alternate artworks are documented. This card is identified by its Grass type, Stage 2 status, and the distinctive attacks Mega Kick and Love Lariat, with illustrator credit to Ken Sugimori.

    Legality & Play Notes

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

    Care & Storage Tips

    Store in a protective sleeve, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its rarity and illustrator credit, maintaining a near-mint copy is advisable for collectors.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: A rare, Grass-type Stage 2 Pokémon that aligns with the set’s focus on Gym Leaders’ Pokémon. Its unique attacks and evolution line make it a notable collectible within this series.

    Giovanni's Nidoqueen

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    Giovanni's Nidoqueen (Gym Challenge) #23

  • Collector’s Guide: Giovanni’s Pinsir (Gym Challenge #24)

    Giovanni’s Pinsir Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Giovanni’s Pinsir from the Gym Challenge set is a Rare card with 70 HP and the standout attack Overhead Toss. Numbered 24 in the set, it captures the essence of Giovanni’s team with a distinctive design that appeals to collectors.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 24 Rare 70 Ken Sugimori
    • Type: Grass
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Weakness: Fire ×2
    • Attacks:
    • Snapping Pincers: Flip a coin; if heads, does 20 damage, if tails, 10 damage.
    • Overhead Toss: If you have Benched Pokémon, flip a coin; if tails, this attack does 20 damage to one of your Benched Pokémon in addition to 40 damage to the opponent.
    • Abilities: None
    • Flavor Text: Unknown

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Giovanni’s Pinsir appears in the Gym Challenge set, identified by the set code gym2 and card number 24. It is a Rare card with no known alternate print variants.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants or alternate artworks for this card. It is uniquely identified by its set code gym2-24 and Ken Sugimori’s illustration. The Grass type and distinctive attacks also help collectors verify authenticity.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats, limiting its use primarily to casual play or collection.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the artwork and maintain condition, store Giovanni’s Pinsir in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the card to keep its rare status intact for collectors.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: Giovanni’s Pinsir is a Rare Basic Grass-type card featuring two coin-flip attacks for variable damage. Its classic Ken Sugimori illustration and moderate HP make it a notable collectible from this set.

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  • Collector’s Guide: Koga’s Arbok (Gym Challenge #25)

    Koga’s Arbok Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Koga’s Arbok is a rare card from the Gym Challenge set, numbered 25. This 90 HP Pokémon features the attack Poison Power and captures Arbok’s intimidating presence in battle.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 25 Rare 90 Ken Sugimori
    • Type: Grass
    • Stage: Stage 1
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Weakness: Psychic ×2
    • Evolves From: Koga’s Ekans
    • Attacks:
    • Poison Buildup: Poisons Koga’s Arbok.
    • Poison Power: Deals 20 damage (40 if poisoned) and poisons the Defending Pokémon.
    • Abilities: None
    • Flavor Text: Unknown
    • Regulation Mark: None

    Key Printings

    This exact printing appears in Gym Challenge (set code “gym2”), card number 25. It is a rare card with classic Ken Sugimori artwork, highly regarded among collectors.

    Variants & Identifiers

    No known print variants. Identifiers include its Grass type, Stage 1 subtype, and poison-focused attacks. Image reference: /images/gym2/gym2-25.jpg.

    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

    Store in a protective sleeve, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its rarity and age, a stable environment helps prevent surface and edge wear.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: Features Koga’s Arbok as a rare Grass-type Stage 1 Pokémon with poison-themed attacks and classic Ken Sugimori artwork, representing Koga’s signature Arbok.

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  • Collector’s Guide: Koga’s Muk (Gym Challenge #26)

    Koga’s Muk Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Koga’s Muk from the Gym Challenge set is a Rare Stage 1 card with 80 HP. It features the Energy Drain Pokémon Power and the Sludge Whirlpool attack. Numbered 26 in the set, this card captures the essence of its character with vivid detail.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 26 Rare 80 Ken Sugimori
    • Pokémon: Koga’s Muk
    • Stage: Stage 1 (evolves from Koga’s Grimer)
    • Type: Grass
    • Retreat Cost: 3
    • Weakness: Psychic ×2
    • Resistance: None
    • Ability: Energy Drain (Pokémon Power)
    • Attack: Sludge Whirlpool (40 damage, costs 2 Grass + 1 Colorless Energy)
    • Set Code: gym2-26
    • Series: Gym
    • Legality: unknown
    • Image URL: /images/gym2/gym2-26.jpg

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Koga’s Muk appears in the Gym Challenge set as card number 26. It is classified as a Rare card and features the original Ken Sugimori artwork. No other print variants are listed for this card.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants or alternate versions of this card. Identification is straightforward via its set code gym2-26 and its unique Grass typing in the Gym Challenge series.

    Legality & Play Notes

    The current legality status of this card is unknown. It is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats according to the provided data. Players should verify tournament rules before use.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the vivid Ken Sugimori artwork and maintain card condition, store Koga’s Muk in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its rarity and unknown release date, careful handling is recommended to retain collector value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: Koga’s Muk debuts as a rare Stage 1 Grass-type with a unique Energy Drain ability, offering strategic disruption in battles. This set emphasizes Gym Leader-themed Pokémon with specialized powers and attacks.

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  • Collector’s Guide: Koga’s Pidgeotto (Gym Challenge #27)

    Collector’s Guide: Koga’s Pidgeotto (Gym Challenge #27)

    Koga’s Pidgeotto Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Koga’s Pidgeotto is a Rare card, number 27, from the Gym Challenge set. This agile Pokémon has 60 HP and features the attack Quick Turn, with artwork that captures Pidgeotto’s swift, in-battle speed.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 27 Rare 60 Ken Sugimori
    • Type: Colorless
    • Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Koga’s Pidgey)
    • HP: 60
    • Weakness: Lightning (×2)
    • Resistance: Fighting (-30)
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Attacks:
    • Quick Turn: Flip 2 coins; does 30 damage per heads.
    • Aerial Maneuvers: Flip a coin; if heads, does 40 damage and prevents all attack effects on Koga’s Pidgeotto during opponent’s next turn; if tails, does 10 damage.

    Key Printings

    This exact printing appears in the Gym Challenge set as card number 27. It is classified as a Rare and illustrated by Ken Sugimori. No other print variants are documented for this card.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants or alternate versions. Identification is straightforward via the set code “gym2” and card number 27; the attacks and Ken Sugimori illustration further confirm it.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its gameplay revolves around coin flips that influence damage output and defensive capabilities, making it a strategic but luck-dependent choice.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve condition, store in a protective sleeve away from sunlight and moisture. Given its rarity and age, handle with clean hands and keep it in a rigid top-loader or binder to maintain value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: Part of the Gym Leader-focused set known for distinctive artwork, with Koga’s Pidgeotto standing out for its coin flip–based attacks and defensive mechanics.

    Koga's Pidgeotto

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    Koga's Pidgeotto (Gym Challenge) #27

  • Collector’s Guide: Lt. Surge’s Jolteon (Gym Challenge #28)

    Lt. Surge’s Jolteon Collector’s Guide

    Overview

    Lt. Surge’s Jolteon is a rare card from the Gym Challenge set, numbered 28. This vibrant Lightning-type Stage 1 Pokémon boasts 70 HP and features the dynamic Thunder Flare attack. Its striking design captures the electric energy associated with Lt. Surge’s team.

    High Voltage can deny Trainer cards on a heads, while Thunder Flare scales damage based on how hurt Jolteon is—at the risk of 30 self-damage on tails.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 28 Rare 70 Ken Sugimori

    Card Stats

    • Pokémon: Lt. Surge’s Jolteon
    • Stage: Stage 1 (evolves from Lt. Surge’s Eevee)
    • Type: Lightning
    • Weakness: Fighting ×2
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Attacks:
    • High Voltage: Flip a coin; if heads, opponent can’t play Trainer cards next turn. Deals 20 damage.
    • Thunder Flare: Deals 30 damage plus 10 more per damage counter on this card; flip a coin, if tails, Jolteon does 30 damage to itself.

    Key Printings

    This card appears exclusively in the Gym Challenge set under the set code “gym2” with the card number 28. It is classified as a Rare card and features no known print variants.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants or alternate versions of this exact printing. The card can be identified by its set code “gym2-28,” its unique attacks, and the illustrator credit to Ken Sugimori. The image associated with this card is located at /images/gym2/gym2-28.jpg.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats, limiting its use primarily to casual or collector play.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the vivid artwork and maintain card condition, store Lt. Surge’s Jolteon in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the card surface, and keep it in a stable environment to prevent warping.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: This set features Lt. Surge’s Jolteon as a rare Lightning-type Stage 1 Pokémon, continuing the theme of Gym Leader-focused cards with unique gameplay mechanics involving coin flips and strategic damage.

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  • Collector’s Guide: Sabrina’s Gengar (Gym Challenge #29)

    Sabrina’s Gengar Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Sabrina’s Gengar from the Gym Challenge set is a rare card numbered 29. This ghostly Pokémon boasts 90 HP and features the attack Shadow Bind. Its eerie presence makes it a distinctive addition to any collection.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 29 Rare 90 Ken Sugimori
    • Card ID: gym2-29
    • Type: Psychic
    • Stage: Stage 2
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Resistance: Fighting -30
    • Weaknesses: None
    • Evolves From: Sabrina’s Haunter
    • Series: Gym
    • Set Code: gym2
    • Subtypes: Stage 2
    • Print Variants: None known
    • Flavor Text: Unknown
    • Regulation Mark: None

    Key Printings

    This printing is from the Gym Challenge set, identified by set code gym2 and card number 29. Classified as Rare, it features two attacks:
    – Dark Wave — stops all Pokémon Powers until the end of your opponent’s next turn.
    – Shadow Bind — prevents the Defending Pokémon from retreating during your opponent’s next turn.

    Variants & Identifiers

    No print variants are known. The card is identifiable by its Psychic typing, Stage 2 evolution from Sabrina’s Haunter, and Ken Sugimori’s artwork. Card image: /images/gym2/gym2-29.jpg.

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
    • Not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
    • No additional tournament legality or play notes are available.

    Care & Storage Tips

    Store in a protective sleeve, away from sunlight and moisture. Given its rarity and unique artwork, keeping it near-mint helps retain collector value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge (gym2): Includes Sabrina’s Gengar as a Rare Psychic-type Stage 2 card in the Gym series, which spotlights Gym Leader-themed Pokémon. Release date is unknown; artwork by Ken Sugimori.

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  • Collector’s Guide: Brock’s Ninetales (Gym Challenge #3)

    Brock’s Ninetales Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Brock’s Ninetales from the Gym Challenge set is a Rare Holo Stage 1 card with 70 HP. Featuring the Shapeshift Pokémon Power and the Will-o’-the-wisp attack, this card offers distinctive gameplay flavor and eye-catching holographic appeal. As card number 3, it stands out with its vibrant holo finish.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 3 Rare Holo 70 Ken Sugimori
    • Type: Fire
    • Stage: Stage 1 (evolves from Brock’s Vulpix)
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Water ×2
    • Resistance: None
    • Attack: Will-o’-the-wisp (30 damage, costs 2 Fire energy)
    • Ability: Shapeshift (Pokémon Power) allows attaching an Evolution card from hand to Brock’s Ninetales, treating it as that Pokémon temporarily.

    Key Printings

    This exact printing is from the Gym Challenge set (set code “gym2”), card number 3. It is a Rare Holo illustrated by Ken Sugimori. The release date for this printing is unknown.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Key identifiers include:
    – The unique Shapeshift Pokémon Power
    – Evolution line: evolves from Brock’s Vulpix
    – Rare Holo rarity
    – Placement as card number 3 in Gym Challenge

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
    • This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
    • Shapeshift cannot be used if Brock’s Ninetales is Asleep, Confused, or Paralyzed, and any attached Evolution cards must be discarded in those conditions.

    Care & Storage Tips

    • Use sleeves and a rigid top-loader or a binder with individual pockets.
    • Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture.
    • Avoid bending or scratching, especially along edges and the holofoil surface.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: Introduced Brock’s Ninetales as a rare holo Stage 1 card with a unique ability that enhances gameplay versatility. The card fits the Fire-type theme and features Ken Sugimori’s signature artwork style.

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