Author: General Ops

  • Collector’s Guide: Sabrina’s Golduck (Gym Challenge #30)

    Collector’s Guide: Sabrina’s Golduck (Gym Challenge #30)

    Sabrina’s Golduck Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Sabrina’s Golduck from the Gym Challenge set is a rare card numbered 30. It features a solid 70 HP and highlights the sleek, aquatic power of Golduck in a clean, straightforward design.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 30 Rare 70 Ken Sugimori
    • Type: Water
    • Stage: Stage 1
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Weakness: Lightning ×2
    • Abilities: None
    • Attacks:
    • Damage Shift: Move 1 damage counter from each of your Pokémon to the Defending Pokémon.
    • Water Spray: Flip a coin; if heads, 40 damage, if tails, 20 damage.
    • Flavor Text: Unknown
    • Regulation Mark: None

    Key Printings

    The key printing of Sabrina’s Golduck is from the Gym Challenge set, identified by set code “gym2” and card number 30. This rare card is illustrated by Ken Sugimori and is notable for its unique attacks and evolution from Sabrina’s Psyduck.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It can be identified by its card ID “gym2-30” and its distinctive artwork by Ken Sugimori. The card features the Water type and the Stage 1 subtype, with no special regulation mark.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its strategic attacks allow for damage manipulation and variable damage output, which may offer interesting play options in casual or collector-focused formats.

    Care & Storage Tips

    Store the card in a protective sleeve, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the surface—especially the illustrated front—to preserve condition, value, and visual appeal.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: Sabrina’s Golduck appears as a rare Stage 1 Water-type card evolving from Sabrina’s Psyduck. It features two attacks that provide tactical flexibility, illustrated by Ken Sugimori. The card’s release date remains unknown, adding to its collectible intrigue.

    Sabrina's Golduck

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    Sabrina's Golduck (Gym Challenge) #30

  • Collector’s Guide: Blaine’s Charmeleon (Gym Challenge #31)

    Blaine’s Charmeleon Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Blaine’s Charmeleon (Gym Challenge, #31) is an Uncommon Stage 1 Fire-type with 70 HP and the attack Fire Claws. Its bold Ken Sugimori artwork captures the intense spirit of Blaine’s team.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge unknown 31 Uncommon 70 Ken Sugimori
    • Type: Fire
    • Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Blaine’s Charmander)
    • Weakness: Water ×2
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Attacks:
    • Fire Claws: Deals 30 damage for two Fire Energy.
    • Bonfire: Flip 3 coins; for each heads, discard 1 Fire Energy attached to Blaine’s Charmeleon to deal 10 damage times the number of heads to each of your opponent’s Pokémon. This attack ignores Weakness and Resistance for damage calculation.

    Key Printings

    This exact printing is from the Gym Challenge set, card number 31. It is an Uncommon rarity card featuring classic Ken Sugimori artwork. The card’s unique identifier is gym2-31.

    Variants & Identifiers

    No known print variants exist for this card. It can be identified by its set code “gym2,” card number 31, and the distinctive Ken Sugimori illustration. The card’s image can be viewed at /images/gym2/gym2-31.jpg.

    Legality & Play Notes

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

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve condition and value, store the card in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the surface, especially given the detailed Ken Sugimori artwork.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: Blaine’s Charmeleon appears as a strategic Fire-type Stage 1 Pokémon with energy-discard mechanics and multi-target damage potential, fitting the gym-themed competitive playstyle of the set.

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  • Collector’s Guide: Blaine’s Dodrio (Gym Challenge #32)

    Blaine’s Dodrio Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Blaine’s Dodrio is an uncommon Gym Challenge card (#32) with 70 HP. It features the coin-flip attack Mega Peck, showcasing swift, powerful strikes. A solid pick for Gym Challenge-focused collections.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 32 Uncommon 70 Ken Sugimori
    • Card ID: gym2-32
    • Stage: Stage 1 (evolves from Blaine’s Doduo)
    • Type: Colorless
    • Attack: Mega Peck (50 damage; flip a coin, if tails the attack does nothing)
    • Weakness: Lightning (×2)
    • Resistance: Fighting (-30)
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Series: Gym
    • Set Code: gym2
    • Legality: unknown
    • Image URL: /images/gym2/gym2-32.jpg

    Key Printings

    Blaine’s Dodrio appears in the Gym Challenge set as card number 32, featuring classic Ken Sugimori artwork and the gym2 set code. No other printings or reprints are documented.

    Variants & Identifiers

    No known print variants. Identify it by the Gym Challenge set symbol, card number (32), Ken Sugimori illustrator credit, the Mega Peck attack, and its evolution line from Blaine’s Doduo.

    Legality & Play Notes

    The current legality status of Blaine’s Dodrio is unknown. It is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Players should verify tournament rules before attempting to use this card in competitive play.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the Ken Sugimori artwork and condition, store in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its uncommon rarity, use a rigid top-loader or binder to prevent edge wear and surface scratches.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: A solid Stage 1 Colorless Pokémon with a coin-dependent attack that fits the set’s gym-leader theme and nostalgic Ken Sugimori illustrations.

    This card remains a notable collectible for fans of the Gym Challenge series and those interested in unique coin-flip mechanics.

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  • Collector’s Guide: Blaine’s Rapidash (Gym Challenge #33)

    Collector’s Guide: Blaine’s Rapidash (Gym Challenge #33)

    Blaine’s Rapidash Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Blaine’s Rapidash from the Gym Challenge set is an uncommon card boasting 70 HP. This fiery Pokémon features the attack Stamp, adding a dynamic edge to gameplay. Numbered 33 in the set, it captures the spirited essence of Blaine’s team.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 33 Uncommon 70 Ken Sugimori
    • Type: Fire
    • Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Blaine’s Ponyta)
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Weakness: Water ×2
    • Attacks:
    • Fire Mane (20 damage, costs 1 Fire energy)
    • Stamp (30+ damage, costs 1 Fire and 2 Colorless energies; flip a coin to potentially deal extra damage to the Defending Pokémon and all opponent’s Benched Pokémon)
    • Abilities: None
    • Flavor Text: Unknown
    • Regulation Mark: Unknown
    • Legality: unknown
    • Image: Blaine's Rapidash

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Blaine’s Rapidash appears in the Gym Challenge set (set code “gym2”), card number 33. It is an uncommon card featuring artwork by Ken Sugimori. No other print variants are documented for this card.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants or alternate artworks. Key identifiers include the card ID “gym2-33,” the absence of a regulation mark, and the distinctive attack “Stamp,” which uses a coin flip to affect multiple opposing Pokémon.

    Legality & Play Notes

    The current legality status of this card is unknown. It is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats as per the provided data, but no official ban or restriction status is confirmed.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the vivid artwork and maintain condition, store Blaine’s Rapidash in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its uncommon rarity and classic Gym Challenge origin, a rigid top-loader or binder is recommended to prevent edge wear and surface scratches.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: Blaine’s Rapidash fits the gym-themed set highlighting Gym Leaders’ Pokémon. Its Stamp attack can damage multiple opposing Pokémon, and the card showcases classic Ken Sugimori illustration and nostalgic appeal.

    This guide covers all known details for this specific printing of Blaine’s Rapidash from the Gym Challenge set.

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    Blaine's Rapidash (Gym Challenge) #33

  • Collector’s Guide: Brock’s Graveler (Gym Challenge #34)

    Collector’s Guide: Brock’s Graveler (Gym Challenge #34)

    Brock’s Graveler Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Brock’s Graveler from the Gym Challenge set brings sturdy 70 HP and the explosive Detonate attack to the table. Numbered 34 in the set and classified as Uncommon, it captures the rugged essence of Brock’s signature Pokémon.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 34 Uncommon 70 Atsuko Nishida
    • Pokémon: Brock’s Graveler
    • Stage: Stage 1 (evolves from Brock’s Geodude)
    • Type: Fighting
    • Retreat Cost: 2 Colorless Energy
    • Weakness: Grass ×2
    • Resistances: None
    • Abilities: None
    • Attacks:
    • Tackle: 20 damage, costs 2 Colorless Energy
    • Detonate: 50 damage, costs 3 Fighting Energy; also deals 10 damage to each Pokémon on each player’s bench (ignores Weakness and Resistance), Brock’s Graveler deals 50 damage to itself, and discards a Stadium card if one is in play.

    Key Printings

    The key printing of Brock’s Graveler is from the Gym Challenge set, card number 34. This version highlights its unique attacks and Atsuko Nishida’s artwork, reflecting Brock’s team identity.

    Variants & Identifiers

    This card has no known print variants. It is identified by its set code “gym2” and card number 34. The card features no regulation mark, and its rarity is classified as Uncommon.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its Detonate attack can strategically damage benched Pokémon and disrupt Stadium cards, making it a tactical choice in casual play.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the artwork and maintain condition, store Brock’s Graveler in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its uncommon rarity, handle with care to avoid edge wear and surface scratches.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: Brock’s Graveler appears as an uncommon Fighting-type Stage 1 Pokémon with a distinctive Detonate attack that impacts the entire bench and Stadium cards, emphasizing strategic play. The set’s focus on Gym Leaders is highlighted by this card’s connection to Brock.

    Brock's Graveler

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    Brock's Graveler (Gym Challenge) #34

  • Collector’s Guide: Brock’s Primeape (Gym Challenge #35)

    Collector’s Guide: Brock’s Primeape (Gym Challenge #35)

    Brock’s Primeape Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Brock’s Primeape (Gym Challenge 35) is an uncommon Stage 1 Fighting-type with 70 HP. It features the Pokémon Power Scram and the attack Mega Thrash, making it a dynamic addition to any collection.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 35 Uncommon 70 Ken Sugimori
    • Card ID: gym2-35
    • Type: Fighting
    • Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Brock’s Mankey)
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Psychic ×2
    • Abilities: Scram (Pokémon Power)
    • Attack: Mega Thrash (60 damage)

    Key Printings

    The key printing of Brock’s Primeape is from the Gym Challenge set, identified by the set code “gym2” and card number 35. This sole known variant features Ken Sugimori’s classic illustration style.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Identification is straightforward via the set code “gym2,” card number 35, and its Fighting-type Stage 1 classification. The artwork and the Pokémon Power “Scram” are additional distinguishing features.

    Legality & Play Notes

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

    • Scram (Pokémon Power): Allows it to shuffle itself and attached cards back into the deck when at exactly 10 HP, unless affected by status conditions.
    • Mega Thrash: Deals 60 damage but also inflicts 20 damage to itself and can discard a Stadium card if one is in play.

    Care & Storage Tips

    Store the card in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its uncommon rarity and classic illustration, maintaining surface and edge quality is essential. Avoid extreme temperatures and handle with clean hands.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: Brock’s Primeape appears as an uncommon Stage 1 Fighting-type card with a unique Pokémon Power and a powerful attack. It is a collectible highlight for fans of the Gym series and Ken Sugimori’s artwork. The set’s release date is unknown, but this card remains a distinctive piece within the Gym Challenge lineup.

    Brock's Primeape

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    Brock's Primeape (Gym Challenge) #35

  • Collector’s Guide: Brock’s Sandslash (Gym Challenge #36)

    Brock’s Sandslash Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Brock’s Sandslash is an uncommon card from the Gym Challenge set, numbered 36. It features a sturdy 70 HP and attacks including Swift and Needle Ball. This card captures the rugged essence of Brock’s Sandslash in a compact, battle-ready form.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 36 Uncommon 70 Atsuko Nishida
    • Type: Fighting
    • Stage: Stage 1
    • Weakness: Grass ×2
    • Resistance: Lightning -30
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Evolves From: Brock’s Sandshrew
    • Attacks:
    • Swift: Deals 20 damage unaffected by Weakness, Resistance, or other effects.
    • Needle Ball: Deals 30 damage and may Poison the Defending Pokémon on a coin flip.

    Key Printings

    This exact Brock’s Sandslash card is from the Gym Challenge set, identified by the set code “gym2” and card number 36. It is an uncommon rarity card, making it moderately accessible for collectors focusing on gym-themed decks.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Key identifiers include the illustrator Atsuko Nishida and the Fighting type with a distinctive Lightning resistance and Grass weakness. The card does not have a regulation mark, and its release date remains unknown.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its unique attacks and status effects may appeal to collectors rather than competitive players.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the card’s condition, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its uncommon rarity and unknown release date, maintaining its pristine state can enhance its collectible value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: This set features gym leaders’ Pokémon, including Brock’s Sandslash, emphasizing Fighting-type Pokémon with thematic attacks and moderate HP. The set is known for its gym leader branding and consistent artwork style by Atsuko Nishida.

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  • Collector’s Guide: Brock’s Vulpix (Gym Challenge #37)

    Collector’s Guide: Brock’s Vulpix (Gym Challenge #37)

    Brock’s Vulpix Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Brock’s Vulpix from the Gym Challenge set is an uncommon card numbered 37. This 50 HP Fire-type Basic Pokémon features the fiery attack Fire Ring. Its design captures the essence of Brock’s trusted companion in battle.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 37 Uncommon 50 Ken Sugimori
    • Type: Fire
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Water ×2
    • Attacks:
    • Hypnotic Gaze: Puts the Defending Pokémon to Sleep.
    • Fire Ring: Deals 20 damage and can hit one of the opponent’s Benched Pokémon for 10 damage.
    • Abilities: None
    • Flavor Text: Unknown

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Brock’s Vulpix appears in the Gym Challenge set, identified by card number 37. It is an uncommon card, making it a moderately sought-after piece for collectors focusing on Gym series cards or Fire-type Pokémon.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Identification is straightforward through its set code “gym2,” card number 37, and the distinctive Ken Sugimori illustration. The card’s lack of a regulation mark and absence of abilities also help distinguish it.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality status: unknown. This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats according to available data. It features straightforward attacks that can disrupt opponents by inducing Sleep or targeting Benched Pokémon, but its competitive viability is unclear.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the card’s vivid Ken Sugimori artwork and maintain its condition, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its uncommon rarity and unknown release date, keeping it in a stable environment will help retain its collector value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge (gym2): Brock’s Vulpix appears as a Basic Fire-type with a focus on status effects and bench damage. It fits well within the Gym series’ theme of Gym Leader Pokémon, offering a nostalgic and strategic element for collectors and players alike.

    Brock's Vulpix

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    Brock's Vulpix (Gym Challenge) #37

  • Collector’s Guide: Erika’s Bellsprout (Gym Challenge #38)

    Collector’s Guide: Erika’s Bellsprout (Gym Challenge #38)

    Erika’s Bellsprout Collector’s Guide

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 38 Uncommon 40 Ken Sugimori
    • Type: Grass
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Fire ×2
    • Abilities: Soak Up (Pokémon Power) allows transferring up to 2 Grass Energy cards from your other Pokémon to Erika’s Bellsprout, unless it is Asleep, Confused, or Paralyzed.
    • Attack: Stretch Vine deals 10 damage to one of your opponent’s Benched Pokémon without applying Weakness or Resistance.

    Character Intro

    Erika’s Bellsprout from the Gym Challenge set is an uncommon card numbered 38. This lively Pokémon has 40 HP and features the ability Soak Up, alongside the attack Stretch Vine. Its design captures the essence of Bellsprout’s natural agility and charm.

    Key Printings

    The key printing of Erika’s Bellsprout is from the Gym Challenge set, identified by the code gym2-38. This card is notable for its unique Pokémon Power “Soak Up,” which supports Grass Energy management, and its bench-targeting attack “Stretch Vine.” The card’s artwork by Ken Sugimori is a classic representation of the character.

    Variants & Identifiers

    • There are no known print variants for this card.
    • It is identified by its set code gym2 and card number 38.
    • The card does not have a regulation mark, and no alternate artwork or holofoil versions are documented.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its playability is therefore limited to casual or collector-focused environments.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the card’s condition, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its uncommon rarity and classic illustration, maintaining sharp corners and vibrant colors will help retain its collectible value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: Erika’s Bellsprout appears as a Basic Grass-type with a focus on energy manipulation and bench harassment. It fits well into decks that leverage Grass Energy and bench control, offering tactical versatility despite its modest HP and damage output.

    Erika's Bellsprout

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    Erika's Bellsprout (Gym Challenge) #38

  • Collector’s Guide: Erika’s Bulbasaur (Gym Challenge #39)

    Erika’s Bulbasaur Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Erika’s Bulbasaur from the Gym Challenge set is an Uncommon card (number 39). This lively Pokémon has 50 HP and features the attack Sleep Seed, offering collectors a charming glimpse into the early Gym Challenge series.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 39 Uncommon 50 Ken Sugimori
    • Type: Grass
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Fire (×2)
    • Attacks:
    • Sleep Seed: Deals 10 damage and puts the Defending Pokémon to sleep.
    • Errand-Running: Costs two Grass energy; flip a coin to search your deck for a Trainer card if heads.

    Key Printings

    This exact printing is from the Gym Challenge set, identified by the set code “gym2” and card number 39. It is a single uncommon card with no known alternate printings or special editions.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants or alternate art versions for this card. The card can be identified by its unique card ID “gym2-39” and the classic Ken Sugimori illustration. The image for this printing is located at /images/gym2/gym2-39.jpg.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. No additional tournament or play notes are available.

    Care & Storage Tips

    • Store in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture to preserve the Ken Sugimori artwork and card condition.
    • Avoid bending or scratching the card to maintain its value and appearance.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: Erika’s Bulbasaur appears as a Basic Grass-type Pokémon with useful status and search abilities, fitting well into thematic Gym decks. Its modest HP and straightforward attacks make it a nostalgic piece for collectors of the Gym series.

    This card remains a vivid example of early Gym Challenge design and is a worthy addition for collectors focusing on Erika’s team or Grass-type Pokémon.

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