Author: General Ops

  • Collector’s Guide: Lt. Surge’s Raichu (Gym Heroes #28)

    Lt. Surge’s Raichu Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Lt. Surge’s Raichu is a rare card from the Gym Heroes set, numbered 28. This energetic Pokémon boasts 70 HP and features the powerful Thunderbolt attack. Its vibrant design captures the dynamic spirit of Lt. Surge’s team.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Heroes 28 Rare 70 Ken Sugimori
    • Card Number: 28
    • Set: Gym Heroes (gym1)
    • Type: Lightning
    • Stage: Stage 1
    • Evolves From: Lt. Surge’s Pikachu
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Weakness: Fighting ×2
    • Resistance: None
    • Regulation Mark: Unknown
    • Flavor Text: None

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Lt. Surge’s Raichu is from the Gym Heroes set, identified by the set code gym1 and card number 28. It is classified as a Rare card and features two attacks:

    • Mega Punch: 30 damage for two Lightning Energy
    • Thunderbolt: 100 damage; discard all Energy attached to this Pokémon

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Key identifiers include the illustrator Ken Sugimori’s signature style, the card’s unique attacks, and the absence of any abilities. The card’s image can be referenced at /images/gym1/gym1-28.jpg for visual verification.

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
    • Format status: This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats, limiting its use to casual or collector play.
    • Tactical note: The Thunderbolt attack requires discarding all Energy attached, which is a significant consideration.

    Care & Storage Tips

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

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Heroes: Features Lt. Surge’s Raichu as a Rare Stage 1 Lightning-type Pokémon, emphasizing the Gym Leader theme with specialized cards. The set is notable for its detailed Ken Sugimori illustrations and unique card mechanics like energy discarding for powerful attacks.

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  • Collector’s Guide: Misty’s Cloyster (Gym Heroes #29)

    Collector’s Guide: Misty’s Cloyster (Gym Heroes #29)

    Misty’s Cloyster Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Misty’s Cloyster from the Gym Heroes set is a rare, 70 HP card featuring the Shell Armor ability and the Triple Cannon attack. It blends sturdy defense with swingy offense, making it notable for both protection and burst potential.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Heroes 29 Rare 70 Ken Sugimori
    • Card ID: gym1-29
    • Stage: Stage 1 (evolves from Misty’s Shellder)
    • Type: Water
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Weakness: Lightning ×2
    • Resistance: None
    • Ability: Shell Armor (reduces damage by 10 unless asleep, confused, or paralyzed)
    • Attack: Triple Cannon (flip 3 coins; 20 damage per heads)

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Misty’s Cloyster appears in the Gym Heroes set, identified by the set code gym1 and card number 29. It is a rare card with no known alternate print variants.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Key identifiers include:
    – Card number: 29
    – Rarity: Rare
    – Illustrator: Ken Sugimori
    – Pokémon Power: Shell Armor
    – Attack: Triple Cannon

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Shell Armor reduces incoming damage by 10 but shuts off if the Pokémon is Asleep, Confused, or Paralyzed. Triple Cannon relies on coin flips, dealing 20 damage per heads across three flips.

    Care & Storage Tips

    Store in a protective sleeve, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its rarity and age, handle with clean hands and keep it in a temperature-controlled environment to maintain condition and appearance.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Heroes: Misty’s Cloyster appears as a rare Stage 1 Water-type Pokémon with a unique defensive ability and a variable damage attack, illustrated by Ken Sugimori. The set’s focus on Gym Leaders is reflected in this card’s design and mechanics.

    Misty's Cloyster

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    Misty's Cloyster (Gym Heroes) #29

  • Collector’s Guide: Erika’s Clefable (Gym Heroes #3)

    Collector’s Guide: Erika’s Clefable (Gym Heroes #3)

    Erika’s Clefable Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Erika’s Clefable (Gym Heroes 3) is a Rare Holo featuring a vibrant 70 HP Clefable ready to unleash its Moon Impact attack. Its striking design makes it a notable addition for collectors focused on classic Gym sets.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Heroes 3 Rare Holo 70 Atsuko Nishida
    • Type: Colorless
    • Stage: Stage 1
    • Evolves From: Erika’s Clefairy
    • Weakness: Fighting ×2
    • Resistance: Psychic -30
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Attacks:
    • Fairy Power: Flip a coin; if heads, return any number of your Pokémon and all attached cards to your hand.
    • Moon Impact: Deals 30 damage for three Colorless energy.
    • Abilities: None
    • Flavor Text: Unknown
    • Regulation Mark: Unknown
    • Card Image:

    Key Printings

    The key printing of Erika’s Clefable is from the Gym Heroes set, identified as card number 3. This rare holo version is notable for its classic holofoil treatment and the artwork by Atsuko Nishida, a well-known illustrator in the Pokémon TCG community.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It is identified by the set code “gym1” and the card ID “gym1-3.” Market references list it as “Erika’s Clefable Gym Heroes 3.”

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its playability in casual or older format games may vary.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the holofoil surface and maintain condition, store Erika’s Clefable in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the card, and keep it in a cool, dry place to prevent warping.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Heroes: Erika’s Clefable appears as a rare holo Stage 1 Pokémon, continuing the theme of Gym Leader Erika’s team. It features a balanced HP and versatile attacks, emphasizing strategic retreat and moderate damage output. The set itself is known for its nostalgic Gym Leader focus and classic artwork style.

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    Erika's Clefable (Gym Heroes) #3

  • Collector’s Guide: Misty’s Goldeen (Gym Heroes #30)

    Collector’s Guide: Misty’s Goldeen (Gym Heroes #30)

    Misty’s Goldeen: Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Misty’s Goldeen from the Gym Heroes set is a rare card numbered 30. This vibrant Pokémon has 30 HP and features the attack Horn Hazard. Its design captures the essence of Goldeen with a lively and dynamic pose.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Heroes 30 Rare 30 Ken Sugimori
    • Type: Water
    • Stage: Basic
    • Attack: Horn Hazard (30 damage, requires a Water energy, flip a coin—if tails, no damage)
    • Weakness: Lightning ×2
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Regulation Mark: Unknown
    • Flavor Text: Unknown
    • Abilities: None

    Key Printings

    This guide focuses on the original Gym Heroes printing of Misty’s Goldeen, card number 30. It is classified as a Rare card and is illustrated by Ken Sugimori, a prominent artist in the Pokémon TCG community.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants or alternate versions of this exact printing. Identification is straightforward by the set code “gym1” and card number 30. The card’s rarity symbol and illustrator credit further assist in authenticating this printing.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality status: unknown. This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats according to available data. Its single attack and low HP make it a modest choice for casual play rather than competitive decks.

    Care & Storage Tips

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

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Heroes: This set features Gym Leader-themed cards, including Misty’s Goldeen, emphasizing Water-type Pokémon with unique artwork and nostalgic appeal. The set is known for its classic illustrations and thematic consistency.

    Misty's Goldeen

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    Misty's Goldeen (Gym Heroes) #30

  • Collector’s Guide: Misty’s Poliwrath (Gym Heroes #31)

    Misty’s Poliwrath Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Misty’s Poliwrath from the Gym Heroes set is a rare card numbered 31. It features a sturdy 90 HP and the Water Ring attack, capturing the determined spirit of Misty’s powerful Poliwrath.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Heroes 31 Rare 90 Ken Sugimori
    • Type: Water
    • Stage: Stage 2
    • Retreat Cost: 3
    • Weakness: Grass ×2
    • Resistance: None
    • Attack: Water Ring — Deals 30 damage to the opponent’s Active Pokémon and 10 damage to each non-Water Pokémon on both players’ Benches.

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Misty’s Poliwrath appears in the Gym Heroes set, identified by card number 31. It is a rare card with no known alternate printings or reprints.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Key identifiers include:
    – Set code “gym1”
    – Card number 31
    – Ken Sugimori artwork
    – The unique Water Ring attack

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality status: unknown.
    • This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
    • Players should verify current tournament rules before including it in decks.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve condition, store the card in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its rarity and age, a stable environment helps prevent damage to the surface and edges.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Heroes: This set features iconic Gym Leader Pokémon, including Misty’s Poliwrath, emphasizing Water-type strategies. The set is known for its detailed Ken Sugimori illustrations and nostalgic appeal.

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  • Collector’s Guide: Misty’s Tentacool (Gym Heroes #32)

    Collector’s Guide: Misty’s Tentacool (Gym Heroes #32)

    Misty’s Tentacool Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Misty’s Tentacool is a Rare card (#32) from the Gym Heroes set. With 40 HP and the attack Mysterious Light, it showcases Tentacool’s aquatic charm through a distinct design.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Heroes 32 Rare 40 Ken Sugimori
    • Pokémon: Misty’s Tentacool
    • Type: Water
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Weakness: Lightning (×2)
    • Abilities: None
    • Attacks:
    • Mysterious Light: Flip a coin; if heads, the Defending Pokémon is Asleep.
    • Jellyfish Pod: Search your deck for any number of Tentacool, Tentacruel, Misty’s Tentacool, and/or Misty’s Tentacruel and add them to your hand.

    Key Printings

    This card appears exclusively in the Gym Heroes set under the set code “gym1” with card number 32. It is classified as a Rare card, features artwork by Ken Sugimori, and has no documented reprints.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants. Key identifiers include:
    – Card ID: “gym1-32”
    – No regulation mark
    – Basic Water-type Pokémon with no abilities and two distinct attacks

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its strengths are disruption via Sleep and efficient searching for Tentacool/Tentacruel lines, though its overall competitive viability is uncertain.

    Care & Storage Tips

    Protect the Ken Sugimori illustration and maintain condition by storing the card in a sleeve, away from sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending and extreme temperatures.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Heroes: A rare Basic Water-type with utility attacks that fit the Gym Leader theme, adding nostalgic and strategic value to the set.

    Misty's Tentacool

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    Misty's Tentacool (Gym Heroes) #32

  • Collector’s Guide: Rocket’s Snorlax (Gym Heroes #33)

    Rocket’s Snorlax Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Rocket’s Snorlax from the Gym Heroes set is a rare card numbered 33 with 90 HP. It features the intriguing ability Restless Sleep and the attack Collapse. This card offers a unique blend of power and strategy for collectors and players alike.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Heroes unknown 33 Rare 90 Shin-ichi Yoshida
    • Type: Colorless
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 4
    • Weakness: Fighting ×2
    • Resistance: Psychic -30
    • Ability: Restless Sleep (Pokémon Power)
    • Attack: Collapse (20 damage; puts Rocket’s Snorlax to Sleep)

    Key Printings

    This exact printing is from the Gym Heroes set, identified by card number 33. It is a rare card featuring Rocket’s Snorlax with its signature Restless Sleep ability and Collapse attack.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It can be identified by its set code “gym1,” card number 33, and the distinctive artwork by Shin-ichi Yoshida. The card’s retreat cost of 4 and its Psychic resistance further help distinguish it.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its unique ability and high retreat cost make it a specialized choice for collectors rather than competitive play.

    Care & Storage Tips

    Due to its rarity and age, store Rocket’s Snorlax in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight to preserve the vibrant artwork. Avoid bending or exposure to moisture to maintain card condition.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Heroes: This set includes Rocket’s Snorlax as a rare Basic Pokémon card, showcasing its Restless Sleep ability and Collapse attack. The set focuses on Gym Leader-themed cards with distinctive artwork and mechanics.

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  • Collector’s Guide: Sabrina’s Venomoth (Gym Heroes #34)

    Sabrina’s Venomoth Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Sabrina’s Venomoth from the Gym Heroes set is a rare card numbered 34. It features 60 HP and a distinctive attack called Sonic Distortion. The card’s sleek presentation makes it an appealing pick for collectors.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Heroes 34 Rare 60 Ken Sugimori
    • Pokémon: Sabrina’s Venomoth
    • Stage: Stage 1 (evolves from Sabrina’s Venonat)
    • Type: Grass
    • Weakness: Fire ×2
    • Resistance: Fighting -30
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Attacks:
    • Healing Pollen: Flip 3 coins; for each heads, remove 1 damage counter from each of your Pokémon.
    • Sonic Distortion: Flip 2 coins; if at least one is heads, the Defending Pokémon becomes Confused and deals 10 damage.
    • Rarity: Rare
    • Set Code: gym1-34
    • Illustrator: Ken Sugimori
    • Image URL: /images/gym1/gym1-34.jpg

    Key Printings

    The only known printing of Sabrina’s Venomoth is from the Gym Heroes set, identified by the card number 34. This rare card stands out due to its dual-type attacks and the absence of abilities, focusing on strategic coin flips for healing and status effects.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Key identifiers include its Grass typing, zero retreat cost, and the unique combination of Healing Pollen and Sonic Distortion attacks. The card evolves from Sabrina’s Venonat, linking it to the Gym Heroes Sabrina theme.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its playability is therefore uncertain, and it is primarily of interest to collectors and fans of the Gym Heroes series.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the card’s condition, store it in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its rarity and age, handling with clean hands and storing in a temperature-controlled environment is recommended to maintain its vibrant artwork and structural integrity.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Heroes: Sabrina’s Venomoth appears as a rare Stage 1 card with a focus on healing and status effects, illustrated by Ken Sugimori. It complements the Sabrina-themed Gym set, emphasizing strategic play through coin flips and damage management. The card’s Grass typing and unique attacks make it a notable collectible within this classic set.

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  • Collector’s Guide: Blaine’s Growlithe (Gym Heroes #35)

    Collector’s Guide: Blaine’s Growlithe (Gym Heroes #35)

    Blaine’s Growlithe Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Blaine’s Growlithe from the Gym Heroes set is an Uncommon card numbered 35. It has 50 HP and features the fiery attack Fire Tackle. The artwork captures the spirited essence of Growlithe under Blaine’s command.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Heroes 35 Uncommon 50 Ken Sugimori
    • Type: Fire
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Water ×2
    • Attacks:
    • Shake: Deals 10 damage and forces the opponent to switch their Defending Pokémon with one on their Bench.
    • Fire Tackle: Deals 30 damage but causes Blaine’s Growlithe to do 10 damage to itself.
    • Abilities: None
    • Flavor Text: Unknown
    • Regulation Mark: None

    Key Printings

    The key printing of Blaine’s Growlithe is from the Gym Heroes set, card number 35. It is an Uncommon card and does not evolve from any other Pokémon. The illustration by Ken Sugimori is a notable feature of this printing.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Identification is straightforward by its set code “gym1-35” and its unique artwork. The card is part of the Gym Heroes series and is a Basic Fire-type Pokémon with a retreat cost of 1.

    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 the card’s condition, store Blaine’s Growlithe in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the card to keep its uncommon rarity intact for collectors.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Heroes: Blaine’s Growlithe appears as a Basic Fire-type Pokémon with tactical attacks that involve opponent switching and self-damage mechanics. It stands out with its classic illustration and moderate HP, fitting well into thematic Gym Leader decks.

    Blaine's Growlithe

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    Blaine's Growlithe (Gym Heroes) #35

  • Collector’s Guide: Blaine’s Kangaskhan (Gym Heroes #36)

    Blaine’s Kangaskhan Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Blaine’s Kangaskhan from the Gym Heroes set is an uncommon Basic Pokémon with a sturdy 80 HP. Numbered 36, it features the dynamic attack One-Two Punch and holds a distinctive spot in the Gym Heroes lineup.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Heroes 36 Uncommon 80 Ken Sugimori
    • Pokémon: Blaine’s Kangaskhan
    • Type: Colorless
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 3
    • Resistance: Psychic (-30)
    • Weakness: Fighting (×2)
    • Attacks:
    • Child’s Punch: Flip a coin; if tails, no damage. Deals 10 damage.
    • One-Two Punch: Flip a coin; if heads, deals 40 damage; if tails, deals 30 damage.
    • Abilities: None
    • Flavor Text: Unknown
    • Regulation Mark: Unknown
    • Release Date: Unknown

    Key Printings

    This card is printed in the Gym Heroes set with the set code “gym1” and card number 36. It is an Uncommon rarity card, making it moderately accessible for collectors focusing on this set.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this exact printing of Blaine’s Kangaskhan. The card is identified by its set code “gym1-36” and features classic Ken Sugimori artwork. The card image can be referenced at /images/gym1/gym1-36.jpg.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its coin-flip-based attacks introduce a luck factor that can influence gameplay unpredictably.

    Care & Storage Tips

    Store the card in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its moderate rarity and classic artwork, maintaining clean surfaces and crisp edges will help preserve collector value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Heroes: Blaine’s Kangaskhan appears as a Basic Colorless Pokémon with moderate HP and coin-flip attacks, fitting the thematic style of Gym Leaders featured in this set. Its design and mechanics reflect the strategic yet chance-based gameplay typical of the era.

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