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Author: General Ops

  • Collector’s Guide: Giovanni (Gym Challenge #18)

    Giovanni — Collector’s Guide to Gym Challenge #18

    Character Intro

    Giovanni is a Rare Holo card from the Gym Challenge set, numbered 18. This striking card features the iconic Team Rocket leader, making it a notable addition for collectors. Its rarity and design capture the essence of the Gym Challenge series.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 18 Rare Holo Ken Sugimori

    Card Details

    • Card ID: gym2-18
    • Stage: None (not an evolving Pokémon)
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Abilities/Attacks: None, but has a special rule effect
    • Rule Effect: Allows evolving a Pokémon with Giovanni in its name during the turn, even if it was just played or evolved, including the Pokémon it evolves into
    • Weaknesses, Resistances, and Regulation Mark: None listed
    • Image URL: /images/gym2/gym2-18.jpg

    Key Printings

    This exact printing appears only in the Gym Challenge set as card number 18. It is a Rare Holo variant, making it a visually striking and sought-after card for collectors focusing on Gym Challenge or Giovanni-themed decks.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Identification is straightforward by its set code “gym2” and card number “18.” The illustrator Ken Sugimori is a key identifier for this card’s artwork.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its unique rule allows for strategic evolution plays involving Pokémon with Giovanni in their names, but tournament use is not supported.

    Care & Storage Tips

    As a Rare Holo card, preserving the holofoil surface is crucial. Store the card in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture to prevent fading and warping. Use a top-loader or binder with rigid pages for added protection.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: Giovanni #18 stands out as a rare holo card with a special evolution rule effect. It complements the Gym Challenge theme by focusing on Gym Leaders and their signature Pokémon, adding strategic depth and collectible value to the set.

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  • Collector’s Guide: Koga (Gym Challenge #19)

    Koga (Gym Challenge 19) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Koga from the Gym Challenge set is a Rare Holo card, numbered 19. The bold, portrait-style artwork makes it a standout pick for collectors focused on classic Gym Challenge cards.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 19 Rare Holo Ken Sugimori
    • Card ID: gym2-19
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Stage: None (Basic)
    • Types: Unknown
    • Weaknesses/Resistances: None listed
    • Rules: If an attack from a Pokémon with Koga in its name does damage to a Defending Pokémon this turn, that Pokémon is then Poisoned.
    • Abilities/Attacks: None
    • Evolves From: None

    Key Printings

    This exact printing is from the Gym Challenge set, identified by set code gym2 and card number 19. It is a rare holo variant, making it a visually appealing and sought-after card for collectors focusing on Gym Challenge.

    Variants & Identifiers

    No print variants are listed for this card. Identification relies on the set code gym2, card number 19, and the distinctive Ken Sugimori illustration. The card has no regulation mark and no alternate artwork or holo patterns noted.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its unique rule effect centers on poisoning the opponent’s Pokémon under specific conditions, but no attacks or abilities are printed on this card.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the card’s rare holo finish and detailed artwork by Ken Sugimori, store it in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the surface to maintain its collector value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: This set features Gym Leaders as Pokémon cards, with Koga representing one of the iconic figures. The set is known for its unique gameplay rules tied to the Gym Leaders and their thematic designs. This Koga card stands out as a rare holo collectible within the set.

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  • Collector’s Guide: Blaine’s Charizard (Gym Challenge #2)

    Blaine’s Charizard Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Blaine’s Charizard from the Gym Challenge set is a Rare Holo card numbered 2. This fiery Pokémon has 100 HP and features the powerful attack Roaring Flames. Its striking design captures the intense energy of Blaine’s iconic Charizard.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 2 Rare Holo 100 Ken Sugimori
    • Type: Fire
    • Stage: Stage 2 (Evolves from Blaine’s Charmeleon)
    • Weakness: Water (×2)
    • Resistance: Fighting (-30)
    • Retreat Cost: 3

    Key Printings

    This printing is from the Gym Challenge set, identified by set code “gym2” and card number 2. It has two attacks:
    – “Roaring Flames,” which requires discarding Fire Energy cards to deal increasing damage.
    – “Flame Jet,” which can deal 40 damage to an opponent’s Pokémon without applying Weakness or Resistance if a coin flip is successful.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It is identified by its “Rare Holo” rarity, illustrator Ken Sugimori, and the Gym Challenge set code “gym2.” The card image can be referenced at /images/gym2/gym2-2.jpg for visual verification.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats, limiting its use in official tournament play. No additional rules or abilities are noted for this printing.

    Care & Storage Tips

    • Store in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture.
    • Avoid bending or scratching the holo surface.
    • Keep in a temperature-controlled environment to prevent warping.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: Blaine’s Charizard appears as a rare holo Stage 2 Fire-type Pokémon, emphasizing strategic energy management with “Roaring Flames” and “Flame Jet” for risk–reward gameplay.

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  • Collector’s Guide: Sabrina (Gym Challenge #20)

    Sabrina — Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Sabrina is a Rare Holo card from the Gym Challenge set, numbered 20. Featuring the iconic Psychic Gym Leader in a vivid holo design, it holds a distinct place in collections for its rarity and strong thematic appeal.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 20 Rare Holo Ken Sugimori
    • Card Number: 20
    • Series: Gym Challenge
    • Set Code: gym2
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Rules Text: “Take all Energy cards attached to 1 of your Pokémon with Sabrina in its name and attach them to another 1 of your Pokémon with Sabrina in its name.”
    • No listed abilities, attacks, weaknesses, or resistances

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Sabrina appears solely in the Gym Challenge set, identified by the set code gym2 and card number 20. It is a Rare Holo variant and a desirable target for collectors focused on Gym series cards.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this Sabrina card. Identification is straightforward via its rarity, card number, and Ken Sugimori illustrator credit. The lack of HP and attacks further distinguishes it from typical Pokémon cards.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card’s rules text enables transferring Energy cards between Pokémon with “Sabrina” in their names—a unique mechanic within its set. However, it is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the holographic surface and overall condition, store Sabrina in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its rarity and distinctive status, consider a top-loader or a binder with individual pockets for optimal protection.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge (gym2): The sole set for this Sabrina printing, featuring Gym Leaders as Trainer cards. The set emphasizes character-driven gameplay elements over traditional Pokémon attacks or abilities. Sabrina stands out as a Rare Holo Trainer card with a specialized Energy transfer rule.

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  • 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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