Category: Gym Challenge

  • Collector’s Guide: Blaine’s Arcanine (Gym Challenge #1)

    Collector’s Guide: Blaine’s Arcanine (Gym Challenge #1)

    Blaine’s Arcanine Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Blaine’s Arcanine from the Gym Challenge set is a Rare Holo card numbered 1. This fiery Pokémon boasts 90 HP and features the powerful Firestorm attack. Its striking design captures the intense spirit of Blaine’s signature battler.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 1 Rare Holo 90 Ken Sugimori
    • Card ID: gym2-1
    • Type: Fire
    • Stage: Stage 1
    • Retreat Cost: 3
    • Weakness: Water ×2
    • Evolves From: Blaine’s Growlithe
    • Series: Gym
    • Set Code: gym2
    • Image: Blaine's Arcanine

    Key Printings

    This exact printing appears in the Gym Challenge set as card number 1. It is a Rare Holo illustrated by Ken Sugimori, making it a desirable pick for holofoil-focused collectors.

    Variants & Identifiers

    • No known print variants.
    • Easy identification via set code “gym2,” card number “1,” and holofoil rarity.
    • No special abilities.

    Attacks:
    – “Heat Tackle” deals 40 damage and causes 10 damage to itself.
    – “Firestorm” deals 120 damage and requires discarding three Fire Energy cards.

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
    • This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
    • Its play status in other formats or casual play is unknown.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the holofoil and overall condition, store the card in a sleeve, away from sunlight and moisture. Use rigid top loaders or binder pages with individual pockets to prevent bending and scratches. Minimize handling to keep the artwork vibrant.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: Debuts as a Rare Holo Stage 1 with strong Fire-type attacks and classic Ken Sugimori artwork. As the first card in the set, it’s a key collectible for Gym series enthusiasts.

    This printing of Blaine’s Arcanine remains a vivid and collectible piece within the Gym Challenge set, prized for its artwork and rarity.

    Catch This Card on eBay

    Search live listings for Pokemon TCG Blaine's Arcanine Gym Challenge.


    Browse eBay listings

    This section contains affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

    Blaine's Arcanine (Gym Challenge) #1

  • Collector’s Guide: Koga’s Ditto (Gym Challenge #10)

    Collector’s Guide: Koga’s Ditto (Gym Challenge #10)

    Collector’s Guide: Koga’s Ditto (Gym Challenge 10)

    Character Intro

    Koga’s Ditto is a Rare Holo card from the Gym Challenge set, numbered 10. This lively Pokémon has 40 HP and features the attack Pound. Its design captures the quirky essence of Ditto in a compact, collectible form.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 10 Rare Holo 40 Ken Sugimori

    Card Stats

    • Type: Colorless
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Fighting ×2
    • Resistance: Psychic -30
    • Attacks:
    • Giant Growth: Flip a coin; if heads, Koga’s Ditto’s max HP becomes 80 and Pound’s damage increases to 30 until benched.
    • Pound: Deals 10 damage.
    • Abilities: None
    • Flavor Text: Unknown
    • Regulation Mark: Unknown

    Key Printings

    The key printing of Koga’s Ditto is from the Gym Challenge set, identified by the card number 10. This Rare Holo version is notable for its holographic foil and Ken Sugimori’s classic illustration style, making it a prized piece for collectors of Gym series cards.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It is identified by its set code “gym2” and the card number “10.” The card’s distinct Giant Growth attack and its Psychic resistance are useful identifiers. The holofoil treatment and Ken Sugimori’s artwork further distinguish this printing.

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
    • This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
    • Its unique Giant Growth attack offers a tactical advantage by temporarily increasing HP and attack damage, but this effect ends if the card is benched.

    Care & Storage Tips

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

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: Koga’s Ditto appears as a Rare Holo Basic Pokémon with a unique attack that enhances its stats temporarily. This set focuses on Gym Leaders’ Pokémon, and this card fits the theme with its strategic Giant Growth ability and classic Ken Sugimori art.

    Koga’s Ditto

    Catch This Card on eBay

    Search live listings for Pokemon TCG Koga's Ditto Gym Challenge.


    Browse eBay listings

    This section contains affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

    Koga's Ditto (Gym Challenge) #10

  • Collector’s Guide: Blaine (Gym Challenge #100)

    Blaine — Gym Challenge #100 Collector’s Guide

    Overview

    Blaine (#100) is a rare card from the Gym Challenge set. It stands out for collectors focused on iconic Gym leaders from the classic Gym series, adding a distinctive edge to themed collections.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 100 Rare Ken Sugimori
    • Card ID: gym2-100
    • Pokémon: Blaine
    • Set: Gym Challenge (gym2)
    • Rarity: Rare
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Rules: During this turn, instead of attaching your free Energy card, you may instead attach 2 Fire Energy cards to 1 of your Pokémon with Blaine in its name. (Playing additional copies of this card this turn has no effect.)
    • Illustrator: Ken Sugimori
    • Image URL: /images/gym2/gym2-100.jpg

    Printings & Variants

    • This card is exclusively printed in the Gym Challenge set as card number 100. It does not evolve from any other card and has no alternate print variants.
    • There are no known print variants or alternate versions of this Blaine card. It is identified by its set code “gym2” and card number 100.

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
    • This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its unique rule allows attaching two Fire Energy cards in place of the usual one, but it has no attacks or abilities.

    Care & Storage Tips

    Store Blaine in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight to preserve the Ken Sugimori artwork. Avoid bending and exposure to moisture to maintain condition.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: Blaine appears as a rare card with a special Energy attachment rule but no HP or attacks, making it a strategic yet enigmatic piece within this classic gym-themed set.

    Catch This Card on eBay

    Search live listings for Pokemon TCG Blaine Gym Challenge.


    Browse eBay listings

    This section contains affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

  • Collector’s Guide: Brock’s Protection (Gym Challenge #101)

    Brock’s Protection Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Brock’s Protection is a rare card from the Gym Challenge set, numbered 101. This rare Trainer focuses on a protective rule effect that fits Brock’s defensive style in the Pokémon universe, making it a standout target for Gym Challenge collectors.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 101 Rare Ken Sugimori
    • Card ID: gym2-101
    • Pokémon: Brock’s Protection
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Stage: None
    • Subtypes: None
    • Types: None
    • Weaknesses: None
    • Resistances: None
    • Regulation Mark: None

    Key Printings

    This card appears exclusively in the Gym Challenge set under the code gym2-101. It is a rare Trainer card with no evolutions or attacks, centering on a protective rule effect.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for Brock’s Protection. The card can be identified by its set code “gym2” and number “101.” The illustration by Ken Sugimori is a key visual identifier.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown

    The card’s rule states: “Attach Brock’s Protection to 1 of your Pokémon with Brock in its name. Energy cards attached to that Pokémon can’t be removed by your opponent’s attacks or Trainer cards. (This doesn’t stop the rest of the attack or Trainer card from working normally.)” This effect helps safeguard attached Energy on Brock-named Pokémon from removal effects.

    Care & Storage Tips

    As a rare card with unknown release date and no print variants, preserving Brock’s Protection in mint condition is essential. Use protective sleeves and store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent fading and warping.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: Brock’s Protection debuts as a rare Trainer card offering a unique energy protection mechanic for Brock-named Pokémon. It stands out for its specialized gameplay role and classic Ken Sugimori artwork.

    Catch This Card on eBay

    Search live listings for Pokemon TCG Brock's Protection Gym Challenge.


    Browse eBay listings

    This section contains affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

  • Collector’s Guide: Chaos Gym (Gym Challenge #102)

    Collector’s Guide: Chaos Gym (Gym Challenge #102)

    Chaos Gym (Gym Challenge 102) Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Chaos Gym is a Rare Trainer card from the Gym Challenge set, numbered 102. Its design evokes the high-stakes feel of a competitive gym and stands out as a unique pickup for Gym Challenge collectors.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge unknown 102 Rare Keiji Kinebuchi
    • Card Name: Chaos Gym
    • Set: Gym Challenge (gym2)
    • Card Number: 102
    • Type: Stadium
    • Stage: Stadium
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Illustrator: Keiji Kinebuchi
    • Image: Chaos Gym

    Key Printings

    Chaos Gym appears exclusively in the Gym Challenge set (set code gym2, card number 102). There are no known alternate printings or reprints.

    Variants & Identifiers

    No print variants are known. Collectors can identify it by its Stadium subtype, Rare rarity, the signature chaotic gameplay effect, and Keiji Kinebuchi’s distinctive illustration style.

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
    • Rules: This card stays in play after being played. Discard this card if another Stadium card comes into play. Whenever a player plays a Trainer card other than a Stadium card, he or she flips a coin. If heads, that player plays that card normally. If tails, the player can’t play that card. If the card isn’t put into play, the player’s opponent may use that card instead, if he or she does everything required in order to play that card (like discarding cards). Either way, the card goes to its owner’s discard pile.

    Care & Storage Tips

    Protect the card in a sleeve and store it away from sunlight and moisture. Given its rarity and distinctive gameplay effect, preserving a near-mint copy supports both collectible appeal and potential play value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: Debuts as a rare Stadium card with a coin-flip mechanic that affects Trainer card plays, injecting unpredictability into the format. No subsequent sets or printings are known.

    Catch This Card on eBay

    Search live listings for Pokemon TCG Chaos Gym Gym Challenge.


    Browse eBay listings

    This section contains affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

    Chaos Gym (Gym Challenge) #102

  • Collector’s Guide: Erika’s Kindness (Gym Challenge #103)

    Erika’s Kindness (Gym Challenge 103) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Erika’s Kindness is a rare card from the Gym Challenge set, numbered 103. Featuring Erika’s distinct aesthetic and Ken Sugimori’s artwork, it holds a notable spot in Gym-series collections for its rarity and thematic tie to Gym Leaders.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 103 Rare Ken Sugimori
    • Card ID: gym2-103
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Stage: None
    • Types: None
    • Weaknesses: None
    • Resistances: None
    • Evolves From: None
    • Subtypes: None

    Key Printings

    This card appears exclusively in the Gym Challenge set, identified by the set code “gym2” and number 103. Its rarity makes it a desirable pull for collectors focused on the Gym series.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for Erika’s Kindness.

    • Effect text (primary identifier): “Remove 2 damage counters from each Pokémon (yours and your opponent’s) with any damage counters on it. If a Pokémon has just 1 damage counter, remove it.”
    • Illustrator credit: Ken Sugimori

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its healing effect can be strategically valuable in casual play but is not currently supported in official tournament formats.

    Care & Storage Tips

    • Store in a protective sleeve and keep away from direct sunlight and moisture.
    • Preserve surface and edges to maintain collector value, especially given its rarity and Ken Sugimori artwork.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge (gym2): Erika’s Kindness stands out as a rare Trainer card with a healing effect, contributing to the thematic Gym Challenge set focused on Gym Leaders and their signature strategies. Its lack of HP and stage classification emphasizes its role as a supportive Trainer card rather than a Pokémon.

    Catch This Card on eBay

    Search live listings for Pokemon TCG Erika's Kindness Gym Challenge.


    Browse eBay listings

    This section contains affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

  • Collector’s Guide: Giovanni (Gym Challenge #104)

    Collector’s Guide: Giovanni (Gym Challenge #104)

    Giovanni (Gym Challenge 104) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Giovanni is a rare Trainer card from the Gym Challenge set, numbered 104. It stands out with its distinctive design and role within the set, and collectors value its unique place in the Gym Challenge lineup.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 104 Rare Ken Sugimori
    • Card ID: gym2-104
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Stage: None (Trainer card)
    • Types: None
    • Weaknesses/Resistances: None
    • Evolves From: None

    Key Printings

    This exact printing is from the Gym Challenge set, identified by the set code “gym2” and card number 104. It is a rare card with no known alternate printings or reprints.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. The card can be referenced in market queries as “Giovanni Gym Challenge 104.” The illustration by Ken Sugimori is a key identifying feature.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown

    This card’s unique rule allows you to choose one of your Pokémon in play with Giovanni in its name and evolve it during your turn even if it was just played or evolved that turn, or if it is your first turn. This effect also applies to the Pokémon it evolves into. The card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.

    Care & Storage Tips

    As a rare card with unknown release date and limited print variants, preserving the card in a protective sleeve and storing it in a cool, dry place is recommended. Avoid exposure to direct sunlight to maintain the integrity of Ken Sugimori’s artwork.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: This set includes the Giovanni card as a rare Trainer card with a distinctive gameplay effect. The set is notable for featuring Gym Leaders and their unique strategies, with this card exemplifying Giovanni’s thematic role in evolving Pokémon rapidly.

    Giovanni Gym Challenge 104

    Catch This Card on eBay

    Search live listings for Pokemon TCG Giovanni Gym Challenge.


    Browse eBay listings

    This section contains affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

    Giovanni (Gym Challenge) #104

  • Collector’s Guide: Giovanni’s Last Resort (Gym Challenge #105)

    Collector’s Guide: Giovanni’s Last Resort (Gym Challenge #105)

    Giovanni’s Last Resort Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Giovanni’s Last Resort is a rare card from the Gym Challenge set, numbered 105. This striking card captures a pivotal moment in the Pokémon TCG series. Its rarity makes it a notable addition for collectors focused on Gym Challenge cards.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 105 Rare Ken Sugimori
    • Card ID: gym2-105
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Rules Text: Remove all damage counters from 1 of your Pokémon with Giovanni in its name. Then discard your hand.
    • No abilities or attacks listed
    • No evolutions or resistances/weaknesses

    Key Printings

    This card appears exclusively in the Gym Challenge set under the set code “gym2.” It is identified as card number 105 and is classified as Rare. The illustration by Ken Sugimori is a notable feature for collectors.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for Giovanni’s Last Resort. The card can be identified by its unique card ID “gym2-105” and its placement within the Gym Challenge set.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. The rules text enables full healing on a Pokémon with Giovanni in its name at the cost of discarding your hand, which can shape strategies in casual play.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve value and condition, store the card in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its rarity and unknown release date, maintaining pristine condition is essential for collectors.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: Giovanni’s Last Resort is a rare and enigmatic card within this set, notable for its lack of traditional gameplay stats and its unique healing rule. It stands out as a collectible piece rather than a competitive card.

    Giovanni's Last Resort

    Catch This Card on eBay

    Search live listings for Pokemon TCG Giovanni's Last Resort Gym Challenge.


    Browse eBay listings

    This section contains affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

    Giovanni's Last Resort (Gym Challenge) #105

  • Collector’s Guide: Koga (Gym Challenge #106)

    Koga (Gym Challenge 106) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Koga is a rare card from the Gym Challenge set, numbered 106. This character card is notable for its distinctive design and its place within the Gym series, offering collectors a unique piece of the lineup.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 106 Rare Ken Sugimori
    • Card ID: gym2-106
    • Series: Gym
    • Set Code: gym2
    • Stage: None (Basic or Trainer card status unknown)
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Rule Text: If an attack from a Pokémon with Koga in its name does damage to a Defending Pokémon this turn, that Pokémon is then Poisoned.
    • Types, Weaknesses, Resistances: Unknown
    • Flavor Text: Unknown

    Key Printings

    This guide focuses exclusively on the Gym Challenge printing of Koga, card number 106. No other print variants or reprints are documented for this exact card.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Identification is straightforward via the set code “gym2” and card number “106.” The card is visually recognized by Ken Sugimori’s classic illustration style.

    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 condition, store the card in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its rarity and unknown release date, maintaining physical integrity is important for long-term value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: This set features Gym Leaders and their unique cards. Koga’s card stands out with a special poisoning rule and zero retreat cost, adding tactical depth to the Gym Challenge lineup.

    Catch This Card on eBay

    Search live listings for Pokemon TCG Koga Gym Challenge.


    Browse eBay listings

    This section contains affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

  • Collector’s Guide: Lt. Surge’s Secret Plan (Gym Challenge #107)

    Collector’s Guide: Lt. Surge’s Secret Plan (Gym Challenge #107)

    Lt. Surge’s Secret Plan Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Lt. Surge’s Secret Plan is a Rare card from the Gym Challenge set, numbered 107. It captures the strategic essence of Lt. Surge’s tactics and is a notable addition for collectors focused on Gym Challenge memorabilia.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 107 Rare Ken Sugimori
    • Card Name: Lt. Surge’s Secret Plan
    • Set: Gym Challenge (gym2)
    • Card Number: 107
    • Rarity: Rare
    • Illustrator: Ken Sugimori
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Abilities: None
    • Attacks: None
    • Types: None
    • Evolves From: None
    • Weaknesses/Resistances: None
    • Flavor Text: Unknown

    Key Printings

    This card appears exclusively in the Gym Challenge set under the code gym2-107. There are no known alternate printings or reprints of this exact card.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no listed print variants for this card. Identification is straightforward via its set code gym2-107 and its unique name, Lt. Surge’s Secret Plan. The card’s artwork and lack of HP or attacks make it visually distinct within the Gym Challenge series.

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
    • This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
    • Its unique rule involves placing a card face down on the Bench and treating it as a Basic Pokémon under specific conditions, adding a tactical layer to gameplay. Players must flip the card under certain triggers or may flip it voluntarily during their turn, with consequences if the card is not a Basic Pokémon.

    Care & Storage Tips

    Due to its rarity and unique status, store Lt. Surge’s Secret Plan in a protective sleeve and keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to preserve the artwork by Ken Sugimori. Avoid bending or exposure to moisture to maintain card integrity.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge (gym2): This set features Gym Leader-themed cards with unique gameplay mechanics. Lt. Surge’s Secret Plan stands out for its strategic bench placement rule and rare status. No further printings or variants are known beyond this set.

    Lt. Surge's Secret Plan

    Catch This Card on eBay

    Search live listings for Pokemon TCG Lt. Surge's Secret Plan Gym Challenge.


    Browse eBay listings

    This section contains affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

    Lt. Surge's Secret Plan (Gym Challenge) #107