Category: Pokemon

  • Collector’s Guide: The Rocket’s Trap (Gym Heroes #19)

    Collector’s Guide: The Rocket’s Trap (Gym Heroes #19)

    The Rocket’s Trap — Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    The Rocket’s Trap is a Rare Holo card from the Gym Heroes set, numbered 19. Its striking holofoil design reflects the team’s cunning strategy and makes it a notable pick for Gym Heroes collectors.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Heroes 19 Rare Holo Ken Sugimori
    • Card Number: 19
    • Set Code: gym1
    • Series: gym
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Abilities: None
    • Attacks: None
    • Rules Text: Flip a coin. If heads, choose up to 3 cards at random from your opponent’s hand (don’t look at them). Your opponent shuffles those cards into his or her deck.
    • Types, Weaknesses, Resistances: None
    • Evolves From: None
    • Stage: None
    • Subtypes: None

    Key Printings

    The Rocket’s Trap appears exclusively as a Rare Holo in the Gym Heroes set. There are no known alternate printings or reprints of this card.

    Variants & Identifiers

    This card has no known print variants. It can be identified by its set code “gym1” and card number 19. The illustration by Ken Sugimori is a key visual identifier.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its unique effect involves a coin flip and potentially disrupting the opponent’s hand by shuffling up to three cards back into their deck.

    Care & Storage Tips

    As a rare holo card, The Rocket’s Trap should be stored in a protective sleeve and kept away from direct sunlight to preserve its holofoil finish. Avoid bending or exposure to moisture to maintain its condition and value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Heroes: The Rocket’s Trap is part of this set, which focuses on Gym Leader-themed cards. It offers a tactical hand disruption effect rather than traditional attacks or abilities, making it a distinctive collectible from this era.

    The Rocket's Trap

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    The Rocket's Trap (Gym Heroes) #19

  • Collector’s Guide: Brock’s Rhydon (Gym Heroes #2)

    Collector’s Guide: Brock’s Rhydon (Gym Heroes #2)

    Brock’s Rhydon Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Brock’s Rhydon from the Gym Heroes set is a Rare Holo card numbered 2. It features 80 HP and the unique Bench Guard ability, providing strategic defense. Its attack, Lariat, adds a dynamic edge to gameplay. This card stands out for collectors seeking a blend of power and rarity.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Heroes 2 Rare Holo 80 Ken Sugimori
    • Type: Fighting
    • Stage: Stage 1
    • Weakness: Grass (×2)
    • Resistance: Lightning (-30)
    • Retreat Cost: 3
    • Evolves From: Brock’s Rhyhorn
    • Ability: Bench Guard — redirects damage from Benched Pokémon to Brock’s Rhydon
    • Attack: Lariat — 70 damage, requires flipping a coin to succeed

    Key Printings

    This exact printing is from the Gym Heroes set, identified by the set code “gym1” and card number 2. It is a Rare Holo variant, making it a visually striking and sought-after card for collectors focusing on Gym-themed Pokémon.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Key identifiers include the Fighting type, the unique Bench Guard Pokémon Power, and the Lariat attack that requires a coin flip. The card features Ken Sugimori’s classic illustration style and has no regulation mark.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its unique ability to redirect damage can be strategically valuable in casual play, but official tournament use is not supported.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the holofoil and artwork, store Brock’s Rhydon in a protective sleeve and keep it 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 introduced Brock’s Rhydon as a Rare Holo card with a powerful damage redirection ability and a high-risk, high-reward attack. It fits well within the Gym-themed collection and showcases classic Ken Sugimori artwork.

    Brock's Rhydon

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    Brock's Rhydon (Gym Heroes) #2

  • Collector’s Guide: Brock’s Golem (Gym Heroes #20)

    Collector’s Guide: Brock’s Golem (Gym Heroes #20)

    Brock’s Golem Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Brock’s Golem from the Gym Heroes set is a rare card numbered 20, featuring a robust 90 HP. This sturdy Pokémon wields the powerful attack Fissure and stands out as a notable addition for collectors, reflecting Brock’s signature style in the Pokémon TCG.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Heroes unknown 20 Rare 90 Ken Sugimori
    • Type: Fighting
    • Stage: Stage 2
    • Retreat Cost: 4
    • Weakness: Grass ×2
    • Resistances: None
    • Abilities: None
    • Attacks:
    • Rock Slide: Deals 20 damage and can hit up to 3 of the opponent’s Benched Pokémon for 10 damage each, ignoring Weakness and Resistance on Benched Pokémon.
    • Fissure: Deals 50 damage with a higher energy cost.

    Key Printings

    This exact Brock’s Golem card appears in the Gym Heroes set as card number 20. It is a rare card with no known alternate printings or reprints under this exact configuration.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Identification is straightforward via its set code “gym1” and card number 20. The card features the classic Ken Sugimori artwork, a hallmark of early Pokémon TCG aesthetics.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats based on available data. No official tournament play notes are provided.

    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, maintaining a stable environment will help prevent wear and fading, especially to the illustrated surface.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Heroes: Brock’s Golem is a rare Fighting-type Stage 2 card that continues Brock’s evolutionary line. It features two attacks that balance damage output and bench control, making it a notable collectible from this classic set.

    Brock's Golem

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    Brock's Golem (Gym Heroes) #20

  • Collector’s Guide: Brock’s Onix (Gym Heroes #21)

    Collector’s Guide: Brock’s Onix (Gym Heroes #21)

    Brock’s Onix Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Brock’s Onix from the Gym Heroes set is a Rare, 70 HP Basic Pokémon that highlights the powerful attack Bind—capturing Onix’s signature gripping strength. Numbered 21 in the set, it remains a distinctive pickup for collectors.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Heroes 21 Rare 70 Benimaru Itoh
    • Card Name: Brock’s Onix
    • Set: Gym Heroes
    • Card Number: 21
    • Type: Fighting
    • Stage: Basic
    • HP: 70
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Weakness: Grass ×2
    • Resistance: None
    • Abilities: None
    • Attacks:
    • Bind: Flip a coin; if heads, the Defending Pokémon is Paralyzed. Deals 20 damage.
    • Tunneling: Deals 20 damage to up to 2 of the opponent’s Benched Pokémon if any are present. Brock’s Onix cannot attack next turn.

    Key Printings

    This exact printing is the Gym Heroes gym1, card number 21. It is a Rare card with no known alternate printings or special editions.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Key identifiers include the Fighting type, Basic stage, and the unique attacks Bind and Tunneling. The card is illustrated by Benimaru Itoh, a hallmark of the Gym Heroes set.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its strategic use is limited by its inability to attack during the turn after using Tunneling, but it can disrupt opponents by paralyzing or damaging multiple Benched Pokémon.

    Care & Storage Tips

    Store in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and humidity. Given its rarity and age, preserving edges and surface condition is crucial for long-term value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Heroes: Brock’s Onix appears as a Rare Fighting-type Basic Pokémon with unique multi-target attack capabilities and a moderate 70 HP, matching the Gym Heroes theme with its classic design and strategic options.

    Brock's Onix

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    Brock's Onix (Gym Heroes) #21

  • Collector’s Guide: Brock’s Rhyhorn (Gym Heroes #22)

    Collector’s Guide: Brock’s Rhyhorn (Gym Heroes #22)

    Brock’s Rhyhorn Collector’s Guide

    Overview

    Brock’s Rhyhorn is a rare card from the Gym Heroes set, numbered 22. It features 60 HP and the attack Take Down. This card captures the rugged strength of Rhyhorn in a straightforward design.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Heroes unknown 22 Rare 60 Ken Sugimori
    • Type: Fighting
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Weakness: Grass (×2)
    • Resistance: Lightning (-30)
    • Attacks:
    • Horn Toss: Deals 20 damage and forces the opponent to switch their Defending Pokémon with one on their Bench after damage is applied.
    • Take Down: Deals 40 damage but inflicts 10 damage to Brock’s Rhyhorn itself.

    Key Printings

    This card appears exclusively in the Gym Heroes set as card number 22. It is classified as a Rare card and features no evolutions from previous forms.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It can be identified by its Fighting type, 60 HP, and the unique attacks “Horn Toss” and “Take Down.” The illustrator credit to Ken Sugimori and the set code “gym1” further confirm its identity.

    Legality & Play Notes

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

    Its tactical attacks provide interesting gameplay options, but its tournament viability is uncertain due to legality restrictions.

    Care & Storage Tips

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

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Heroes: Brock’s Rhyhorn is a rare Fighting-type Basic Pokémon card featuring strategic attacks that interact with the opponent’s Bench. It stands out for its unique mechanics and classic Ken Sugimori illustration, making it a notable piece within the Gym Heroes collection.

    Brock's Rhyhorn

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    Brock's Rhyhorn (Gym Heroes) #22

  • Collector’s Guide: Brock’s Sandslash (Gym Heroes #23)

    Brock’s Sandslash Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Brock’s Sandslash is a rare Gym Heroes card, numbered 23. This sturdy Fighting-type Pokémon has 60 HP and highlights the Sandstorm attack. The artwork captures Sandslash’s rugged, battle-ready essence.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Heroes 23 Rare 60 Ken Sugimori
    • Pokémon: Brock’s Sandslash
    • Type: Fighting
    • Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Brock’s Sandshrew)
    • HP: 60
    • Weakness: Grass (×2)
    • Resistance: Lightning (-30)
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Set Code: gym1
    • Series: Gym
    • Rarity: Rare
    • Illustrator: Ken Sugimori
    • Image URL: /images/gym1/gym1-23.jpg

    Key Printings

    This exact printing appears in the Gym Heroes set as card number 23. It is a rare card with two noteworthy attacks that give it distinctive play patterns within the Gym series.

    • Needles: can paralyze and poison the opponent’s Pokémon.
    • Sandstorm: can potentially nullify an opponent’s attack on their next turn.

    The combination of Fighting type and these status/disruption effects makes it a standout for collectors focused on Gym-era themes.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants. Identification is straightforward via set code “gym1,” card number 23, and Ken Sugimori’s distinctive artwork. It evolves from Brock’s Sandshrew, confirming its place within the Gym Heroes line.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its attacks offer interesting tactical options, but tournament viability is uncertain due to the unknown legality status.

    Care & Storage Tips

    Protect the Ken Sugimori illustration and the card’s condition by using a sleeve and a rigid top-loader or a binder with individual pockets. Store away from direct sunlight, moisture, and extreme temperatures to prevent fading, warping, or surface wear.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Heroes: A rare Fighting-type Stage 1 with unique status-inflicting attacks. Classic artwork and moderate HP make it a collectible highlight within this set.

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  • Collector’s Guide: Brock’s Zubat (Gym Heroes #24)

    Brock’s Zubat Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Brock’s Zubat from the Gym Heroes set is a rare card numbered 24. This lively Pokémon has 30 HP and features the attack Wing Attack. Its simple design makes it a distinctive addition to any collection.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Heroes 24 Rare 30 Ken Sugimori
    • Pokémon: Brock’s Zubat
    • Type: Grass
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Weakness: Psychic (×2)
    • Resistance: Fighting (-30)
    • Set Code: gym1
    • Series: Gym
    • Subtypes: Basic
    • Regulation Mark: Unknown

    Key Printings

    This guide focuses on the single known printing of Brock’s Zubat from the Gym Heroes set, card number 24. It is a rare card with no known alternate printings or reprints.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Identification is straightforward through its set code “gym1” and card number 24. The illustration by Ken Sugimori and the Grass type classification further distinguish it.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. It features two attacks: “Alert,” which allows the player to draw a card and switch Brock’s Zubat with a Benched Pokémon, and “Wing Attack,” dealing 20 damage. The retreat cost is zero, making it easy to withdraw from battle.

    Care & Storage Tips

    Due to its rarity and age, store Brock’s Zubat in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight to preserve the vibrant Ken Sugimori artwork. Avoid exposure to moisture and extreme temperatures to maintain card integrity.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Heroes: Brock’s Zubat appears as a rare Basic Pokémon card with unique Grass typing and a low HP of 30. It is part of a specialized set focusing on Gym Leader-themed Pokémon, illustrated by Ken Sugimori. The card’s release date and additional printings remain unknown.

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  • Collector’s Guide: Erika’s Clefairy (Gym Heroes #25)

    Collector’s Guide: Erika’s Clefairy (Gym Heroes #25)

    Erika’s Clefairy Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Erika’s Clefairy from the Gym Heroes set is a rare card numbered 25. It features 50 HP and a distinctive attack called Comet Slap. This charming Clefairy stands out with its classic design and solid gameplay potential.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Heroes 25 Rare 50 Ken Sugimori
    • Pokémon: Erika’s Clefairy
    • Type: Colorless
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Fighting (×2)
    • Resistance: Psychic (-30)
    • Set Code: gym1
    • Series: Gym
    • Print Variants: None listed

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Erika’s Clefairy appears in the Gym Heroes set, identified by the card number 25. It is a Rare card with no known alternate print variants. The card features two attacks: “Moonwatching,” which allows the player to search their deck for a basic Energy card, and “Comet Slap,” which deals damage based on coin flips.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no listed print variants for this card. It can be identified by its set code “gym1,” card number 25, and the distinctive Ken Sugimori illustration. The card’s rarity is marked as Rare, and it carries no regulation mark.

    Legality & Play Notes

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

    Care & Storage Tips

    • Store in a protective sleeve.
    • Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture.
    • Maintain a stable environment with low humidity to help prevent warping or fading.
    • Avoid frequent handling to keep the artwork and card surface pristine.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Heroes: Erika’s Clefairy is part of this set, which features Gym Leader-themed Pokémon cards. This card stands out with its unique attacks and classic Ken Sugimori artwork, making it a valuable piece for collectors focusing on the Gym series.

    Erika's Clefairy

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    Erika's Clefairy (Gym Heroes) #25

  • Collector’s Guide: Erika’s Victreebel (Gym Heroes #26)

    Erika’s Victreebel Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Erika’s Victreebel from the Gym Heroes set is a rare card numbered 26. It features 80 HP and the Pokémon Power Fragrance Trap. Its attack, Razor Leaf, adds a sharp edge to this vibrant Pokémon.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Heroes unknown 26 Rare 80 Ken Sugimori
    • HP: 80
    • Type: Grass
    • Stage: Stage 2 (evolves from Erika’s Weepinbell)
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Weakness: Fire (×2)
    • Ability: Fragrance Trap (Pokémon Power) allows switching the opponent’s Active Pokémon with a Benched one on a coin flip, unless Erika’s Victreebel is Asleep, Confused, or Paralyzed.
    • Attack: Razor Leaf deals 50 damage with a cost of three Grass Energy.

    Key Printings

    The key printing of Erika’s Victreebel is from the Gym Heroes set, identified by card number 26. This rare card is distinguished by Ken Sugimori artwork and the Pokémon Power “Fragrance Trap,” which adds tactical depth to gameplay.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It can be identified by its set code “gym1,” card number 26, and the distinctive Ken Sugimori illustration. The card image is available at /images/gym1/gym1-26.jpg.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its ability to manipulate the opponent’s Active Pokémon via switching can be a valuable asset in casual play.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the condition of Erika’s Victreebel, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the card surface to maintain its rare status and vivid Ken Sugimori artwork.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Heroes: Erika’s Victreebel appears as a rare Stage 2 Grass-type Pokémon with a unique Pokémon Power and a solid attack, making it a collectible highlight of this set. The set’s focus on Gym Leaders is exemplified by this card’s thematic design and gameplay mechanics.

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  • Collector’s Guide: Lt. Surge’s Electabuzz (Gym Heroes #27)

    Collector’s Guide: Lt. Surge’s Electabuzz (Gym Heroes #27)

    Lt. Surge’s Electabuzz Collector’s Guide

    Overview

    Lt. Surge’s Electabuzz from the Gym Heroes set is a rare card numbered 27. This energetic Pokémon boasts 60 HP and features the Electric Current attack. Its vibrant design captures the electric intensity of Lt. Surge’s team. The key printing is from Gym Heroes (card 27), notable for its rare status and classic Ken Sugimori artwork. No other print variants are documented for this exact card.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Heroes 27 Rare 60 Ken Sugimori

    Stats & Attacks

    • Type: Lightning
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Weakness: Fighting ×2
    • Attacks:
    • Charge: Retrieve up to 2 Lightning Energy cards from your discard pile and attach them to Lt. Surge’s Electabuzz.
    • Electric Current: Move 1 Lightning Energy from Electabuzz to a Benched Pokémon or discard it if none are available, dealing 20 damage.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants or alternate versions of this card. Identification is straightforward through its set code “gym1” and card number 27. The card’s rarity is marked as Rare, and it carries no regulation mark.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality status: unknown.
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats according to available data. Its gameplay revolves around energy management, making it a strategic choice in casual or themed decks.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the vibrant Ken Sugimori illustration and maintain card condition, store Lt. Surge’s Electabuzz in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the card, and keep it in a stable environment to prevent warping.

    Set Context

    • Gym Heroes: This set introduced Lt. Surge’s Electabuzz as a rare Basic Lightning-type card with unique energy manipulation attacks. The set is known for its focus on Gym Leaders and their signature Pokémon, with this card standing out due to its strategic attack options and classic artwork.

    Lt. Surge's Electabuzz

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    Lt. Surge's Electabuzz (Gym Heroes) #27