Category: Pokemon

  • Collector’s Guide: Blaine’s Vulpix (Gym Challenge #66)

    Blaine’s Vulpix Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Blaine’s Vulpix from the Gym Challenge set is a common card numbered 66. This lively Pokémon has 50 HP and features the straightforward attack Bite, capturing the essence of Vulpix with a simple yet effective design.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 66 Common 50 Ken Sugimori
    • Type: Fire
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1 Colorless Energy
    • Weakness: Water (×2)
    • Attacks:
    • Bite (10 damage, 1 Colorless Energy)
    • Call Will-o’-the-wisp (Flip 3 coins; for each heads, retrieve a Fire Energy card from discard)
    • Abilities: None
    • Flavor Text: Unknown
    • Regulation Mark: None

    Key Printings

    The key printing of Blaine’s Vulpix is Gym Challenge card number 66. Classified as Common, it showcases clean Ken Sugimori artwork. It is a Basic Pokémon card with no evolutions from previous stages.

    Variants & Identifiers

    No known print variants. Identifiers include set code “gym2” and card number 66. The Ken Sugimori illustration and Fire-type symbol are distinctive markers. Card image: /images/gym2/gym2-66.jpg.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality status: unknown. Based on the provided data, this card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats and is better suited for collecting than competitive play.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the Ken Sugimori illustration and maintain condition, store the card in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching, and use a rigid holder for long-term storage to prevent warping.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: A Basic Fire-type with straightforward attacks and a simple retreat cost, representing Blaine’s roster in the gym-themed set. This card contributes to the Fire-type lineup among the iconic gym leaders featured.

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  • Collector’s Guide: Brock’s Diglett (Gym Challenge #67)

    Brock’s Diglett Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Brock’s Diglett from the Gym Challenge set is a common card numbered 67. This nimble Pokémon has 40 HP and features the attack Tremor. Its straightforward design makes it a staple for collectors interested in classic Gym Challenge cards.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 67 Common 40 Ken Sugimori
    • Type: Fighting
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Grass ×2
    • Resistance: Lightning -30
    • Attacks:
    • Surprise Attack: Flip a coin; if tails, the attack does nothing. Deals 20 damage.
    • Tremor: Deals 40 damage but also does 10 damage to each of your own Benched Pokémon (no Weakness or Resistance applied to Benched Pokémon).
    • Abilities: None
    • Flavor Text: Unknown
    • Regulation Mark: None

    Key Printings

    The only known printing of Brock’s Diglett is from the Gym Challenge set, card number 67. It is classified as a Common rarity card and features artwork by Ken Sugimori.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Key identifiers include the Fighting type, the unique attack “Tremor” which damages your own Benched Pokémon, and the card number 67 in the Gym Challenge set. The card’s image can be found at: /images/gym2/gym2-67.jpg.

    Legality & Play Notes

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

    Care & Storage Tips

    As a Common card from an older set, preserving Brock’s Diglett in a protective sleeve and storing it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight will help maintain its condition. Avoid bending or exposure to moisture to keep the card’s artwork and surface intact.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: Brock’s Diglett appears as a Basic Fighting-type Pokémon with modest HP and two attacks that balance risk and reward, fitting the straightforward style of the Gym Challenge set. No additional printings or variants are documented.

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  • Collector’s Guide: Brock’s Geodude (Gym Challenge #68)

    Brock’s Geodude Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Brock’s Geodude from the Gym Challenge set is a Common card numbered 68 with 50 HP and the straightforward Rock Toss attack. It captures Geodude’s rugged charm in classic Gym Challenge style.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 68 Common 50 Ken Sugimori
    • Type: Fighting
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Grass (×2)
    • Attack: Rock Toss – Flip 3 coins; does 10 damage times the number of heads.
    • Evolves From: None
    • Flavor Text: Unknown

    Key Printings

    The key printing of Brock’s Geodude is the Gym Challenge version (set code “gym2”), card number 68. It features clean Ken Sugimori artwork and a classic Fighting-type layout. No alternate printings or promotional versions are documented.

    Variants & Identifiers

    No known print variants or alternate artwork exist. Identify it by its Common rarity, Fighting type, and the “Rock Toss” attack, which requires only one Fighting energy. The card’s image can be referenced at /images/gym2/gym2-68.jpg.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its low HP and simple attack make it more of a collector’s piece than a competitive option in current play.

    Care & Storage Tips

    Store in a protective sleeve away from sunlight and moisture. Given its age and common status, keeping edges and surfaces clean preserves value. Avoid bending and extreme temperatures.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: Brock’s Geodude appears as a Basic Fighting-type Pokémon with a simple but effective attack. The set centers on Gym Leaders’ Pokémon, and this card fits the theme with straightforward design and Ken Sugimori’s classic artwork.

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  • Collector’s Guide: Erika’s Jigglypuff (Gym Challenge #69)

    Erika’s Jigglypuff Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Erika’s Jigglypuff from the Gym Challenge set is a Common card numbered 69. This charming Pokémon has 50 HP and features the attacks Group Therapy and Pulled Punch. Its simple design captures the playful spirit of Jigglypuff.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 69 Common 50 Ken Sugimori
    • Type: Colorless
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Fighting ×2
    • Resistance: Psychic -30
    • Attacks:
    • Group Therapy: Removes 1 damage counter from each of your Pokémon with damage counters.
    • Pulled Punch: Deals 40 damage if the Defending Pokémon has no damage counters; otherwise, deals 10 damage.
    • Abilities: None
    • Flavor Text: Unknown
    • Regulation Mark: Unknown

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Erika’s Jigglypuff appears in the Gym Challenge set as card number 69 (Common). It does not evolve from any other Pokémon. The card is notable for its simple yet strategic attack options and classic Ken Sugimori artwork.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It can be identified by its set code “gym2” and the card number 69. The artwork and layout are consistent with other cards from the Gym Challenge set.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats according to the provided data. Its utility in play is limited by its low HP and straightforward attacks, but it may still hold nostalgic or collector value.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the condition of Erika’s Jigglypuff, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the card surface to maintain its collectible value. Given its common rarity, focus on keeping the card in near-mint condition for best long-term preservation.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: Erika’s Jigglypuff debuted as a Common Basic Pokémon with simple healing and damage-dealing attacks. It fits well into the gym-themed sets with its straightforward mechanics and classic illustration style.

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  • Collector’s Guide: Giovanni’s Nidoking (Gym Challenge #7)

    Collector’s Guide: Giovanni’s Nidoking (Gym Challenge #7)

    Giovanni’s Nidoking Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Giovanni’s Nidoking from the Gym Challenge set is a Rare Holo card numbered 7. This powerful Pokémon boasts 120 HP and features the dynamic Tumbling Attack. Its striking design makes it a notable addition for collectors.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 7 Rare Holo 120 Ken Sugimori
    • Type: Grass
    • Stage: Stage 2 (Evolves from Giovanni’s Nidorino)
    • Retreat Cost: 3
    • Weakness: Psychic ×2
    • Attacks:
    • Intimidate: Prevents attacks from Defending Pokémon with 50 or less HP during opponent’s next turn.
    • Tumbling Attack: Deals 40 damage plus 30 more on a coin flip.

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Giovanni’s Nidoking is from the Gym Challenge set, identified as card number 7. It is a Rare Holo variant, distinguished by Ken Sugimori’s classic illustration. The card is a Stage 2 evolution, continuing from Giovanni’s Nidorino.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It can be identified by its set code “gym2,” card number 7, and the distinctive holofoil finish. The card’s Grass typing and unique attacks also help distinguish it from other Nidoking cards.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its playability in official tournaments is therefore uncertain.

    Care & Storage Tips

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

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: Giovanni’s Nidoking appears as a powerful Grass-type Stage 2 card with strategic attacks and a rare holofoil finish. Its presence in this set highlights the Gym Challenge’s focus on iconic Gym Leaders and their signature Pokémon.

    Giovanni's Nidoking

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    Giovanni's Nidoking (Gym Challenge) #7

  • Collector’s Guide: Erika’s Oddish (Gym Challenge #70)

    Collector’s Guide: Erika’s Oddish (Gym Challenge #70)

    Erika’s Oddish Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Erika’s Oddish (Gym Challenge 70) is a Common Basic Grass-type Pokémon with 40 HP and the single attack Strange Powder. Its clean, early-era design captures the charm of this classic Pokémon.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 70 Common 40 Ken Sugimori
    • Card ID: gym2-70
    • Type: Grass
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Fire ×2
    • Attack: Strange Powder (10 damage) – Flip a coin; heads Confuse, tails Sleep the Defending Pokémon
    • Abilities: None
    • Flavor Text: Unknown
    • Regulation Mark: None
    • Print Variants: None

    Key Printings

    This printing of Erika’s Oddish is from the Gym Challenge set, identified by set code gym2 and card number 70. It is a Common rarity card illustrated by Ken Sugimori. No alternate printings or promotional versions are documented for this card.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this Erika’s Oddish card. Identification relies on:
    – Set code: gym2 and card number: 70
    – Ken Sugimori artwork
    – Single Grass-type attack, Strange Powder, and low HP

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    Based on the provided data, this card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its simple attack and low HP suggest it was designed for early gameplay or collector interest rather than competitive play.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the Ken Sugimori illustration and maintain condition:
    – Store in a protective sleeve.
    – Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture.
    – Avoid bending or scratching the card.
    Even as a Common, it carries nostalgic value for Gym Challenge collectors.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: Appears as a Basic Grass-type with a single attack that can inflict status conditions, fitting Erika’s team theme and showcasing early TCG design.

    Erika's Oddish

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    Erika's Oddish (Gym Challenge) #70

  • Collector’s Guide: Erika’s Paras (Gym Challenge #71)

    Collector’s Guide: Erika’s Paras (Gym Challenge #71)

    Character Intro

    Erika’s Paras from the Gym Challenge set is a common card numbered 71 with 50 HP. It features the straightforward attack Irongrip and captures the essence of Erika’s team with a simple, effective design.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 71 Common 50 Ken Sugimori
    • Type: Grass
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1 Colorless
    • Weakness: Fire ×2
    • Resistance: None
    • Abilities: None
    • Attacks:
    • Irongrip (10 damage, 1 Colorless)
    • Poison Spore (Flip a coin; if heads, Poison the Defending Pokémon and deal 10 damage to each of opponent’s Benched Pokémon)

    Key Printings

    This printing is from the Gym Challenge set, identified by set code “gym2” and card number 71. It is a common rarity card illustrated by Ken Sugimori. No alternate printings or reprints of this exact card are documented.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants or alternate art versions. Identify it by the Gym Challenge set symbol, number 71, and the Ken Sugimori illustrator credit. The card image is available at /images/gym2/gym2-71.jpg.

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
    • Not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats according to available data.
    • Poison Spore can poison the Defending Pokémon and deal 10 damage to each of the opponent’s Benched Pokémon. Overall competitive viability is unknown.

    Care & Storage Tips

    Protect this older common with a sleeve and store it in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. Avoid bending and moisture to preserve the artwork and card integrity.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: Erika’s Paras appears as a Basic Grass-type Pokémon with a multi-target Poison Spore attack, fitting Erika’s Grass-theme and offering straightforward mechanics for collectors and casual players.

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  • Collector’s Guide: Giovanni’s Machop (Gym Challenge #72)

    Collector’s Guide: Giovanni’s Machop (Gym Challenge #72)

    Giovanni’s Machop Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Giovanni’s Machop from the Gym Challenge set is a common card numbered 72. This lively fighter boasts 50 HP and features the attacks Chop and Fury Punch. Its straightforward design makes it a notable piece for collectors focusing on classic Gym Challenge cards.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 72 Common 50 Ken Sugimori
    • Card ID: gym2-72
    • Type: Fighting
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Psychic ×2
    • Attacks:
    • Chop (10 damage, 1 Colorless energy)
    • Fury Punch (20× damage, 2 Fighting energy; damage depends on coin flip and damage counters on this card)
    • Flavor Text: Unknown
    • Abilities: None
    • Resistance: None

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Giovanni’s Machop appears in the Gym Challenge set, identified by the set code “gym2” and card number 72. It is a common rarity card, making it relatively accessible for collectors focusing on the Gym series.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It is identified by set code “gym2,” number 72, Ken Sugimori artwork, Fighting type, and Basic stage classification.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality status: unknown. This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats according to available data. Players should verify current tournament rules before attempting to use this card in play.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the vivid Ken Sugimori artwork and maintain the card’s condition, store Giovanni’s Machop in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its common rarity, it is ideal for collectors to keep it in a binder or top-loader to prevent edge wear and surface scratches.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: Giovanni’s Machop is featured as a Basic Fighting-type Pokémon with simple but tactical attacks. This set focuses on Gym leaders and their Pokémon, making this card a thematic piece for fans of the Gym Challenge series.

    Giovanni's Machop

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    Giovanni's Machop (Gym Challenge) #72

  • Collector’s Guide: Giovanni’s Magikarp (Gym Challenge #73)

    Collector’s Guide: Giovanni’s Magikarp (Gym Challenge #73)

    Giovanni’s Magikarp Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Giovanni’s Magikarp is a Common card (#73) from the Gym Challenge set. This lively Basic Pokémon comes with 30 HP and the headline attack Ancestral Memory. Its pared-back, swingy design makes it a neat pickup for collectors focused on classic Gym-era cards.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 73 Common 30 Ken Sugimori
    • Type: Water
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Lightning (×2)
    • Attacks:
    • Ancestral Memory: Flip a coin; if tails, no damage and the attack cannot be used again while Giovanni’s Magikarp is in play. Deals 40 damage on heads.
    • Flail Around: Flip 3 coins; deals 10 damage times the number of heads.
    • Abilities: None
    • Flavor Text: Unknown
    • Regulation Mark: None

    Key Printings

    This card appears exclusively in Gym Challenge, identified by set code “gym2” and card number 73. As a Common, it’s more accessible than rare or holo cards yet remains a solid piece for a focused Gym Challenge collection.

    Variants & Identifiers

    No known print variants or alternate artworks exist for this exact printing. Key identifiers include its Water typing, Basic stage, and the unique attack restriction on Ancestral Memory. Ken Sugimori’s clean, iconic illustration style is a hallmark here.

    Legality & Play Notes

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

    • Gameplay: Both attacks are chance-driven. Ancestral Memory can hit hard but locks itself out on a tails result while this card stays in play, creating risk-reward decisions in casual or themed decks.

    Care & Storage Tips

    Keep the card sleeved and stored away from sunlight and moisture to prevent fading and warping. Given its common rarity but classic artwork, maintaining clean edges and surfaces supports long-term appeal. Minimize handling to avoid scratches and whitening.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: Giovanni’s Magikarp appears as a straightforward Basic Water-type with simple yet chance-driven attacks. It fits well within the Gym Challenge theme, emphasizing Gym Leaders’ Pokémon with unique gameplay quirks. This set is known for its nostalgic appeal and classic art style.

    Giovanni's Magikarp

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    Giovanni's Magikarp (Gym Challenge) #73

  • Collector’s Guide: Giovanni’s Meowth (Gym Challenge #74)

    Giovanni’s Meowth Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Giovanni’s Meowth from the Gym Challenge set is a common card numbered 74. This lively Pokémon has 50 HP and features the attack Cat Kick. Its straightforward design makes it a recognizable addition for collectors.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 74 Common 50 Ken Sugimori
    • Type: Colorless
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Weakness: Fighting (×2)
    • Resistance: Psychic (-30)
    • Attacks:
    • Cat Fleas: Flip a coin; if heads, the Defending Pokémon is Confused.
    • Cat Kick: Deals 30 damage.
    • Evolves From: None
    • Flavor Text: Unknown
    • Regulation Mark: None

    Key Printings

    This exact printing is from the Gym Challenge set, identified by the set code “gym2” and card number 74. It is classified as a Common rarity card, making it accessible yet collectible for fans of the Gym series.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Key identifiers include its card ID “gym2-74,” the illustrator Ken Sugimori’s signature style, and the distinctive Colorless type with Psychic resistance and Fighting weakness.

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
    • This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
      Its simple attack mechanics and low HP suggest it is more of a collector’s item than a competitive play choice.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the card’s condition, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its common rarity, maintaining mint condition can enhance its collectible value, especially with the iconic Ken Sugimori artwork.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: Giovanni’s Meowth appears as a Basic Colorless Pokémon with straightforward attacks and moderate HP. It fits well within the Gym Challenge theme, representing Giovanni’s team with a simple yet effective design. The set’s focus on Gym leaders makes this card a notable piece for collectors interested in that era.

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