Tag: Collector’s Guide

Collector’s Guide: Erika’s Venusaur (Gym Challenge #4)
Erika’s Venusaur Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Erika’s Venusaur from the Gym Challenge set is a Rare Holo with 90 HP. It features the bench-targeting Wide Solarbeam attack and is card number 4 in the set.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Gym Challenge 4 Rare Holo 90 Ken Sugimori
- Type: Grass
- Stage: Stage 2 (Evolves from Erika’s Ivysaur)
- Retreat Cost: 2
- Weakness: Fire ×2
- Abilities: None
- Attacks:
- Growth: Flip a coin; if heads, attach up to 2 Grass Energy cards from your hand to Erika’s Venusaur.
- Wide Solarbeam: Deals 20 damage to up to two of your opponent’s Benched Pokémon (ignores Weakness and Resistance on Benched Pokémon).
Key Printings

The key printing of Erika’s Venusaur is from the Gym Challenge set, identified by set code “gym2” and card number 4. This rare holo version is the definitive collectible for this character within the set.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this card. It is identified by its set code “gym2,” card number 4, and the unique illustration by Ken Sugimori. The card does not have a regulation mark, and no alternate artwork or promotional versions are documented.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. No official tournament play status is provided.

Care & Storage Tips

To preserve the vibrant holofoil and detailed artwork, store Erika’s Venusaur in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture. Use a rigid top loader or a binder with individual pockets to prevent bending and surface scratches.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Gym Challenge: Erika’s Venusaur appears as a rare holo Stage 2 card, continuing the Gym Leader theme with a focus on Grass-type Pokémon. It offers strategic energy attachment and bench-targeting attacks, making it a notable collectible from this set.
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September 24, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Erika’s Clefairy (Gym Challenge #40)
Erika’s Clefairy Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Erika’s Clefairy is an uncommon card from the Gym Challenge set, numbered 40. This lively Pokémon features 50 HP and a single attack called Moon Kick. Its straightforward design captures the charm of Clefairy in battle.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Gym Challenge 40 Uncommon 50 Atsuko Nishida
- Type: Colorless
- Stage: Basic
- Retreat Cost: 1
- Weakness: Fighting ×2
- Resistance: Psychic -30
- Set Code: gym2
- Card ID: gym2-40
- Image:
Key Printings

This exact printing of Erika’s Clefairy appears in the Gym Challenge set, identified by the set code gym2 and card number 40. It is an uncommon card with no known alternate print variants.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants or alternate versions of this Erika’s Clefairy card. Its key identifiers include the illustrator Atsuko Nishida and the card ID gym2-40.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
- This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
- Its Lunar Power attack allows for potential deck searching and evolution, adding a tactical element to gameplay, while Moon Kick provides consistent damage output.
Care & Storage Tips

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

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Gym Challenge (gym2): Erika’s Clefairy appears as a Basic, Colorless-type Pokémon with useful utility in evolving Benched Pokémon via Lunar Power. This set focuses on Gym Leaders and their signature Pokémon, with this card representing Erika’s team.
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September 24, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Erika’s Ivysaur (Gym Challenge #41)
Erika’s Ivysaur Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Erika’s Ivysaur from the Gym Challenge set is an uncommon card numbered 41. This vibrant Pokémon boasts 60 HP and features the relaxing ability called Relaxing Scent. Its attack, Double Razor Leaf, offers a dynamic option during battles.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Gym Challenge 41 Uncommon 60 Ken Sugimori
- HP: 60
- Type: Grass
- Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Erika’s Bulbasaur)
- Retreat Cost: 2
- Weakness: Fire (×2)
- Abilities: Relaxing Scent (Pokémon Power) halves damage from attacks while active unless Asleep, Confused, or Paralyzed
- Attack: Double Razor Leaf – Flip 2 coins; does 40 damage times the number of heads
Key Printings

This guide focuses on the exact printing of Erika’s Ivysaur from the Gym Challenge set, card number 41. It is an uncommon card with no known alternate print variants.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this card. Identifiers include the set code “gym2” and card number “41.” The card’s artwork by Ken Sugimori and its unique Pokémon Power make it easily recognizable.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats, limiting its use in official tournament play.

Care & Storage Tips

To preserve the card’s condition, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its age and rarity, keeping it flat and in a cool, dry environment will help maintain its value and artwork integrity.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Gym Challenge: Erika’s Ivysaur is part of this set, which features Gym Leader-themed cards with unique abilities and attacks. This card exemplifies the set’s focus on strategic gameplay through its Relaxing Scent ability and coin-flip-based attack.
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September 24, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Giovanni’s Machoke (Gym Challenge #42)
Giovanni’s Machoke Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Giovanni’s Machoke is an uncommon card (#42) from the Gym Challenge set. With 80 HP and the headline move Risky Attack, it captures the gritty intensity of a Gym Leader’s trusted fighter.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Gym Challenge 42 Uncommon 80 Ken Sugimori

Card Stats
- Pokémon: Giovanni’s Machoke
- Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Giovanni’s Machop)
- Type: Fighting
- Weakness: Psychic (×2)
- Retreat Cost: 2
- Attacks:
- Risky Attack: Flip a coin; tails causes 100 damage to itself and no damage to the opponent, otherwise deals 60 damage.
- Headlock: Flip a coin; heads deals 40 damage and paralyzes, tails deals 20 damage.
- Abilities: None
- Flavor Text: Unknown
- Regulation Mark: None
Key Printings

The key printing of Giovanni’s Machoke is from the Gym Challenge set, identified by set code “gym2” and card number 42. This printing is notable for its classic Ken Sugimori artwork and the card’s uncommon rarity status.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this exact printing of Giovanni’s Machoke. Identification relies on the set code “gym2,” card number 42, and the distinctive Ken Sugimori illustration. The card’s Fighting type and unique attack mechanics also help distinguish it.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats according to the provided data. Its strategic attacks involve coin flips that can either benefit or harm the player, making it a high-risk, high-reward choice in casual play.

Care & Storage Tips

To preserve the condition of this uncommon card, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the surface, especially since the card’s artwork and text are key to its collectible value.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Gym Challenge: Giovanni’s Machoke appears as a solid Stage 1 Fighting-type with unique coin-flip attacks and a classic Ken Sugimori illustration. This set is known for featuring Gym Leader-themed cards, and this Machoke fits well within that theme with its balanced HP and tactical moves.
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September 24, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Giovanni’s Meowth (Gym Challenge #43)
Giovanni’s Meowth Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Giovanni’s Meowth from the Gym Challenge set is an uncommon card numbered 43. This lively Pokémon has 40 HP and features the attack Double Scratch. Its straightforward design makes it a distinctive addition to any collection.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Gym Challenge 43 Uncommon 40 Atsuko Nishida
- Type: Colorless
- Stage: Basic
- Retreat Cost: 1
- Weakness: Fighting (×2)
- Resistance: Psychic (-30)
- Attacks:
- False Charity: Flip a coin; if heads, look at the top card of your opponent’s deck. If it’s a Trainer card, discard it; otherwise, add it to their hand.
- Double Scratch: Flip 2 coins; this attack does 20 damage times the number of heads.
Key Printings

This exact printing of Giovanni’s Meowth appears in the Gym Challenge set, identified by the set code “gym2” and card number 43. It is an uncommon card with no known alternate print variants.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this card. Key identifiers include its unique attacks “False Charity” and “Double Scratch,” the illustrator Atsuko Nishida, and its placement as card 43 in the Gym Challenge set. The card’s image can be viewed at: /images/gym2/gym2-43.jpg.

Legality & Play Notes

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

Care & Storage Tips

To preserve the card’s condition, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its uncommon rarity and vintage status, maintaining its edges and surface is crucial for retaining collector value.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Gym Challenge: Giovanni’s Meowth stands out as a tactical Basic Pokémon with disruptive and damage-dealing attacks. Its modest HP and unique abilities make it a memorable part of this gym-themed set.
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September 24, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Giovanni’s Nidorina (Gym Challenge #44)
Giovanni’s Nidorina Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Giovanni’s Nidorina from the Gym Challenge set is an uncommon card numbered 44. It boasts a sturdy 80 HP and features the dynamic attack Poison Sting Tackle. This card captures the essence of Nidorina with a vivid design that stands out in any collection.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Gym Challenge 44 Uncommon 80 Ken Sugimori
- Type: Grass
- Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Giovanni’s Nidoran ♀)
- Retreat Cost: 2
- Weakness: Psychic ×2
- Resistances: None
- Abilities: None
- Attacks:
- Poison Sting Tackle: Deals 30 damage but causes Giovanni’s Nidorina to take 20 damage itself; may poison the opponent.
- Body Slam: Deals 20 damage and may paralyze the opponent.
Key Printings

The key printing of Giovanni’s Nidorina is from the Gym Challenge set, identified by the set code “gym2” and card number 44. This printing is notable for its classic Ken Sugimori artwork and its uncommon rarity status.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this exact printing of Giovanni’s Nidorina. Collectors can identify this card by its unique card ID “gym2-44” and its placement within the Gym Challenge series.

Legality & Play Notes

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

Care & Storage Tips

To preserve the card’s condition, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its uncommon rarity and classic illustration, maintaining the card’s surface and edges is essential for long-term value.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Gym Challenge: Giovanni’s Nidorina appears as a strategic Grass-type Stage 1 Pokémon with status-inflicting attacks. Its design and mechanics reflect the thematic focus on Gym Leaders and their signature Pokémon, making it a distinctive collectible from this set.
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September 24, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Giovanni’s Nidorino (Gym Challenge #45)
Giovanni’s Nidorino Collector’s Guide

Overview

Giovanni’s Nidorino from the Gym Challenge set is an uncommon card featuring 70 HP and the attack Rend, making it a notable addition for collectors. Numbered 45 in the set, it captures the essence of Giovanni’s team with vivid Ken Sugimori artwork.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Gym Challenge 45 Uncommon 70 Ken Sugimori
- Type: Grass
- Stage: Stage 1
- Retreat Cost: 2
- Weakness: Psychic ×2
- Attack: Rend – Deals 20 damage, or 40 if the Defending Pokémon already has damage counters.
- Evolves From: Giovanni’s Nidoran ♂
- Illustrator: Ken Sugimori
- Set Code: gym2
- Card ID: gym2-45
- Image:
Key Printing
- Gym Challenge (gym2), card number 45. Notable for its clean Ken Sugimori artwork and uncommon rarity.
Variants & Identifiers
- No known print variants.
- Identification: set code gym2, card number 45, Grass-type coloring, and Ken Sugimori illustration.
Legality & Play Notes
- Legality: unknown
- This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. No official tournament play status is confirmed.
Care & Storage
- Store in a protective sleeve, away from direct sunlight to prevent fading.
- Avoid moisture and handle with clean hands to preserve the artwork and card surface.
Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Gym Challenge: Giovanni’s Nidorino appears as an uncommon Stage 1 Grass-type Pokémon, continuing the Gym Leader theme with a unique attack that scales damage based on the opponent’s status. This set emphasizes strategic evolution lines and character-driven cards.
This guide covers all known details about Giovanni’s Nidorino from the Gym Challenge set, providing collectors and players with essential information for identification and care.

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September 24, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Koga’s Golbat (Gym Challenge #46)
Koga’s Golbat Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Koga’s Golbat from the Gym Challenge set is an Uncommon card numbered 46. This lively Pokémon boasts 60 HP and features the distinctive attack Sonic Scream. The artwork captures Golbat’s energetic, in-battle presence.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Gym Challenge 46 Uncommon 60 Ken Sugimori
- Type: Grass
- Stage: Stage 1
- Evolves From: Koga’s Zubat
- Retreat Cost: 0
- Weakness: Psychic ×2
- Resistance: Fighting -30
- Attacks:
- Bite (20 damage, costs 2 Colorless)
- Sonic Scream (30 damage, costs 3 Grass; flip a coin to confuse the Defending Pokémon on heads)
Key Printings

This exact printing of Koga’s Golbat appears in the Gym Challenge set, identified by the set code “gym2” and card number 46. It is classified as an Uncommon card and features no special print variants.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this card. Notable identifiers include:
– Grass typing and Stage 1 evolution from Koga’s Zubat
– Attack pairing of Bite and Sonic Scream
– Zero retreat cost
– Illustration by Ken Sugimori

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its Grass typing, Psychic weakness, and Fighting resistance may influence deck-building approaches, though its play status is uncertain.

Care & Storage Tips

To preserve the vivid artwork and condition, store Koga’s Golbat in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its Uncommon rarity, careful handling helps retain collector value.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Gym Challenge: Koga’s Golbat fits the Gym Leader theme and the set’s Grass-type lineup, offering a balanced mix of straightforward damage and potential status disruption via its attacks.
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September 24, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Koga’s Kakuna (Gym Challenge #47)
Koga’s Kakuna Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Koga’s Kakuna is an uncommon card from the Gym Challenge set, numbered 47. This 60 HP Pokémon features the Pokémon Power Emerge and the attack Toxic Secretion. Its design reflects the unique style of the Gym Challenge series.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Gym Challenge 47 Uncommon 60 Ken Sugimori
- Type: Grass
- Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Koga’s Weedle)
- Retreat Cost: 2
- Weakness: Fire (×2)
- Abilities:
- Emerge (Pokémon Power): Flip a coin once per turn to search your deck for Koga’s Beedrill and evolve Koga’s Kakuna if heads. Cannot be used if Kakuna is Asleep, Confused, or Paralyzed.
- Attack:
- Toxic Secretion (Grass energy): Flip a coin; if heads, the Defending Pokémon becomes Poisoned and takes 20 poison damage after each turn instead of 10.
Key Printings

The key printing of Koga’s Kakuna is from the Gym Challenge set, identified by the set code “gym2” and card number 47. It features classic Ken Sugimori artwork and the “Emerge” Pokémon Power, which is unique to this printing.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this card. It is identified by its set name “Gym Challenge,” set code “gym2,” and card number 47. The card’s rarity is Uncommon, and it features the Grass type symbol and Stage 1 subtype.

Legality & Play Notes
- Legality: unknown
- This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
Its gameplay utility centers on evolving quickly into Koga’s Beedrill using the “Emerge” ability and applying pressure with the “Toxic Secretion” attack.

Care & Storage Tips

Store in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the illustrated front by Ken Sugimori. A temperature-controlled environment helps maintain condition.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Gym Challenge: Koga’s Kakuna appears as a strategic Stage 1 Grass-type card with a unique evolution ability and a poison-inducing attack. Its classic illustration and uncommon rarity make it a notable collectible within this set. The release date remains unknown, adding to its collectible intrigue.
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September 24, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Koga’s Koffing (Gym Challenge #48)
Collector’s Guide: Koga’s Koffing (Gym Challenge #48)

Character Intro

Koga’s Koffing from the Gym Challenge set is an uncommon card numbered 48. This lively Pokémon has 50 HP and features the attack Obscuring Gas. Its design captures the mischievous nature of Koffing in a compact form.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Gym Challenge 48 Uncommon 50 Ken Sugimori
- Type: Grass
- Stage: Basic
- Retreat Cost: 1
- Weakness: Psychic ×2
- Abilities: None
- Attacks:
- Smokescreen: Potentially nullifies the Defending Pokémon’s next attack if a coin flip is tails, dealing 10 damage.
- Obscuring Gas: Deals 30 damage and may shuffle Koga’s Koffing and all attached cards back into the deck on a heads flip.
- Flavor Text: Unknown
- Regulation Mark: None
Key Printings

This exact printing appears in the Gym Challenge set as card number 48. It is an uncommon card with artwork by Ken Sugimori.

Variants & Identifiers

No print variants are listed. The card is identified by set code “gym2” and number 48. The card image can be referenced at /images/gym2/gym2-48.jpg.

Legality & Play Notes
- Legality: unknown
- According to the provided data, this card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
- Its Grass typing and disruptive attacks may offer niche strategic options, but its tournament viability is unclear.
Care & Storage Tips

Store in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its uncommon rarity and vintage status within the Gym Challenge set, maintaining mint condition will help retain collector value.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Gym Challenge: Koga’s Koffing stands out as a Basic Grass-type with unique disruptive attacks. Its uncommon rarity and Ken Sugimori’s illustration make it a notable piece within this set, though many details such as release date and flavor text remain unknown.
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September 24, 2025