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Tag: Collector’s Guide

  • Collector’s Guide: Lt. Surge’s Raticate (Gym Challenge #53)

    Lt. Surge’s Raticate Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Lt. Surge’s Raticate from the Gym Challenge set is an uncommon card numbered 53. This energetic, 60 HP Colorless Pokémon features the hard-hitting Double-edge attack, and its straightforward design captures the essence of Lt. Surge’s signature battler.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge unknown 53 Uncommon 60 Ken Sugimori
    • Evolves from: Lt. Surge’s Rattata
    • Type: Colorless
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Fighting (×2)
    • Resistance: Psychic (-30)

    Key Printings

    This card is printed only in the Gym Challenge set, identified by the set code “gym2” and card number 53. It is an uncommon rarity card, making it moderately accessible but still a valued piece for Gym series collectors.

    Variants & Identifiers

    No print variants are known for this card. Key identifiers include its unique attacks “Focus Energy” and “Double-edge,” and its illustrator Ken Sugimori’s signature style. The card can be visually identified by its Colorless type icon and the “Lt. Surge’s Raticate” name.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. It features two attacks: “Focus Energy,” which doubles the damage of “Double-edge” on the next turn, and “Double-edge,” which deals 40 damage but also inflicts 20 damage to itself.

    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 Gym Challenge set origin, maintaining sharp edges and vibrant colors will help retain its collector value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge (gym2): This set focuses on Gym Leader-themed Pokémon cards, with Lt. Surge’s Raticate standing out due to its strategic attack synergy and classic Ken Sugimori artwork. The set is known for its nostalgic appeal and unique gameplay mechanics tied to Gym Leaders.

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  • Collector’s Guide: Misty’s Dewgong (Gym Challenge #54)

    Misty’s Dewgong Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Misty’s Dewgong is an uncommon card from the Gym Challenge set, numbered 54. A sturdy Stage 1 with 80 HP, it features the hard-hitting Take Down attack. The card presents Dewgong’s graceful presence with a clean, straightforward design.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 54 Uncommon 80 Ken Sugimori
    • Type: Water
    • Stage: Stage 1
    • Weakness: Lightning (×2)
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Attacks:
    • Ice Throw: Deals 20 damage, doubled if the Defending Pokémon is Fighting.
    • Take Down: Deals 60 damage but causes Misty’s Dewgong to do 20 damage to itself.
    • Abilities: None
    • Flavor Text: Unknown
    • Regulation Mark: None

    Key Printings

    This exact printing appears in Gym Challenge as card 54. It is an uncommon rarity illustrated by Ken Sugimori, known for his classic Pokémon artwork. No alternate printings or reprints are documented for this specific card.

    Variants & Identifiers

    No known print variants exist. Identifiers include set code “gym2,” card number 54, and Ken Sugimori’s unique artwork. Its Water typing, Stage 1 status, and specific attacks further distinguish it from other Dewgong cards.

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
    • This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its playability in current or future formats remains unknown.

    Care & Storage Tips

    Store in a protective sleeve, away from sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching to preserve the artwork. A rigid top-loader or binder storage is recommended for long-term care.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: Misty’s Dewgong fits this Gym Leader–focused set, aligning with Water-type themes and offering attacks that reflect its battling style. The set’s emphasis on Gym Leader teams makes it a strong niche collectible.

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  • Collector’s Guide: Sabrina’s Haunter (Gym Challenge #55)

    Collector’s Guide: Sabrina’s Haunter (Gym Challenge #55)

    Sabrina’s Haunter Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Sabrina’s Haunter is an Uncommon card (#55) from the Gym Challenge set. This ghostly Pokémon has 70 HP and wields the eerie attack Nightmare. Its spectral presence makes it a distinctive addition to any collection.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 55 Uncommon 70 Ken Sugimori
    • Type: Psychic
    • Stage: Stage 1
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Resistance: Fighting -30
    • Weaknesses: None listed
    • Attacks:
    • Nightmare: Causes the Defending Pokémon to fall Asleep and deals 20 damage.
    • Shadow Attack: Flip a coin; if heads, deals 30 damage to one of the opponent’s Benched Pokémon (ignores Weakness and Resistance).
    • Abilities: None
    • Flavor Text: Unknown
    • Regulation Mark: None

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Sabrina’s Haunter is from the Gym Challenge set, card number 55. It is an Uncommon rarity card illustrated by Ken Sugimori. The card does not have any alternate print variants listed.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants or alternate artworks for this specific card. Identification is straightforward by its set code “gym2-55” and its unique attacks and Psychic typing.

    Legality & Play Notes

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

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the vivid Ken Sugimori artwork and maintain card condition, store Sabrina’s Haunter in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the card to keep its value intact.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: Sabrina’s Haunter appears as a Psychic-type Stage 1 card evolving from Sabrina’s Gastly. It features strategic attacks that can put opponents to sleep or target Benched Pokémon, making it a notable card in the Gym Challenge series.

    Sabrina's Haunter

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    Sabrina's Haunter (Gym Challenge) #55

  • Collector’s Guide: Sabrina’s Hypno (Gym Challenge #56)

    Sabrina’s Hypno Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Sabrina’s Hypno from the Gym Challenge set is an uncommon card featuring 70 HP. This intriguing Psychic-type Pokémon boasts the attack Pendulum Curse, adding a strategic edge to gameplay. Numbered 56 in the set, it offers collectors a distinctive piece from this classic series.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 56 Uncommon 70 Ken Sugimori
    • Type: Psychic
    • Stage: Stage 1
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Weakness: Psychic ×2
    • Abilities: None
    • Attacks:
    • Invigorate: Revives a Basic Pokémon from any discard pile to the Bench with damage counters equal to half its HP (rounded down to nearest 10).
    • Pendulum Curse: Deals 20 damage times the number of coin flips that land heads, with flips equal to damage counters on the Defending Pokémon.

    Key Printings

    The key printing of Sabrina’s Hypno is from the Gym Challenge set, identified by card number 56. It is an uncommon card illustrated by Ken Sugimori, known for his classic Pokémon artwork. This printing is notable for its unique attack mechanics and its connection to Sabrina’s Drowzee.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Identification is straightforward through its set code “gym2,” card number 56, and the distinctive Psychic-type Stage 1 classification. The card’s image can be referenced at /images/gym2/gym2-56.jpg.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its unique attacks offer tactical options in casual play, especially the ability to revive Basic Pokémon with damage counters, but official tournament use is not supported.

    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 Ken Sugimori illustration, maintaining sharp edges and vibrant colors will help retain collector value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: Sabrina’s Hypno appears as card 56 in this set, contributing to the Psychic-type lineup with its strategic attack options and evolution from Sabrina’s Drowzee. The set itself is known for featuring Gym Leader-themed cards with unique mechanics.

    This guide should assist collectors and players in identifying and appreciating this particular printing of Sabrina’s Hypno.

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  • Collector’s Guide: Sabrina’s Jynx (Gym Challenge #57)

    Collector’s Guide: Sabrina’s Jynx (Gym Challenge #57)

    Sabrina’s Jynx Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Sabrina’s Jynx from the Gym Challenge set is an uncommon card numbered 57. This lively Pokémon boasts 60 HP and features the unique attack Hug. Its charming design captures the essence of Jynx in a distinctive way.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 57 Uncommon 60 Atsuko Nishida
    • Type: Psychic
    • Stage: Basic
    • Weakness: Psychic ×2
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Attacks:
    • Helping Hand: Remove damage counters from an opponent’s Pokémon and draw cards equal to the number removed.
    • Hug: Deals 20 damage and may prevent the Defending Pokémon from retreating if a coin flip is heads.
    • Abilities: None
    • Flavor Text: Unknown
    • Regulation Mark: None

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Sabrina’s Jynx appears in the Gym Challenge set, identified by the set code “gym2” and card number 57. It is classified as an Uncommon card and features artwork by Atsuko Nishida, a notable illustrator in the Pokémon TCG community.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It is identified by its Psychic type, Basic stage, and the unique combination of the Helping Hand and Hug attacks. The card’s rarity symbol and numbering within the Gym Challenge set further distinguish it.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality status: unknown. This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats according to available data.

    Care & Storage Tips

    • Store Sabrina’s Jynx in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture.
    • Avoid bending or scratching the card surface.
    • Keep it in a stable environment to prevent warping and preserve the vibrant illustration.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: Sabrina’s Jynx appears as an Uncommon Basic Psychic Pokémon with tactical attacks that support both offense and disruption. Its presence in this set adds strategic depth for collectors and players interested in Gym Leader-themed decks.

    Sabrina's Jynx

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    Sabrina's Jynx (Gym Challenge) #57

  • Collector’s Guide: Sabrina’s Kadabra (Gym Challenge #58)

    Sabrina’s Kadabra Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Sabrina’s Kadabra from the Gym Challenge set is an uncommon card numbered 58. This Psychic Pokémon has 70 HP and the attack Psyshot. Its design captures the mysterious aura typical of Kadabra.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 58 Uncommon 70 Ken Sugimori
    • Type: Psychic
    • Stage: Stage 1
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Psychic ×2
    • Attacks:
    • Life Drain: Flip a coin; if heads, reduce the Defending Pokémon’s HP to 10 by placing damage counters.
    • Psyshot: Deals 30 damage with a cost of one Psychic and two Colorless energies.
    • Abilities: None
    • Flavor Text: Unknown
    • Regulation Mark: None

    Key Printings

    Printed only in the Gym Challenge set under the code gym2-58. As an uncommon, it’s moderately accessible for Gym-series collectors.

    Variants & Identifiers

    No known print variants for this exact printing. Identify by:
    – Set code “gym2”
    – Card number 58
    – Ken Sugimori artwork
    – Psychic type and Stage 1 subtype

    Legality & Play Notes

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

    Care & Storage Tips

    Store in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its uncommon rarity and Ken Sugimori illustration, maintaining mint condition can enhance its collector value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: Features Gym Leader-themed cards, including Sabrina’s Kadabra, highlighting Psychic-type strategies with Life Drain and Psyshot. The set is known for its nostalgic appeal and distinctive Ken Sugimori artwork.

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  • Collector’s Guide: Sabrina’s Mr. Mime (Gym Challenge #59)

    Collector’s Guide: Sabrina’s Mr. Mime (Gym Challenge #59)

    Sabrina’s Mr. Mime Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Sabrina’s Mr. Mime is an uncommon card (#59) from the Gym Challenge set. With 60 HP and the unique Magic Darts attack, it delivers targeted pressure and captures the enigmatic charm associated with Sabrina’s team.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 59 Uncommon 60 Ken Sugimori
    • Type: Psychic
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Psychic ×2
    • Attack: Magic Darts (flip 3 coins, 10 damage per heads to chosen opponent’s Pokémon, ignores Weakness and Resistance)
    • Evolves From: None
    • Flavor Text: Unknown

    Key Printings

    This exact printing appears in Gym Challenge with set code “gym2” and card number 59. It features clean Ken Sugimori artwork and the Magic Darts attack, which can strategically target any opposing Pokémon.

    Variants & Identifiers

    No known print variants. Identifiers include its Psychic typing, Basic stage, Uncommon rarity, and the distinctive Magic Darts attack. It carries no regulation mark.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats according to the provided data. Its Magic Darts attack bypasses Weakness and Resistance, offering tactical flexibility in casual play.

    Care & Storage Tips

    Protect the Ken Sugimori illustration and overall condition by storing the card in a sleeve, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching to preserve value and eye appeal.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: An uncommon Psychic Basic Pokémon with a coin-flip attack that fits the Gym Leader theme, highlighting both strategic play and collectibility.

    Sabrina's Mr. Mime

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    Sabrina's Mr. Mime (Gym Challenge) #59

  • Collector’s Guide: Giovanni’s Machamp (Gym Challenge #6)

    Collector’s Guide: Giovanni’s Machamp (Gym Challenge #6)

    Giovanni’s Machamp Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Giovanni’s Machamp from the Gym Challenge set is a Rare Holo card numbered 6. This powerhouse sports 100 HP, the Pokémon Power Fortitude, and the hard-hitting Hurricane Punch attack for dynamic in-game pressure.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 6 Rare Holo 100 Ken Sugimori
    • Card ID: gym2-6
    • Stage: Stage 2 (evolves from Giovanni’s Machoke)
    • Type: Fighting
    • Retreat Cost: 3
    • Weakness: Psychic ×2
    • Abilities: Fortitude (Pokémon Power)
    • Attack: Hurricane Punch (Flip 4 coins; 30 damage per heads)
    • Set Code: gym2
    • Series: Gym
    • Flavor Text: Unknown
    • Regulation Mark: Unknown
    • Legality: unknown
    • Image: Giovanni's Machamp

    Key Printings

    The key printing of Giovanni’s Machamp is from the Gym Challenge set, identified as card number 6. This rare holo edition is the only known printing and is distinguished by Ken Sugimori’s classic illustration style.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Identification is straightforward via its set code “gym2,” card number 6, and the rare holo rarity. The card’s unique Pokémon Power, Fortitude, and its four Fighting energy cost Hurricane Punch attack also help distinguish it.

    Legality & Play Notes

    The card’s legality status is unknown. It is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats according to available data. Its Fortitude ability allows it to potentially survive a knockout hit if it is not already affected by a special condition, adding a tactical layer to gameplay.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the card’s holo finish and maintain its condition, store it in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the surface, especially around the edges where wear is most common.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: Giovanni’s Machamp appears as a rare holo Stage 2 Fighting-type card with a unique defensive Pokémon Power and a high-damage attack. It stands out as a collectible centerpiece within this set due to its rarity and iconic illustration.

    This guide covers all known details about this specific printing of Giovanni’s Machamp. Further information such as release date and flavor text remain unknown.

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    Giovanni's Machamp (Gym Challenge) #6

  • Collector’s Guide: Blaine’s Charmander (Gym Challenge #60)

    Collector’s Guide: Blaine’s Charmander (Gym Challenge #60)

    Blaine’s Charmander Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Blaine’s Charmander from the Gym Challenge set is a common card numbered 60. This Fire-type basic Pokémon has 50 HP and the attack Fire Tail Slap. Its simple, nostalgic design makes it a solid pickup for collectors of classic Gym Challenge cards.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 60 Common 50 Ken Sugimori
    • Type: Fire
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Water (×2)
    • Attack: Fire Tail Slap (20 damage; may discard Fire Energy on tails)
    • Set Code: gym2
    • Card ID: gym2-60
    • Image:

    Key Printings

    This printing appears in the Gym Challenge set, identified by set code gym2 and card number 60. As a Common, it’s widely accessible for collectors focusing on the Gym series.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Identification is straightforward via the gym2 set code, number 60, and the Ken Sugimori illustration.

    Legality & Play Notes

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

    Care & Storage Tips

    Store in a sleeve and keep away from sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the surface—especially important for preserving the classic Ken Sugimori artwork.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: A basic Fire-type with a thematic, straightforward attack that aligns with Blaine’s fiery motif. This printing is a common staple within the Gym Leader-focused set.

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    Blaine's Charmander (Gym Challenge) #60

  • Collector’s Guide: Blaine’s Doduo (Gym Challenge #61)

    Collector’s Guide: Blaine’s Doduo (Gym Challenge #61)

    Blaine’s Doduo Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Blaine’s Doduo from the Gym Challenge set is a common card numbered 61. It has 50 HP and features the attack Wild Kick. This straightforward Pokémon offers a classic battling style for collectors and players alike.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 61 Common 50 Ken Sugimori
    • Type: Colorless
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Weakness: Lightning (×2)
    • Resistance: Fighting (-30)
    • Attacks:
    • Wild Kick: Flip a coin; if tails, the attack does nothing. Deals 20 damage.
    • Retaliate: Deals 10 damage times the number of damage counters on Blaine’s Doduo.
    • Evolves From: None
    • Flavor Text: Unknown
    • Regulation Mark: None

    Key Printings

    This printing appears in Gym Challenge with set code “gym2” and card number 61. It is a Common rarity card, accessible for collectors and ideal for Gym Challenge-focused binders. The Ken Sugimori artwork reflects the set’s classic aesthetic.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants. Identification is straightforward via set code “gym2-61,” common rarity, and the Ken Sugimori illustration. The lack of a regulation mark and the specific attack names further distinguish it from other Doduo cards.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats, limiting its use in official tournament play. However, it remains a nostalgic piece for collectors and casual players interested in the Gym Challenge era.

    Care & Storage Tips

    Store in a sleeve, away from sunlight and moisture. Even as a common, it can show wear with handling—use a top-loader or a binder with individual pockets. Avoid extreme temperatures to preserve card stock and artwork.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: Blaine’s Doduo is part of this set, which focuses on Gym Leader-themed cards. The set features a variety of Basic Pokémon with straightforward attacks and classic illustrations by Ken Sugimori. This card fits well within the set’s theme of accessible, beginner-friendly gameplay options.

    Blaine's Doduo

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    Blaine's Doduo (Gym Challenge) #61