Tag: Collector’s Guide

  • Collector’s Guide: Croagunk (Fusion Strike #165)

    Collector’s Guide: Croagunk (Fusion Strike #165)

    Croagunk (Fusion Strike 165) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Croagunk from the Fusion Strike set is a common Pokémon card numbered 165. With 60 HP and the straightforward attack Corkscrew Punch, it’s an easy, engaging addition to any collection.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Fusion Strike 165 Common 60 Nagomi Nijo
    • Type: Darkness
    • Stage: Basic
    • Attack: Corkscrew Punch (20 damage, costs 1 Darkness energy)
    • Weakness: Fighting ×2
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Regulation Mark: E
    • Flavor Text: Once diluted, its poison becomes medicinal. This Pokémon came into popularity after a pharmaceutical company chose it as a mascot.
    • Evolves From: None

    Key Printings

    This exact printing is from the Fusion Strike set, card number 165. It is a common rarity card with no additional abilities beyond its single attack. The card art by Nagomi Nijo is distinctive for this release.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It is identified by the set code “swsh8” and the regulation mark “E.” The card’s unique market reference query is “Croagunk Fusion Strike 165.” The card image can be found at /images/swsh8/swsh8-165.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 with a single attack and no special abilities, standard protective sleeves and storage in a cool, dry place are recommended to preserve the card’s condition. Avoid exposure to direct sunlight to maintain the vivid artwork by Nagomi Nijo.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Fusion Strike: This set includes Croagunk as a Basic Darkness-type Pokémon with straightforward gameplay utility. It fits well in decks requiring low-cost attackers with modest damage output.

    Croagunk (Fusion Strike) #165

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    Croagunk (Fusion Strike) #165

  • Collector’s Guide: Toxicroak (Fusion Strike #166)

    Toxicroak Collector’s Guide: Fusion Strike #166

    Character Intro

    Toxicroak from the Fusion Strike set is a Rare card with 110 HP and the attack Magnum Punch. It is card number 166 in the set.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Fusion Strike 166 Rare 110 Masakazu Fukuda
    • Type: Darkness
    • Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Croagunk)
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Fighting ×2
    • Resistances: None
    • Regulation Mark: E
    • Flavor Text: It booms out a victory croak when its prey goes down in defeat. This Pokémon and Seismitoad are related species.
    • Image:

    Key Printings

    This guide covers the Fusion Strike printing of Toxicroak, card number 166. It is a Rare card with no known alternate print variants.

    Variants & Identifiers

    No print variants or alternate art versions are documented for this card. It is identified by set code “swsh8,” number 166, and illustrator Masakazu Fukuda’s artwork.

    Legality & Play Notes

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

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve condition and artwork, use a protective sleeve and keep the card away from sunlight and moisture. For long-term storage, consider a top-loader or an acid-free binder page.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Fusion Strike: This set includes Toxicroak as a Rare Darkness-type Stage 1 Pokémon, emphasizing strategic poison effects and strong attacks like Magnum Punch. The set’s design highlights dynamic Pokémon battles with a focus on synergy and tactical play.

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    Toxicroak (Fusion Strike) #166

  • Collector’s Guide: Darkrai (Fusion Strike #167)

    Collector’s Guide: Darkrai (Fusion Strike #167)

    Darkrai Collector’s Guide: Fusion Strike #167

    Character Intro

    Darkrai from the Fusion Strike set is an uncommon Pokémon card numbered 167. It features 110 HP and the attack Dark Cutter. Straightforward and reliable, it pairs solid offense with decent survivability.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Fusion Strike 167 Uncommon 110 Megumi Mizutani
    • Type: Darkness
    • Stage: Basic
    • Attack: Dark Cutter (90 damage; costs Darkness + 2 Colorless)
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Weakness: Grass ×2
    • Flavor Text: “It can lull people to sleep and make them dream. It is active during nights of the new moon.”
    • Set Code: swsh8
    • Regulation Mark: E
    • Abilities: None

    Key Printings

    This guide covers the single known printing of Darkrai from the Fusion Strike expansion, card number 167. It is classified as an Uncommon card and features artwork by Megumi Mizutani. No release date is available for this printing.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Identification is straightforward via its set code (swsh8), card number (167), and regulation mark (E). The card’s Darkness type and unique attack “Dark Cutter” also help distinguish it.

    Legality & Play Notes

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

    Care & Storage Tips

    Protect with sleeves and store away from direct sunlight, moisture, bending, and extreme temperatures. As an Uncommon, keeping it mint can still enhance collector appeal.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Fusion Strike (swsh8): Introduces Darkrai as a Basic Darkness-type with a solid 90-damage attack and flavor text highlighting its dream-inducing powers. It fits the set’s dynamic roster but lacks abilities or complex mechanics.

    Darkrai (Fusion Strike) #167

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    Darkrai (Fusion Strike) #167

  • Collector’s Guide: Phantump (Fusion Strike #16)

    Collector’s Guide: Phantump (Fusion Strike #16)

    Phantump (Fusion Strike 16) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Phantump is a Common Pokémon card from the Fusion Strike set, numbered 16. This card has 60 HP and features the attack Seed Bomb. Its straightforward design makes it a charming addition for collectors.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Fusion Strike 16 Common 60 OKACHEKE
    • Type: Grass
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1 Colorless
    • Weakness: Fire ×2
    • Resistance: None
    • Regulation Mark: E
    • Flavor Text: With a voice like a human child’s, it cries out to lure adults deep into the forest, getting them lost among the trees.

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Phantump appears in the Sword & Shield Fusion Strike expansion as card number 16. It is a Common rarity card illustrated by OKACHEKE.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It is identified by the set code “swsh8” and the card ID “swsh8-16”. The market reference query is “Phantump Fusion Strike 16”.

    Legality & Play Notes

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

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the vibrant artwork and card condition, store this card 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

    • Fusion Strike: Phantump is introduced as a Basic Grass-type Pokémon with two straightforward attacks: Tackle (10 damage) and Seed Bomb (20 damage). It features a haunting flavor text that adds character depth without abilities or special rules.

    Phantump (Fusion Strike) #16

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    Phantump (Fusion Strike) #16

  • Collector’s Guide: Trubbish (Fusion Strike #168)

    Trubbish Collector’s Guide: Fusion Strike #168

    Character Intro

    Trubbish from Fusion Strike is a Common (#168) with 70 HP and the attack Super Poison Breath—a straightforward pickup for collectors focusing on the Fusion Strike series.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Fusion Strike 168 Common 70 Shibuzoh.
    • Type: Darkness
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Weakness: Fighting ×2
    • Abilities: None
    • Attacks:
    • Call for Family: Search your deck for a Basic Pokémon and put it onto your Bench, then shuffle your deck (cost: Darkness).
    • Super Poison Breath: Deals 20 damage and poisons the opponent’s Active Pokémon (cost: Darkness, Colorless).
    • Flavor Text: “This Pokémon was born from a bag stuffed with trash. Galarian Weezing relish the fumes belched by Trubbish.”
    • Regulation Mark: E

    Key Printings

    This guide focuses on the Fusion Strike printing of Trubbish (#168), a Common with no known alternate printings or special editions.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this Trubbish card. It is identified by its set code “swsh8” and card number 168. The illustrator credit goes to Shibuzoh., and it features the Darkness type and Basic subtype.

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
    • This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
    • Its utility lies in bench setup and poisoning opponents, but competitive viability is unknown.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve this common card’s condition, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the card surface to maintain its collectible value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Fusion Strike: Introduced as part of the Sword & Shield series, this set includes Trubbish as a Basic Darkness-type Pokémon with bench support and poison capabilities. The set’s theme revolves around strategic fusion and synergy, with Trubbish contributing to early game board development.

    Trubbish Fusion Strike 168

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    Trubbish (Fusion Strike) #168

  • Collector’s Guide: Garbodor (Fusion Strike #169)

    Collector’s Guide: Garbodor (Fusion Strike #169)

    Garbodor (Fusion Strike 169) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Garbodor from the Fusion Strike set is an Uncommon card numbered 169. It has 120 HP and features the attack Sludge Whirlpool. Alongside Poison Gas, it provides a straightforward, damage-focused game plan.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Fusion Strike 169 Uncommon 120 Misa Tsutsui
    • Type: Darkness
    • Stage: Stage 1
    • Retreat Cost: 3
    • Weakness: Fighting ×2
    • Resistance: None
    • Regulation Mark: E
    • Flavor Text: The toxic liquid it launches from its right arm is so virulent that it can kill a weakened creature instantly.
    • Attacks:
    • Poison Gas: Your opponent’s Active Pokémon is now Poisoned (30 damage, costs 1 Darkness energy)
    • Sludge Whirlpool: 130 damage (costs 2 Darkness and 1 Colorless energy)
    • Evolves From: Trubbish
    • Illustrator: Misa Tsutsui
    • Card Number: 169

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Garbodor appears in the Sword & Shield Fusion Strike set, identified by the set code swsh8 and card number 169. It is an Uncommon rarity card.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Key identifiers include its Darkness type, Stage 1 subtype, and the regulation mark E. The card’s image can be referenced at /images/swsh8/swsh8-169.jpg.

    Legality & Play Notes

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

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the card’s vibrant artwork and condition, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its Uncommon rarity, maintaining mint condition can help retain collector value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Fusion Strike (swsh8): This set features Garbodor as a Stage 1 Darkness-type Pokémon with a focus on poison and high-damage attacks, fitting the set’s dynamic and strategic gameplay style.

    Garbodor (Fusion Strike) #169

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    Garbodor (Fusion Strike) #169

  • Collector’s Guide: Trevenant (Fusion Strike #17)

    Collector’s Guide: Trevenant (Fusion Strike #17)

    Trevenant Collector’s Guide: Fusion Strike #17

    Character Intro

    Trevenant from the Fusion Strike set is an Uncommon card numbered 17. A Stage 1 Grass-type with 120 HP, it features the attacks Gentle Slap and Wood Hammer. This card offers a straightforward yet engaging addition to any collection.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Fusion Strike 17 Uncommon 120 Narumi Sato
    • Type: Grass
    • Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Phantump)
    • Attacks: Gentle Slap (40 damage), Wood Hammer (90 damage)
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Weakness: Fire ×2
    • Resistance: None
    • Regulation Mark: E
    • Flavor Text: Small roots that extend from the tips of this Pokémon’s feet can tie into the trees of the forest and give Trevenant control over them.
    • Image URL: /images/swsh8/swsh8-17.jpg

    Key Printings

    This exact printing appears in the Sword & Shield Fusion Strike expansion as card number 17. It is Uncommon, illustrated by Narumi Sato, and is a standard print with no alternate versions listed.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants or alternate artworks. Identifiers include set code “swsh8” and regulation mark “E.” The card’s market reference query is “Trevenant Fusion Strike 17.”

    Legality & Play Notes

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

    Care & Storage Tips

    Store in a protective sleeve, away from direct sunlight to prevent fading. Avoid moisture and handle with clean hands to protect the card’s surface and edges.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Fusion Strike (swsh8): Trevenant appears as a solid Stage 1 Grass-type with balanced HP and two straightforward attacks. Its inclusion adds a thematic forest element, supported by its flavor text and artwork. The set focuses on dynamic battle strategies, though this card’s playability is currently unknown.

    Trevenant (Fusion Strike) #17

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    Trevenant (Fusion Strike) #17

  • Collector’s Guide: Zorua (Fusion Strike #170)

    Collector’s Guide: Zorua (Fusion Strike #170)

    Zorua (Fusion Strike 170) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Zorua from the Fusion Strike set is a Common card numbered 170. This lively Pokémon has 60 HP and features the attack Rear Kick. Its straightforward design makes it a versatile addition to many decks.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Fusion Strike 170 Common 60 nagimiso

    Card Stats

    • Type: Darkness
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1 Colorless Energy
    • Weakness: Grass ×2
    • Resistance: None
    • Regulation Mark: E
    • Flavor Text: “If a normally talkative child suddenly stops talking, it may have been replaced by Zorua.”
    • Attacks:
    • Ram (10 damage, 1 Colorless Energy)
    • Rear Kick (20 damage, 1 Darkness + 1 Colorless Energy)

    Key Printings

    This exact printing is from the Sword & Shield Fusion Strike set, card number 170. It is a Common rarity card illustrated by nagimiso. There are no known alternate printings or promotional versions of this specific card.

    Variants & Identifiers

    • No listed print variants
    • Set code: “swsh8”
    • Type: Darkness
    • Regulation mark: “E”
    • Image path: /images/swsh8/swsh8-170.jpg

    Legality & Play Notes

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

    Care & Storage Tips

    • Use a protective sleeve
    • Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture
    • Avoid bending or scratching, especially with frequent handling

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Fusion Strike (swsh8): Introduced Zorua as a Basic Darkness-type Pokémon with straightforward attacks and modest HP, suitable for early-game roles or collectors focused on the Fusion Strike series.

    Zorua (Fusion Strike) #170

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    Zorua (Fusion Strike) #170

  • Collector’s Guide: Zoroark (Fusion Strike #171)

    Zoroark Collector’s Guide: Fusion Strike #171

    Character Intro

    Zoroark from the Fusion Strike set is an uncommon card numbered 171. It boasts 120 HP and features the striking attack Night Daze. This card offers a solid addition to any collection with its sleek design and balanced stats.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Fusion Strike 171 Uncommon 120 Kouki Saitou
    • Type: Darkness
    • Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Zorua)
    • Retreat Cost: 2 Colorless Energy
    • Weakness: Grass ×2
    • Resistances: None
    • Regulation Mark: E
    • Flavor Text: “If it thinks humans are going to discover its den, Zoroark shows them visions that make them wander around in the woods.”

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Zoroark appears in the Sword & Shield Fusion Strike set as card number 171. It is classified as an Uncommon rarity card.

    Attacks:
    – Double Claw: Deals 40 damage per heads flipped on two coins.
    – Night Daze: A straightforward 100 damage attack requiring two Darkness and one Colorless energy.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It can be identified by its set code “swsh8-171” and the Fusion Strike set symbol. The card’s illustrator, Kouki Saitou, is credited on the bottom right, and the regulation mark “E” is present near the bottom left.

    Legality & Play Notes

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

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the card’s condition, store it in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight to prevent fading. Avoid exposure to moisture and handle the card by its edges to maintain its crisp corners and surface. Given its Uncommon rarity, maintaining mint condition can enhance its collector value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Fusion Strike: This set introduces Zoroark as a versatile Darkness-type Stage 1 Pokémon with a balance of damage potential and moderate HP. It fits well into decks that leverage coin flip mechanics and strong single attacks.

    Zoroark Fusion Strike #171

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    Zoroark (Fusion Strike) #171

  • Collector’s Guide: Vullaby (Fusion Strike #172)

    Collector’s Guide: Vullaby (Fusion Strike #172)

    Vullaby (Fusion Strike 172) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Vullaby from the Fusion Strike set is a common Pokémon card numbered 172. It has 60 HP and features the attack Air Slash. This modest card offers straightforward gameplay value for collectors and players alike.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Fusion Strike 172 Common 60 Shigenori Negishi
    • Type: Darkness
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Lightning (×2)
    • Resistance: Fighting (-30)
    • Attacks:
    • Razor Wing: Deals 10 damage, costs 1 Colorless Energy.
    • Air Slash: Deals 30 damage, costs 1 Darkness and 1 Colorless Energy, requires discarding an Energy from this Pokémon.
    • Flavor Text: “Vullaby grow quickly. Bones that have gotten too small for older Vullaby to wear often get passed down to younger ones in the nest.”
    • Regulation Mark: E

    Key Printings

    This guide focuses on the Fusion Strike set printing, card number 172. It is a Common rarity card with no known alternate printings or special editions.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this exact Vullaby card. The card can be identified by its set code “swsh8-172” and the illustrator Shigenori Negishi. The card’s image can be referenced at /images/swsh8/swsh8-172.jpg.

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
    • Based on the provided data, this card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.

    Care & Storage Tips

    As a common card, Vullaby should be stored in protective sleeves to prevent edge wear and surface scratches. Keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture to preserve the vibrant illustration by Shigenori Negishi. Organizing by set and number will help maintain easy access and identification.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Fusion Strike (swsh8): This set features Vullaby as a Basic Darkness-type Pokémon with straightforward attacks and moderate HP. It fits well into decks requiring energy management due to its Air Slash attack’s energy discard mechanic. The set emphasizes dynamic battle strategies with a focus on synergy and energy manipulation.

    This Vullaby card is a solid collectible for fans of the Fusion Strike series and those interested in Darkness-type Pokémon with unique thematic flavor.

    Vullaby (Fusion Strike) #172

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    Vullaby (Fusion Strike) #172