Tag: Pokemon TCG

  • Collector’s Guide: Lightning Energy (Gym Challenge #130)

    Collector’s Guide: Lightning Energy (Gym Challenge #130)

    Lightning Energy (Gym Challenge 130) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Lightning Energy from the Gym Challenge set is a vital card for powering up Electric-type Pokémon. Numbered 130, this card provides the essential energy needed to unleash dynamic attacks. Its straightforward design highlights its fundamental role in gameplay.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 130 Keiji Kinebuchi
    • Card ID: gym2-130
    • Pokémon: Lightning Energy
    • Stage: Basic
    • Subtypes: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Types: None specified
    • Weaknesses: None
    • Resistances: None
    • Evolves From: None
    • Abilities: None
    • Attacks: None
    • Flavor Text: Unknown
    • Regulation Mark: Unknown
    • Legal: unknown
    • Set Code: gym2
    • Series: gym
    • Image:

    Key Printings

    This card appears exclusively in the Gym Challenge set, identified as card number 130. It is a Basic Energy card specifically for Lightning-type Pokémon, illustrated by Keiji Kinebuchi. No other printings or reprints are documented.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this Lightning Energy card. Identification is straightforward by its set code “gym2” and card number “130.” The absence of rarity and regulation marks simplifies classification but also leaves some collector details unknown.

    Legality & Play Notes

    The legality status of this card is unknown. It is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. As a Basic Energy card, it does not have attacks or abilities and thus serves purely as an energy resource in gameplay.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve this card’s condition, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its unknown rarity and release date, maintaining its physical quality is essential for potential future value. Avoid bending or exposure to extreme temperatures.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: This set features the Lightning Energy card as a fundamental resource for Lightning-type decks. The card is Basic and lacks additional gameplay mechanics but is visually distinguished by Keiji Kinebuchi’s illustration. No further expansions or variants are noted for this card within the set.

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    Lightning Energy (Gym Challenge) #130

  • Collector’s Guide: Psychic Energy (Gym Challenge #131)

    Psychic Energy (Gym Challenge 131) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Psychic Energy from the Gym Challenge set is a fundamental card for powering up Psychic-type Pokémon. Numbered 131, this card plays a key role in many strategic decks. Its straightforward design highlights its essential function in gameplay.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 131 Keiji Kinebuchi
    • Card ID: gym2-131
    • Pokémon: Psychic Energy
    • Stage: Basic
    • Subtypes: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Types: None specified
    • Evolves From: None
    • Abilities/Attacks: None
    • Flavor Text: Unknown
    • Resistances/Weaknesses: None
    • Regulation Mark: Unknown
    • Rarity: Unknown

    Key Printings

    Only printed in the Gym Challenge set, this card is identified by set code “gym2” and card number 131. The Keiji Kinebuchi artwork is unique to this printing.

    Variants & Identifiers

    No known print variants exist for this Psychic Energy. Identification relies on the set code “gym2,” card number 131, and the illustrator credit to Keiji Kinebuchi.

    Legality & Play Notes

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

    Care & Storage Tips

    • Use a protective sleeve or toploader.
    • Store away from direct sunlight and moisture to preserve color and prevent wear.
    • Handle minimally to maintain edges and surface condition.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: This set features specialized Gym-themed cards, including this Psychic Energy, which supports psychic-type Pokémon with a minimalistic design and no additional gameplay mechanics.

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  • Collector’s Guide: Water Energy (Gym Challenge #132)

    Collector’s Guide: Water Energy (Gym Challenge #132)

    Water Energy (Gym Challenge 132) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Water Energy is a classic Basic Energy card from the Gym Challenge set, numbered 132. It provides the resource needed to power Water-type Pokémon and, with its straightforward design, serves as a staple for Water-themed decks.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 132 Keiji Kinebuchi
    • Card ID: gym2-132
    • Pokémon: Water Energy
    • Stage: Basic
    • Subtypes: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Types: None specified
    • Weaknesses/Resistances: None
    • Evolves From: None
    • Abilities/Attacks: None
    • Flavor Text: Unknown
    • Regulation Mark: Unknown
    • Print Variants: None recorded

    Key Printings

    This Water Energy appears exclusively in the Gym Challenge set, identified by set code “gym2” and card number 132. The artwork by Keiji Kinebuchi is unique to this printing.

    Variants & Identifiers

    No alternate print variants or special editions are documented. Identification relies on:
    – Set code: “gym2”
    – Card number: 132
    – Illustrator credit: Keiji Kinebuchi

    Legality & Play Notes

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

    Care & Storage Tips

    As a Basic Energy card, store Water Energy in sleeves or binders to preserve condition. Avoid moisture and direct sunlight to protect the surface and artwork.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: A fundamental Basic Energy card with no additional mechanics or text, supporting Water-type Pokémon. Its simple presentation and lack of rarity classification make it a staple for collectors focused on the Gym series.

    Water Energy

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    Water Energy (Gym Challenge) #132

  • Collector’s Guide: Rocket’s Mewtwo (Gym Challenge #14)

    Collector’s Guide: Rocket’s Mewtwo (Gym Challenge #14)

    Rocket’s Mewtwo (Gym Challenge 14) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Rocket’s Mewtwo from the Gym Challenge set is a Rare Holo card numbered 14. This card features 70 HP and a striking attack called Psyburn. Its design captures the enigmatic power of Mewtwo with a vivid holographic finish.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 14 Rare Holo 70 Shin-ichi Yoshida
    • Type: Psychic
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Weakness: Psychic ×2
    • Attacks: Juxtapose, Hypnoblast, Psyburn
    • Set Code: gym2
    • Series: gym
    • Image:

    Key Printings

    This Gym Challenge printing is card number 14 with a Rare Holo rarity. It is a Basic stage card with no evolutions and no abilities, centered on three attacks: Juxtapose, which swaps damage counters with the opponent; Hypnoblast, which can put the defending Pokémon to sleep; and Psyburn, a high-damage Psychic attack.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It is identified by set code “gym2,” number “14,” and the illustrator Shin-ichi Yoshida—useful markers for collectors seeking this specific artwork.

    Legality & Play Notes

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

    Care & Storage Tips

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

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: Rocket’s Mewtwo appears as a rare holo Basic Psychic Pokémon, notable for its damage counter manipulation and sleep-inducing attacks. This set is known for featuring Gym Leader-themed cards and unique gameplay mechanics.

    This guide covers the exact Rocket’s Mewtwo printing from Gym Challenge, providing collectors and players with essential information for identification and care.

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    Rocket's Mewtwo (Gym Challenge) #14

  • Collector’s Guide: Rocket’s Zapdos (Gym Challenge #15)

    Rocket’s Zapdos Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Rocket’s Zapdos from the Gym Challenge set is a Rare Holo card numbered 15. This striking card features 70 HP and the powerful attacks Plasma and Electroburn. Its vibrant design makes it a notable addition for collectors.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 15 Rare Holo 70 Shin-ichi Yoshida
    • Pokémon: Rocket’s Zapdos
    • Type: Lightning
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Resistance: Fighting (-30)
    • Weakness: None
    • Set Code: gym2
    • Series: Gym Challenge
    • Print Variants: None known
    • Flavor Text: Unknown

    Key Printings

    The key printing of Rocket’s Zapdos is from the Gym Challenge set, identified by the card number 15 and set code gym2. This is the only known printing of this card, making it a focused collectible for fans of the Gym Challenge series.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this Rocket’s Zapdos card. It is identified by its Rare Holo rarity, the illustrator Shin-ichi Yoshida, and its unique attacks: “Plasma” and “Electroburn.” The card’s image can be referenced at /images/gym2/gym2-15.jpg.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its playability in casual or older formats is not documented.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the holofoil surface and vibrant artwork by Shin-ichi Yoshida, store this card in a protective sleeve 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 (gym2): Rocket’s Zapdos appears as a Rare Holo Basic Lightning-type Pokémon with a focus on energy attachment and self-damage mechanics. It stands out for collectors due to its unique Rocket branding and detailed illustration.

    This guide provides a concise overview of Rocket’s Zapdos from the Gym Challenge set, ideal for collectors seeking detailed identification and care information.

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  • Collector’s Guide: Sabrina’s Alakazam (Gym Challenge #16)

    Collector’s Guide: Sabrina’s Alakazam (Gym Challenge #16)

    Sabrina’s Alakazam Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Sabrina’s Alakazam is a Rare Holo from the Gym Challenge set (#16) with 80 HP and the unique ability Psylink. Its attack, Mega Burn, adds strategic value for collectors and players alike.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 16 Rare Holo 80 Ken Sugimori
    • Type: Psychic
    • Stage: Stage 2
    • Retreat Cost: 3
    • Weakness: Psychic ×2
    • Ability: Psylink — Copies every attack of your Psychic Pokémon in play, including energy costs and requirements, unless Asleep, Confused, or Paralyzed.
    • Attack: Mega Burn — Deals 60 damage but cannot be used on the next turn.

    Key Printings

    This exact printing is from the Gym Challenge set, card number 16. It is a rare holo card, making it a desirable piece for collectors focusing on holo and Gym Challenge cards. The card’s artwork by Ken Sugimori is a notable highlight, reflecting the classic Pokémon TCG style.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It is identified by the set code “gym2” and card number 16. The card’s unique ability Psylink and the attack Mega Burn help distinguish it from other Alakazam cards.

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
    • This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
    • Its unique ability Psylink allows it to mimic attacks from other Psychic Pokémon in play, but the Mega Burn attack has the drawback of being unusable on the following turn.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the holofoil and artwork, store Sabrina’s Alakazam in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture. Use a rigid top-loader or binder with individual pockets to prevent bending or surface damage. Handle with clean hands to avoid oils and dirt.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: This set features Gym Leader-themed cards, with Sabrina’s Alakazam standing out as a powerful Psychic-type Stage 2 card with a unique ability that enhances synergy with other Psychic Pokémon. The set’s focus on Gym Leaders makes this card a key collectible for fans of the series.

    Sabrina's Alakazam

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    Sabrina's Alakazam (Gym Challenge) #16

  • Collector’s Guide: Blaine (Gym Challenge #17)

    Collector’s Guide: Blaine (Gym Challenge #17)

    Blaine — Gym Challenge #17 Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Blaine is a Rare Holo card from the Gym Challenge set, number 17. Featuring the iconic Gym Leader and his fiery spirit, it holds a notable place in the classic Gym Challenge lineup for collectors.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 17 Rare Holo Ken Sugimori
    • Card ID: gym2-17
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Evolves From: None
    • Types, Abilities, Attacks: None
    • Weaknesses, Resistances: None
    • Regulation Mark: Unknown
    • Image:

    Key Printings

    This card is printed exclusively in the Gym Challenge set under the code gym2-17. As a Rare Holo, it’s a compelling target for collectors focused on holo rarity or Gym Challenge memorabilia.

    Variants & Identifiers

    No known print variants exist. Identification is straightforward via the set code gym2-17 and the distinctive rule text related to attaching Fire Energy.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown

    • The card’s rule allows you to attach two Fire Energy cards to a Pokémon with Blaine in its name instead of the usual one Energy card per turn.
    • Playing additional copies of this card in the same turn has no effect.

    Care & Storage Tips

    As a rare holo card, store Blaine in a protective sleeve and keep it out of direct sunlight to preserve the holographic finish. Avoid moisture and extreme temperatures to maintain card integrity.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: Blaine #17 stands out as a rare holo card with a unique energy attachment rule, illustrated by Ken Sugimori. It adds strategic depth to Fire-type decks and is a prized collectible within the Gym Challenge lineup.

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    Blaine (Gym Challenge) #17

  • Collector’s Guide: Giovanni (Gym Challenge #18)

    Giovanni — Collector’s Guide to Gym Challenge #18

    Character Intro

    Giovanni is a Rare Holo card from the Gym Challenge set, numbered 18. This striking card features the iconic Team Rocket leader, making it a notable addition for collectors. Its rarity and design capture the essence of the Gym Challenge series.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 18 Rare Holo Ken Sugimori

    Card Details

    • Card ID: gym2-18
    • Stage: None (not an evolving Pokémon)
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Abilities/Attacks: None, but has a special rule effect
    • Rule Effect: Allows evolving a Pokémon with Giovanni in its name during the turn, even if it was just played or evolved, including the Pokémon it evolves into
    • Weaknesses, Resistances, and Regulation Mark: None listed
    • Image URL: /images/gym2/gym2-18.jpg

    Key Printings

    This exact printing appears only in the Gym Challenge set as card number 18. It is a Rare Holo variant, making it a visually striking and sought-after card for collectors focusing on Gym Challenge or Giovanni-themed decks.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Identification is straightforward by its set code “gym2” and card number “18.” The illustrator Ken Sugimori is a key identifier for this card’s artwork.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its unique rule allows for strategic evolution plays involving Pokémon with Giovanni in their names, but tournament use is not supported.

    Care & Storage Tips

    As a Rare Holo card, preserving the holofoil surface is crucial. Store the card in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture to prevent fading and warping. Use a top-loader or binder with rigid pages for added protection.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: Giovanni #18 stands out as a rare holo card with a special evolution rule effect. It complements the Gym Challenge theme by focusing on Gym Leaders and their signature Pokémon, adding strategic depth and collectible value to the set.

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  • Collector’s Guide: Koga (Gym Challenge #19)

    Koga (Gym Challenge 19) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Koga from the Gym Challenge set is a Rare Holo card, numbered 19. The bold, portrait-style artwork makes it a standout pick for collectors focused on classic Gym Challenge cards.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 19 Rare Holo Ken Sugimori
    • Card ID: gym2-19
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Stage: None (Basic)
    • Types: Unknown
    • Weaknesses/Resistances: None listed
    • Rules: If an attack from a Pokémon with Koga in its name does damage to a Defending Pokémon this turn, that Pokémon is then Poisoned.
    • Abilities/Attacks: None
    • Evolves From: None

    Key Printings

    This exact printing is from the Gym Challenge set, identified by set code gym2 and card number 19. It is a rare holo variant, making it a visually appealing and sought-after card for collectors focusing on Gym Challenge.

    Variants & Identifiers

    No print variants are listed for this card. Identification relies on the set code gym2, card number 19, and the distinctive Ken Sugimori illustration. The card has no regulation mark and no alternate artwork or holo patterns noted.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its unique rule effect centers on poisoning the opponent’s Pokémon under specific conditions, but no attacks or abilities are printed on this card.

    Care & Storage Tips

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

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: This set features Gym Leaders as Pokémon cards, with Koga representing one of the iconic figures. The set is known for its unique gameplay rules tied to the Gym Leaders and their thematic designs. This Koga card stands out as a rare holo collectible within the set.

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  • Collector’s Guide: Blaine’s Charizard (Gym Challenge #2)

    Blaine’s Charizard Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Blaine’s Charizard from the Gym Challenge set is a Rare Holo card numbered 2. This fiery Pokémon has 100 HP and features the powerful attack Roaring Flames. Its striking design captures the intense energy of Blaine’s iconic Charizard.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 2 Rare Holo 100 Ken Sugimori
    • Type: Fire
    • Stage: Stage 2 (Evolves from Blaine’s Charmeleon)
    • Weakness: Water (×2)
    • Resistance: Fighting (-30)
    • Retreat Cost: 3

    Key Printings

    This printing is from the Gym Challenge set, identified by set code “gym2” and card number 2. It has two attacks:
    – “Roaring Flames,” which requires discarding Fire Energy cards to deal increasing damage.
    – “Flame Jet,” which can deal 40 damage to an opponent’s Pokémon without applying Weakness or Resistance if a coin flip is successful.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It is identified by its “Rare Holo” rarity, illustrator Ken Sugimori, and the Gym Challenge set code “gym2.” The card image can be referenced at /images/gym2/gym2-2.jpg for visual verification.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats, limiting its use in official tournament play. No additional rules or abilities are noted for this printing.

    Care & Storage Tips

    • Store in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture.
    • Avoid bending or scratching the holo surface.
    • Keep in a temperature-controlled environment to prevent warping.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: Blaine’s Charizard appears as a rare holo Stage 2 Fire-type Pokémon, emphasizing strategic energy management with “Roaring Flames” and “Flame Jet” for risk–reward gameplay.

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