Tag: Pokemon TCG

Collector’s Guide: Single Strike Urshifu VMAX (Battle Styles #86)
Single Strike Urshifu VMAX (Battle Styles 86) Collectors Guide

Character Intro

Single Strike Urshifu VMAX is a Rare Holo VMAX card from the Battle Styles set, numbered 86. With 330 HP and the headline attack G-Max One Blow, it’s a standout piece for both players and collectors.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Battle Styles 86 Rare Holo VMAX 330 PLANETA Tsuji
- Type: Fighting
- Stage: VMAX, Single Strike
- Retreat Cost: 3
- Weakness: Psychic ×2
- Resistance: None
- Regulation Mark: E
- Evolves From: Single Strike Urshifu V
- Rules: VMAX rule: When your Pokémon VMAX is Knocked Out, your opponent takes 3 Prize cards.
Key Printings

This exact printing is identified as card number 86 in the Battle Styles set. It is a Rare Holo VMAX card, showcasing Single Strike Urshifu VMAX with two powerful attacks: “Beatdown,” dealing 100 damage for three Colorless Energy, and “G-Max One Blow,” which deals 270 damage and requires discarding all Energy from this Pokémon. The latter attack’s damage is unaffected by any effects on the opponent’s Active Pokémon.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this card. It is uniquely identified by its set code “swsh5-86” and its distinct Fighting-type VMAX Single Strike subtype. The card’s illustration by PLANETA Tsuji and its regulation mark “E” further help in authenticating this printing.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. It carries the VMAX rule, which awards the opponent 3 Prize cards if this Pokémon is Knocked Out.

Care & Storage Tips

Protect the holofoil and artwork by sleeving the card and keeping it away from direct sunlight and moisture. Use a rigid top-loader or a binder with individual pockets to prevent bending or surface scratches, and avoid excessive handling to maintain condition and value.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Battle Styles: Introduced Single Strike Urshifu VMAX as a powerful Fighting-type VMAX card with high HP and impactful attacks, emphasizing aggressive playstyles and strategic energy management.
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September 30, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Rapid Strike Urshifu V (Battle Styles #87)
Rapid Strike Urshifu V Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Rapid Strike Urshifu V is a Rare Holo V from the Battle Styles set, card number 87. This Fighting-type Basic V has 220 HP and attacks with Hundred Furious Blows. Its dynamic illustration captures the speed and precision of Rapid Strike combat.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Battle Styles 87 Rare Holo V 220 PLANETA Mochizuki
- Type: Fighting
- Stage: Basic, V, Rapid Strike
- Retreat Cost: 2
- Weakness: Psychic ×2
- Regulation Mark: E
- Rules: V rule applies—when your Pokémon V is Knocked Out, your opponent takes 2 Prize cards.
Key Printings

The key printing comes from Battle Styles (set code swsh5), numbered 87. It features Rare Holo V rarity with artwork by PLANETA Mochizuki. No other print variants are documented for this card.

Variants & Identifiers

No known print variants or alternate versions exist. Identifiers include:
– Set code: swsh5
– Card number: 87
– Subtype: Basic, V, Rapid Strike
– Type: Fighting
– Regulation mark: E

Legality & Play Notes
- Legality: unknown
- This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
- It follows the V rule: if it’s Knocked Out, the opponent takes two Prize cards—an important strategic factor.
Care & Storage Tips

Protect the holo finish and PLANETA Mochizuki artwork by sleeving the card and keeping it out of direct sunlight and moisture. Use a rigid top loader or a binder with individual pockets to prevent bending and scratches. Minimize handling to maintain condition and value.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Battle Styles (swsh5): Debuts Rapid Strike Urshifu V as a powerful Fighting-type Basic V with tactical versatility and strong offensive potential, highlighted as a Rare Holo V within the set’s dynamic battle theme.
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September 30, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Rapid Strike Urshifu VMAX (Battle Styles #88)
Rapid Strike Urshifu VMAX Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Rapid Strike Urshifu VMAX from the Battle Styles set is a Rare Holo VMAX card numbered 88. This powerful Pokémon boasts 330 HP and features the dynamic attack Gale Thrust. Its striking design captures the essence of swift, focused combat.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Battle Styles 88 Rare Holo VMAX 330 PLANETA Tsuji
- Pokémon: Rapid Strike Urshifu VMAX
- Stage: VMAX, Rapid Strike (evolves from Rapid Strike Urshifu V)
- Type: Fighting
- Retreat Cost: 2
- Weakness: Psychic ×2
- Resistance: None
- Regulation Mark: E
- Rules: When your Pokémon VMAX is Knocked Out, your opponent takes 3 Prize cards.
Key Printings

This exact printing is from the Battle Styles set, card number 88. It is a Rare Holo VMAX with no additional print variants noted.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this card. It can be identified by set code “swsh5-88” and artwork by PLANETA Tsuji. The subtype is VMAX and Rapid Strike, and it carries regulation mark “E.”

Legality & Play Notes
- Legality: unknown
- Not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats according to the provided data.
- Attacks:
- “Gale Thrust” deals 30+ damage and gains a bonus if the Pokémon moved from the Bench this turn.
- “G-Max Rapid Flow” requires discarding all Energy attached to this Pokémon to deal 120 damage to two of the opponent’s Pokémon.
Care & Storage Tips

To preserve the vivid holo artwork and maintain card condition, store this card in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its rarity and unique illustration, handle with clean hands and store in a rigid top-loader or binder.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Battle Styles: This set introduced Rapid Strike Urshifu VMAX as a powerful Fighting-type VMAX card with dynamic attacks and a high HP pool. It stands out for its synergy with Rapid Strike mechanics and its striking holofoil presentation.
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September 30, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Zubat (Battle Styles #89)
Zubat (Battle Styles 89) Collectors Guide

Character Intro

Zubat from the Battle Styles set is a Common card numbered 89 with 50 HP. This nimble Pokémon features the attack Speed Dive, showcasing its swift nature in battle. Its straightforward design makes it a staple for collectors seeking a classic addition.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Battle Styles 89 Common 50 Asako Ito
- Type: Darkness
- Stage: Basic
- Retreat Cost: 1
- Weakness: Fighting ×2
- Abilities: None
- Attacks:
- Hide in Shadows: Switch this Pokémon with 1 of your Benched Pokémon.
- Speed Dive: Deals 20 damage.
Key Printings

This exact printing is from the “Battle Styles” set, card number 89. It features the regulation mark “E” and is a Common rarity card. The card does not evolve from any other Pokémon.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this card. The card can be identified by its Darkness type, the “Battle Styles” set code (swsh5), and the illustrator Asako Ito. The card image can be found at /images/swsh5/swsh5-89.jpg.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its low HP and simple attacks suggest it is more suited for casual play or collection rather than competitive battling.

Care & Storage Tips

To preserve this card’s vibrant artwork and condition, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its Common rarity, it is accessible but still benefits from careful handling to maintain collector value.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Battle Styles (swsh5): This set introduced dynamic Darkness-type Pokémon like this Zubat, emphasizing tactical switching with its “Hide in Shadows” attack and straightforward damage output with “Speed Dive.” The set’s artwork and design reflect a modern take on classic Pokémon.
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September 30, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Carnivine (Battle Styles #9)
Carnivine (Battle Styles 9) Collectors Guide

Character Intro

Carnivine from the Battle Styles set is an uncommon card numbered 9 with 110 HP. It features the attack Triple Whip, offering a straightforward yet effective option in battle. The art captures Carnivine’s distinctive look with vivid detail.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Battle Styles 9 Uncommon 110 AKIRA EGAWA
- Type: Grass
- Stage: Basic, Rapid Strike
- Retreat Cost: 2
- Weakness: Fire ×2
- Resistances: None
- Regulation Mark: E
- Flavor Text: It binds itself to trees in marshes. It attracts prey with its sweet-smelling drool and gulps them down.
- Image:
Key Printings

This exact printing of Carnivine appears in the Battle Styles expansion of the Sword & Shield series. It is card number 9 in the set and carries an Uncommon rarity.
- Big Bite: Deals 30 damage and prevents the Defending Pokémon from retreating during the opponent’s next turn.
- Triple Whip: Can deal up to 180 damage depending on coin flips.
Variants & Identifiers

This printing has no known print variants. It is identified by the set code “swsh5” and the card number 9. The regulation mark “E” helps distinguish it within the Sword & Shield era. The illustrator AKIRA EGAWA’s signature art style is a key visual identifier.

Legality & Play Notes
- Legality: unknown
- This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
Its Rapid Strike subtype and unique attacks may appeal to collectors and casual players interested in thematic decks.

Care & Storage Tips

To preserve this Uncommon card’s vibrant artwork and condition, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Use a rigid top-loader or a binder with individual pockets to prevent bending or surface damage. Avoid excessive handling to maintain its collector value.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Battle Styles (swsh5): Carnivine appears as a Basic, Rapid Strike Grass-type Pokémon with a focus on controlling opponent movement and dealing variable damage through coin flips. This set emphasizes dynamic battle tactics, and Carnivine fits into this theme with its disruptive Big Bite attack.
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September 30, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Honchkrow (Battle Styles #94)
Honchkrow Collector’s Guide: Battle Styles #94

Character Intro

Honchkrow from Battle Styles is an Uncommon Darkness-type Stage 1 Pokémon with 130 HP. It features the Insomnia ability and the Voltage Dive attack. This sleek card is numbered 94 in the set.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Battle Styles 94 Uncommon 130 Miki Tanaka
- Type: Darkness
- Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Murkrow)
- HP: 130
- Ability: Insomnia — This Pokémon can’t be Asleep.
- Attack: Voltage Dive (Costs Darkness + 2 Colorless) — Deals 80+ damage; does 80 more damage if the opponent’s Active Pokémon has Special Energy attached.
- Weakness: Lightning ×2
- Resistance: Fighting -30
- Retreat Cost: 2
- Regulation Mark: E
- Flavor Text: Its goons take care of most of the fighting for it. The only time it dirties its own hands is in delivering a final blow to finish off an opponent.
Key Printings

This exact printing appears in the Battle Styles expansion of the Sword & Shield series. It is an Uncommon card numbered 94, illustrated by Miki Tanaka. The card’s regulation mark is E, indicating its intended tournament legality at release, though current legality is unknown.

Variants & Identifiers

No print variants are listed for this card. Key identifiers include:
– Set code: “swsh5-94”
– Darkness type
– Insomnia ability
– Artwork and layout consistent with Battle Styles

Legality & Play Notes
- Legality: unknown
- This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
Play notes: Its ability to prevent Sleep status and its damage-boosting attack make it a tactically interesting choice in casual play, but official tournament use is not documented.

Care & Storage Tips

Preserve the artwork and condition by storing the card in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its Uncommon rarity, a binder page or top-loader helps prevent edge wear and surface scratches.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Battle Styles (swsh5): Introduced Honchkrow with a focus on aggressive Darkness-type strategies. This set emphasizes dynamic abilities and attacks, with Honchkrow’s Insomnia ability and Voltage Dive attack exemplifying tactical versatility.
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September 30, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Houndour (Battle Styles #95)
Houndour (Battle Styles #95) Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Houndour from the Battle Styles set is a Common card numbered 95. This Pokémon has 60 HP and features the attack Bite. Its straightforward design makes it a solid addition for collectors focusing on the Battle Styles series.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Battle Styles 95 Common 60 Sanosuke Sakuma
- Type: Darkness
- Stage: Basic, Single Strike
- Retreat Cost: 1
- Weakness: Grass ×2
- Resistance: None
- Attack: Bite (20 damage, costs 1 Colorless energy)
- Abilities: None
- Evolves From: None
- Regulation Mark: E
Key Printings

This exact printing of Houndour is from the Battle Styles expansion, identified by set code swsh5 and card number 95. It is a Common rarity card illustrated by Sanosuke Sakuma. No alternate printings or promotional versions are noted.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this card. Key identifiers include its Darkness type, Single Strike subtype, and the regulation mark E. The card’s market reference query is “Houndour Battle Styles 95,” useful for collectors seeking this specific printing.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality status: unknown. This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. It has no special abilities and features a straightforward attack, making it a simple choice for casual play or collection.

Care & Storage Tips

To preserve the card’s vibrant artwork by Sanosuke Sakuma and maintain its condition, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the card, especially since it is a common card that may be handled frequently.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Battle Styles (swsh5): Introduced Houndour as a Basic Single Strike Darkness-type Pokémon with a simple attack and evocative flavor text. This set focuses on dynamic battle themes, and Houndour fits the motif with its eerie howls and pack behavior.
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September 30, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Houndoom (Battle Styles #96)
Houndoom (Battle Styles 96) Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Houndoom from the Battle Styles set is a Rare Holo card numbered 96. It has 130 HP and the ability Single Strike Roar, with the attack Darkness Fang. Collectors will appreciate its dynamic presence in the set.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Battle Styles 96 Rare Holo 130 Ryota Murayama
- Type: Darkness
- Stage: Stage 1, Single Strike
- Evolves From: Houndour
- Retreat Cost: 2
- Weakness: Grass ×2
- Resistance: None
- Regulation Mark: E
- Flavor Text: Identifiable by its eerie howls, people a long time ago thought it was the grim reaper and feared it.
Key Printings

This exact printing is from the Battle Styles set, card number 96.
- Ability — Single Strike Roar: Attach a Single Strike Energy from your deck to a Single Strike Pokémon, then put 2 damage counters on that Pokémon.
- Attack — Darkness Fang: 50 damage for a Darkness and Colorless energy cost.
Variants & Identifiers

This card has no known print variants. It is identified by its Rare Holo rarity, the Single Strike subtype, and the regulation mark E. The illustrator Ryota Murayama’s signature style is a key visual identifier.

Legality & Play Notes
- Legality: unknown
- This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
Care & Storage Tips
- Store in a protective sleeve to preserve the holofoil finish.
- Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture.
- Avoid bending or scratching the surface to maintain collector value.
Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Battle Styles: Introduced the Single Strike and Rapid Strike mechanics, with Houndoom representing a powerful Single Strike Stage 1 Pokémon. This set emphasizes aggressive strategies and energy acceleration.
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September 30, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Tyranitar V (Battle Styles #97)
Tyranitar V Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Tyranitar V from the Battle Styles set is a Rare Holo V card with a robust 230 HP. Its powerful attack Single Strike Crush makes it a striking addition to any collection. Numbered 97 in the set, it showcases dynamic Battle Styles design.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Battle Styles 97 Rare Holo V 230 Ayaka Yoshida
- Card Number: 97
- Set: Battle Styles (swsh5)
- Type: Darkness
- Stage: Basic, V, Single Strike
- Retreat Cost: 3
- Weakness: Grass ×2
- Regulation Mark: E
- Rules: V rule applies—when your Pokémon V is Knocked Out, your opponent takes 2 Prize cards.
Key Printings

This printing is from the Battle Styles expansion, identified by set code swsh5-97. It is a Rare Holo V card featuring Tyranitar V with two attacks:
- Cragalanche — 60 damage and discards the top 2 cards of your opponent’s deck.
- Single Strike Crush — 240 damage and discards the top 4 cards of your own deck.
Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this card. Key identifiers include the card number 97, the Rare Holo V rarity, and the illustrator Ayaka Yoshida. The card’s Darkness type and Single Strike subtype also distinguish it within the Battle Styles set.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. The V rule applies, meaning if Tyranitar V is Knocked Out, your opponent takes 2 Prize cards.

Care & Storage Tips

To preserve the holo finish and Ayaka Yoshida’s artwork, store the 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. Avoid excessive handling to maintain collector value.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Battle Styles (swsh5): Introduced Tyranitar V as a powerful Single Strike Basic V Pokémon with disruptive deck control and high damage output. This set emphasizes aggressive strategies and features striking holo artwork.
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September 30, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Morpeko (Battle Styles #98)
Morpeko (Battle Styles 98) Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Morpeko from the Battle Styles set is an Uncommon Basic Darkness-type card numbered 98. It has 80 HP and features the attack Hangry Tackle—a straightforward addition to any collection.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Battle Styles 98 Uncommon 80 NC Empire
- Type: Darkness
- Stage: Basic
- Retreat Cost: 1
- Weakness: Grass ×2
- Regulation Mark: E
- Flavor Text: Hunger hormones affect its temperament. Until its hunger is appeased, it gets up to all manner of evil deeds.
Key Printings

This exact printing of Morpeko appears in the Sword & Shield Battle Styles set as card number 98. It is an Uncommon rarity card illustrated by NC Empire. No other print variants are listed for this card.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this Morpeko card. It can be identified by its Darkness type, Basic stage, and the set code “swsh5-98.”

Attacks
- Gather Food: Retrieves an Item card from the discard pile.
- Hangry Tackle: Deals increased damage if you have no cards in hand.
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

As an Uncommon card from the Battle Styles set, preserving the sharpness of the NC Empire illustration and the card’s edges is important for maintaining collector value. Store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and humidity to prevent fading and warping.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Battle Styles (swsh5): This set introduced Morpeko with a focus on its hunger-driven temperament and unique Darkness-type attacks. The card is a Basic Pokémon with moderate HP and a retreat cost of 1, fitting well into thematic decks that leverage discard pile recovery and conditional attack boosts.
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September 30, 2025