Author: General Ops

  • Collector’s Guide: Phanpy (Plasma Storm #71)

    Collector’s Guide: Phanpy (Plasma Storm #71)

    Phanpy (Plasma Storm 71) Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Phanpy is a Common Fighting-type Basic Pokémon from the Plasma Storm set, numbered 71. With 80 HP and straightforward attacks—Tackle and Rollout—it’s a simple, sturdy addition to any Black & White–era collection.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Plasma Storm 71 Common 80 Sumiyoshi Kizuki
    • Type: Fighting
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Weakness: Water (×2)
    • Resistance: Lightning (-20)
    • Attacks:
    • Tackle (10 damage, costs 1 Fighting energy)
    • Rollout (50 damage, costs 2 Fighting + 1 Colorless energy)
    • Flavor Text: “It is strong despite its compact size. It can easily pick up and carry an adult human on its back.”
    • Illustrator: Sumiyoshi Kizuki
    • Card Number: 71/135 (Plasma Storm)
    • Image:

    Key Printings

    This guide focuses on the Plasma Storm printing of Phanpy, card number 71. It is a Common rarity card with no known alternate printings or promotional versions.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this Phanpy card. It is identified by its set code “bw8” and number 71 within the Plasma Storm series. The card features the Fighting type symbol, and a regulation mark is not present.

    Legality & Play Notes

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

    Care & Storage Tips

    To keep the artwork vibrant and the card in excellent condition, store this Phanpy in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its Common rarity, a binder page or a top-loader works well for long-term protection.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Plasma Storm: Includes Phanpy as a sturdy Fighting-type Basic Pokémon with straightforward attacks and a flavor text emphasizing its surprising strength. It fits well into collections focusing on the Black & White series and Fighting-type Pokémon.

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    Phanpy (Plasma Storm) #71

  • Collector’s Guide: Donphan (Plasma Storm #72)

    Collector’s Guide: Donphan (Plasma Storm #72)

    Donphan (Plasma Storm 72) Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Donphan from the Plasma Storm set is an Uncommon card with a solid 130 HP. This sturdy Pokémon features the attack Wreck, adding a straightforward offensive option to your deck. As card number 72, it offers a reliable choice for collectors and players alike.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Plasma Storm 72 Uncommon 130 Shin Nagasawa
    • Evolves from: Phanpy
    • Retreat Cost: 4
    • Weakness: Water (×2)
    • Resistance: Lightning (-20)
    • Stage: Stage 1
    • Types: Fighting
    • Flavor Text: “It attacks by curling up, then rolling into its foe. It can blow apart a house in one hit.”

    Key Printings

    This printing is from the Plasma Storm set, card number 72, and is classified as Uncommon.

    • Spinning Turn — Deals 40 damage and allows switching with a Benched Pokémon.
    • Wreck — Deals 80+ damage and can discard a Stadium card if one is in play.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It can be identified by its set code “bw8” and card number 72. The illustrator credit to Shin Nagasawa and the unique Fighting-type iconography further distinguish this printing.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its high retreat cost of 4 and specific attack conditions may influence deck-building strategies.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the vibrant artwork and condition of this uncommon card, store it in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its unknown legality and potential collector interest, maintaining mint condition is advisable.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Plasma Storm: Donphan appears as a solid Stage 1 Fighting-type with versatile attacks that interact with Stadium cards, adding strategic depth to gameplay. The card’s robust HP and unique abilities make it a notable inclusion in the set.

    Donphan (Plasma Storm) #72

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    Donphan (Plasma Storm) #72

  • Collector’s Guide: Lunatone (Plasma Storm #73)

    Collector’s Guide: Lunatone (Plasma Storm #73)

    Lunatone (Plasma Storm 73) Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Lunatone from the Plasma Storm set is an Uncommon Basic Fighting-type Pokémon with 90 HP. It features the ability Premonition and a straightforward Rock Throw attack—an accessible, utility-focused pick for collectors.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Plasma Storm 73 Uncommon 90 Kouji Tajima
    • Type: Fighting
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 3
    • Weakness: Grass ×2
    • Ability: Premonition — Allows you to look at the top 2 cards of your deck once per turn and reorder them.
    • Attack: Rock Throw — Deals 30 damage with a cost of Fighting and Colorless energy.
    • Flavor Text: “The phase of the moon apparently has some effect on its power. It’s active on the night of a full moon.”
    • Illustrator: Kouji Tajima
    • Image:

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Lunatone appears in the Black & White series’ Plasma Storm set, numbered 73 and classified as Uncommon. It is a Basic Fighting-type Pokémon with a notable ability and a straightforward attack.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Key identifiers include its set code “bw8,” number 73, and the illustrator Kouji Tajima’s distinctive art style. The card’s Fighting type and Premonition ability also help distinguish it.

    Legality & Play Notes

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

    Care & Storage Tips

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

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Plasma Storm (bw8): Lunatone is featured as a Basic Fighting-type Pokémon with an intriguing ability that allows strategic deck manipulation. Its moderate HP and retreat cost make it a balanced choice for collectors focusing on this set.

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    Lunatone (Plasma Storm) #73

  • Collector’s Guide: Solrock (Plasma Storm #74)

    Collector’s Guide: Solrock (Plasma Storm #74)

    Solrock Collector’s Guide: Plasma Storm #74

    Character Intro

    Solrock is an Uncommon Pokémon from the Plasma Storm set, bearing the number 74. This vibrant card features 90 HP. Its design captures the essence of a radiant celestial body.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Plasma Storm 74 Uncommon 90 Kouji Tajima
    • Type: Fighting
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 3
    • Weakness: Grass ×2
    • Resistances: None
    • Regulation Mark: Unknown
    • Flavor Text: Solar energy is the source of its power, so it is strong during the daytime. When it spins, its body shines.

    Key Printings

    This exact printing is from the Plasma Storm expansion, card number 74, classified as Uncommon. It is illustrated by Kouji Tajima and features no evolutions or special abilities.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants or alternate versions of this card. It is identified by its set code “bw8” and card ID “bw8-74”. The card’s image can be found at: /images/bw8/bw8-74.jpg.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. It has no abilities but includes two attacks: “Heat Burn,” which inflicts 20 damage and burns the opponent, and “Explosion,” which deals 90 damage to the opponent but also causes 90 damage to Solrock itself.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve this uncommon card’s condition, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight to prevent fading of the vivid artwork. Keep it in a cool, dry place to avoid warping or moisture damage, especially given its moderate retreat cost and potential play value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Plasma Storm: This set introduced Solrock as a Fighting-type Basic Pokémon with a unique combination of burn and self-damaging explosion attacks, adding strategic depth to the Plasma Storm lineup. The card’s artwork and flavor text emphasize its solar energy theme, making it a visually appealing and thematic addition to collectors’ decks.

    Solrock (Plasma Storm) #74

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    Solrock (Plasma Storm) #74

  • Collector’s Guide: Riolu (Plasma Storm #75)

    Collector’s Guide: Riolu (Plasma Storm #75)

    Riolu Collector’s Guide: Plasma Storm #75

    Character Intro

    Riolu from the Plasma Storm set is a common card numbered 75. This lively Pokémon has 60 HP and includes the straightforward attack Kick. Its simple design makes it a staple for collectors focusing on the Plasma Storm series.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Plasma Storm 75 Common 60 Ken Sugimori
    • Type: Fighting
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1 Colorless
    • Weakness: Psychic ×2
    • Attacks:
    • Punch (10 damage, 1 Colorless)
    • Kick (20 damage, 1 Fighting + 1 Colorless)
    • Flavor Text: It has the peculiar power of being able to see emotions such as joy and rage in the form of waves.
    • Evolves From: None

    Key Printings

    This exact Riolu card appears in the Black & White Plasma Storm expansion, numbered 75. It is a common rarity card, making it widely accessible for collectors and players alike. The card’s clean design and Ken Sugimori’s classic illustration make it a visually appealing piece for any Fighting-type or Riolu enthusiast.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Identifiers include its set code “bw8” and card number 75. The card’s lack of a regulation mark and unknown release date are notable for collectors tracking print runs and legality.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats, limiting its use in official tournament play. However, it remains a charming collectible for fans of the Plasma Storm set and Fighting-type Pokémon.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the card’s condition, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its common rarity, maintaining mint condition can enhance its appeal for future collectors. Avoid bending or scratching the card, especially the illustrated front side.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Plasma Storm (bw8): This set introduced Riolu as a Basic Fighting-type Pokémon with straightforward attacks and a unique emotional perception flavor text. It fits well within the set’s theme of Plasma and energy manipulation, though Riolu itself does not have abilities or complex rules text. The card remains a staple common with classic Ken Sugimori artwork.

    Riolu (Plasma Storm) #75

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    Riolu (Plasma Storm) #75

  • Collector’s Guide: Riolu (Plasma Storm #76)

    Collector’s Guide: Riolu (Plasma Storm #76)

    Riolu Collector’s Guide: Plasma Storm #76

    Character Intro

    Riolu from the Plasma Storm set is a Common card numbered 76. This lively Pokémon has 70 HP and features the attack Feint. Its straightforward design makes it a notable addition for collectors of this set.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Plasma Storm 76 Common 70 Akira Komayama
    • Type: Fighting
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Psychic ×2
    • Resistance: None
    • Abilities: None
    • Attacks:
    • Kick: Deals 20 damage with a cost of two Colorless energies.
    • Feint: Deals 40 damage and ignores Resistance, costing one Fighting and two Colorless energies.
    • Flavor Text: “They communicate with one another using their auras made tangible by their emotions.”
    • Regulation Mark: Unknown
    • Release Date: Unknown
    • Legality: unknown

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Riolu appears in the Black & White series, specifically the Plasma Storm expansion. It is a Common rarity card numbered 76 in the set. The card’s artwork by Akira Komayama captures Riolu’s aura-based communication vividly.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this Riolu card. Key identifiers include its set code “bw8-76,” Fighting type, and the distinctive Plasma Storm set symbol. The card’s lack of abilities and its two attacks, Kick and Feint, help distinguish it from other Riolu printings.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality status: unknown. This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats according to available data. Players should verify current tournament rules before including it in decks.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve this Common card’s condition, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its moderate HP and simple attacks, it is a collectible piece best maintained for display or casual play rather than competitive use.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Plasma Storm: Introduced Riolu as a Basic Fighting-type with straightforward attacks and a unique flavor text emphasizing aura communication. This set highlights Riolu’s role in the Black & White series without additional abilities or complex mechanics.

    Riolu Plasma Storm 76

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    Riolu (Plasma Storm) #76

  • Collector’s Guide: Lucario (Plasma Storm #77)

    Collector’s Guide: Lucario (Plasma Storm #77)

    Lucario (Plasma Storm 77) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Lucario from the Plasma Storm set is an Uncommon card numbered 77. With 90 HP, it’s a sturdy Stage 1 that relies on clean, direct damage—highlighted by its stronger attack, Mach Cross.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Plasma Storm 77 Uncommon 90 Ken Sugimori
    • Type: Fighting
    • Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Riolu)
    • Attacks:
    • Kick (Fighting + Colorless) – 10 damage
    • Mach Cross (Fighting + 2 Colorless) – 70 damage
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Psychic ×2
    • Resistance: None
    • Flavor Text: “A well-trained one can sense auras to identify and take in the feelings of creatures over half a mile away.”
    • Set Code: bw8
    • Card ID: bw8-77
    • Image:

    Key Printings

    This Lucario appears in Plasma Storm as card number 77 at Uncommon rarity. It features no special abilities, emphasizing straightforward, powerful attacks.

    Variants & Identifiers

    • No known print variants.
    • Identifiers: set code (bw8), card number (77), illustrator (Ken Sugimori), Fighting type, and Stage 1.

    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 the artwork and condition by sleeving the card and keeping it away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the surface to retain collector value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Plasma Storm: Includes Lucario as a solid Stage 1 Fighting-type with reliable damage output and no special abilities, making it a straightforward choice for collectors focusing on the Black & White series.

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    Lucario (Plasma Storm) #77

  • Collector’s Guide: Lucario (Plasma Storm #78)

    Collector’s Guide: Lucario (Plasma Storm #78)

    Lucario (Plasma Storm 78) Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Lucario from the Plasma Storm set is a Rare Holo card numbered 78 with 100 HP. It features the ability Dual Armor and the attack Hurricane Kick. This card combines strategic potential with a striking design.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Plasma Storm 78 Rare Holo 100 Satoshi Shirai
    • Type: Fighting
    • Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Riolu)
    • Ability: Dual Armor – If Metal Energy is attached, Lucario becomes both Fighting and Metal type.
    • Attack: Hurricane Kick – Deals 60+ damage, increasing by 30 for each Prize card your opponent has taken.
    • Weakness: Psychic ×2
    • Retreat Cost: 2

    Key Printings

    This Lucario card is from the Plasma Storm set, identified by the code bw8-78. It is a Rare Holo variant, making it a desirable piece for collectors focusing on holofoil cards from the Black & White series.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this exact card. Key identifiers include:
    – Set code: bw8
    – Card number: 78
    – Ability: Dual Armor, which changes its type conditionally
    – Artwork by Satoshi Shirai

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
    • This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its unique ability and attack scaling make it interesting for casual play but it is not tournament-legal under current rules.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the holo finish and maintain card condition, store this Lucario card 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 scratches.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Plasma Storm: This set introduced Lucario with the Dual Armor ability, blending Fighting and Metal types under certain conditions. The set is known for its dynamic holo cards and strategic abilities that add depth to gameplay.

    Lucario Plasma Storm 78

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    Lucario (Plasma Storm) #78

  • Collector’s Guide: Gurdurr (Plasma Storm #80)

    Collector’s Guide: Gurdurr (Plasma Storm #80)

    Gurdurr Collector’s Guide: Plasma Storm #80

    Character Intro

    Gurdurr from the Plasma Storm set is an uncommon card numbered 80 with 90 HP. It features the solid attack Hammer In, showcasing its sturdy fighting style. This card offers a straightforward addition to any collection focused on powerful, reliable Pokémon.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Plasma Storm 80 Uncommon 90 Masakazu Fukuda
    • Type: Fighting
    • Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Timburr)
    • Retreat Cost: 3
    • Weakness: Psychic ×2
    • Resistances: None
    • Regulation Mark: Unknown
    • Flavor Text: “With strengthened bodies, they skillfully wield steel beams to take down buildings.”
    • Image:

    Key Printings

    This guide focuses on the exact printing from the Plasma Storm set, card number 80. It is an Uncommon rarity card illustrated by Masakazu Fukuda. No release date is specified for this printing.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. The card is identified by its set code “bw8” and number “80.” The card’s market reference query is “Gurdurr Plasma Storm 80.”

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality status: unknown.
    • This card features two attacks: “Dynamic Punch,” which can deal extra damage and cause confusion on a coin flip, and “Hammer In,” a straightforward 80-damage attack.
    • No abilities or special rules are present.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the card’s condition, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the card surface, especially since it has no special print variants that might increase its value. Keep it in a cool, dry place to maintain the artwork and card stock integrity.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Plasma Storm: This set includes Gurdurr as an Uncommon Fighting-type Stage 1 Pokémon. It fits well into Fighting decks with its solid HP and versatile attacks. The set’s artwork and card design reflect the dynamic energy of the Plasma Storm series.

    This guide covers the exact Gurdurr card from Plasma Storm #80, providing collectors and players with detailed information for identification and care.

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    Gurdurr (Plasma Storm) #80

  • Collector’s Guide: Purrloin (Plasma Storm #82)

    Collector’s Guide: Purrloin (Plasma Storm #82)

    Purrloin Collector’s Guide: Plasma Storm #82

    Character Intro

    Purrloin is a Common Pokémon card from the Plasma Storm set, numbered 82. With a modest 50 HP and the attack Fury Swipes, this sleek trickster adds a subtle edge to any collection.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Plasma Storm 82 Common 50 MAHOU
    • Type: Darkness
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Fighting ×2
    • Resistance: Psychic -20
    • Attacks:
    • Tail Trickery: Flip a coin; if heads, the Defending Pokémon becomes Confused.
    • Fury Swipes: Flip 3 coins; this attack does 10 damage times the number of heads.

    Key Printings

    This guide focuses on the exact printing of Purrloin from the Plasma Storm set, card number 82. It is a Common rarity card with no known alternate printings or special variants.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Identifiers include the set code “bw8” and the card ID “bw8-82.” The card features the Darkness type and Basic subtype.

    Legality & Play Notes

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

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the card’s condition, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the surface, especially since the card’s artwork by MAHOU is a notable feature.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Plasma Storm (bw8): This set includes Purrloin as a Common Darkness-type Basic Pokémon with a focus on status effects and multi-coin flip damage attacks. The set’s theme revolves around Plasma and Darkness energies, fitting Purrloin’s sly and tricky nature.

    Purrloin Plasma Storm 82

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    Purrloin (Plasma Storm) #82