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  • Collector’s Guide: Giovanni’s Magikarp (Gym Challenge #73)

    Collector’s Guide: Giovanni’s Magikarp (Gym Challenge #73)

    Giovanni’s Magikarp Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Giovanni’s Magikarp is a Common card (#73) from the Gym Challenge set. This lively Basic Pokémon comes with 30 HP and the headline attack Ancestral Memory. Its pared-back, swingy design makes it a neat pickup for collectors focused on classic Gym-era cards.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 73 Common 30 Ken Sugimori
    • Type: Water
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Lightning (×2)
    • Attacks:
    • Ancestral Memory: Flip a coin; if tails, no damage and the attack cannot be used again while Giovanni’s Magikarp is in play. Deals 40 damage on heads.
    • Flail Around: Flip 3 coins; deals 10 damage times the number of heads.
    • Abilities: None
    • Flavor Text: Unknown
    • Regulation Mark: None

    Key Printings

    This card appears exclusively in Gym Challenge, identified by set code “gym2” and card number 73. As a Common, it’s more accessible than rare or holo cards yet remains a solid piece for a focused Gym Challenge collection.

    Variants & Identifiers

    No known print variants or alternate artworks exist for this exact printing. Key identifiers include its Water typing, Basic stage, and the unique attack restriction on Ancestral Memory. Ken Sugimori’s clean, iconic illustration style is a hallmark here.

    Legality & Play Notes

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

    • Gameplay: Both attacks are chance-driven. Ancestral Memory can hit hard but locks itself out on a tails result while this card stays in play, creating risk-reward decisions in casual or themed decks.

    Care & Storage Tips

    Keep the card sleeved and stored away from sunlight and moisture to prevent fading and warping. Given its common rarity but classic artwork, maintaining clean edges and surfaces supports long-term appeal. Minimize handling to avoid scratches and whitening.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: Giovanni’s Magikarp appears as a straightforward Basic Water-type with simple yet chance-driven attacks. It fits well within the Gym Challenge theme, emphasizing Gym Leaders’ Pokémon with unique gameplay quirks. This set is known for its nostalgic appeal and classic art style.

    Giovanni's Magikarp

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    Giovanni's Magikarp (Gym Challenge) #73

  • Collector’s Guide: Giovanni’s Meowth (Gym Challenge #74)

    Giovanni’s Meowth Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Giovanni’s Meowth from the Gym Challenge set is a common card numbered 74. This lively Pokémon has 50 HP and features the attack Cat Kick. Its straightforward design makes it a recognizable addition for collectors.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 74 Common 50 Ken Sugimori
    • Type: Colorless
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Weakness: Fighting (×2)
    • Resistance: Psychic (-30)
    • Attacks:
    • Cat Fleas: Flip a coin; if heads, the Defending Pokémon is Confused.
    • Cat Kick: Deals 30 damage.
    • Evolves From: None
    • Flavor Text: Unknown
    • Regulation Mark: None

    Key Printings

    This exact printing is from the Gym Challenge set, identified by the set code “gym2” and card number 74. It is classified as a Common rarity card, making it accessible yet collectible for fans of the Gym series.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Key identifiers include its card ID “gym2-74,” the illustrator Ken Sugimori’s signature style, and the distinctive Colorless type with Psychic resistance and Fighting weakness.

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
    • This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
      Its simple attack mechanics and low HP suggest it is more of a collector’s item than a competitive play choice.

    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 collectible value, especially with the iconic Ken Sugimori artwork.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: Giovanni’s Meowth appears as a Basic Colorless Pokémon with straightforward attacks and moderate HP. It fits well within the Gym Challenge theme, representing Giovanni’s team with a simple yet effective design. The set’s focus on Gym leaders makes this card a notable piece for collectors interested in that era.

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  • Collector’s Guide: Giovanni’s Nidoran ♀ (Gym Challenge #75)

    Giovanni’s Nidoran ♀ Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Giovanni’s Nidoran ♀ (#75) is a Common from the Gym Challenge set. This lively Basic Grass-type has 50 HP and two straightforward attacks—Horn Thrust and Double-edge—making it a charming addition to any Gym Challenge lineup.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 75 Common 50 Ken Sugimori
    • Type: Grass
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Psychic (×2)
    • Attacks:
    • Horn Thrust: Flip a coin; if tails, the attack does nothing. Deals 20 damage.
    • Double-edge: Deals 30 damage but Giovanni’s Nidoran ♀ takes 20 damage itself.
    • Abilities: None
    • Flavor Text: Unknown
    • Regulation Mark: None

    Key Printings

    The key printing of Giovanni’s Nidoran ♀ is from the Gym Challenge set, identified by set code “gym2” and card number 75. This printing is classified as Common and features the classic Ken Sugimori artwork, making it a staple for collectors interested in the Gym Challenge series.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Identification is straightforward via set code “gym2” and card number 75, with its Grass typing, Basic stage, and distinctive attacks helping distinguish it from other Nidoran cards.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats, which limits its use in official tournament play. Its simple attack set and low HP suggest it is more suited for casual play or collection rather than competitive battling.

    Care & Storage Tips

    Store the card in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its common rarity, maintaining mint condition can enhance its collectible value. Avoid bending or scratching the card surface to retain the clarity of Ken Sugimori’s artwork.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge (gym2): Giovanni’s Nidoran ♀ appears as a Basic Grass-type Pokémon with two straightforward attacks. This set focuses on Gym Leaders’ Pokémon, and this card fits the theme with its simple yet effective design. The card’s lack of abilities and modest HP reflect the early strategic style of the Gym Challenge series.

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  • Collector’s Guide: Giovanni’s Nidoran ♂ (Gym Challenge #76)

    Giovanni’s Nidoran ♂ Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Giovanni’s Nidoran ♂ is a Common card from the Gym Challenge set, numbered 76. This lively Pokémon has 40 HP and features the attack Retaliation. Its straightforward design makes it a notable addition for collectors of this classic set.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 76 Common 40 Ken Sugimori
    • Type: Grass
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Psychic ×2
    • Attacks: Double Kick (10× damage based on coin flips), Retaliation (30 damage, usable only if this card has 2 or more damage counters)
    • No abilities or resistances
    • No flavor text

    Key Printings

    The key printing of Giovanni’s Nidoran ♂ is from the Gym Challenge set, identified by the set code gym2 and card number 76. This printing is a common rarity card and features classic Ken Sugimori artwork.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants or alternate versions of this exact printing. The card can be identified by its set code gym2, number 76, and the distinctive Ken Sugimori illustration. The card image can be referenced at /images/gym2/gym2-76.jpg.

    Legality & Play Notes

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

    It has no special abilities but features two attacks: Double Kick, which depends on coin flips for damage output, and Retaliation, which requires the card to have sustained damage counters before use.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the condition of this common yet collectible card, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the surface, especially the illustrated front by Ken Sugimori. Keeping it in a climate-controlled environment will help maintain its value and appearance.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge (gym2): This set includes Giovanni’s Nidoran ♂ as a Basic Grass-type card with straightforward attacks and a low retreat cost. It fits well within the Gym Challenge theme, focusing on Gym Leader-related Pokémon. The set’s release date is unknown, and this card is a common collectible from the series.

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  • Collector’s Guide: Koga’s Ekans (Gym Challenge #77)

    Collector’s Guide: Koga’s Ekans (Gym Challenge #77)

    Koga’s Ekans Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Koga’s Ekans from the Gym Challenge set is a common card numbered 77. It features 50 HP and a striking attack called Fast-Acting Poison. This card captures the essence of Koga’s signature poison tactics with a vivid design.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge unknown 77 Common 50 Ken Sugimori
    • Type: Grass
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Psychic ×2
    • Attack: Fast-Acting Poison (10 damage; flip 2 coins, if both heads, Defending Pokémon is Confused and Poisoned)
    • Abilities: None
    • Flavor Text: Unknown
    • Regulation Mark: None

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Koga’s Ekans appears in the Gym Challenge set, identified by the set code “gym2” and card number 77. It is a common rarity card, making it accessible for collectors focusing on Gym Challenge.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Identification is straightforward through its set code “gym2,” card number 77, and the distinctive Ken Sugimori illustration. The card’s Grass type and single attack “Fast-Acting Poison” also help confirm its identity.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats, according to the provided data. Its single Grass energy attack and low HP suggest it was designed for early gameplay rather than competitive play.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve this common yet visually appealing card, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its age and unknown release date, careful handling will maintain the integrity of the Ken Sugimori artwork and card surface.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: Koga’s Ekans appears as a basic Grass-type Pokémon with a unique poison-based attack. This set focuses on Gym Leaders and their Pokémon, and this card fits neatly into that theme with its simple but effective design.

    Koga's Ekans

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    Koga's Ekans (Gym Challenge) #77

  • Collector’s Guide: Koga’s Grimer (Gym Challenge #78)

    Collector’s Guide: Koga’s Grimer (Gym Challenge #78)

    Koga’s Grimer Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Koga’s Grimer from the Gym Challenge set is a common card numbered 78. This lively Pokémon boasts 50 HP and features the attack Sludge Toss. Its straightforward design makes it a notable addition for collectors exploring the Gym Challenge series.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 78 Common 50 Ken Sugimori
    • Type: Grass
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Psychic (×2)
    • Attacks:
    • Sludge Grip: Potentially poisons and switches the opponent’s Benched Pokémon with the Defending Pokémon.
    • Sludge Toss: Deals 20 damage with a Grass and Colorless energy cost.

    Key Printings

    Printed solely in the Gym Challenge set under the set code “gym2” with the card number 78. It is a common rarity card and does not evolve from any other Pokémon.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants or alternate versions of this card. It can be identified by its Grass type, 50 HP, and the unique attacks Sludge Grip and Sludge Toss. The illustrator credit to Ken Sugimori is a key identifying feature.

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
    • This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
    • Its playability in official tournaments is therefore unknown.

    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 the card’s artwork and edges is essential for collectors seeking to keep it in pristine condition.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: Koga’s Grimer appears as a Basic Grass-type Pokémon with unique tactical attacks that can disrupt the opponent’s bench. This set focuses on Gym Leaders’ Pokémon, and this card fits well within that thematic collection.

    Koga's Grimer

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    Koga's Grimer (Gym Challenge) #78

  • Collector’s Guide: Koga’s Koffing (Gym Challenge #79)

    Collector’s Guide: Koga’s Koffing (Gym Challenge #79)

    Koga’s Koffing Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Koga’s Koffing is a Common card from the Gym Challenge set, numbered 79. This lively Pokémon boasts 40 HP and features the distinctive attack Smelly Gas. Its simple design makes it a notable addition for collectors interested in the Gym Challenge series.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 79 Common 40 Ken Sugimori
    • Pokémon: Koga’s Koffing
    • Type: Grass
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Psychic ×2
    • Resistance: None
    • Attack: Smelly Gas — Flip a coin; if heads, deals 10 damage to each Benched Pokémon (including your own) without applying Weakness or Resistance.
    • Abilities: None
    • Flavor Text: Unknown
    • Regulation Mark: None

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Koga’s Koffing appears in the Gym Challenge set, identified by the set code “gym2” and card number 79. It is a common card with no known alternate printings or special editions.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Identification is straightforward through its set code “gym2,” card number 79, and the unique Grass typing for Koffing in this set. The illustration by Ken Sugimori is a key visual identifier.

    Legality & Play Notes

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

    Care & Storage Tips

    As a common card from an older set, preserving the card’s condition is essential for maintaining its collector value. Store it in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture to prevent fading and warping. Handling with clean hands or gloves is recommended to avoid oils and dirt.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: Koga’s Koffing is featured as a Basic Grass-type Pokémon with a unique attack that can damage all Benched Pokémon, reflecting the strategic style of the Gym Challenge series. This set focuses on Gym Leaders’ Pokémon, and this card fits well within that theme.

    Koga's Koffing

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    Koga's Koffing (Gym Challenge) #79

  • Collector’s Guide: Giovanni’s Persian (Gym Challenge #8)

    Collector’s Guide: Giovanni’s Persian (Gym Challenge #8)

    Giovanni’s Persian Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Giovanni’s Persian from the Gym Challenge set is a Rare Holo card known for its sleek design. It features 60 HP and the ability “Call the Boss,” complemented by the attack “Ambush.” This card is number 8 in the set, making it a notable addition for collectors.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 8 Rare Holo 60 Ken Sugimori
    • Pokémon: Giovanni’s Persian
    • Stage: Stage 1 (evolves from Giovanni’s Meowth)
    • Type: Colorless
    • Weakness: Fighting ×2
    • Resistance: Psychic -30
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Ability: “Call the Boss” lets you search your deck for the Trainer card Giovanni when played from your hand.
    • Attack: “Ambush” deals 20 damage, with a chance to do 40 damage on a coin flip.
    • Set Code: gym2
    • Card ID: gym2-8
    • Rarity: Rare Holo
    • Illustrator: Ken Sugimori
    • Image: Giovanni's Persian

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Giovanni’s Persian appears in the Gym Challenge set as card number 8. It is a Rare Holo variant, featuring Ken Sugimori’s classic artwork. No other print variants are known for this card.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It is identified by the set code “gym2” and card number 8. The card’s holofoil rarity and distinctive Ken Sugimori illustration make it easily recognizable.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its unique ability and attack provide interesting tactical options, but its tournament viability is uncertain due to its legality status.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the holofoil finish and vibrant artwork, store Giovanni’s Persian in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Use a top-loader or binder with rigid pages to prevent bending or surface scratches.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: Giovanni’s Persian debuts as a Rare Holo Stage 1 card with a strategic ability to fetch the Giovanni Trainer card. It complements the Giovanni’s Meowth pre-evolution and fits well into themed decks focusing on the Gym Leader Giovanni.

    This card remains a collectible highlight for fans of the Gym Challenge series and those interested in Giovanni-themed decks.

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    Giovanni's Persian (Gym Challenge) #8

  • Collector’s Guide: Koga’s Pidgey (Gym Challenge #80)

    Collector’s Guide: Koga’s Pidgey (Gym Challenge #80)

    Koga’s Pidgey Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Koga’s Pidgey is a Common card from the Gym Challenge set, numbered 80. This lively Pokémon has 50 HP and features the attack Sand-attack. Its straightforward design reflects its role in the early stages of gameplay.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 80 Common 50 Ken Sugimori
    • Pokémon: Koga’s Pidgey
    • Type: Colorless
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Lightning ×2
    • Resistance: Fighting -30
    • Set Code: gym2
    • Series: Gym
    • Image:

    Key Printings

    Printed exclusively in the Gym Challenge set under the code gym2-80. It is a Common rarity card, illustrated by Ken Sugimori, and does not evolve from any other Pokémon.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for Koga’s Pidgey from the Gym Challenge set. Identification is straightforward via its set code gym2-80 and its common rarity status.

    Legality & Play Notes

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

    • Peck: deals 10 damage for one Colorless energy.
    • Sand-attack: deals 20 damage and can potentially prevent the Defending Pokémon from attacking on the opponent’s next turn.

    Care & Storage Tips

    Store in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its common rarity, it is ideal for beginner collectors or those focusing on Gym Challenge sets. Avoid bending or exposure to extreme temperatures to maintain the integrity of the card’s artwork and surface.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge: Koga’s Pidgey appears as a Basic, Colorless-type Pokémon with simple but effective attacks. It fits well within the Gym Challenge theme, showcasing Gym Leader Koga’s team. This set is known for its focus on Gym Leaders and their Pokémon, and Koga’s Pidgey is a representative example of the set’s straightforward gameplay style.

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    Koga's Pidgey (Gym Challenge) #80

  • Collector’s Guide: Koga’s Tangela (Gym Challenge #81)

    Collector’s Guide: Koga’s Tangela (Gym Challenge #81)

    Character Intro

    Koga’s Tangela from the Gym Challenge set is a common card numbered 81. It features 50 HP and the attacks Sleep Powder and Grasping Vine. The card captures Tangela’s essence with a straightforward design and modest stats.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Gym Challenge 81 Common 50 Atsuko Nishida
    • Pokémon: Koga’s Tangela
    • Type: Grass
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Weakness: Fire ×2
    • Attacks:
    • Sleep Powder (10 damage): Puts the Defending Pokémon to Sleep.
    • Grasping Vine: Flip a coin; if heads, draw 2 cards.
    • Abilities: None
    • Flavor Text: Unknown
    • Regulation Mark: None
    • Print Variants: None known
    • Image URL: /images/gym2/gym2-81.jpg

    Key Printings

    This exact printing appears in Gym Challenge (set code gym2) as card number 81. It is a Common, making it accessible yet a recognizable entry in the Gym series.

    Variants & Identifiers

    No alternate print variants or special editions are documented. Identifiers include set code gym2, number 81, and illustrator Atsuko Nishida’s artwork. The lack of a regulation mark and absence of abilities further distinguish this printing.

    Legality & Play Notes

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

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the illustration and maintain condition, store Koga’s Tangela in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Its common rarity makes it ideal for casual collectors and Gym Challenge enthusiasts.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Gym Challenge (gym2): Features Koga’s Tangela as a Basic Grass-type card with straightforward attacks and a common rarity, aligning with the Gym series’ focus on Gym Leaders’ Pokémon, distinctive artwork, and simple gameplay.

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