Author: General Ops

  • Collector’s Guide: Cacturne (Power Keepers #27)

    Cacturne Collector’s Guide: Power Keepers (ex16-27)

    Character Intro

    Cacturne from the Power Keepers set is an Uncommon card numbered 27 with 70 HP. It features the intriguing Poison Structure ability and the dynamic Pin Missile attack. This card offers a strategic edge with its unique combination of traits.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Power Keepers 27 Uncommon 70 Ken Sugimori
    • Type: Darkness
    • Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Cacnea)
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Fighting ×2
    • Resistance: Psychic -30
    • Ability: Poison Structure (Poké-Power)
    • Attack: Pin Missile (Flip 4 coins; 20 damage per heads)
    • Regulation Mark: Unknown
    • Legality: unknown
    • Image:

    Key Printings

    The key printing of Cacturne in the Power Keepers set (ex16-27) is an Uncommon card illustrated by Ken Sugimori. It is notable for its Poison Structure Poké-Power, which interacts with Sidney’s Stadium card, and its Pin Missile attack that relies on coin flips for damage output.

    Variants & Identifiers

    This printing has no known print variants. It is identified by its set code “ex16,” card number 27, and the distinctive Ken Sugimori artwork. The card’s Darkness type, Stage 1 subtype, and unique ability make it easily distinguishable within the Power Keepers set.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its strategic use centers on the Poison Structure ability, which requires Sidney’s Stadium to be in play and cannot be used if Cacturne is affected by a Special Condition.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve this Uncommon card’s condition and artwork, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the card surface, especially since it features detailed Ken Sugimori art. Keeping it in a temperature-controlled environment will help maintain its value and appearance.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Power Keepers (ex16): This set includes Cacturne as card number 27, showcasing a Darkness-type Stage 1 Pokémon with a tactical Poké-Power and a coin-flip-based attack. The set is known for its diverse abilities and strategic gameplay elements, though the exact release date of this card remains unknown.

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    Cacturne (Power Keepers) #27

  • Collector’s Guide: Charmeleon (Power Keepers #28)

    Charmeleon (Power Keepers 28) Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Charmeleon from the Power Keepers set is an uncommon card numbered 28. This Stage 1 Fire-type Pokémon has 70 HP and features the disabling move Scary Face alongside the hard-hitting Flame Tail. The illustration captures Charmeleon’s intense battle presence.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Power Keepers 28 Uncommon 70 Midori Harada
    • Stage: Stage 1
    • Type: Fire
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Water ×2
    • Abilities: None
    • Attacks:
    • Scary Face: Flip a coin; if heads, the Defending Pokémon can’t attack or retreat during your opponent’s next turn.
    • Flame Tail: Deals 50 damage with a cost of two Fire and one Colorless energy.

    Key Printings

    This exact printing is from the ex Power Keepers set, card number 28. It is an uncommon rarity card illustrated by Midori Harada. No alternate printings or promotional versions are noted.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It can be identified by its set code “ex16” and card number 28. The card image can be referenced at /images/ex16/ex16-28.jpg.

    Legality & Play Notes

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

    Care & Storage Tips

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

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Power Keepers (ex16): This set includes Charmeleon as a Stage 1 Fire-type Pokémon with solid attack options and a unique coin-flip disabling move. The set is known for its diverse Fire-type cards and detailed artwork by Midori Harada. The exact release date of this set is unknown.

    Charmeleon (Power Keepers) #28

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    Charmeleon (Power Keepers) #28

  • Collector’s Guide: Combusken (Power Keepers #29)

    Combusken (Power Keepers 29) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Combusken from the Power Keepers set is an uncommon card numbered 29 with 80 HP. It features the Natural Cure ability, allowing it to heal status conditions. Its attack, Lunge, adds a dynamic edge to its battle capabilities. This card offers a balanced blend of resilience and offense.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Power Keepers 29 Uncommon 80 Atsuko Nishida
    • Stage: Stage 1
    • Evolves From: Torchic
    • Type: Fire
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Water (×2)
    • Resistance: None
    • Ability: Natural Cure (removes Special Conditions when attaching Fire Energy)
    • Attack: Lunge (50 damage, requires 2 Colorless Energy, flip a coin; if tails, attack does nothing)
    • Regulation Mark: Unknown
    • Legality: unknown
    • Image:

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Combusken appears in the Power Keepers set, identified by set code ex16 and card number 29. It is an uncommon card illustrated by Atsuko Nishida, known for detailed and dynamic artwork.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Key identifiers include the set name Power Keepers, card number 29, and the illustrator’s signature style. The card’s unique Poké-Body ability, Natural Cure, and the attack Lunge also distinguish it from other Combusken printings.

    Legality & Play Notes

    The legality of this card is unknown. It is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Players should verify tournament rules before including this card in competitive decks.

    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 enhance its collector value. Avoid bending or exposure to extreme temperatures.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Power Keepers (ex16): This set features Combusken as a Stage 1 Fire-type with a useful ability and a moderate damage attack. It fits well into Fire-themed decks and offers strategic value through its Natural Cure ability. The set is known for its balanced mix of Pokémon and energy cards, with this Combusken standing out for its practical utility and appealing illustration.

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    Combusken (Power Keepers) #29

  • Collector’s Guide: Armaldo (Power Keepers #3)

    Armaldo – Power Keepers Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Armaldo from the Power Keepers set is a Rare Holo card numbered 3. It features 120 HP and a striking attack called Mach Claw. This card stands out with its vivid design and solid stats.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Power Keepers 3 Rare Holo 120 Ken Sugimori
    • Type: Fighting
    • Stage: Stage 2 (Evolves from Anorith)
    • Weakness: Grass ×2
    • Retreat Cost: 3
    • Attacks:
    • Rock Blast: Discard up to 5 Fighting Energy cards to deal 20 damage per discarded Energy to any opponent’s Pokémon, ignoring Weakness and Resistance.
    • Mach Claw: Deals 60 damage, unaffected by Resistance.

    Key Printings

    The key printing of Armaldo in the Power Keepers set is a Rare Holo card numbered 3. This printing is notable for its clean Ken Sugimori artwork and the card’s strategic Fighting-type attacks. It is a standout card within the ex series due to its unique attack that allows damage distribution across multiple opponent Pokémon.

    Variants & Identifiers

    • No known print variants for this Armaldo card.
    • Identification is straightforward via set code “ex16” and card number “3.”
    • The card’s holofoil rarity and Ken Sugimori’s illustration are distinctive features for collectors.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats, limiting its use to casual play or collection.

    • Rock Blast provides flexible damage output across the opponent’s board.
    • Mach Claw offers consistent 60 damage that isn’t affected by Resistance.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the card’s holofoil surface and maintain its value, store it in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the card, and consider a top-loader or binder with rigid pages for long-term storage.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Power Keepers (ex16): This set features Armaldo as a Rare Holo Stage 2 Fighting-type Pokémon with a unique multi-target attack mechanic. The set is part of the ex series and showcases classic Ken Sugimori artwork, appealing to collectors who appreciate both gameplay depth and artistic heritage.

    Armaldo - Power Keepers

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    Armaldo (Power Keepers) #3

  • Collector’s Guide: Glalie (Power Keepers #30)

    Glalie (ex16-30) Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Glalie from the Power Keepers set is an Uncommon Stage 1 Pokémon card with 80 HP, numbered 30. It features the Poké-Body Synergy Effect and the attack Double-edge.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Power Keepers 30 Uncommon 80 Ken Sugimori
    • Type: Water
    • Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Snorunt)
    • Weakness: Metal ×2
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Abilities: Synergy Effect (Poké-Body) reduces damage by 30 if Glacia’s Stadium is in play
    • Attacks:
    • Powder Snow (20 damage, causes Defending Pokémon to fall Asleep)
    • Double-edge (60 damage, Glalie does 10 damage to itself)

    Key Printings

    Single Power Keepers printing: card 30, Uncommon, Water-type Stage 1 with 80 HP, illustrated by Ken Sugimori. No alternate printings or reprints of this exact card are noted.

    Variants & Identifiers

    No known print variants. Identify by set code “ex16,” card number “30,” and Ken Sugimori artwork. Subtype: Stage 1; no regulation mark.

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
    • Not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
      Synergy Effect shines alongside Glacia’s Stadium for damage mitigation. Powder Snow offers status control, while Double-edge provides higher damage at a small self-damage cost.

    Care & Storage Tips

    Use a sleeve and keep away from sunlight and moisture. As an Uncommon with classic Ken Sugimori art, preserving surface and edges helps maintain collector appeal.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Power Keepers (ex16): Features varied abilities and attacks. Glalie stands out for its synergy-based Poké-Body and balanced attack options, fitting Ice/Water-themed builds. Ken Sugimori’s artwork adds nostalgic appeal for collectors.

    Glalie ex16-30

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    Glalie (Power Keepers) #30

  • Collector’s Guide: Kirlia (Power Keepers #31)

    Kirlia (Power Keepers 31) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Kirlia from the Power Keepers set is an uncommon card with 70 HP. Its attack suite highlights Dream Eater, giving this graceful Pokémon a distinctive, sleep-focused angle. As card number 31, it offers collectors a distinctive addition to their decks.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Power Keepers 31 Uncommon 70 Sachiko Adachi
    • Type: Psychic
    • Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Ralts)
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Psychic ×2
    • Resistances: None
    • Regulation Mark: Unknown
    • Flavor Text: None

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Kirlia appears in the Power Keepers set, numbered 31. It is an uncommon card with no known alternate printings or special variants.

    • Hypnosis: Puts the Defending Pokémon to sleep.
    • Dream Eater: Deals 50 damage only if the opponent’s Pokémon is asleep.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this Kirlia card. Identifiers include the set code “ex16” and the card number “31.” The illustrator credit to Sachiko Adachi helps distinguish this printing from others.

    Legality & Play Notes

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

    Care & Storage Tips

    Store the card in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its uncommon rarity and unknown release date, maintaining its pristine state can enhance its collectible value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Power Keepers (ex16): This set includes Kirlia as a Stage 1 Psychic-type Pokémon with strategic sleep-inducing and damage-dealing attacks. The set is known for its diverse Psychic-type cards and features artwork by Sachiko Adachi for this particular Kirlia.

    Kirlia (Power Keepers) #31

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    Kirlia (Power Keepers) #31

  • Collector’s Guide: Lairon (Power Keepers #32)

    Lairon (ex16-32) Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Lairon from the Power Keepers set is an uncommon card numbered 32. It features a sturdy 70 HP and includes the attack Stomp. This compact card offers a straightforward, solid presence in any collection.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Power Keepers 32 Uncommon 70 Sachiko Adachi

    Stats & Mechanics

    • Type: Metal
    • Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Aron)
    • Weakness: Fire ×2
    • Resistance: Grass -30
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Attacks:
    • Granite Head: Reduces damage taken by 10 during opponent’s next turn; deals 20 damage.
    • Stomp: Deals 30 damage plus 20 more if a coin flip is heads.
    • Abilities: None
    • Flavor Text: Unknown
    • Regulation Mark: None

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Lairon appears in the ex Power Keepers set as card number 32. It is an uncommon card with no known alternate printings or special variants. The card’s artwork by Sachiko Adachi is distinctive for this set.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this Lairon card. Identifiers include the set code “ex16” and the card number “32.” The card’s rarity is uncommon, and it features no special regulation marks.

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
    • This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
    • Its play viability is limited by its lower HP and modest attack damage, but its damage reduction ability can provide tactical defense.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the card’s detailed artwork 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 lacks special print variants that might increase its value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Power Keepers (ex16): This set features Lairon as a solid Metal-type Stage 1 Pokémon with defensive capabilities. The card fits well into collections focusing on the ex series or Metal-type Pokémon but lacks tournament legality and special print variants.

    Lairon ex16-32

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    Lairon (Power Keepers) #32

  • Collector’s Guide: Machoke (Power Keepers #33)

    Machoke (Power Keepers 33) Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Machoke from the Power Keepers set is an uncommon card numbered 33. With 80 HP and the attack Mega Kick, it’s a sturdy, straightforward battler. The Ken Sugimori artwork emphasizes Machoke’s dynamic strength.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Power Keepers 33 Uncommon 80 Ken Sugimori
    • Type: Fighting
    • Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Machop)
    • Retreat Cost: 1 Colorless Energy
    • Weakness: Psychic ×2
    • Resistances: None
    • Regulation Mark: None

    Key Printings

    This Machoke appears in the Power Keepers set with set code ex16 and card number 33. It has no abilities or special rules text.

    • Attacks:
    • Steady Punch — 10 damage, plus an additional 20 damage on a successful coin flip
    • Mega Kick — 50 damage; requires Fighting and Colorless energy

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this exact Machoke. It can be identified by card ID ex16-33 and the distinct Ken Sugimori illustration. The card’s rarity is Uncommon, and it carries no regulation mark.

    Legality & Play Notes

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

    Care & Storage Tips

    Store in a protective sleeve away from sunlight and moisture. Given its uncommon rarity and unknown release date, maintaining a pristine surface—avoiding bends and scratches, especially on the illustrated front—helps retain collector value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Power Keepers (ex16): Machoke is a solid Fighting-type Stage 1 Pokémon with straightforward attacks. The set is known for classic Pokémon and clean, iconic Ken Sugimori artwork—ideal for collections focused on early ex series prints and Fighting types.

    Machoke Power Keepers 33

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    Machoke (Power Keepers) #33

  • Collector’s Guide: Medicham (Power Keepers #34)

    Medicham (Power Keepers 34) Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Medicham from the Power Keepers set is an Uncommon card numbered 34 with 80 HP. It features the Vigorous Aura Poké-Body and the Rolling Kick attack, offering a balanced mix of offense and defense.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Power Keepers 34 Uncommon 80 Tomoaki Imakuni
    • Type: Fighting
    • Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Meditite)
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Psychic ×2
    • Resistance: None
    • Abilities: Vigorous Aura (Poké-Body) increases damage by 10 for all Active Pokémon’s attacks while Medicham is active.
    • Attacks:
    • Punch: 30 damage, costs 2 Colorless Energy
    • Rolling Kick: 40 damage, costs 2 Fighting and 1 Colorless Energy; may Paralyze the opponent on a coin flip

    Key Printings

    This exact printing is from the Power Keepers set (ex16), numbered 34, and classified as an Uncommon card. The artwork is by Tomoaki Imakuni, known for distinctive, dynamic illustrations.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this Medicham card. Identification is straightforward via the set code “ex16” and card number “34.” The Fighting type, Stage 1 subtype, and unique Poké-Body also help distinguish it.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality status: unknown.
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its Vigorous Aura ability can influence damage calculations, making it a tactical choice in casual or collector play.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve this Uncommon card’s vivid artwork and condition, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the surface, and keep it in a cool, dry environment to prevent warping.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Power Keepers (ex16): This set features a variety of Fighting-type Pokémon, with Medicham standing out for its damage-boosting Poké-Body and solid attack options. The set’s artwork and card design reflect the mid-ex series style, making it a notable collectible for fans of Fighting-type Pokémon.

    Medicham Power Keepers 34

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    Medicham (Power Keepers) #34

  • Collector’s Guide: Sealeo (Power Keepers #37)

    Sealeo (Power Keepers 37) Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Sealeo from the Power Keepers set is an uncommon card numbered 37. With 70 HP and the Ice Beam attack, it’s a straightforward, versatile Water-type pick for collectors.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Power Keepers 37 Uncommon 70 Ken Sugimori
    • Type: Water
    • Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Spheal)
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Lightning ×2
    • Attack: Ice Beam (20 damage; may Paralyze on coin flip)
    • Abilities: None
    • Flavor Text: Unknown
    • Regulation Mark: None

    Key Printings

    This exact printing is from the ex Power Keepers set, card number 37. It is an uncommon rarity card illustrated by Ken Sugimori. The card features the attack Ice Beam, which deals 20 damage and has a chance to paralyze the opponent’s Pokémon.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It is identified by the set code ex16 and card number 37. The card’s image can be referenced at /images/ex16/ex16-37.jpg.

    Legality & Play Notes

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

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve condition, store in a sleeve or toploader, and keep away from direct sunlight and moisture. As an uncommon with classic Ken Sugimori artwork, protecting the surface and edges helps retain collector value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • ex Power Keepers: Features Sealeo as a reliable Stage 1 Water-type with a straightforward attack that can paralyze opponents. The set is known for classic Pokémon and clean, detailed artwork by Ken Sugimori.

    Sealeo (Power Keepers) #37

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    Sealeo (Power Keepers) #37