Author: General Ops

  • Collector’s Guide: Banette (Crystal Guardians #1)

    Banette (ex14-1) Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Banette from the Crystal Guardians set is a Rare Holo card numbered 1. It features 70 HP and the ability Safeguard, complemented by the attack Night Murmurs. This card offers a distinct blend of defensive and offensive traits for strategic play.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Crystal Guardians 1 Rare Holo 70 Kyoko Umemoto
    • Type: Psychic
    • Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Shuppet)
    • Ability: Safeguard — Prevents all effects of attacks, including damage, from opponent’s Pokémon-ex
    • Attack: Night Murmurs (30 damage) — Confuses Basic Defending Pokémon
    • Weakness: Darkness ×2
    • Resistance: Fighting -30
    • Retreat Cost: 1 Colorless Energy
    • Set Code: ex14
    • Series: ex
    • Regulation Mark: Unknown
    • Flavor Text: None

    Key Printings

    This exact printing is from the Crystal Guardians set, card number 1, with a rare holo finish. It is a Psychic-type Stage 1 card featuring the Safeguard Poké-Body and the Night Murmurs attack. The artwork by Kyoko Umemoto is a notable highlight.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It can be identified by its set code “ex14,” card number “1,” and its rare holo foil treatment. The card’s unique ability and attack text also help distinguish it from other Banette printings.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats, according to the provided data. Its Safeguard ability offers protection specifically against Pokémon-ex, which was a significant mechanic during its era.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the holo finish and maintain condition, store the card in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the surface, and consider a top loader or binder for additional protection.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Crystal Guardians (ex14): This set includes the Banette card as a rare holo with unique Psychic-type abilities and attacks. The set is known for its intriguing Pokémon-ex interactions and distinctive artwork styles. The exact release date of this set is unknown.

    Banette (Crystal Guardians) #1

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    Banette (Crystal Guardians) #1

  • Collector’s Guide: Sableye (Crystal Guardians #10)

    Sableye Collector’s Guide: Crystal Guardians Rare Holo (ex14-10)

    Character Intro

    Sableye from the Crystal Guardians set is a Rare Holo card numbered 10 with 60 HP. It features the intriguing ability Excavate and the strategic attack Disable. This card offers a distinctive addition to any collection.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Crystal Guardians 10 Rare Holo 60 Yukiko Baba
    • Type: Darkness
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Resistance: Colorless -30
    • Weaknesses: None
    • Evolves From: None
    • Flavor Text: Unknown
    • Regulation Mark: None

    Abilities and Attacks

    • Excavate: Look at the top card of your deck and choose to discard or keep it.
    • Disable: Prevents the opponent’s Pokémon from using one of its attacks next turn.

    Key Printings

    The key printing of this Sableye card is from the Crystal Guardians set, identified by the set code ex14 and card number 10. It is a Rare Holo variant, making it a desirable piece for collectors focusing on holofoil cards from the EX series.

    Variants & Identifiers

    • No known print variants.
    • Identifiers: the Poké-Power “Excavate” and the attack “Disable,” plus illustrator credit to Yukiko Baba.
    • Card image reference: /images/ex14/ex14-10.jpg.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its strategic abilities, such as Excavate and Disable, offer interesting gameplay options but are limited to casual or collector play due to legality restrictions.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the holofoil shine and prevent damage, store this card in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the surface, especially since the card’s rarity and holo status increase its collectible value. Use a top-loader or a binder with individual pockets for added protection.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Crystal Guardians (ex14): This set includes the rare holo Sableye card featuring Darkness-type attributes and unique gameplay mechanics. The set’s release date is unknown, but it remains a notable entry in the EX series for collectors interested in holofoils and strategic Poké-Powers.

    Sableye (Crystal Guardians) #10

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    Sableye (Crystal Guardians) #10

  • Collector’s Guide: Celebi ★ (Crystal Guardians #100)

    Celebi ★ Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Celebi ★ from the Crystal Guardians set is a Rare Holo Star card numbered 100. This card features 60 HP and the unique ability Time Travel. Its attack, Leaf Shade, adds a strategic edge to gameplay.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Crystal Guardians 100 Rare Holo Star 60 Masakazu Fukuda
    • Pokémon: Celebi ★
    • Type: Grass
    • Stage: Basic, Star
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Fire (×2)
    • Ability: Time Travel (Poké-Power)
    • Attack: Leaf Shade (damage depends on Energy attached)
    • Rules: You can’t have more than 1 Pokémon Star in your deck.

    Key Printings

    The key printing of Celebi ★ is from the Crystal Guardians set, identified by the set code ex14 and card number 100. This Rare Holo Star card is notable for its distinctive Star subtype and its rarity within the set.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this Celebi ★ card. It is uniquely identified by its card ID ex14-100 and the illustrator Masakazu Fukuda. The card’s rarity as a Rare Holo Star and its Star subtype further distinguish it from other Celebi cards.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Players should note the special deck-building rule that only one Pokémon Star card is allowed per deck.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the vibrant holo finish and maintain the card’s condition, store Celebi ★ in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the card, especially around the edges and holo areas.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Crystal Guardians (ex14): Celebi ★ appears as a Rare Holo Star card with a unique Time Travel Poké-Power and an attack that scales with attached Energy. This set showcases Celebi in a Basic, Star form with a modest HP and a strategic retreat cost.

    Celebi ★ (Crystal Guardians) #100

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    Celebi ★ (Crystal Guardians) #100

  • Collector’s Guide: Swalot (Crystal Guardians #11)

    Swalot Collector’s Guide: Crystal Guardians #11

    Character Intro

    Swalot from the Crystal Guardians set is a Rare Holo card numbered 11. It boasts 80 HP and features the attack Reactive Poison. This card offers a vivid addition to any collection.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Crystal Guardians 11 Rare Holo 80 Mitsuhiro Arita
    • Type: Grass
    • Stage: Stage 1
    • Evolves From: Gulpin
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Psychic ×2
    • Abilities: None
    • Attacks:
    • Pick and Choose: Inflicts Burned or Poisoned, and Asleep or Confused simultaneously.
    • Reactive Poison: Deals 50 damage plus 20 more for each Special Condition on the Defending Pokémon.

    Key Printings

    This exact printing is from the Crystal Guardians set, numbered 11, and is a Rare Holo card. It is illustrated by Mitsuhiro Arita, known for his detailed and dynamic artwork. No other print variants are listed for this card.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this Swalot card. Identification is straightforward via its set code “ex14” and card number 11. The card’s holofoil rarity and Mitsuhiro Arita’s signature art style are key visual identifiers.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality status: unknown. This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats, but the overall legality remains unknown. Its unique Special Condition attacks may offer interesting tactical options in casual play.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the holofoil sheen and detailed artwork, store this card in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the surface to maintain its collector value. Use a rigid top-loader or binder with individual pockets for long-term storage.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Crystal Guardians: This set features Swalot as a Rare Holo Stage 1 Grass-type Pokémon with strategic Special Condition attacks. The set’s focus on crystal-themed Pokémon adds a distinctive aesthetic to this card’s presentation.

    Swalot Crystal Guardians 11

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    Swalot (Crystal Guardians) #11

  • Collector’s Guide: Tauros (Crystal Guardians #12)

    Tauros – Crystal Guardians #12 Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Tauros from the Crystal Guardians set is a Rare Holo Basic with 70 HP. It features the ability Crush Chance and the attack Horn Attack. It is card number 12 in the set.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Crystal Guardians 12 Rare Holo 70 Hajime Kusajima
    • Pokémon: Tauros
    • Type: Colorless
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Fighting ×2
    • Abilities:
    • Crush Chance (Poké-Power): Once during your turn, when you put Tauros from your hand onto your Bench, you may discard a Stadium card in play.
    • Attacks:
    • Call for Family (1 Colorless): Search your deck for up to 2 Basic Pokémon and put them onto your Bench. Shuffle afterward.
    • Horn Attack (2 Colorless): Deals 20 damage.

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Tauros appears exclusively in the Crystal Guardians set as card number 12. It is a Rare Holo with no known alternate printings or reprints.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this Tauros card. Identification is straightforward via its set code ex14, card number 12, and the distinctive holofoil pattern typical of Crystal Guardians Rare Holo cards.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This Tauros card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats according to available data. Its bench-supporting attack and unique Poké-Power make it interesting for casual play or collection, though its tournament viability is unclear.

    Care & Storage Tips

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

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Crystal Guardians: Tauros appears as a Rare Holo Basic focused on bench management and Stadium disruption. It’s a colorful addition to the ex series, illustrated by Hajime Kusajima. The set’s release date remains unknown, adding to the card’s enigmatic charm.

    Tauros Crystal Guardians 12

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    Tauros (Crystal Guardians) #12

  • Collector’s Guide: Wigglytuff (Crystal Guardians #13)

    Wigglytuff Collector’s Guide: Crystal Guardians #13

    Overview

    Wigglytuff from the Crystal Guardians set is a Rare Holo card numbered 13. It boasts 90 HP and features the unique ability Fluffy Fur. Its attack, Pester, adds strategic value to any deck.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Crystal Guardians 13 Rare Holo 90 Mitsuhiro Arita

    Card Details

    • Type: Colorless
    • Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Jigglypuff)
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Weakness: Fighting ×2

    Abilities

    • Fluffy Fur (Poké-Body): If Wigglytuff is damaged, the attacking Pokémon falls Asleep.

    Attacks

    • Collect — Draw 3 cards (cost: 1 Colorless)
    • Pester — 30+ damage; does 20 more if the Defending Pokémon has a Special Condition (cost: 2 Colorless)

    Key Printings

    Identified as number 13 in Crystal Guardians, this Wigglytuff is a Rare Holo illustrated by Mitsuhiro Arita, known for vibrant, dynamic artwork.

    Variants & Identifiers

    No print variants are listed for this card. Key identifiers include set code “ex14” and card ID “ex14-13”. The card is a Stage 1 Colorless Pokémon evolving from Jigglypuff.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its unique ability and attacks provide strategic options, especially in decks that capitalize on Special Conditions and status effects.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the holofoil surface and vibrant artwork by Mitsuhiro Arita, store this card in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching to maintain its collector value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Crystal Guardians: Features Wigglytuff as a Rare Holo with a distinctive Poké-Body that can disrupt opponents by inducing Sleep status, complementing the set’s focus on strategic status effects and card draw mechanics.

    Wigglytuff Crystal Guardians #13

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    Wigglytuff (Crystal Guardians) #13

  • Collector’s Guide: Blastoise (Crystal Guardians #14)

    Blastoise (Crystal Guardians 14) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Blastoise from the Crystal Guardians set is a rare card numbered 14 with 120 HP. Its Water Pressure ability adds strategic depth, and Hydro Pump delivers a powerful water-based strike. This card stands out for its solid stats and classic design.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Crystal Guardians 14 Rare 120 Kouki Saitou
    • Pokémon: Blastoise
    • Stage: Stage 2 (Evolves from Wartortle)
    • Type: Water
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Weakness: Lightning ×2
    • Resistance: None
    • Abilities: Water Pressure (Poké-Body) increases damage by 40 when Blastoise’s HP is 40 or less
    • Attack: Hydro Pump does 50+ damage, with up to 40 extra damage based on unused Water Energy attached

    Key Printings

    This exact printing is from the “Crystal Guardians” set, card number 14. It is classified as a Rare card and features the unique Water Pressure ability and Hydro Pump attack. Kouki Saitou’s artwork is a defining feature of this version.

    Variants & Identifiers

    No print variants are listed for this card. Identifiers include the set code “ex14” and the card ID “ex14-14”. The card’s rarity is Rare, and it is a Stage 2 Water-type Pokémon evolving from Wartortle.

    Legality & Play Notes

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

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve condition, store the card in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the surface, especially since it is a rare collectible. A temperature-controlled environment helps maintain the integrity of the card stock and artwork.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Crystal Guardians: This set includes the Blastoise card number 14, featuring a rare Stage 2 Water-type Pokémon with strategic abilities and attacks. The set is known for its detailed artwork and unique Pokémon Powers like Water Pressure. The release date for this set is unknown.

    Blastoise (Crystal Guardians) #14

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    Blastoise (Crystal Guardians) #14

  • Collector’s Guide: Cacturne δ (Crystal Guardians #15)

    Cacturne δ Collector’s Guide

    Overview

    Cacturne δ from the Crystal Guardians set is a Rare card numbered 15. This 80 HP Fighting-type Stage 1 Pokémon showcases the δ symbol, marking it as a distinctive variant within the set. It features the Poké-Power Spike Storm and the attacks Triple Needle and Light Punch (50 damage).

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Crystal Guardians 15 Rare 80 Kouki Saitou
    • Evolves from: Cacnea
    • Type: Fighting
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Fire ×2
    • Abilities: Spike Storm (Poké-Power)
    • Attacks: Triple Needle (damages 3 opponent’s Pokémon), Light Punch (50 damage)
    • Flavor Text: Unknown
    • Regulation Mark: Unknown
    • Legality: unknown
    • Image:

    Key Printings

    This guide focuses on the exact printing of Cacturne δ from the ex14 Crystal Guardians set, card number 15. It is a rare card illustrated by Kouki Saitou, notable for its strategic Poké-Power and multi-target attack.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Identifiers include the set code ex14, card number 15, and the Fighting type with Stage 1 subtype. The card is easily recognized by its unique Poké-Power Spike Storm and the triple-target attack Triple Needle.

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
    • This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
    • Its Poké-Power allows incremental damage placement, which can be tactically advantageous if used before attacking.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the card’s rare status and vibrant artwork by Kouki Saitou, 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

    • Crystal Guardians (ex14): Introduced Cacturne δ as a rare Fighting-type Stage 1 Pokémon with unique abilities and attacks, enriching the strategic options available in the set.

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    Cacturne δ (Crystal Guardians) #15

  • Collector’s Guide: Combusken (Crystal Guardians #16)

    Combusken (Crystal Guardians 16) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Combusken from the Crystal Guardians set is a rare card numbered 16. It boasts 80 HP and features the striking attack High Jump Kick. The artwork captures Combusken’s dynamic energy in a vivid design.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Crystal Guardians 16 Rare 80 Suwama Chiaki
    • Type: Fighting
    • Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Torchic)
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Psychic ×2
    • Abilities: None
    • Attacks:
    • Focus Energy (Fighting): During your next turn, Combusken’s High Jump Kick attack’s base damage is 70.
    • High Jump Kick (Fighting + Colorless): Deals 30 damage.

    Key Printings

    This exact printing is from the Crystal Guardians set, card number 16, and is classified as Rare. It is illustrated by Suwama Chiaki, whose artwork emphasizes Combusken’s energetic pose. No alternate printings or promotional versions of this card are documented.

    Art spotlight

    Illustrated by Suwama Chiaki, the composition highlights Combusken’s energetic pose and motion.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Identification is straightforward via the set code “ex14” and card number 16. The card’s Fighting type and Stage 1 subtype further assist in classification.

    Legality & Play Notes

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

    Strategy note

    Use Focus Energy first to set High Jump Kick’s base damage to 70 on your next turn.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the card’s vibrant artwork and rare status, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or exposure to extreme temperatures to maintain its condition.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Crystal Guardians: This set features Combusken as a rare Fighting-type Stage 1 Pokémon, continuing the Torchic evolutionary line with a focus on energy-boosting attacks. The set’s artwork and card design highlight dynamic battle poses and strategic attack mechanics.

    Combusken

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    Combusken (Crystal Guardians) #16

  • Collector’s Guide: Dusclops (Crystal Guardians #17)

    Dusclops (Crystal Guardians 17) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Dusclops from the Crystal Guardians set is a rare card numbered 17 with 70 HP. It features the intriguing ability Cursed Glare and the attack Psychic Shield. This card offers a unique blend of defensive tactics for strategic play.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Crystal Guardians 17 Rare 70 Kagemaru Himeno
    • Type: Psychic
    • Stage: Stage 1 (evolves from Duskull)
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Darkness (×2)
    • Resistance: Fighting (-30)
    • Abilities:
    • Cursed Glare (Poké-Body): Prevents opponent from attaching Special Energy cards except Darkness and Metal to their Active Pokémon while Dusclops is active.
    • Attacks:
    • Will-o’-the-wisp (Psychic + Colorless): 30 damage
    • Psychic Shield (Psychic + Psychic + Colorless): 50 damage and prevents all effects of attacks, including damage, from Pokémon-ex during opponent’s next turn.

    Key Printings

    The key printing of Dusclops is from the Crystal Guardians set, card number 17. This rare card features the distinctive artwork by Kagemaru Himeno and includes the unique Cursed Glare Poké-Body, which is a notable gameplay mechanic.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this Dusclops card. It is identified by its set code “ex14” and card number 17. The card’s rarity is marked as Rare, and it is part of the ex-series.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats according to the provided data. Its strategic Poké-Body and attacks make it an interesting choice for casual play or collectors focusing on ex-series cards.

    • Cursed Glare slows opponents that rely on Special Energy attachments (except Darkness and Metal) while Dusclops is Active.
    • Psychic Shield offers a strong defensive pivot by blanking attacks from Pokémon-ex on the following turn.
    • Will-o’-the-wisp provides a straightforward, low-cost damage option.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the vibrant artwork and maintain card condition, store Dusclops in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its rarity and unknown release date, handling with care is recommended to retain collector value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Crystal Guardians (ex14): Dusclops appears as a rare Psychic-type Stage 1 card with unique energy attachment restrictions and defensive capabilities, illustrated by Kagemaru Himeno. The set’s focus on crystal-themed Pokémon adds a distinctive aesthetic to this card.

    Dusclops Crystal Guardians 17

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    Dusclops (Crystal Guardians) #17