Author: General Ops

Collector’s Guide: Pikachu & Zekrom-GX (Team Up #33)
Pikachu & Zekrom-GX Collectors Guide

Character Intro

Pikachu & Zekrom-GX from the Team Up set is a Rare Holo GX card numbered 33. With 240 HP, it’s a sturdy TAG TEAM that stands out for its powerful Tag Bolt-GX attack, offering dynamic options for players seeking explosive plays.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Team Up 33 Rare Holo GX 240 Mitsuhiro Arita

Card Stats
- Type: Lightning
- Stage: Basic, TAG TEAM, GX
- Retreat Cost: 3
- Weakness: Fighting ×2
- Resistance: Metal -20
- Rules: TAG TEAM rule applies—when knocked out, opponent takes 3 Prize cards.
- Attacks:
- Full Blitz: Attach up to 3 Lightning Energy from deck to one Pokémon, then shuffle. Deals 150 damage.
- Tag Bolt-GX: If 3 extra Lightning Energy are attached, deals 170 damage to an opponent’s Benched Pokémon (200 damage total). GX attack can only be used once per game.
Key Printings

The key printing of Pikachu & Zekrom-GX is from the Team Up set, identified as card number 33. It is a Rare Holo GX notable for high HP and attacks that support Lightning Energy acceleration and bench disruption.

Variants & Identifiers

This exact printing has no known print variants. It is identified by the set code “sm9” and the card ID “sm9-33.” The illustrator, Mitsuhiro Arita, is a significant identifier, with artwork highly regarded among collectors.

Legality & Play Notes
- Legality: unknown
- This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
- The TAG TEAM rule applies: if this Pokémon is knocked out, the opponent takes 3 Prize cards—an important strategic consideration.
Care & Storage Tips

To preserve the vivid holofoil and Mitsuhiro Arita’s artwork, store this card in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture. Use a rigid top-loader or a binder with individual pockets to prevent bending or surface scratches.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Team Up (sm9): This set introduced powerful TAG TEAM GX cards, including Pikachu & Zekrom-GX, combining energy acceleration with strong offensive capabilities. The set is known for dynamic artwork and strategic depth in the Lightning-type archetype.
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October 4, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Alolan Geodude (Team Up #34)
Alolan Geodude (Team Up 34) Collectors Guide

Character Intro

Alolan Geodude from the Team Up set is a Common Basic Lightning-type Pokémon, card number 34, with 60 HP. It features the high-risk attack Self-Destruct, offering a strategic option in battle. Its compact design fits well in any collection focused on regional variants.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Team Up 34 Common 60 Yukiko Baba
- Type: Lightning
- Stage: Basic
- Retreat Cost: 2
- Weakness: Fighting ×2
- Resistance: Metal -20
- Attack: Self-Destruct (60 damage, costs Lightning + Colorless; deals 60 damage to itself)
- Flavor Text: “If you mistake it for a rock and step on it, it will headbutt you in anger. In addition to the pain, it will also zap you with a shock.”
- Illustrator: Yukiko Baba
- Set: Team Up (sm9)
- Card Number: 34
- Rarity: Common
- Evolves From: None
Key Printings

This exact printing is from the Sun & Moon series, Team Up expansion, card number 34. It is a Common card illustrated by Yukiko Baba, notable for its simple yet effective design emphasizing Alolan Geodude’s electric traits.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this card. It can be identified by its set code “sm9-34,” the Team Up logo, and the distinctive artwork by Yukiko Baba. The card’s Lightning type and Self-Destruct attack are key gameplay identifiers.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its single attack, Self-Destruct, deals significant damage but also harms itself, making it a risky choice in play.

Care & Storage Tips

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

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Team Up (sm9): Introduced as a Basic Lightning-type Pokémon with a unique Self-Destruct attack, this card adds a tactical risk element to battles. Its common rarity and straightforward design make it accessible for collectors and players alike.
- Other Sets: No other printings or variants are known for this exact card.
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October 4, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Alolan Geodude (Team Up #35)
Alolan Geodude Collector’s Guide (Team Up 35)

Character Intro

Alolan Geodude from the Team Up set is a Common Basic Lightning-type card numbered 35 with 70 HP. It features two straightforward attacks for early-game setup and pressure: Charge, which allows you to attach up to two Lightning Energy cards from your deck, and Smash Bomb, which deals 50 damage but requires a coin flip to succeed.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Team Up 35 Common 70 Yuka Morii
- Type: Lightning
- Stage: Basic
- Retreat Cost: 3
- Weakness: Fighting (×2)
- Resistance: Metal (-20)
- Flavor Text: If you mistake it for a rock and step on it, it will headbutt you in anger. In addition to the pain, it will also zap you with a shock.
- Image:
Key Printings

This exact printing is from the Sun & Moon “Team Up” set, card number 35. It is a Common rarity card with no evolutions or abilities listed. The card features two attacks:
– Charge: allows you to attach up to two Lightning Energy cards from your deck.
– Smash Bomb: deals 50 damage but requires a coin flip to succeed.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this card. It is identified by its set code “sm9” and card number 35. The illustrator is Yuka Morii, and it is classified as a Basic Pokémon with the Lightning type and a retreat cost of 3.

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

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

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Team Up (sm9): This set features Alolan Geodude as a Basic Lightning-type Pokémon with a focus on energy acceleration and moderate damage output. It fits well into decks requiring quick energy attachment but is limited by its retreat cost and coin flip mechanic on its main attack.
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October 4, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Alolan Graveler (Team Up #36)
Alolan Graveler Collector’s Guide (Team Up #36)

Character Intro

Alolan Graveler from the Team Up set is a sturdy Uncommon card with 100 HP. Its headline attack, Electroslug, gives it a unique edge in play. This card is numbered 36 in the set, making it a notable addition for collectors.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Team Up 36 Uncommon 100 Misa Tsutsui
- HP: 100
- Type: Lightning
- Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Alolan Geodude)
- Attacks:
- Rollout (30 damage, no energy cost)
- Electroslug (100 damage, requires Lightning + 3 Colorless energy)
- Weakness: Fighting ×2
- Resistance: Metal -20
- Retreat Cost: 4
- Flavor Text: “When two Graveler fight each other, it fills the surroundings with flashes of light and sound. People call it the ‘fireworks of the earth.’”
- Illustrator: Misa Tsutsui
- Set: Team Up (sm9)
- Rarity: Uncommon
- Regulation Mark: Unknown
- Release Date: Unknown
- Image:
Key Printings

This exact printing of Alolan Graveler appears in the Sun & Moon Team Up expansion, card number 36. It is an uncommon card illustrated by Misa Tsutsui. No other printings or reprints of this exact version are documented.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants or alternate versions of this Alolan Graveler card. Identification relies on the set code “sm9,” card number 36, and the unique artwork by Misa Tsutsui.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality status: unknown. This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Players should verify tournament rules before use.

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 binder with individual pockets to prevent bending or edge wear. Avoid exposure to extreme temperatures to maintain card integrity.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Team Up (sm9): Introduced Alolan Graveler as a Lightning-type Stage 1 Pokémon with strong attacks like Electroslug, emphasizing its energetic and powerful battle style. This set highlights synergy between Pokémon and Trainers, with Alolan Graveler contributing solid offensive options.
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October 4, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Alolan Golem (Team Up #37)
Alolan Golem (Team Up 37) Collectors Guide

Character Intro

Alolan Golem from the Team Up set is a rare card numbered 37 with a sturdy 180 HP. Its headline attack, Super Zap Cannon, provides heavy burst damage, while Electromagnetic Bomb adds flexible, scaling offense. This unique Alolan form also brings strong visual appeal for collectors.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Team Up 37 Rare 180 kawayoo
- Type: Lightning
- Stage: Stage 2 (Evolves from Alolan Graveler)
- Weakness: Fighting (×2)
- Resistance: Metal (-20)
- Retreat Cost: 4
- Attacks:
- Electromagnetic Bomb: Move any number of Lightning Energy from your Benched Pokémon to this Pokémon; this attack does 20 damage for each Energy moved.
- Super Zap Cannon: Discard 2 Energy from this Pokémon to deal 190 damage.
- Flavor Text: “It’s grumpy and stubborn. If you upset it, it discharges electricity from the surface of its body and growls with a voice like thunder.”
- Illustrator: kawayoo
- Set: Team Up (sm9)
- Card Number: 37
- Rarity: Rare
- Image:
Key Printings

This exact printing appears in the Sun & Moon Team Up expansion, identified by set code sm9 and card number 37. It is a rare card featuring detailed artwork by kawayoo. No release date is specified for this printing.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this card. It can be identified by its set (Team Up), number (37), and illustrator (kawayoo). The card features a Stage 2 subtype and a Lightning type with a distinctive high retreat cost of 4.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats according to available data. Its high HP and powerful attacks make it a strong candidate for casual play, but official tournament use is uncertain.

Care & Storage Tips

To preserve condition, use a protective sleeve, avoid direct sunlight and moisture, handle with clean hands, and store in a rigid case to prevent wear—especially given its rarity and detailed artwork.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Team Up (sm9): Features Alolan Golem as a rare Stage 2 Lightning-type Pokémon with strong offensive capabilities and a notable retreat cost. The artwork and flavor text emphasize its grumpy nature and electric power.
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October 4, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Voltorb (Team Up #38)
Voltorb (Team Up 38) Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Voltorb from the Team Up set is a common card numbered 38. This energetic Pokémon has 50 HP and features the straightforward attack Tackle. Its simple design makes it a recognizable addition to any collection.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Team Up 38 Common 50 Ken Sugimori
- Type: Lightning
- Stage: Basic
- Retreat Cost: 1 Colorless Energy
- Weakness: Fighting ×2
- Resistance: Metal -20
- Attack: Tackle (20 damage, costs 1 Colorless Energy)
- Flavor Text: “It was discovered when Poké Balls were introduced. It is said that there is some connection.”
- Regulation Mark: Unknown
- Release Date: Unknown
- Legal Status: unknown
- Image:
Key Printings

This exact printing of Voltorb appears in the Sun & Moon Team Up set, identified by card number 38. It is a common rarity card, making it accessible for collectors and players alike. The artwork by Ken Sugimori is consistent with the classic Pokémon style.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this card. It is identified by its set code “sm9” and number 38. The card’s Lightning type, 50 HP, and single Tackle attack are distinctive features. The lack of abilities and the presence of Metal resistance and Fighting weakness help differentiate it from other Voltorb cards.

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 it in decks.

Care & Storage Tips

As a common card with classic artwork, preserving the vibrant Ken Sugimori illustration is key. Store the card in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture to prevent fading and warping. Use a top loader or binder with individual pockets for added protection during handling and display.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Team Up (sm9): This set features Voltorb as a Basic Lightning-type Pokémon with straightforward gameplay utility. It fits well into beginner decks and collectors’ sets focusing on early Sun & Moon expansions. The card’s simple design and nostalgic flavor text make it a charming addition to any collection.
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October 4, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Electrode (Team Up #39)
Electrode (Team Up 39) Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Electrode from the Team Up set is a Rare Holo card numbered 39 with 90 HP. It features the vibrant ability Electro Shaker and the dynamic attack Speed Ball—a lively addition to any collection.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Team Up 39 Rare Holo 90 Asako Ito
- Type: Lightning
- Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Voltorb)
- Ability: Electro Shaker — allows moving any number of Lightning Energy between your Pokémon when you evolve Electrode from your hand.
- Attack: Speed Ball — deals 50 damage with a Lightning and Colorless energy cost.
- Weakness: Fighting ×2
- Resistance: Metal -20
- Retreat Cost: 1
Key Printings

This exact printing is from the Team Up set (sm9), card number 39. It is a Rare Holo variant illustrated by Asako Ito. The card’s flavor text highlights Electrode’s explosive nature and fearsome reputation.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this card. It is identified by its set code “sm9-39” and the unique ability “Electro Shaker.” The card’s market reference query is “Electrode Team Up 39.” The regulation mark and release date remain unknown.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats according to the provided data. Its ability to redistribute Lightning Energy upon evolution can offer strategic energy management in casual play.

Care & Storage Tips

To preserve the holo foil and vibrant 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.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Team Up (sm9): This set features Electrode as a Stage 1 Lightning-type Pokémon with a unique energy-moving ability, adding tactical depth and collectible appeal. The card’s rarity and holo finish make it a standout piece within the set.
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October 4, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Kakuna (Team Up #4)
Kakuna (Team Up 4) Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Kakuna from the Team Up set is an Uncommon card with 80 HP. It features the ability Grass Cushion and the attack Bug Bite. This card is numbered 4 in the set.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Team Up 4 Uncommon 80 Yuka Morii
- HP: 80
- Type: Grass
- Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Weedle)
- Retreat Cost: 3
- Weakness: Fire ×2
- Resistance: None
- Ability: Grass Cushion — reduces damage taken by 30 if Grass Energy is attached
- Attack: Bug Bite — costs 2 Colorless Energy, deals 20 damage
- Flavor Text: “Almost incapable of moving, this Pokémon can only harden its shell to protect itself when it is in danger.”
- Illustrator: Yuka Morii
- Set: Team Up (sm9)
- Card Number: 4
- Rarity: Uncommon
Key Printings

This guide focuses on the Team Up set printing of Kakuna, card number 4, illustrated by Yuka Morii. It is a Grass-type Stage 1 Pokémon with a unique defensive ability, Grass Cushion, which helps reduce incoming damage when Grass Energy is attached.

Variants & Identifiers

This printing has no known print variants or alternate artworks. It can be identified by its set code “sm9,” card number 4, and the distinctive illustration by Yuka Morii. The card’s retreat cost of 3 and the Grass Cushion ability are notable gameplay identifiers.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its ability to reduce damage when Grass Energy is attached may offer strategic defensive value in casual play.

Care & Storage Tips

To preserve this uncommon Kakuna card, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the card surface, especially the illustrated front by Yuka Morii. Keeping it in a rigid top-loader or binder with acid-free pages will help maintain its condition.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Team Up (sm9): This set introduced Kakuna as a Grass-type Stage 1 with a defensive ability, fitting the set’s theme of Pokémon teamwork and synergy. The card’s moderate HP and retreat cost reflect its cautious, protective nature.
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October 4, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Blitzle (Team Up #44)
Blitzle (Team Up 44) Collectors Guide

Character Intro

Blitzle from the Team Up set is a Common card numbered 44 with 60 HP. This energetic Pokémon features the attack Zap Kick for a quick strike. Its straightforward design makes it a lively addition to any collection.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Team Up 44 Common 60 Akira Komayama
- HP: 60
- Type: Lightning
- Stage: Basic
- Retreat Cost: 1
- Weakness: Fighting ×2
- Resistance: Metal -20
- Evolves From: None
- Flavor Text: Its mane shines when it discharges electricity. They use the frequency and rhythm of these flashes to communicate.
Key Printings

This exact printing is from the Sun & Moon series, Team Up set, card number 44. It is a Common rarity card with no known alternate print variants.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this Blitzle card. It is identified by the set code sm9 and card number 44. The illustrator is Akira Komayama, and the card features the subtype Basic.

Legality & Play Notes
- Legality: unknown
- According to the provided data, this Blitzle card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
- It has two attacks: Delivery Dash, which allows searching for Electropower cards, and Zap Kick, which deals 20 damage.
Care & Storage Tips

To preserve the vibrant illustration and maintain card condition, store this Blitzle card in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the card surface to keep its collectible value intact.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Team Up (sm9): Blitzle appears as a Common Basic Lightning-type Pokémon with utility in searching for Electropower cards and a modest attack. It fits well into Lightning-themed decks but has unknown tournament legality.
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October 4, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Zebstrika (Team Up #45)
Zebstrika Collector’s Guide: Team Up #45

Character Intro

Zebstrika from the Team Up set is a Rare card, number 45, with 120 HP. This Lightning-type Stage 1 Pokémon showcases the powerful Mach Bolt attack, and its dynamic artwork captures Zebstrika’s high-speed energy in battle.

Quick Facts
- HP: 120
- Type: Lightning
- Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Blitzle)
- Attacks: Raid (30+ damage, with bonus if evolved this turn), Mach Bolt (100 damage)
- Weakness: Fighting (×2)
- Resistance: Metal (-20)
- Retreat Cost: 1
set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Team Up 45 Rare 120 Shin Nagasawa

Key Printings

This exact printing appears in the Sun & Moon series set “Team Up” with the set code sm9. It is a rare card featuring Zebstrika with two attacks: “Raid,” which deals extra damage if Zebstrika evolved from Blitzle during the turn, and “Mach Bolt,” a straightforward 100 damage attack.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this card. It is identified by the card number 45 in the Team Up set and features the illustrator Shin Nagasawa’s signature style. The card’s image can be referenced at /images/sm9/sm9-45.jpg.

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

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

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Team Up (sm9): Zebstrika appears as a rare Stage 1 Lightning-type Pokémon with solid HP and versatile attacks, emphasizing speed and power. This set focuses on dynamic Pokémon partnerships, with Zebstrika evolving from Blitzle and showcasing thunderous energy.
This guide covers the exact printing of Zebstrika from the Team Up set, providing collectors and players with essential information for identification and care.

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October 4, 2025