Author: General Ops

Collector’s Guide: Heracross (Team Rocket Returns #43)
Heracross (Team Rocket Returns 43) Collectors Guide

Character Intro

Heracross from the Team Rocket Returns set is an uncommon Basic Fighting-type Pokémon card with 70 HP, numbered 43. Its Crust Poké-Body reduces damage from Basic Pokémon attacks by 20, and its Get Even attack deals 20+ damage, scaling if you have more Prize cards left than your opponent.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Team Rocket Returns 43 Uncommon 70 Tomokazu Komiya
- Type: Fighting
- Stage: Basic
- Retreat Cost: 1
- Weakness: Psychic ×2
- Resistance: None
- Ability: Crust (reduces damage from Basic Pokémon attacks by 20)
- Attack: Get Even (does 20+ damage, increasing if you have more Prize cards left than your opponent)
- Regulation Mark: Unknown
- Flavor Text: None
Key Printings

This exact printing is from Team Rocket Returns, identified as card number 43. It showcases the Fighting-type Heracross with the Crust Poké-Body and the Get Even attack, distinguishing it within the ex series.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this card. It is identified by the set code ex7-43 and features unique artwork by Tomokazu Komiya. The card’s rarity is Uncommon, and it is a Basic Pokémon with a single retreat cost.

Legality & Play Notes

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

Care & Storage Tips

Store this card in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture to preserve the artwork and condition. Avoid bending or scratching the surface, especially since it is an uncommon card with collectible value.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Team Rocket Returns (ex7): Reintroduces classic Team Rocket themes with Pokémon featuring unique abilities and attacks. Heracross contributes with its damage-reducing Poké-Body and scaling attack, fitting into the set’s strategic diversity.
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October 12, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Magmar (Team Rocket Returns #44)
Magmar (Team Rocket Returns 44) Collectors Guide

Character Intro

Magmar from the Team Rocket Returns set is an uncommon card numbered 44. It features 70 HP and a fiery attack called Flame Tail. This card’s vivid design captures Magmar’s intense heat and energy.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Team Rocket Returns 44 Uncommon 70 Yukiko Baba
- Type: Fire
- Stage: Basic
- Retreat Cost: 1 Colorless
- Weakness: Water (×2)
- Attacks:
- Dump and Draw: Discard up to 2 Energy cards from your hand, then draw 2 cards for each Energy discarded.
- Flame Tail: Deals 40 damage, costs 1 Fire and 2 Colorless Energy.
Key Printings

This exact printing of Magmar appears in the Team Rocket Returns set, identified by card number 44 and set code ex7. It is a Basic Pokémon card with no evolutions from previous forms.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this card. Key identifiers include its uncommon rarity, 70 HP, and the illustrator Yukiko Baba. The card’s image can be referenced at /images/ex7/ex7-44.jpg.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats according to available data. Its strategic use centers on energy manipulation with the Dump and Draw attack and moderate damage output from Flame Tail.

Care & Storage Tips

To preserve this card’s condition, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the surface, especially since it is an uncommon card that may hold collector value.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Team Rocket Returns (ex7): Magmar appears as a Basic Fire-type Pokémon with energy-discarding and card-drawing capabilities, fitting the set’s theme of strategic disruption and recovery. Its moderate HP and straightforward attacks make it a solid choice for collectors focusing on this era.
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October 12, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Mantine (Team Rocket Returns #45)
Mantine (Team Rocket Returns 45) Collectors Guide

Character Intro

Mantine from the Team Rocket Returns set is an uncommon card numbered 45 with 70 HP. It features the ability Ripples and the attack Aqua Slash, showcasing its aquatic prowess. This card offers a balanced blend of defensive and offensive capabilities.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Team Rocket Returns 45 Uncommon 70 Miki Tanaka
- Type: Water
- Stage: Basic
- Retreat Cost: 1
- Weakness: Lightning ×2
- Ability: Ripples (removes damage counters from your Pokémon except Mantine)
- Attack: Aqua Slash (30 damage; Mantine cannot attack next turn)
- Flavor Text: Unknown
- Regulation Mark: None
Key Printings

This exact Mantine card is identified as number 45 in the Team Rocket Returns set (ex7). It is a Basic Water-type Pokémon with a Poké-Power called Ripples, allowing healing flexibility during your turn. The Aqua Slash attack deals 30 damage but restricts Mantine from attacking on the following turn, balancing offense and defense.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this Mantine card. It is uniquely identified by its set code ex7-45 and the illustrator Miki Tanaka’s artwork. The card’s rarity is Uncommon, and it carries no regulation mark.

Legality & Play Notes
- Legality: unknown
- This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
Its healing ability can be strategically valuable, but the attack’s drawback requires careful timing.

Care & Storage Tips
- Store in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture.
- Avoid bending or scratching the card surface, especially around the illustrated area by Miki Tanaka.
- Keep in a temperature-controlled environment to maintain condition over time.
Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Team Rocket Returns (ex7): Mantine appears as a Basic Water-type with a healing Poké-Power and a moderate attack, fitting the set’s theme of strategic play and recovery. The card’s rarity and unique abilities make it a notable inclusion in this set.
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October 12, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Rocket’s Meowth (Team Rocket Returns #46)
Rocket’s Meowth Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Rocket’s Meowth is an Uncommon card from the Team Rocket Returns set, numbered 46. This lively Pokémon boasts 60 HP and features the attack Miraculous Comeback. Its design captures the mischievous spirit associated with Rocket’s Meowth.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Team Rocket Returns unknown 46 Uncommon 60 Mitsuhiro Arita
- Type: Darkness
- Stage: Basic
- Retreat Cost: 1 Colorless Energy
- Weakness: Fighting ×2
- Abilities: None
- Attacks:
- Snatch and Run (1 Colorless): Search your deck for a Pokémon Tool or Rocket’s Secret Machine card, add it to your hand, and optionally switch Rocket’s Meowth with a Benched Pokémon.
- Miraculous Comeback (2 Colorless): Flip a coin for each Pokémon in play; does 10 damage per heads to the opponent’s Pokémon and 10 damage per tails to Rocket’s Meowth itself.
Key Printings

The key printing of Rocket’s Meowth is from the Team Rocket Returns set, identified by set code ex7 and card number 46. This printing is notable for its classic Mitsuhiro Arita artwork and its inclusion in the ex series.

Variants & Identifiers

This card has no known print variants. It can be identified by its Darkness type, Basic stage, and the unique attacks “Snatch and Run” and “Miraculous Comeback.” The card’s rarity is Uncommon, and it features a retreat cost of one Colorless energy. The card’s market reference is “Rocket’s Meowth Team Rocket Returns 46.”

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its coin-flip based attack introduces a high-risk, high-reward element, making it a niche choice for casual or collector play.

Care & Storage Tips

Store in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its uncommon rarity and detailed illustration, handle with clean hands and avoid bending or scratching.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Team Rocket Returns (ex7): Rocket’s Meowth appears as a Basic Darkness-type Pokémon with strategic deck-searching capabilities and a unique coin-flip attack. This set reintroduces Team Rocket-themed cards with nostalgic artwork and gameplay mechanics.
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October 12, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Rocket’s Wobbuffet (Team Rocket Returns #47)
Collector’s Guide: Rocket’s Wobbuffet (Team Rocket Returns)

Character Intro

Rocket’s Wobbuffet from the Team Rocket Returns set is an uncommon card numbered 47. This Basic Darkness-type Pokémon has 70 HP and features the disruptive attack Amnesia alongside Dark Aid for resource recovery—making it a neat fit for Team Rocket–themed collections.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Team Rocket Returns 47 Uncommon 70 Mitsuhiro Arita
- Type: Darkness
- Stage: Basic
- Retreat Cost: 1
- Weakness: Psychic ×2
- Abilities: None
- Attacks:
- Dark Aid: Retrieve Pokémon Tool or Rocket’s Secret Machine cards from your discard pile.
- Amnesia: Prevent the Defending Pokémon from using one of its attacks during your opponent’s next turn and deals 10 damage.
Key Printings

This exact printing appears in the Team Rocket Returns set (set code ex7), card number 47. As an uncommon, it’s moderately accessible for collectors focused on this series.

Variants & Identifiers
- There are no known print variants for this card.
- Key identifiers include the Darkness type, the attacks “Dark Aid” and “Amnesia,” and illustrator Mitsuhiro Arita’s signature art style.
- The card’s lack of a regulation mark and unknown release date are also notable.
Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats, which may affect its use in official tournaments. Its abilities focus on disruption and resource recovery, making it a strategic choice in casual or themed decks.

Care & Storage Tips

Store in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its uncommon rarity and unknown release date, maintaining artwork quality and clean edges helps preserve collector value.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Team Rocket Returns (ex7): This set reintroduces classic Team Rocket themes with a focus on Darkness-type Pokémon and disruptive gameplay. Rocket’s Wobbuffet fits perfectly into this motif with its ability to recycle Trainer cards and hinder opponents’ attacks.
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October 12, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Seadra (Team Rocket Returns #48)
Seadra Collector’s Guide: Team Rocket Returns #48

Character Intro

Seadra from the Team Rocket Returns set is an uncommon card numbered 48 with 70 HP. This aquatic Pokémon features the attack Aqua Trick and embodies a swift, water-based playstyle in a striking design.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Team Rocket Returns 48 Uncommon 70 Kagemaru Himeno
- Type: Water
- Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Horsea)
- Retreat Cost: 1
- Weakness: Lightning (×2)
- Resistances: None
- Regulation Mark: Unknown
- Flavor Text: None
Card Features
- Confuse Ray: Confuses the Defending Pokémon.
- Aqua Trick: Manipulates the opponent’s Energy attachments.
These dual attacks support disruption and board control, aligning with Water-type strategies from the era.

Key Printings

This exact printing of Seadra appears as card number 48 in the Team Rocket Returns set (ex7). It is an uncommon rarity card illustrated by Kagemaru Himeno, known for detailed and atmospheric artwork. No alternate print variants are documented for this specific card.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this Seadra card. It is identified by its set code “ex7” and card number 48. The card’s unique features include its dual attacks: “Confuse Ray” and “Aqua Trick.”

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its playability in casual or older format games depends on house rules or specific tournament allowances.

Care & Storage Tips

To preserve the artwork and maintain condition, store this Seadra in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the surface, especially since it is an uncommon card with collectible value.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Team Rocket Returns (ex7): Revisits the Team Rocket theme with a mix of Dark and Water-type Pokémon. Seadra #48 contributes disruptive, strategic attacks that complement the set’s tactical gameplay.
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October 12, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Skiploom (Team Rocket Returns #49)
Skiploom (Team Rocket Returns 49) Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Skiploom is an Uncommon Pokémon card from the Team Rocket Returns set, numbered 49. It features 60 HP and the ability called Buffer. Its attack, Miracle Powder, adds a strategic element to gameplay. This card offers a charming addition to any collection.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Team Rocket Returns 49 Uncommon 60 Kyoko Umemoto
- Type: Grass
- Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Hoppip)
- Ability: Buffer (Poké-Body)
- Attack: Miracle Powder (10 damage, may inflict Special Conditions)
- Weakness: Fire ×2
- Resistance: Water -30
- Retreat Cost: 0
Key Printings

The only known printing of this Skiploom card is from the Team Rocket Returns set (ex7), numbered 49. It is an uncommon rarity card and features the artwork of Kyoko Umemoto. No alternate printings or reprints are documented.

Variants & Identifiers

This Skiploom card has no known print variants. It can be identified by its set code “ex7” and card number 49. The card’s unique Buffer ability and the Miracle Powder attack are key gameplay identifiers. The illustration style by Kyoko Umemoto also helps distinguish this printing.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its Buffer ability offers a strategic defensive option, and Miracle Powder can impose Special Conditions, adding tactical depth. However, its playability in official tournaments is uncertain.

Care & Storage Tips

To preserve this uncommon Skiploom card, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the card surface, especially the illustrated area by Kyoko Umemoto. Keeping it in a temperature-controlled environment will help maintain its condition over time.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Team Rocket Returns (ex7): This set includes the Skiploom card as an uncommon Stage 1 Grass-type Pokémon with a defensive Poké-Body and a disruptive attack. The set’s focus on Team Rocket themes contrasts with Skiploom’s nature, making it a unique addition.
- Other sets: No other sets or printings for this Skiploom card are known.
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October 12, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Dark Houndoom (Team Rocket Returns #5)
Dark Houndoom Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Dark Houndoom from the Team Rocket Returns set is a Rare Holo card numbered 5. With 70 HP and the hard-hitting Dark Fire attack, its moody artwork captures Houndoom’s fierce, battle-ready presence.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Team Rocket Returns 5 Rare Holo 70 Mitsuhiro Arita
- Pokémon: Dark Houndoom
- Stage: Stage 1 (evolves from Houndour)
- Types: Fire, Darkness
- HP: 70
- Weakness: Fighting ×2
- Resistance: Psychic -30
- Retreat Cost: 1
- Attacks:
- Shakedown: Choose a card from your opponent’s hand without looking and discard it (20 damage).
- Dark Fire: Discard a Fire or Darkness Energy attached to Dark Houndoom to deal 40+ damage (40 plus 20 more damage).
- Rules: This Pokémon is both Fire and Darkness type.
- Illustrator: Mitsuhiro Arita
- Set Code: ex7
- Card Number: 5
- Rarity: Rare Holo
Key Printings

The key printing is Team Rocket Returns (ex7), card 5. This Rare Holo stands out for its dual-type classification and a toolkit that blends hand disruption with efficient damage.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this card. Identification is straightforward via set code ex7 and card number 5, with Mitsuhiro Arita’s artwork as a clear visual cue.

Legality & Play Notes

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

Care & Storage Tips

Protect the holo layer and artwork by sleeving immediately, keeping it away from sunlight and moisture, and storing in a rigid top-loader or a binder with individual pockets to prevent bending and surface wear.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Team Rocket Returns (ex7): Introduced Dark Houndoom as a Rare Holo Stage 1 Pokémon with a unique Fire/Darkness typing and disruptive attack capabilities. The set is known for its thematic focus on Team Rocket and dark Pokémon.
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October 12, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Togepi (Team Rocket Returns #50)
Togepi (Team Rocket Returns 50) Collectors Guide

Character Intro

Togepi from the Team Rocket Returns set is a charming Uncommon card numbered 50. With 40 HP and the attack Yawn, it captures the playful essence of Togepi in a simple, effective design.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Team Rocket Returns 50 Uncommon 40 Sumiyoshi Kizuki
- Type: Colorless
- Stage: Basic
- Retreat Cost: 1
- Weakness: Fighting ×2
- Abilities: None
- Attacks:
- Yawn: The Defending Pokémon is now Asleep.
- Mini-Metronome: Copies one of the Defending Pokémon’s attacks (ignoring Energy cost).
Key Printings

This exact printing appears in Team Rocket Returns as card number 50. It is classified as an Uncommon card and features no evolutions from previous cards.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this Togepi. It is identified by the set code “ex7” and card number 50. The illustration by Sumiyoshi Kizuki is a key visual identifier.

Legality & Play Notes
- Legality: unknown
- This Togepi card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
- Mini-Metronome provides a fun, situational way to mimic opposing attacks, but low HP and a single retreat cost make it a fragile gameplay choice.
Care & Storage Tips

Store in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its Uncommon rarity and unknown release date, preserving the artwork and edges is important for long-term value.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Team Rocket Returns (ex7): Togepi is featured as a Basic, Colorless-type Pokémon with a clever attack that copies opponents’ moves. This set focuses on Team Rocket-themed cards, and Togepi’s inclusion adds a playful yet strategic element to the lineup.
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October 12, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Cubone (Team Rocket Returns #51)
Cubone – Team Rocket Returns (ex7-51) Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Cubone from the Team Rocket Returns set is a Common card numbered 51. This lively Pokémon has 50 HP and features the attack Bonemerang. Its straightforward design makes it a notable addition for collectors focusing on this set.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Team Rocket Returns 51 Common 50 Kouki Saitou
- Type: Fighting
- Stage: Basic
- Retreat Cost: 1 Colorless
- Weakness: Grass ×2
- Abilities: None
- Attacks:
- Look for Friends: Reveals cards from your deck until a Basic Pokémon is found to add to your hand.
- Bonemerang: Flip 2 coins; this attack does 10 damage times the number of heads.
- Flavor Text: Unknown
- Regulation Mark: None
Key Printings

This exact printing is from the Team Rocket Returns set, identified by set code ex7 and card number 51. It is a Common rarity card illustrated by Kouki Saitou, notable for its simple, effective portrayal of a Fighting-type Cubone.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this card. It can be identified by:
– Card number (51)
– Set code (ex7)
– Artwork by Kouki Saitou
– Fighting type and Basic stage classification

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 in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the surface to maintain condition. Given its unknown legality, collectors may prioritize preservation over play use.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Team Rocket Returns (ex7): This set revisits the iconic Team Rocket theme with a mix of Dark and Fighting-type Pokémon. Cubone ex7-51 fits into this theme as a Basic Fighting-type with straightforward attacks, adding nostalgic value for collectors of the era.
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October 12, 2025