Author: General Ops

  • Collector’s Guide: Rocket’s Hitmonchan ex (Team Rocket Returns #98)

    Rocket’s Hitmonchan ex Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Rocket’s Hitmonchan ex from the Team Rocket Returns set is a Rare Holo EX card with 100 HP, featuring the ability Strikes Back and the powerful attack Magnum Punch. It is card number 98 in the set.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Team Rocket Returns 98 Rare Holo EX 100 Mitsuhiro Arita
    • Type: Darkness
    • Stage: Basic, ex
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Psychic ×2
    • Resistance: None
    • Rules: When Pokémon-ex has been Knocked Out, your opponent takes 2 Prize cards.

    Key Printings

    The key printing of Rocket’s Hitmonchan ex is from the Team Rocket Returns set (card number 98). This Rare Holo EX is notable for a defensive Poké-Body and two attacks: “Mach Punch,” which targets an opponent’s Benched Pokémon, and “Magnum Punch,” a powerful 60-damage attack.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It can be identified by its set code “ex7-98” and the distinctive artwork by Mitsuhiro Arita. The card’s subtype is Basic, ex, and it features the Darkness type symbol prominently.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its Poké-Body “Strikes Back” adds strategic value by placing damage counters on attacking Pokémon, even if Rocket’s Hitmonchan ex is Knocked Out.

    Care & Storage Tips

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

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Team Rocket Returns: Introduced Rocket’s Hitmonchan ex as a Rare Holo EX with a unique ability that punishes attackers and a versatile attack set, enriching the Darkness-type lineup with strategic options.

    Rocket's Hitmonchan ex

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    Rocket's Hitmonchan ex (Team Rocket Returns) #98

  • Collector’s Guide: Rocket’s Mewtwo ex (Team Rocket Returns #99)

    Collector’s Guide: Rocket’s Mewtwo ex (Team Rocket Returns)

    Character Intro

    Rocket’s Mewtwo ex is a Rare Holo EX card from the Team Rocket Returns set, numbered 99. This striking card features Mewtwo with 100 HP and the powerful Psyburn attack. Its vivid design captures the enigmatic aura of this legendary Pokémon.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Team Rocket Returns unknown 99 Rare Holo EX 100 Mitsuhiro Arita
    • Type: Darkness
    • Stage: Basic, ex
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Weakness: Psychic ×2
    • Rules: When Pokémon-ex has been Knocked Out, your opponent takes 2 Prize cards.

    Key Printings

    The key printing of Rocket’s Mewtwo ex is from the Team Rocket Returns set, identified by set code ex7 and card number 99. This printing is notable for its Rare Holo EX rarity and the signature artwork by Mitsuhiro Arita.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It can be identified by its unique card number (99), set code (ex7), and the distinct holo foil pattern typical of Rare Holo EX cards from this era.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. The card’s ex status means knocking it out awards the opponent two Prize cards.

    Attacks

    • Darkness Switch: allows switching damage counters by discarding an Energy card.
    • Hypnoblast: deals 40 damage and may put the opponent’s Pokémon to sleep.
    • Psyburn: a strong 70-damage attack.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the card’s holo finish and artwork, store it 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. Avoid handling the card excessively to maintain its condition and value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Team Rocket Returns: This set reintroduced the classic Team Rocket theme with Darkness-type Pokémon and powerful ex cards like Rocket’s Mewtwo ex. The set is known for its striking artwork and strategic gameplay elements centered around disruption and status effects.

    Rocket's Mewtwo ex

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    Rocket's Mewtwo ex (Team Rocket Returns) #99

  • Collector’s Guide: Altaria (Deoxys #1)

    Altaria (ex Deoxys 1) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Altaria from the Deoxys set is a Rare Holo card numbered 1 with 70 HP. It features the Safeguard Poké-Body and the attack Dive, offering a balanced mix of defense and offense. The card’s elegant design complements its strategic potential in gameplay.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Deoxys 1 Rare Holo 70 Kyoko Umemoto

    Card Stats

    • Type: Colorless
    • Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Swablu)
    • Abilities: Safeguard (Poké-Body) prevents effects of attacks from opponent’s Pokémon-ex
    • Attacks:
    • Double Wing Attack (Lightning): Does 20 damage to each Defending Pokémon
    • Dive (Water, Colorless, Colorless): 50 damage
    • Weakness: Lightning ×2
    • Resistance: Fighting -30
    • Retreat Cost: 1

    Key Printings

    This exact printing is from the ex Deoxys set, card number 1, and is a Rare Holo variant. It is illustrated by Kyoko Umemoto and features the classic ex-era design elements.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It is identified by the set code ex8-1 and the market reference “Altaria Deoxys 1.” The card’s unique Safeguard ability and dual-type attacks make it stand out among other Altaria cards.

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
    • This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats according to the provided data.

    Care & Storage Tips

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

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • ex Deoxys: This set introduced Altaria with a protective Poké-Body and versatile attacks, fitting the set’s theme of powerful and strategic Pokémon. The card’s rarity and holofoil treatment make it a desirable piece for collectors focusing on the ex era.

    Altaria ex Deoxys 1

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    Altaria (Deoxys) #1

  • Collector’s Guide: Ludicolo (Deoxys #10)

    Ludicolo (ex Deoxys 10) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Ludicolo from the ex Deoxys set is a Rare Holo card with 100 HP and card number 10. Its Poké-Power Swing Dance and the attack Healing Steps provide strategic versatility for Water-type builds.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Deoxys 10 Rare Holo 100 Atsuko Nishida
    • Stage: Stage 2
    • Type: Water
    • Weakness: Lightning (×2)
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Abilities: Poké-Power “Swing Dance” lets you draw a card once per turn unless Ludicolo is affected by a Special Condition.
    • Attacks: “Healing Steps” deals 30 damage and can remove damage counters by discarding cards; “Circular Steps” deals 10 damage times the number of Pokémon in play (excluding Ludicolo).
    • Set: ex Deoxys (ex8)
    • Card Number: 10
    • Rarity: Rare Holo
    • Illustrator: Atsuko Nishida
    • Image:

    Key Printings

    This card is the ex Deoxys printing, identified as card number 10. It is a rare holo variant, making it a visually striking and collectible piece for fans of Water-type Pokémon and the ex series.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It can be identified by set code “ex8,” card number “10,” and the illustration by Atsuko Nishida. The absence of a regulation mark and flavor text also help distinguish this printing.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality status: unknown. This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its Poké-Power and attacks offer strategic options but may be limited by format restrictions.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the holo foil and artwork, store the card in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the surface to maintain collector value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • ex Deoxys (ex8): A set featuring Pokémon from the Deoxys storyline, with Ludicolo standing out as a rare holo Stage 2 Water-type. Known for dynamic artwork and unique card abilities, this Ludicolo offers both utility and aesthetic appeal.

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    Ludicolo (Deoxys) #10

  • Collector’s Guide: Hariyama ex (Deoxys #100)

    Hariyama ex Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Hariyama ex from the Deoxys set is a Rare Holo EX card featuring 110 HP. It showcases the Commanding Aura Poké-Body and the attack Pivot Throw, making it a dynamic addition to any collection. This card is numbered 100 in its series.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Deoxys 100 Rare Holo EX 110 Ryo Ueda
    • Type: Fighting
    • Stage: Stage 1, ex (evolves from Makuhita)
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Weakness: Psychic ×2
    • Resistance: None
    • Rules: When Pokémon-ex is Knocked Out, opponent takes 2 Prize cards

    Key Printings

    The key printing of Hariyama ex is from the ex Deoxys set, identified as card number 100. It is a Rare Holo EX card, making it a notable collectible within the ex series.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this exact printing of Hariyama ex. It can be identified by its set code “ex8-100” and the distinctive illustration by Ryo Ueda. The card’s Fighting type and the Poké-Body “Commanding Aura” are also signature features.

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
    • This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
    • Its Poké-Body ability prevents opponents from playing Stadium cards while active.
    • The attacks “Knock Off” and “Pivot Throw” offer tactical options, though the latter increases damage taken on the next turn.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the card’s holo finish and artwork, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Use rigid top loaders or binders designed for rare holo EX cards to prevent bending or surface damage.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • ex Deoxys: Hariyama ex appears as a powerful Fighting-type Stage 1 card with strategic abilities and solid HP, fitting well into the set’s dynamic and competitive environment. The set’s focus on EX Pokémon highlights Hariyama ex’s role as a formidable battler with unique gameplay mechanics.

    Hariyama ex (Deoxys) #100

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    Hariyama ex (Deoxys) #100

  • Collector’s Guide: Manectric ex (Deoxys #101)

    Manectric ex Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Manectric ex is a Rare Holo EX card from the Deoxys set, numbered 101. With a vibrant design and 100 HP, it’s a striking addition to any collection. Its Disconnect attack adds a tactical edge to gameplay.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Deoxys 101 Rare Holo EX 100 Hikaru Koike
    • Type: Lightning
    • Stage: Stage 1, ex
    • Weakness: Fighting ×2
    • Resistance: Metal -30
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Rules: When Pokémon-ex has been Knocked Out, your opponent takes 2 Prize cards.

    Key Printings

    This exact printing is from the Deoxys set, identified by the set code ex8 and card number 101. It is a Rare Holo EX card, making it a notable collectible within the ex series.

    Variants & Identifiers

    • No known print variants
    • Card ID: ex8-101
    • Illustrator: Hikaru Koike
    • Attacks: Disconnect, Mega Shot

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown

    Attacks

    • Disconnect prevents the opponent from playing Trainer cards (except Supporters) during their next turn.
    • Mega Shot requires discarding all attached Lightning Energy to deal 80 damage to an opponent’s Pokémon. Keep in mind the card’s special rule that when knocked out, the opponent takes 2 Prize cards.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the card’s Rare Holo EX condition, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the surface, especially the holographic areas. Use rigid top loaders or binders designed for EX cards to maintain its value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Deoxys (ex8): This set includes Manectric ex as card number 101, showcasing the Lightning-type Pokémon with strong offensive capabilities and strategic disruption through its Disconnect attack. The set’s focus on ex Pokémon highlights powerful evolutions and unique gameplay mechanics.

    Manectric ex

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    Manectric ex (Deoxys) #101

  • Collector’s Guide: Rayquaza ex (Deoxys #102)

    Rayquaza ex Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Rayquaza ex from the Deoxys set is a Rare Holo EX Basic with 100 HP. It features the Dragon Boost Poké-Power and the Spiral Blast attack. This card is number 102 in the set.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Deoxys 102 Rare Holo EX 100 Shin-ichi Yoshikawa
    • Type: Colorless
    • Stage: Basic, ex
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Weakness: Colorless ×2
    • Resistances: Water -30, Fighting -30
    • Set Code: ex8
    • Series: ex
    • Card ID: ex8-102
    • Image: Rayquaza ex

    Key Printings

    This exact printing appears in the Deoxys set (ex8) as card number 102, a Rare Holo EX. It pairs a powerful Poké-Power with an attack that scales with attached Energy cards. Illustrated by Shin-ichi Yoshikawa.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It is identified by set code ex8 and card number 102. The unique Dragon Boost ability and Spiral Blast attack, along with its specific retreat cost and resistances, distinguish it from other Rayquaza ex printings.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown

    • When this Pokémon-ex is Knocked Out, your opponent takes 2 Prize cards.
    • Dragon Boost lets you move any number of basic Energy cards from your Pokémon to Rayquaza ex when you put it onto your Bench, enabling powerful energy acceleration.
    • Spiral Blast deals 20 damage for each basic Energy attached to Rayquaza ex, making it potentially devastating with sufficient Energy.

    Care & Storage Tips

    Protect the holofoil and artwork by using a sleeve and keeping the card away from direct sunlight and moisture. Store in a rigid top-loader or a binder with individual pockets to prevent bending and surface scratches. Given its rarity and unique features, handle with clean hands to avoid oils and dirt.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Deoxys (ex8): Introduces Rayquaza ex as a powerful Basic ex Pokémon with energy manipulation capabilities. Its synergy between the Poké-Power and attack fits decks focused on energy acceleration and burst damage, highlighting Rayquaza ex’s dynamic presence in the ex series.

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    Rayquaza ex (Deoxys) #102

  • Collector’s Guide: Salamence ex (Deoxys #103)

    Salamence ex (Deoxys 103) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Salamence ex is a Rare Holo EX from the Deoxys set, numbered 103. This Colorless Stage 2 ex boasts 160 HP, the Poké-Body Dragon Lift, and the high-impact Bright Flame attack—making it a standout piece for collectors of the ex era and dragon-type favorites.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Deoxys 103 Rare Holo EX 160 Hikaru Koike
    • Type: Colorless
    • Stage: Stage 2,ex (Evolves from Shelgon)
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Weakness: Colorless ×2
    • Resistances: Fire -30, Fighting -30
    • Poké-Body: Dragon Lift (Retreat cost for your Pokémon except Pokémon-ex and Baby Pokémon is 0)
    • Attacks:
    • Flame Jet: 40 damage to any opponent’s Pokémon, ignoring Weakness and Resistance
    • Bright Flame: 120 damage, requires discarding 2 Energy attached to Salamence ex
    • Rules: When knocked out, opponent takes 2 Prize cards

    Key Printings

    The key printing of Salamence ex is from the Deoxys set, numbered 103. It is a Rare Holo EX card, making it a sought-after collectible for fans of the ex series and dragon-type Pokémon.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this exact printing. Identifiers include its set code “ex8” and its classification as a Stage 2,ex Pokémon. The card’s artwork by Hikaru Koike and its unique Dragon Lift Poké-Body help distinguish it.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its powerful attacks and ability make it a notable card for casual play or collection.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the vibrant holofoil and detailed artwork, store Salamence ex 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 damage.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Deoxys (ex8): Salamence ex appears as a Rare Holo EX card, showcasing strong offensive capabilities and a unique retreat cost reduction ability. It fits well within the ex series’ theme of powerful evolved Pokémon with impactful gameplay mechanics.

    Salamence ex

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    Salamence ex (Deoxys) #103

  • Collector’s Guide: Sharpedo ex (Deoxys #104)

    Sharpedo ex Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Sharpedo ex is a Rare Holo EX from the Deoxys set, numbered 104. It features 100 HP and the standout attack Darkness Blast, with artwork that captures the Pokémon’s fierce, sleek nature. A notable pickup for collectors focused on powerful Pokémon-ex.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Deoxys 104 Rare Holo EX 100 Hikaru Koike
    • Type: Darkness
    • Stage: Stage 1, ex
    • Weakness: Grass (×2)
    • Resistance: Psychic (-30)
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Rules: When Pokémon-ex has been Knocked Out, your opponent takes 2 Prize cards.

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Sharpedo ex is from the Deoxys set, identified by the set code ex8-104. It is a Rare Holo EX card, distinguished by its holographic finish and the “ex” subtype, which indicates it is a Pokémon-ex with special rules.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It is uniquely identified by its number 104 in the Deoxys set and the illustrator Hikaru Koike’s artwork. The card’s Darkness type and Stage 1, ex subtype further help collectors distinguish it.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown

    Attacks

    • Drag Off: Can force your opponent to switch their Benched Pokémon with the Defending Pokémon before dealing 20 damage.
    • Darkness Blast: Deals 60+ damage with the option to discard a Darkness Energy for an additional 20 damage and to discard an Energy card from the opponent’s Pokémon.

    Tactical Notes

    Its zero retreat cost and resistance to Psychic-type attacks make it tactically versatile, but when knocked out, it awards your opponent 2 Prize cards.

    Care & Storage Tips

    Protect the holographic surface by using a sleeve and storing away from sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching; consider a top loader or a binder with individual pockets for added protection.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Deoxys (ex8): This set includes the Sharpedo ex card as number 104, featuring a strong Darkness-type Pokémon-ex with strategic attacks and a Rare Holo EX rarity. The set’s release date is unknown, but it remains a notable part of the ex series for collectors interested in Darkness-type Pokémon.

    Sharpedo ex (Deoxys) #104

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    Sharpedo ex (Deoxys) #104

  • Collector’s Guide: Latias ★ (Deoxys #105)

    Latias ★ (ex Deoxys 105) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Latias ★ is a Rare Holo Star card from the Deoxys set, numbered 105. It features 80 HP and the dynamic attack Shooting Star, and its striking Masakazu Fukuda artwork makes it a notable addition for collectors.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Deoxys 105 Rare Holo Star 80 Masakazu Fukuda
    • Type: Colorless
    • Stage: Basic, Star
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Colorless ×2
    • Resistances: Psychic -30, Fighting -30
    • Rules: You can’t have more than 1 Pokémon Star in your deck.

    Attacks & Effects

    • Healing Light: Removes damage counters from all your Pokémon.
    • Shooting Star: Deals increased damage against Pokémon-ex at the cost of discarding all Energy attached to Latias ★.

    Key Printings

    This card is identified as number 105 in the ex Deoxys set. It is a Rare Holo Star, making it a standout collectible within the series. The card’s illustration by Masakazu Fukuda is notable for its vibrant and detailed artwork.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this exact card. It is uniquely identified by its set code “ex8” and number “105”.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. The special rule restricting more than one Pokémon Star per deck applies when using this card in play.

    Care & Storage Tips

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

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Deoxys (ex8): Latias ★ appears as a Rare Holo Star card, emphasizing a blend of elemental attacks and healing capabilities. Its unique Star subtype and rarity make it a prized card within this set.

    Latias ★

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    Latias ★ (Deoxys) #105