Author: General Ops

  • Collector’s Guide: Pansear (Kalos Starter Set #7)

    Pansear Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Pansear from the Kalos Starter Set is a lively Basic Fire-type with 70 HP. It offers quick utility with Collect and multi-hit pressure with Fury Swipes. This card is numbered 7 in the set.

    Quick Facts

    • HP: 70
    • Type: Fire
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Water ×2
    • Illustrator: Naoyo Kimura
    • Set: Kalos Starter Set (xy0)
    • Card Number: 7
    • Abilities: None
    • Attacks:
    • Collect: Draw a card (Cost: 1 Colorless)
    • Fury Swipes: Flip 3 coins, 10 damage times heads (Cost: 2 Colorless)
    • Flavor Text: “Very intelligent, it roasts berries before eating them. It likes to help people.”
    • Legality: unknown
    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Kalos Starter Set 7 70 Naoyo Kimura

    Key Printings

    This guide focuses on the Pansear card from the Kalos Starter Set, identified by set code xy0 and card number 7. This printing is notable for its straightforward attack options and the clean, vibrant illustration by Naoyo Kimura.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this Pansear card. Key identifiers include its set code (xy0), card number (7), and the illustrator credit to Naoyo Kimura. The card does not have a rarity symbol or regulation mark listed.

    Legality & Play Notes

    The current legality status of this Pansear card is unknown. Players should verify tournament legality before use. In casual play, Collect provides simple draw support, while Fury Swipes can apply swingy chip damage.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the card’s condition, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. With the release date and rarity status not specified here, maintaining a pristine copy can help safeguard its collectible appeal.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Kalos Starter Set (xy0): Pansear appears as a basic Fire-type with straightforward attacks and a helpful flavor text—an accessible choice for collectors and players exploring Kalos-era cards.

    Pansear (Kalos Starter Set) #7

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    Pansear (Kalos Starter Set) #7

  • Collector’s Guide: Fennekin (Kalos Starter Set #8)

    Fennekin (Kalos Starter Set 8) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Fennekin appears in the Kalos Starter Set as card number 8. With 60 HP and the attack Live Coal, it captures the early-stage appeal of a Fire-type starter Pokémon.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Kalos Starter Set 8 60 5ban Graphics
    • Type: Fire
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Water ×2
    • Attacks:
    • Scratch (10 damage, costs 1 Fire energy)
    • Live Coal (20 damage, costs 1 Fire + 1 Colorless energy)
    • Flavor Text: Eating a twig fills it with energy, and its roomy ears give vent to air hotter than 390 degrees Fahrenheit.
    • Illustrator: 5ban Graphics
    • Set Code: xy0
    • Card Number: 8
    • Image:

    Key Printings

    This exact printing appears exclusively in the Kalos Starter Set, identified by set code xy0 and card number 8. It is a Basic Fire-type Pokémon with no evolutions or abilities listed.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants or alternate versions of this card. The card is identified by its set code (xy0), number (8), and illustrator (5ban Graphics). It does not have a rarity symbol or regulation mark.

    Legality & Play Notes

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

    Care & Storage Tips

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

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Kalos Starter Set (xy0): This set includes this Basic Fennekin card, designed as an introductory Fire-type Pokémon with straightforward attacks and a simple retreat cost. The set’s focus is on starter Pokémon from the Kalos region, with this card representing Fennekin’s fiery spirit.

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    Fennekin (Kalos Starter Set) #8

  • Collector’s Guide: Braixen (Kalos Starter Set #9)

    Braixen Collector’s Guide: Kalos Starter Set #9

    Character Intro

    Braixen appears in the Kalos Starter Set as card number 9. This Stage 1 Fire-type Pokémon card has 80 HP and features the attack Flame Tail.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Kalos Starter Set 9 80 5ban Graphics
    • HP: 80
    • Type: Fire
    • Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Fennekin)
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Water ×2
    • Abilities: None
    • Attacks:
    • Firebreathing: Flip a coin; if heads, this attack does 20 more damage (20+ damage, costs Fire + Colorless).
    • Flame Tail: 60 damage, costs Fire + 2 Colorless.

    Key Printings

    This Braixen card appears exclusively in the Kalos Starter Set (set code xy0) as card number 9. It features the signature 5ban Graphics illustration and includes the flavor text highlighting Braixen’s twig ignition technique.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants or alternate versions of this Braixen card. The card can be identified by its set code “xy0-9” and the unique 5ban Graphics artwork. The card’s image is available at /images/xy0/xy0-9.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 vivid artwork and card condition, store Braixen in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its unknown rarity and release date, maintaining mint condition could be valuable for collectors.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Kalos Starter Set (xy0): This set includes Braixen as a Stage 1 Fire-type Pokémon with two attacks emphasizing its fiery nature. The set is designed for new players and collectors, featuring starter Pokémon from the Kalos region.

    Braixen (Kalos Starter Set) #9

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    Braixen (Kalos Starter Set) #9

  • Collector’s Guide: Venusaur-EX (XY #1)

    Venusaur-EX Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Venusaur-EX from the XY set is a Rare Holo EX card with 180 HP. Numbered 1 in the set, it features the powerful attack Jungle Hammer, vivid artwork, and a commanding presence as a Basic Pokémon-EX.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    XY 1 Rare Holo EX 180 Eske Yoshinob
    • Card Number: 1
    • Set: XY
    • Type: Grass
    • Stage: Basic, EX
    • Retreat Cost: 4
    • Weakness: Fire ×2
    • Rules: When a Pokémon-EX is Knocked Out, opponent takes 2 Prize cards.

    Key Printings

    • First card in the XY set, marked as a Rare Holo EX.
    • Basic EX Pokémon with no evolutions from previous cards.
    • High HP and dual attacks that blend offense and self-healing.

    Variants & Identifiers

    • No known print variants.
    • Identifiers: set code “xy1-1” and illustration by Eske Yoshinob.
    • Rarity: Rare Holo EX; Retreat Cost: 4.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    Based on the provided data, this card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. It follows the Pokémon-EX rule where the opponent takes 2 Prize cards if this Pokémon is Knocked Out.

    Care & Storage Tips

    • Use a snug inner sleeve and a rigid top loader for protection.
    • Store away from direct sunlight and moisture to preserve the holofoil.
    • For long-term value, consider a graded case.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • XY Set: Venusaur-EX is the first card in the XY set—a powerful Grass-type Basic EX with offensive and healing attacks, making it a standout rare holofoil for XY-focused collections.

    Venusaur-EX XY 1

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    Venusaur-EX (XY) #1

  • Collector’s Guide: Pansage (XY #10)

    Pansage (XY 10) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Pansage is a lively Common Pokémon card from the XY set, numbered 10. With 60 HP and the attack Leech Seed, it’s a straightforward, appealing addition to any collection thanks to its simple, engaging design.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    XY 10 Common 60 Midori Harada
    • Type: Grass
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Fire ×2
    • Attacks:
    • Vine Whip (10 damage, costs 1 Grass energy)
    • Leech Seed (20 damage, costs 1 Grass + 1 Colorless energy; heals 10 damage from Pansage)
    • Flavor Text: “It shares the leaf on its head with weary-looking Pokémon. These leaves are known to relieve stress.”
    • Regulation Mark: Unknown
    • Legal: unknown

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Pansage is from the XY set, card number 10. It is a common rarity card with no known alternate printings or special editions. The card’s illustrator is Midori Harada, whose artwork emphasizes Pansage’s calming presence.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants or alternate versions of this Pansage card. Identifiers include the set code “xy1” and the card number “10.” The card features a single retreat cost and no abilities, only two attacks.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality status: unknown. This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats according to the provided data. Players should verify current tournament rules before use.

    Care & Storage Tips

    As a common card without special variants, standard protection is sufficient: sleeve the card and store it away from moisture and direct sunlight to preserve the vibrant Midori Harada illustration.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • XY Set: This Pansage card is part of the original XY release, representing a basic Grass-type Pokémon with straightforward attacks and a modest HP of 60. It fits well in beginner decks and collectors’ sets focusing on the XY series.

    Pansage XY 10

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    Pansage (XY) #10

  • Collector’s Guide: Tauros (XY #100)

    Tauros (XY 100) Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Tauros from the XY set is a rare card with 110 HP. This sturdy Pokémon features the aggressive attack Take Down. Numbered 100 in the set, Tauros stands out for collectors seeking solid battle capabilities.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    XY 100 Rare 110 Midori Harada
    • Type: Colorless
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Weakness: Fighting ×2
    • Resistances: None
    • Regulation Mark: Unknown
    • Flavor Text: After heightening its will to fight by whipping itself with its three tails, it charges at full speed.

    Key Printings

    This guide focuses on the single known printing of Tauros from the XY set, card number 100. It is a Rare card with no known alternate print variants.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no print variants or special editions documented for this card. Identification relies on the set code “xy1,” card number “100,” and the illustrator Midori Harada’s artwork. The card’s image can be referenced at /images/xy1/xy1-100.jpg.

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
    • According to available data, this Tauros card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.

    Attacks:
    – Take Down: Deals 30 damage and does 10 damage to itself.
    – Seething Anger: Deals variable damage based on coin flips for each damage counter on Tauros.

    Care & Storage Tips

    Protect the card in a sleeve, and store away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the surface, and keep it in a stable environment to prevent warping or fading.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • XY (xy1): The original set where this Tauros card debuted, showcasing it as a powerful Basic Pokémon with solid HP and unique attack mechanics. No further reprints or variants are documented beyond this set.

    Tauros (XY) #100

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    Tauros (XY) #100

  • Collector’s Guide: Dunsparce (XY #101)

    Dunsparce (XY 101) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Dunsparce (XY 101) is an Uncommon card with 40 HP featuring the attack Second Bite. Its simple, distinct design makes it a straightforward, collectible addition to the XY era.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    XY 101 Uncommon 40 Naoyo Kimura
    • Type: Colorless
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Weakness: Fighting ×2
    • Abilities: None
    • Attacks:
    • Glare: Flip a coin; if heads, the opponent’s Active Pokémon is Paralyzed.
    • Second Bite: Deals 10+ damage, increasing by 10 for each damage counter on the opponent’s Active Pokémon.
    • Flavor Text: When spotted, this Pokémon escapes backwards by furiously boring into the ground with its tail.
    • Illustrator: Naoyo Kimura
    • Image:

    Key Printings

    This guide focuses on the single known printing of Dunsparce from the XY set, card number 101. It is an uncommon card without any known alternate printings or special variants.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants or alternate versions of this Dunsparce card. Identification is straightforward by its set code “xy1” and card number “101.”

    Legality & Play Notes

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

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the card’s condition, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its uncommon rarity and unknown release date, maintaining its physical quality is essential for collectors.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • XY (xy1): This set introduced Dunsparce as a basic Colorless Pokémon with simple but strategic attacks. It features a low retreat cost and a unique flavor text highlighting its evasive nature. The card fits well in casual play but lacks tournament legality.

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    Dunsparce (XY) #101

  • Collector’s Guide: Taillow (XY #102)

    Taillow (XY 102) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Taillow from the XY set is a Common Pokémon card numbered 102. It has 50 HP and features the attack Aerial Ace. This straightforward card offers a glimpse into Taillow’s swift aerial abilities.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    XY 102 Common 50 sui
    • Type: Colorless
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Lightning (×2)
    • Resistance: Fighting (-20)
    • Attack: Aerial Ace — Flip a coin; if heads, this attack does 30 more damage (base 10+ damage)
    • Flavor Text: It has a gutsy spirit that makes it bravely take on tough foes. It flies in search of warm climates.
    • Illustrator: sui
    • Set Code: xy1
    • Regulation Mark: Unknown
    • Release Date: Unknown
    • Legality: unknown
    • Image:

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Taillow is from the XY set, card number 102. It is a Common rarity card with no evolutions printed on this card. The artwork by sui is distinctive for its simple yet expressive style, making it a recognizable piece within the XY collection.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this Taillow card. Identifiers include its set code “xy1” and card number “102.” The card features a single attack, Aerial Ace, which requires two Colorless energy and involves a coin flip mechanic for additional damage.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality status: unknown. This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats according to the provided data. Players should verify current tournament rules before including this card in competitive decks.

    Care & Storage Tips

    As a Common card from the XY series, store it in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight to preserve the artwork and card integrity. Avoid bending and moisture to maintain its collectible value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • XY (xy1): This Taillow card debuted as a Basic Pokémon with straightforward mechanics and a modest HP, fitting well into early-game strategies. Its simple attack and common rarity make it accessible for collectors and players alike.

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    Taillow (XY) #102

  • Collector’s Guide: Swellow (XY #103)

    Swellow (XY 103) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Swellow from the XY set is a Rare, 90 HP Stage 1 Pokémon with the Drive Off ability and a straightforward Wing Attack. This card is numbered 103 in the set.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    XY 103 Rare 90 Mizue
    • Stage: Stage 1 (evolves from Taillow)
    • Type: Colorless
    • Ability: Drive Off — Allows you to switch your opponent’s Active Pokémon with one of their Benched Pokémon once per turn before attacking.
    • Attack: Wing Attack — Deals 60 damage with a cost of three Colorless energies.
    • Weakness: Lightning (×2)
    • Resistance: Fighting (-20)
    • Retreat Cost: 1

    Key Printings

    This guide focuses on the XY set printing of Swellow, card number 103. It is classified as a Rare card and features artwork by Mizue. No specific release date is available for this printing.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this Swellow card. Identification is straightforward by its set code “xy1-103” and its rarity as a Rare card within the XY series.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its ability to force opponent switches can be tactically valuable, but its play status is uncertain due to unknown legality.

    Care & Storage Tips

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

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • XY Set: This Swellow card is part of the original XY series, known for introducing new mechanics and Pokémon designs. It stands out with its Drive Off ability and solid HP, fitting well into mid-game strategies.

    Swellow (XY) #103

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    Swellow (XY) #103

  • Collector’s Guide: Skitty (XY #104)

    Skitty (XY 104) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Skitty from the XY set is a Common card numbered 104. This lively Basic Colorless Pokémon has 50 HP and features two simple, 1–Colorless-cost attacks—Heal Bell and Tail Whap—making it a charming addition for collectors.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    XY 104 Common 50 kawayoo
    • Type: Colorless
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Fighting ×2
    • Attacks:
    • Heal Bell: Heals 10 damage from each of your Pokémon (cost: 1 Colorless).
    • Tail Whap: Deals 10 damage (cost: 1 Colorless).
    • Flavor Text: “It can’t stop itself from chasing moving things, and it runs in a circle, chasing its own tail.”
    • Evolves From: None

    Key Printings

    This Skitty is from the XY set, card number 104. It is a Common rarity card with artwork by kawayoo. The straightforward design makes it a staple for collectors focusing on the XY series.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this Skitty card. It is identified by the set code “xy1” and the card number “104.” The card’s market reference query is “Skitty XY 104.” The regulation mark and release date are unknown.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality status: unknown.
    This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its straightforward attacks and low HP suggest it is more suited for casual play or collection rather than competitive battling.

    Care & Storage Tips

    Store in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Even as a Common, it benefits from careful handling to preserve artwork and card integrity.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • XY Set: A basic Colorless Pokémon with light healing and chip damage, offering a playful snapshot of the XY era in an accessible common.

    Skitty XY 104

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    Skitty (XY) #104