Category: Pokemon

  • Collector’s Guide: Venture Bomb (Team Rocket Returns #93)

    Venture Bomb — Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Venture Bomb is an Uncommon card from the Team Rocket Returns set, numbered 93. Its design reflects the set’s distinctive style, making it a notable piece for collectors interested in this era. Despite lacking an HP value, the card’s unique artwork and rarity contribute to its appeal.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Team Rocket Returns 93 Uncommon Katsura Tabata
    • Card Number: 93
    • Set: Team Rocket Returns (ex7)
    • Stage: Rocket’s Secret Machine
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Types: None
    • Weaknesses/Resistances: None
    • Rules Text: Flip a coin. If heads, put 1 damage counter on 1 of your opponent’s Pokémon. If tails, put 1 damage counter on 1 of your Pokémon.
    • Evolves From: None
    • Abilities/Attacks: None
    • Flavor Text: Unknown
    • Image URL: /images/ex7/ex7-93.jpg

    Key Printings

    Printed solely in the Team Rocket Returns set as card number 93, Venture Bomb is classified as Uncommon and illustrated by Katsura Tabata.

    Variants & Identifiers

    • No known print variants exist for this exact Venture Bomb card.
    • Identification is straightforward via set code “ex7,” card number 93, and the subtype “Rocket’s Secret Machine.”

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its rules text hinges on a coin flip that places a damage counter on either player’s Pokémon, introducing a risk element in casual play.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the Katsura Tabata artwork and maintain condition, store Venture Bomb in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its Uncommon rarity and unknown release date, keeping it in mint condition may enhance its collectible value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Team Rocket Returns (ex7): Venture Bomb appears as card 93, a Rocket’s Secret Machine with a simple but strategic coin flip rule. It complements the set’s theme of Team Rocket’s mechanical devices and adds a unique tactical option for collectors and casual players alike.

    Venture Bomb (Team Rocket Returns) #93

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    Venture Bomb (Team Rocket Returns) #93

  • Collector’s Guide: Dark Metal Energy (Team Rocket Returns #94)

    Dark Metal Energy (ex7-94) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Dark Metal Energy is an Uncommon Special Energy card from the Team Rocket Returns set, numbered 94. It adds distinctive dual-type utility to decks that leverage Darkness and Metal Energy.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Team Rocket Returns 94 Uncommon Takumi Akabane
    • Card ID: ex7-94
    • Stage: Special
    • Subtypes: Special
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Weaknesses: None
    • Resistances: None
    • Evolves From: None
    • Flavor Text: Unknown
    • HP: Unknown

    Key Printings

    Printed exclusively in the Team Rocket Returns expansion (ex7) as card number 94. Its Uncommon rarity makes it moderately accessible to set-focused collectors.

    Variants & Identifiers

    No known print variants. Identified by set code “ex7” and card number “94.” The Takumi Akabane illustration, Special subtype, and unique energy rules distinguish it from other Energy cards.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    Rules: Attach Dark Metal Energy to 1 of your Pokémon. While in play, Dark Metal Energy provides Darkness Energy and Metal Energy, but provides only 1 Energy at a time. (Doesn’t count as a basic Energy card when not in play and has no effect other than providing Energy.)

    Care & Storage Tips

    As a Special Energy card with unique artwork, store Dark Metal Energy in a protective sleeve to prevent edge wear and surface scratches. Keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture to preserve condition and the integrity of the Takumi Akabane illustration.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Team Rocket Returns (ex7): Debuts as a versatile Special Energy that combines Darkness and Metal Energy in a single card. Its Uncommon rarity and dual-energy function make it a notable entry in the set’s energy lineup.

    Dark Metal Energy (Team Rocket Returns) #94

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    Dark Metal Energy (Team Rocket Returns) #94

  • Collector’s Guide: Rocket’s Articuno ex (Team Rocket Returns #96)

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

    Character Intro

    Rocket’s Articuno ex from the Team Rocket Returns set is a Rare Holo EX card featuring 100 HP. Numbered 96, it stands out with its vivid design, the Darkness Veil ability, and the hard-hitting Ice Wing attack.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Team Rocket Returns 96 Rare Holo EX 100 Ryo Ueda
    • Type: Darkness
    • Stage: Basic, ex
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Metal ×2
    • Abilities: Darkness Veil (Poké-Body) prevents all effects except damage from opponent’s attacks if Darkness Energy is attached.
    • Attacks: Freeze Solid (10 damage, attaches Water Energy from discard), Ice Wing (50 damage).
    • Rules: When knocked out, opponent takes 2 Prize cards.

    Key Printings

    This exact printing is card number 96 from the Team Rocket Returns set (ex7). It is a Rare Holo EX notable for its Darkness typing and the Poké-Body Darkness Veil, which offers protection when Darkness Energy is attached.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Key identifiers include its set code “ex7-96,” rarity as Rare Holo EX, and the illustrator Ryo Ueda. The card’s image can be referenced at /images/ex7/ex7-96.jpg.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. It features the typical Pokémon-ex rule where the opponent takes 2 Prize cards upon knockout.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the holofoil surface and maintain the card’s value, store Rocket’s Articuno ex in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the card, and consider using a top-loader or a binder with rigid pages for added protection.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Team Rocket Returns (ex7): This set reintroduces iconic Team Rocket Pokémon-ex with unique abilities and attacks. Rocket’s Articuno ex stands out with its Darkness typing and strategic Poké-Body, fitting well into themed decks focused on energy manipulation and disruption.

    A vivid collectible for fans of the ex series and Team Rocket-themed decks alike.

    Rocket's Articuno ex (Team Rocket Returns) #96

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    Rocket's Articuno ex (Team Rocket Returns) #96

  • Collector’s Guide: Rocket’s Entei ex (Team Rocket Returns #97)

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

    Character Intro

    Rocket’s Entei ex from the Team Rocket Returns set is a Rare Holo EX card numbered 97. This striking card features 100 HP and includes the Dark Condition ability alongside the Energy Link attack. Its design reflects the dark, intense theme of the Team Rocket series.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Team Rocket Returns 97 Rare Holo EX 100 Ryo Ueda
    • Type: Darkness
    • Stage: Basic, ex
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Water ×2
    • Resistance: None
    • Rules: When Pokémon-ex has been Knocked Out, your opponent takes 2 Prize cards.

    Key Printings

    This exact printing is identified as card number 97 from the Team Rocket Returns set (ex7). It is a Rare Holo EX card, notable for its Darkness typing and the exclusive Poké-Body ability “Dark Condition,” which negates its Weakness when Darkness Energy is attached.

    • Dark Condition: Negates its Weakness when Darkness Energy is attached.
    • Energy Link: Recycles Energy from the discard pile.
    • Volcanic Ash: A powerful attack requiring two Fire and one Colorless Energy.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It is uniquely identified by its set code ex7-97 and the illustrator credit to Ryo Ueda. The card’s holofoil finish and EX subtype further distinguish it within the Team Rocket Returns set.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. It features the standard Pokémon-ex rule where the opponent takes two Prize cards upon knockout.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the card’s rare holo EX finish and maintain its value, store it in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the surface, and consider using a top loader or binder with individual pockets for added protection.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Team Rocket Returns (ex7): This set reintroduces iconic Team Rocket Pokémon with powerful abilities and attacks. Rocket’s Entei ex fits perfectly into this theme, offering strategic energy manipulation and a strong offensive presence with its “Volcanic Ash” attack.

    Rocket's Entei ex

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    Rocket's Entei ex (Team Rocket Returns) #97

  • 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