Tag: Collector’s Guide

  • Collector’s Guide: Grotle (Plasma Storm #2)

    Collector’s Guide: Grotle (Plasma Storm #2)

    Grotle Collector’s Guide: Plasma Storm bw8-2

    Character Intro

    Grotle from the Plasma Storm set is an Uncommon Stage 1 Grass-type Pokémon with 100 HP and a single attack, Knock Away. As card number 2 in the set, it’s a straightforward addition to any Plasma Storm-focused collection.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Plasma Storm 2 Uncommon 100 Sumiyoshi Kizuki
    • HP: 100
    • Type: Grass
    • Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Turtwig)
    • Retreat Cost: 3
    • Weakness: Fire (×2)
    • Resistance: Water (-20)
    • Flavor Text: “It knows where pure water wells up. It carries fellow Pokémon there on its back.”
    • Illustrator: Sumiyoshi Kizuki
    • Card Number: 2/135 (Plasma Storm)
    • Image:

    Key Printings

    This exact printing is from the Plasma Storm set, identified by the code bw8-2. It is an Uncommon card featuring the attack Knock Away, which deals 40 damage plus an additional 20 if a coin flip results in heads.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It is identified by the set code bw8 and card number 2. The card’s rarity is Uncommon, and it carries no regulation mark.

    Legality & Play Notes

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

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the card’s vibrant artwork and condition, store it 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

    • Plasma Storm: This set includes Grotle as a Stage 1 Grass-type Pokémon with a coin flip attack, adding an element of chance to gameplay. The set highlights dynamic Pokémon from the Black & White era, with artwork by Sumiyoshi Kizuki enhancing the card’s appeal.

    This guide covers all known details for the Plasma Storm Grotle card, bw8-2.

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    Grotle (Plasma Storm) #2

  • Collector’s Guide: Chimchar (Plasma Storm #15)

    Collector’s Guide: Chimchar (Plasma Storm #15)

    Chimchar Collector’s Guide: Plasma Storm #15

    Character Intro

    Chimchar from the Plasma Storm set is a common card numbered 15. This lively Pokémon has 50 HP and features the attack Flare. Its straightforward design makes it a charming addition to any collection.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Plasma Storm 15 Common 50 sui
    • Type: Fire
    • Stage: Basic
    • Attack: Flare (20 damage, costs 1 Fire energy)
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Water ×2
    • Flavor Text: “It is very agile. Before going to sleep, it extinguishes the flame on its tail to prevent fires.”
    • Image:

    Key Printings

    This guide focuses on the Chimchar card from the Black & White Plasma Storm expansion, numbered 15. It is a Common rarity card with no evolutions or abilities listed.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this Chimchar card. Identification is straightforward by set code “bw8,” card number 15, and the illustrator sui’s artwork.

    Legality & Play Notes

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

    Care & Storage Tips

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

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Plasma Storm: Introduced this agile Chimchar with a simple but effective Fire attack. The set features a variety of Pokémon with Plasma-themed artwork and mechanics. This Chimchar stands out for its clean design and flavor text emphasizing its cautious nature.

    This Chimchar card is a solid collectible for fans of the Black & White era and those who appreciate straightforward Fire-type Basic Pokémon.

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    Chimchar (Plasma Storm) #15

  • Collector’s Guide: Monferno (Plasma Storm #16)

    Collector’s Guide: Monferno (Plasma Storm #16)

    Monferno (Plasma Storm 16) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Monferno from the Plasma Storm set is an Uncommon card numbered 16 with 80 HP. Its vibrant design and the attack Fire Tail Slap capture Monferno’s energetic battle style.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Plasma Storm 16 Uncommon 80 Masakazu Fukuda
    • Type: Fire
    • Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Chimchar)
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Water ×2
    • Abilities: None
    • Attacks:
    • Loud Howl: Forces the opponent to switch their Defending Pokémon with one on their Bench.
    • Fire Tail Slap: Deals 50 damage but requires discarding an Energy attached to Monferno.

    Key Printings

    This exact printing is from the Plasma Storm expansion, card number 16. It features artwork by Masakazu Fukuda and is classified as an Uncommon card. The card’s flavor text highlights Monferno’s tactical fire control.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Key identifiers include the set code “bw8” and the card number “16”. The card is a Stage 1 Fire-type Pokémon evolving from Chimchar, with no special abilities or resistances.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality

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

    Play Notes

    Its attacks provide tactical switching and moderate damage output, but its play viability is limited by current format restrictions.

    Care & Storage Tips

    • Store in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture.
    • Avoid bending or scratching the surface, especially the illustrated front by Masakazu Fukuda.
    • Keeping it in a rigid top-loader or binder is recommended for long-term collection.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Plasma Storm: This set includes Monferno as a Stage 1 Fire-type Pokémon with strategic switching and energy-discard attacks. The set’s artwork and card design emphasize dynamic battle tactics and elemental control.

    Monferno (Plasma Storm) #16

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    Monferno (Plasma Storm) #16

  • Collector’s Guide: Infernape (Plasma Storm #17)

    Collector’s Guide: Infernape (Plasma Storm #17)

    Infernape (Plasma Storm 17) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Infernape from the Plasma Storm set is a Rare Holo card numbered 17. This fiery Pokémon boasts 130 HP and features the striking attack Malevolent Fire. Its vivid design captures the intense energy of this dynamic fighter.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Plasma Storm 17 Rare Holo 130 5ban Graphics
    • Type: Fire
    • Stage: Stage 2, Team Plasma
    • Evolves From: Monferno
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Weakness: Water ×2
    • Resistances: None
    • Flavor Text: It uses unique fighting moves with fire on its hand and feet. It will take on any opponent.

    Key Printings

    This exact printing is from the Plasma Storm expansion, card number 17. It is a Rare Holo variant, notable for its striking 5ban Graphics illustration and Team Plasma subtype.

    Attacks

    • Torment: Disables one of the opponent’s attacks temporarily.
    • Malevolent Fire: A powerful 120-damage move that requires discarding all attached Energy.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It is identified by the set code bw8-17 and is searchable under “Infernape Plasma Storm 17” in market databases. The card does not have a regulation mark, and no alternate art or promo versions are documented.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its play viability is limited by this status, but it remains a collectible piece for fans of the Plasma Storm set and Infernape.

    Care & Storage Tips

    • Store in a protective sleeve to preserve the holo finish and artwork.
    • Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture.
    • Avoid bending or scratching the surface to maintain value.
    • Use a rigid top-loader or a binder with individual pockets for added protection.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Plasma Storm: Introduced Team Plasma-themed cards with unique subtypes and abilities. Infernape bw8-17 stands out as a powerful Fire-type Stage 2 with strategic attacks and a zero retreat cost, fitting the aggressive style of the set.

    Infernape Plasma Storm 17

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    Infernape (Plasma Storm) #17

  • Collector’s Guide: Simisear (Plasma Storm #20)

    Collector’s Guide: Simisear (Plasma Storm #20)

    Simisear Collector’s Guide: Plasma Storm #20

    Character Intro

    Simisear from Plasma Storm is an Uncommon, 90 HP card featuring the attack Flame Blast. Numbered 20 in the set, it’s a solid pick for collectors who enjoy Fire-type Stage 1 evolutions.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Plasma Storm 20 Uncommon 90 Naoki Saito
    • Type: Fire
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Weakness: Water ×2
    • Abilities: None
    • Attacks:
    • Searing Flame: Burns the Defending Pokémon, dealing 20 damage for one Fire Energy.
    • Flame Blast: Deals 40+ damage, increasing by 20 for each Fire Energy attached to Simisear.
    • Flavor Text: “When it gets excited, embers rise from its head and tail and it gets hot. For some reason, it loves sweets.”

    Key Printings

    This guide covers the Plasma Storm printing, card number 20—a Stage 1 Fire-type evolving from Pansear, illustrated by Naoki Saito.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Identifiers include the set code “bw8” and card number “20.” Classified as Uncommon with the subtype “Stage 1.”

    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

    Store in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching, especially along the edges, to preserve the artwork and condition.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Plasma Storm (bw8): Introduces Simisear as a fiery Stage 1 with versatile Fire-type attacks. The artwork highlights its energetic, ember-filled aesthetic, matching the flavor text.

    Simisear (Plasma Storm) #20

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    Simisear (Plasma Storm) #20

  • Collector’s Guide: Litwick (Plasma Storm #21)

    Collector’s Guide: Litwick (Plasma Storm #21)

    Litwick (Plasma Storm 21) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Litwick is a Common Pokémon card from the Plasma Storm set, numbered 21. It has 60 HP and features the attack Surprise Attack. A straightforward addition to any collection with a simple yet distinct presence.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Plasma Storm 21 Common 60 Kouki Saitou
    • Type: Fire
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Water ×2
    • Attack: Surprise Attack (20 damage, flip a coin; if tails, no damage)
    • Flavor Text: Its flame is usually out, but it starts shining when it absorbs life force from people or Pokémon.
    • Image:

    Key Printings

    This exact printing is from the Plasma Storm set, card number 21, classified as Common rarity. It is a Basic Pokémon with no evolutions printed on this card. The artwork by Kouki Saitou is distinctive for this release.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Identifiers include the set code “bw8” and the card number “21”. The card is a Fire-type with a single Colorless energy attack.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats according to the provided data. No additional tournament or play notes are available.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the card’s condition, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its common rarity, it is still valuable to collectors who appreciate the Plasma Storm set and Kouki Saitou’s artwork.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Plasma Storm (bw8): This set includes Litwick as a Basic Fire-type Pokémon with a simple but thematic attack. The card fits well into collections focusing on the Black & White series and features unique flavor text emphasizing Litwick’s eerie flame.

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    Litwick (Plasma Storm) #21

  • Collector’s Guide: Lampent (Plasma Storm #22)

    Collector’s Guide: Lampent (Plasma Storm #22)

    Lampent – Plasma Storm (bw8-22) Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Lampent from the Plasma Storm set is an Uncommon Pokémon card with 70 HP. It features the intriguing ability Freefloating and the attack Will-O-Wisp. This card is numbered 22 in the set.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Plasma Storm 22 Uncommon 70 Kouki Saitou
    • Type: Fire
    • Stage: Stage 1 (evolves from Litwick)
    • Ability: Freefloating — If Lampent has no Energy attached, it has no Retreat Cost.
    • Attack: Will-O-Wisp (20 damage) requires 1 Fire and 1 Colorless Energy.
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Water ×2
    • Flavor Text: “The spirits it absorbs fuel its baleful fire. It hangs around hospitals waiting for people to pass on.”
    • Set: Plasma Storm (bw8)
    • Card Number: 22
    • Rarity: Uncommon
    • Regulation Mark: Unknown
    • Legality: unknown

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Lampent appears in the Plasma Storm set, identified by the code bw8-22. It is an uncommon card illustrated by Kouki Saitou, featuring the Freefloating ability and the Will-O-Wisp attack.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Key identifiers include its set code (bw8), card number (22), and unique artwork by Kouki Saitou. The card’s Fire type and Stage 1 subtype also help distinguish it.

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality status for this card is unknown. It is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
    • The Freefloating ability allows strategic retreat flexibility when Lampent has no Energy attached, and its Will-O-Wisp attack deals a steady 20 damage.

    Care & Storage Tips

    • Store in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture.
    • Avoid bending or scratching the illustrated front.
    • Use a rigid top-loader or binder for long-term preservation.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Plasma Storm (bw8): This set features Lampent as a Stage 1 Fire-type Pokémon with a unique ability that reduces retreat cost under certain conditions. The set’s artwork and card design emphasize the ghostly and spectral qualities of Lampent, fitting its lore and battling style.

    Lampent Plasma Storm 22

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    Lampent (Plasma Storm) #22

  • Collector’s Guide: Heatmor (Plasma Storm #23)

    Collector’s Guide: Heatmor (Plasma Storm #23)

    Heatmor (Plasma Storm 23) Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Heatmor is an Uncommon Pokémon card from the Plasma Storm set, numbered 23. It boasts 90 HP and features the attack Fiery Licks. This card offers a solid presence with its distinctive fiery motif.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Plasma Storm 23 Uncommon 90 Suwama Chiaki
    • Type: Fire
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Weakness: Water ×2
    • Abilities: None
    • Attacks:
    • Luring Flame: Switches one of the opponent’s Benched Pokémon with the Defending Pokémon and burns the new Defending Pokémon.
    • Fiery Licks: Discards the top 4 cards of your deck; does 50 damage times the number of Fire Energy cards discarded.

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Heatmor is from the Plasma Storm expansion, card number 23. It is an Uncommon rarity card illustrated by Suwama Chiaki. No release date is specified for this printing.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It is identified by the set code “bw8” and the card ID “bw8-23.” The card features the Plasma Storm set symbol and is a Basic Fire-type Pokémon with a retreat cost of 2.

    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 maintain card condition, store this Heatmor card in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its Uncommon rarity, handling with care will help retain its collector value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Plasma Storm: Heatmor appears as a Basic Fire-type Pokémon with strategic attacks that can disrupt the opponent’s bench and capitalize on Fire Energy cards. It fits well into Fire-themed decks and offers unique gameplay mechanics through its attack effects.

    Heatmor (Plasma Storm) #23

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    Heatmor (Plasma Storm) #23

  • Collector’s Guide: Squirtle (Plasma Storm #24)

    Collector’s Guide: Squirtle (Plasma Storm #24)

    Squirtle (Plasma Storm 24) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Squirtle from the Plasma Storm set is a Common card numbered 24. A Basic Water-type with 60 HP and the straightforward attack Tackle, it’s a simple, nostalgic addition to any collection.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Plasma Storm 24 Common 60 Naoki Saito
    • Type: Water
    • Stage: Basic
    • Attack: Tackle (10 damage, costs 1 Colorless Energy)
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Grass ×2
    • Resistance: None
    • Evolves From: None
    • Flavor Text: “It shelters itself in its shell, then strikes back with spouts of water at every opportunity.”
    • Image:

    Key Printings

    This exact printing is from the Plasma Storm expansion, identified as card number 24. It is a Common rarity card illustrated by Naoki Saito. No alternate printings or promotional versions of this specific card are noted.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants or alternate art versions for this Squirtle card. It is identified by the set code “bw8” and the card number 24 within the Plasma Storm set.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats according to the provided data. Its simple attack and low HP make it better suited for casual play or as a set-filler for Plasma Storm collections.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the vibrant artwork and maintain condition, store this Squirtle card in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the surface, especially since it is a Common card that may be handled frequently.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Plasma Storm (bw8): Features Squirtle as a Basic Water-type with a single attack, Tackle. Slotted into the Black & White era with clean, classic artwork by Naoki Saito, its simplicity and Common rarity make it accessible for Water-themed builds or completing the Plasma Storm set.

    This Squirtle offers a clean, nostalgic snapshot of the beloved turtle Pokémon within the Plasma Storm expansion—ideal for collectors seeking a foundational piece from this era.

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    Squirtle (Plasma Storm) #24

  • Collector’s Guide: Articuno-EX (Plasma Storm #25)

    Collector’s Guide: Articuno-EX (Plasma Storm #25)

    Articuno-EX Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Articuno-EX from the Plasma Storm set is a Rare Holo EX card featuring 170 HP. This striking Pokémon boasts the powerful attack Frost Prison. It is card number 25 in the set.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Plasma Storm 25 Rare Holo EX 170 Toyste Beach
    • Type: Water
    • Stage: Basic, EX, Team Plasma
    • Weakness: Metal ×2
    • Resistance: Fighting -20
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Rules: Pokémon-EX rule applies (opponent takes 2 Prize cards when knocked out)
    • Attacks:
    • Blizzard: Deals 60 damage and 10 damage to each of your opponent’s Benched Pokémon.
    • Frost Prison: Deals 80 damage and paralyzes the Defending Pokémon if Plasma Energy is attached.

    Printing Details

    This exact printing is from the Plasma Storm set, card number 25. It is a Rare Holo EX card illustrated by Toyste Beach. The card is a Basic EX Pokémon with Team Plasma subtypes, emphasizing its unique place in the Black & White series.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Identifiers include the set code “bw8” and the card ID “bw8-25.” The card’s image can be referenced at /images/bw8/bw8-25.jpg.

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
    • This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
    • The Pokémon-EX rule applies, meaning when Articuno-EX is knocked out, the opponent takes two Prize cards.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the card’s holo finish and vibrant 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 scratching.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Plasma Storm (bw8): Features Team Plasma-themed cards with powerful EX Pokémon like Articuno-EX, emphasizing strategic energy attachments and status effects. This set is known for its rare holo EX cards with detailed artwork and impactful gameplay mechanics.

    Articuno-EX (Plasma Storm) #25

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    Articuno-EX (Plasma Storm) #25