Tag: Collector’s Guide

  • Collector’s Guide: Professor Elm (Neo Genesis #96)

    Collector’s Guide: Professor Elm (Neo Genesis #96)

    Professor Elm (Neo Genesis 96) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Professor Elm is an Uncommon Trainer card from the Neo Genesis set, numbered 96. As part of the early Neo era, it adds a thoughtful, classic touch to any Pokémon TCG collection.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Neo Genesis 96 Uncommon Ken Sugimori
    • Card ID: neo1-96
    • Series: neo
    • Set Name: Neo Genesis
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Rules Text: Shuffle your hand into your deck. Then, draw 7 cards. You can’t play any more Trainer cards this turn.
    • Types: None
    • Stage: None
    • Evolves From: None
    • Flavor Text: Unknown
    • Weaknesses/Resistances: None

    Key Printings

    This exact printing appears in Neo Genesis as card number 96. It is an Uncommon Trainer card with no alternate print variants listed. Ken Sugimori’s artwork delivers the quintessential early Pokémon TCG look.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants or alternate versions of this card. Identification is straightforward via set code “neo1” and card number “96.” The lack of a regulation mark and the absence of HP or attacks further distinguish it.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality status: unknown.
    The effect is simple but strategic: refresh your hand by shuffling it into your deck and drawing 7 cards, at the cost of playing no further Trainer cards that turn. This trade-off shapes both deck-building and in-game sequencing.

    Care & Storage Tips

    Store in a protective sleeve, away from direct sunlight and moisture. As an Uncommon card with classic illustration, preserving surface and edges helps maintain collector appeal.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Neo Genesis: Introduces Professor Elm as an Uncommon Trainer with a unique hand-refreshing effect, emblematic of the Neo series’ straightforward mechanics and iconic Ken Sugimori art.

    Professor Elm

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    Professor Elm (Neo Genesis) #96

  • Collector’s Guide: Sprout Tower (Neo Genesis #97)

    Collector’s Guide: Sprout Tower (Neo Genesis #97)

    Sprout Tower (Neo Genesis 97) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Sprout Tower is an uncommon Stadium card from the Neo Genesis set, numbered 97. Its design captures the essence of the iconic location within the Pokémon world and holds a distinctive place for collectors interested in early-generation themes.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Neo Genesis 97 Uncommon Hiromichi Sugiyama, CR CG gangs
    • Card ID: neo1-97
    • Pokémon: Sprout Tower
    • Stage: Stadium
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Subtypes: Stadium
    • Weaknesses, Resistances: None
    • Evolves From: None
    • Flavor Text: Unknown
    • Image URL: /images/neo1/neo1-97.jpg

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Sprout Tower appears solely in the Neo Genesis set, identified by set code neo1 and card number 97. It is an uncommon Stadium card, notable for its strategic effect rather than offensive or defensive stats.

    Variants & Identifiers

    • There are no known print variants for this card.
    • The card is identified by its unique combination of set code (neo1), number (97), and illustrator credits to Hiromichi Sugiyama and CR CG gangs.

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
    • Rules: This card stays in play when you play it. Discard this card if another Stadium card comes into play. All damage done by Colorless Pokémon’s attacks is reduced by 30 (after applying Weakness and Resistance).

    Care & Storage Tips

    As a Stadium card with no HP or attacks, preserving the artwork and edges is key to maintaining collectible value. Store it in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture to prevent fading or warping.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Neo Genesis: The sole set featuring this Sprout Tower printing, Neo Genesis introduced many new cards with unique strategic effects. This Stadium card contributes a defensive mechanic by reducing damage from Colorless Pokémon, adding tactical depth to gameplay.

    Sprout Tower (Neo Genesis) #97

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    Sprout Tower (Neo Genesis) #97

  • Collector’s Guide: Super Scoop Up (Neo Genesis #98)

    Collector’s Guide: Super Scoop Up (Neo Genesis #98)

    Super Scoop Up (Neo Genesis 98) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Super Scoop Up is an uncommon Trainer card from the Neo Genesis set, numbered 98. Its straightforward, coin-flip effect makes it a practical choice for players seeking reliable support in their decks, and it holds a solid place in the early expansions of the Pokémon TCG.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Neo Genesis 98 Uncommon Keiji Kinebuchi
    • Card ID: neo1-98
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Rules Text: Flip a coin. If heads, return 1 of your Pokémon and all cards attached to it to your hand.
    • Stage: None (Trainer card)
    • Types, weaknesses, resistances: None
    • Evolves From: None
    • Flavor Text: Unknown
    • Print Variants: None known
    • Image URL: /images/neo1/neo1-98.jpg

    Key Printings

    The only known printing of Super Scoop Up is from the Neo Genesis set, making this card a singular collectible within the early Neo series. Its uncommon rarity places it in moderate demand among collectors focusing on Trainer cards from this era.

    Variants & Identifiers

    No alternate print variants or special regulation marks are known for this card. Identification is straightforward by its set code “neo1” and card number 98. The illustrator credit to Keiji Kinebuchi helps confirm authenticity.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats according to the provided data. Its effect is simple but can be tactically valuable in casual or nostalgic play.

    Care & Storage Tips

    As an uncommon card from an older set, preserve Super Scoop Up in a sleeve and store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain condition. Avoid bending or exposure to moisture to protect the card’s artwork and surface.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Neo Genesis: Super Scoop Up appears as an uncommon Trainer card with a coin-flip effect that can return a Pokémon and its attachments to the player’s hand. It is illustrated by Keiji Kinebuchi and has no known print variants or additional abilities.

    Super Scoop Up (Neo Genesis) #98

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    Super Scoop Up (Neo Genesis) #98

  • Collector’s Guide: Berry (Neo Genesis #99)

    Collector’s Guide: Berry (Neo Genesis #99)

    Berry (Neo Genesis 99) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Berry is a Common Pokémon Tool card from the Neo Genesis set, numbered 99. With a straightforward design, it adds subtle charm to any collection. As part of the early Neo Genesis lineup, Berry holds a nostalgic appeal for collectors.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Neo Genesis 99 Common Yousuke Hirata, CR CG gangs
    • Card ID: neo1-99
    • Stage: Pokémon Tool
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Series: neo
    • Set Code: neo1
    • Type: None
    • Weaknesses: None
    • Resistances: None

    Key Printings

    Berry appears exclusively in the Neo Genesis set as card number 99. It does not evolve from any Pokémon and is classified as a Pokémon Tool rather than a Pokémon itself. This printing is the only known version of Berry in the Pokémon TCG.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this Berry card. Its identifiers include the set code “neo1” and the card number “99.” The artwork by Yousuke Hirata and CR CG gangs is a distinctive feature that helps authenticate this printing.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    Berry’s rules state it can be attached to a Pokémon without a Pokémon Tool, allowing the removal of damage counters under specific conditions. It is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the vibrant artwork and card integrity, store Berry in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its common rarity but vintage status, maintaining mint condition can enhance its collectible value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Neo Genesis: Berry debuts as a simple yet functional Pokémon Tool card, offering damage counter removal mechanics without any HP or attacks. It complements the early Neo series with its straightforward design and utility.

    Berry Neo Genesis 99

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    Berry (Neo Genesis) #99

  • Collector’s Guide: Espeon (Neo Discovery #1)

    Collector’s Guide: Espeon (Neo Discovery #1)

    Espeon (Neo Discovery 1) Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Espeon from the Neo Discovery set is a Rare Holo card numbered 1 with 80 HP. Its scaling Psychic attack pressures Energy-heavy opponents, and the vibrant holofoil highlights the artwork.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Neo Discovery 1 Rare Holo 80 Atsuko Nishida
    • Type: Psychic
    • Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Eevee)
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Weakness: Psychic ×2
    • Attacks:
    • Bite: 20 damage, costs 2 Colorless Energy
    • Psychic: 30+ damage, costs 2 Psychic and 1 Colorless Energy; does 30 damage plus 10 more for each Energy attached to the Defending Pokémon
    • Flavor Text: “It uses the fine hair that covers its body to sense air currents and predict its enemy’s actions.”
    • Regulation Mark: Unknown
    • Print Variants: None known

    Key Printings

    The key printing is Neo Discovery card number 1, a Rare Holo with no known alternate print variants. It’s notable for its early Neo series design and Atsuko Nishida’s distinctive illustration style.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants or alternate art versions of this Espeon card. Identification relies on the set code “neo2,” card number “1,” and its Rare Holo rarity. The card’s Psychic type and Stage 1 subtype further distinguish it within the Neo Discovery set.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality status: unknown. Based on the provided data, this card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. No official tournament play notes are available.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the holofoil surface and artwork, store this card in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the card to maintain its collector value. Given its rarity and age, consider using a top loader or a binder with rigid pages for long-term storage.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Neo Discovery: Espeon appears as a Rare Holo Stage 1 evolution, emphasizing Psychic-type strategies with its “Psychic” attack that scales damage based on the opponent’s Energy attachments. This set highlights the early Neo series’ focus on evolving Eevee into powerful new forms.

    Espeon (Neo Discovery) #1

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    Espeon (Neo Discovery) #1

  • Collector’s Guide: Scizor (Neo Discovery #10)

    Collector’s Guide: Scizor (Neo Discovery #10)

    Scizor (Neo Discovery 10) Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Scizor from the Neo Discovery set is a Rare Holo card numbered 10. It carries 80 HP and features the attack Double Claw. The artwork captures Scizor’s sharp, metallic form with vivid detail.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Neo Discovery 10 Rare Holo 80 Kimiya Masago
    • Type: Metal
    • Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Scyther)
    • Weakness: Fire ×2
    • Resistance: Grass -30
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Flavor Text: It swings its eye patterned pincers up to scare its foes. This makes it look like it has three heads.

    Card Details & Attacks

    This exact printing of Scizor appears in the Neo Discovery set, identified by card number 10. It has two attacks:
    – False Swipe: Deals damage equal to half the Defending Pokémon’s remaining HP (rounded down to the nearest 10).
    – Double Claw: Requires flipping two coins to determine damage output.

    As a Rare Holo, it’s a visually appealing and sought-after piece for collectors.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It can be identified by:
    – Set code “neo2”
    – Card number 10
    – Distinctive holofoil treatment
    – Illustrator credit to Kimiya Masago
    – Metal type symbol

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
    • This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. No official tournament play notes are available.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the holofoil surface and maintain condition, store this Scizor 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

    • Neo Discovery: This set introduced Scizor as a powerful Metal-type Stage 1 Pokémon with unique attacks that leverage strategic damage calculation and coin flips. The card’s holofoil finish and detailed illustration make it a standout collectible from this era.

    Scizor Neo Discovery 10

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    Scizor (Neo Discovery) #10

  • Collector’s Guide: Smeargle (Neo Discovery #11)

    Collector’s Guide: Smeargle (Neo Discovery #11)

    Smeargle (Neo Discovery 11) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Smeargle from the Neo Discovery set is a Rare Holo card numbered 11. With 50 HP and the clever attack Sketch, it’s a subtle, artful addition to any collection.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Neo Discovery unknown 11 Rare Holo 50 Hironobu Yoshida
    • Type: Colorless
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Fighting (×2)
    • Resistance: Psychic (-30)
    • Attack: Sketch (Copies the Defending Pokémon’s last attack if conditions are met)
    • Flavor Text: “A special fluid oozes from the tip of its tail. It paints the fluid everywhere to mark its territory.”

    Key Printings

    From Neo Discovery as card number 11, this is the Rare Holo printing—sought after by collectors who appreciate its holofoil finish and the distinctive Sketch attack.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It is a Basic Pokémon with a Colorless type and no evolutions. The card’s unique identifier is neo2-11, and it is illustrated by Hironobu Yoshida. The card’s image can be referenced at /images/neo2/neo2-11.jpg.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. The Sketch attack allows Smeargle to mimic the Defending Pokémon’s last attack, which can be strategically versatile if conditions are met.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the holofoil sheen and maintain card condition, store this Smeargle card in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the surface to retain its collector value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Neo Discovery: This set introduced Smeargle as a Basic Colorless Pokémon with a unique Sketch attack that copies the opponent’s last move, adding a tactical twist to gameplay. The Rare Holo version stands out with its artistic illustration and holo treatment, making it a memorable card from the Neo era.

    Smeargle (Neo Discovery) #11

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    Smeargle (Neo Discovery) #11

  • Collector’s Guide: Tyranitar (Neo Discovery #12)

    Collector’s Guide: Tyranitar (Neo Discovery #12)

    Tyranitar (Neo Discovery 12) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Tyranitar from the Neo Discovery set is a Rare Holo card numbered 12. It has 100 HP and features the powerful attack Trample. The card showcases Tyranitar’s formidable presence with vivid artwork.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Neo Discovery 12 Rare Holo 100 Hironobu Yoshida
    • Type: Darkness
    • Stage: Stage 2 (Evolves from Pupitar)
    • Retreat Cost: 3
    • Resistance: Psychic (-30)
    • Weakness: None listed
    • Attacks:
    • Slam — Flip 2 coins; does 30 damage times the number of heads (cost: 3 Colorless).
    • Trample — Flip a coin for each Benched Pokémon in play; does 30 damage to each Benched Pokémon on heads, plus 50 damage to the opponent’s Active Pokémon (cost: 2 Darkness, 2 Colorless).

    Key Printings

    The key printing of Tyranitar in Neo Discovery is card number 12, a Rare Holo with 100 HP. It’s notable for its detailed illustration by Hironobu Yoshida and its unique Darkness typing during the Neo series era.

    Variants & Identifiers

    This Tyranitar card has no known print variants. It is identified by:
    – Set code: “neo2”
    – Card number: 12
    – Holofoil finish and artwork by Hironobu Yoshida

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its playability in current tournament settings is unknown.

    Care & Storage Tips

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

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Neo Discovery: This set introduced Tyranitar as a powerful Stage 2 Darkness-type Pokémon with versatile attacks that can affect both Active and Benched Pokémon. The set is known for its strong Pokémon from the Neo era and detailed artwork.

    Tyranitar Neo Discovery 12

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    Tyranitar (Neo Discovery) #12

  • Collector’s Guide: Umbreon (Neo Discovery #13)

    Collector’s Guide: Umbreon (Neo Discovery #13)

    Umbreon (Neo Discovery 13) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Umbreon from the Neo Discovery set is a Rare Holo card numbered 13. It features 80 HP and an attack called Bite. This card captures Umbreon’s sleek and shadowy essence in a visually striking design.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Neo Discovery 13 Rare Holo 80 Kimiya Masago
    • Type: Darkness
    • Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Eevee)
    • Attacks: Bite (20 damage, 2 Colorless energy), Feint Attack (costs 2 Darkness + 1 Colorless energy, damage unknown)
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Resistance: Psychic -30
    • Flavor Text: “When darkness falls, the rings on the body begin to glow, striking fear in the hearts of anyone nearby.”
    • Regulation Mark: Unknown
    • Legality: unknown

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Umbreon is from the Neo Discovery set, identified as card number 13. It is a Rare Holo card, making it a desirable piece for collectors who focus on holofoil cards from the Neo series. The card’s artwork by Kimiya Masago is distinctive and well-regarded among fans of the set.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Identify it by:
    – Set code “neo2-13”
    – Darkness type symbol
    – Unique holofoil pattern
    – Illustrator credit (Kimiya Masago)
    – The listed flavor text

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not currently 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

    • Store in a protective sleeve; avoid direct sunlight and moisture.
    • Do not bend or scratch the surface.
    • For long-term storage, use a top loader or a binder with rigid pages to protect the holofoil finish.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Neo Discovery: This set introduced several notable Stage 1 evolutions, including Umbreon, with a focus on the emerging Darkness type. The cards feature detailed artwork and holofoil treatments that highlight the mysterious qualities of Pokémon like Umbreon. This set is a key part of the Neo series and remains popular among collectors for its unique designs and nostalgic value.

    Umbreon Neo Discovery 13

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    Umbreon (Neo Discovery) #13

  • Collector’s Guide: Unown [A] (Neo Discovery #14)

    Collector’s Guide: Unown [A] (Neo Discovery #14)

    Unown [A] Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Unown [A] from the Neo Discovery set is a Rare Holo card numbered 14. This 40 HP Basic Psychic Pokémon features the ability Anger and the attack Hidden Power (10 damage), lending a mysterious edge to its gameplay.

    Quick Facts

    • HP: 40
    • Type: Psychic
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Psychic ×2
    • Ability: [Anger] — boosts Hidden Power damage based on damage counters on Unown [A].
    • Attack: Hidden Power (10 damage)
    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Neo Discovery 14 Rare Holo 40 CR CG gangs

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Unown [A] appears in the Neo Discovery set as card number 14. It is a Rare Holo card, making it a visually appealing and collectible piece. The card’s flavor text highlights the enigmatic shapes of Unown, likening them to ancient tablets and hinting at a mysterious connection.

    Variants & Identifiers

    No print variants are listed for this card. The card can be identified by its set code “neo2-14,” its holographic rarity, and the Psychic type symbol. The artwork by CR CG gangs is distinctive and helps differentiate it from other Unown cards.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    Rules: You may have up to 4 Basic Pokémon cards in your deck with Unown in their names.
    This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.

    Care & Storage Tips

    • Store in a protective sleeve to preserve the holofoil and artwork.
    • Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture.
    • Avoid bending or scratching the surface to maintain collector value.
    • Use a top loader or a binder with individual pockets for long-term storage.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Neo Discovery: Introduced Unown [A] with its unique Psychic typing and the [Anger] ability, emphasizing synergy with other Unown cards. This set expanded the Neo series with intriguing and rare holo cards like this one.

    Unown [A] (Neo Discovery) #14

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    Unown [A] (Neo Discovery) #14