Tag: Collector’s Guide

Collector’s Guide: Electabuzz (HS Triumphant #33)
Electabuzz Collector’s Guide: HS Triumphant #33

Character Intro

Electabuzz from the HS Triumphant set is an Uncommon card numbered 33 with 70 HP. This lively Lightning-type Pokémon features the attack Shock Bolt, showcasing its energetic nature. Its straightforward design fits well within the dynamic HS Triumphant collection.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

HS Triumphant 33 Uncommon 70 TOKIYA
- Type: Lightning
- Stage: Basic
- Weakness: Fighting ×2
- Resistance: Metal -20
- Retreat Cost: 2 Colorless Energy
- Flavor Text: Its body constantly discharges electricity. Getting close to it will make your hair stand on end.
Key Printings

This Electabuzz card appears in HS Triumphant, identified by set code hgss4 and card number 33. As an Uncommon, it’s moderately accessible for HeartGold & SoulSilver collectors.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this Electabuzz. It does not evolve from any other Pokémon and carries the Basic subtype. Unique identifier: hgss4-33.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality status: unknown.
- Attacks:
- Light Punch: Deals 10 damage for one Colorless Energy.
- Shock Bolt: Costs two Lightning and one Colorless Energy, deals 60 damage, but requires a coin flip; if tails, all Lightning Energy attached to Electabuzz is discarded.
The coin-flip discard creates a clear risk–reward profile: low-cost poke with Light Punch, burst damage with Shock Bolt at the risk of losing Lightning Energy.

Care & Storage Tips

To preserve the vivid artwork and condition, store in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its Uncommon rarity, maintaining mint condition can enhance collector appeal.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- HS Triumphant: Features Electabuzz as a Basic Lightning-type with balanced HP and a mix of low and high damage attacks, aligning with the set’s HeartGold & SoulSilver era theme.
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October 17, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Electrode (HS Triumphant #34)
Electrode (HS Triumphant 34) Collectors Guide

Character Intro

Electrode from the HS Triumphant set is an Uncommon card numbered 34. This lively Pokémon has 80 HP and features the attack Lightning Strike. Its straightforward design makes it a solid addition to any collection.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

HS Triumphant 34 Uncommon 80 Masakazu Fukuda
- Type: Lightning
- Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Voltorb)
- Retreat Cost: 1
- Weakness: Fighting ×2
- Resistance: Metal -20
- Attacks:
- Rollout: Deals 20 damage for one Colorless Energy.
- Lightning Strike: Deals 40 damage plus 60 more if you discard all Lightning Energy attached to Electrode.
Key Printings

This Electrode card is from the HS Triumphant set, numbered 34. It is an Uncommon rarity card with no known alternate printings or promotional versions.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this Electrode card. It can be identified by its set code “hgss4,” card number 34, and the illustrator Masakazu Fukuda’s artwork. The card’s Lightning type and Stage 1 subtype also help distinguish it.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its play viability is limited by its moderate HP and energy requirements, but the Lightning Strike attack offers a strategic option by discarding energy for extra damage.

Care & Storage Tips

To preserve this Electrode card’s condition, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the card surface, especially the illustrated area by Masakazu Fukuda. Keeping it in a rigid top-loader or binder is recommended for long-term collection.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- HS Triumphant: This set includes this energetic Electrode card, showcasing its explosive potential and classic evolution from Voltorb. The set focuses on HeartGold & SoulSilver era Pokémon with detailed artwork and balanced gameplay options.
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October 17, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Haunter (HS Triumphant #35)
Haunter Collector’s Guide: HS Triumphant #35

Character Intro

Haunter from the HS Triumphant set is an Uncommon card numbered 35 with 70 HP. This ghostly Pokémon features the attack Sneaky Placement, adding a strategic edge to gameplay. Its modest rarity makes it a notable addition for collectors seeking variety.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

HS Triumphant 35 Uncommon 70 Takashi Yamaguchi
- Type: Psychic
- Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Gastly)
- Retreat Cost: 0
- Weakness: Darkness ×2
- Resistance: Colorless -20
- Attacks:
- Sneaky Placement: Place 2 damage counters on one of your opponent’s Pokémon (cost: 1 Psychic).
- Sleep Poison: The Defending Pokémon becomes Asleep and Poisoned (cost: 2 Colorless).
- Flavor Text: Its tongue is made of gas. If licked, its victim starts shaking constantly until death eventually comes.
Key Printings

This exact printing is from the HS Triumphant set, card number 35. It is an Uncommon card illustrated by Takashi Yamaguchi. No other printings or reprints of this exact card are documented.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this card. The card can be identified by its set code “hgss4-35” and its Psychic type with the distinctive attacks “Sneaky Placement” and “Sleep Poison.” The card image is available at /images/hgss4/hgss4-35.jpg.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown.
This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. No tournament 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. Avoid bending or scratching the card surface, especially since it is an Uncommon collectible with detailed artwork by Takashi Yamaguchi.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- HS Triumphant: This set includes Haunter as a Stage 1 Psychic-type with disruptive status attacks. The set’s focus on HeartGold & SoulSilver era Pokémon is reflected in this card’s design and abilities. Release date for this card is unknown.
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October 17, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Kangaskhan (HS Triumphant #36)
Kangaskhan Collector’s Guide: HS Triumphant #36

Character Intro

Kangaskhan from the HS Triumphant set is an Uncommon card numbered 36. It features a solid 80 HP and the attack Dizzy Punch. This card offers a straightforward, reliable option for collectors and players alike.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

HS Triumphant 36 Uncommon 80 Mitsuhiro Arita
- Type: Colorless
- Stage: Basic
- Retreat Cost: 3
- Weakness: Fighting ×2
- Resistances: None
- Regulation Mark: Unknown
- Legality: unknown
Key Printings

This Kangaskhan card is from the HS Triumphant set, identified by set code hgss4 and card number 36. It is an Uncommon rarity card with no known alternate printings or special variants.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this exact card. It is uniquely identified by its set code (hgss4), card number (36), and the illustrator’s signature style. The card’s attacks, “Split Spiral Punch” and “Dizzy Punch,” provide distinctive gameplay features.

Legality & Play Notes
- Legality status: unknown. This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
- Its attacks include “Split Spiral Punch,” which confuses the defending Pokémon, and “Dizzy Punch,” which deals variable damage based on coin flips.
Care & Storage Tips

To preserve the card’s detailed artwork and condition, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the card surface, especially since it has a moderate retreat cost and is a collectible from a notable set.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- HS Triumphant: This set features Kangaskhan as a Basic Colorless Pokémon with a focus on playful and protective themes. The card fits well into collections emphasizing HeartGold & SoulSilver era Pokémon, showcasing classic artwork by Mitsuhiro Arita.
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October 17, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Rare Candy (Dark Explorers #100)
Rare Candy (Dark Explorers 100) Collectors Guide

Character Intro

Rare Candy from the Dark Explorers set is an Uncommon card numbered 100. It accelerates evolution by letting players reach Stage 2 quickly, streamlining gameplay. Collectors value its utility and Ryo Ueda’s distinctive artwork within the set.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Dark Explorers 100 Uncommon Ryo Ueda
- Card ID: bw5-100
- Type: Item
- Stage: Item
- Retreat Cost: 0
- Series: black_white
- Set Code: bw5
- Subtypes: Item
- Weaknesses: None
- Resistances: None
- Evolves From: None
- Flavor Text: Unknown
Key Printings

This printing of Rare Candy appears in Dark Explorers as card number 100. Illustrated by Ryo Ueda and classified as an Uncommon Item, its primary function is to let players evolve a Basic Pokémon directly into a Stage 2 Pokémon—bypassing Stage 1—subject to specific play restrictions.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this card. It is identified by set code “bw5” and card number “100.” The Ryo Ueda artwork is consistent across this printing. The card has no regulation mark, and types/weaknesses are not applicable.

Legality & Play Notes
- Legality: unknown
- Rules: Choose 1 of your Basic Pokémon in play. If you have a Stage 2 card in your hand that evolves from that Pokémon, put that card on the Basic Pokémon. (This counts as evolving that Pokémon.) You can’t use this card during your first turn or on a Basic Pokémon that was put into play this turn.
- You may play as many Item cards as you like during your turn (before your attack).
- The card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
Care & Storage Tips

Store the card in a sleeve, away from sunlight and moisture, and avoid bending or scratching the surface. Use a rigid top-loader or a binder with individual pockets for long-term preservation, especially to protect the illustrator’s artwork.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Dark Explorers: Features Rare Candy as an Uncommon Item enabling quick evolution to Stage 2. Part of the black_white series with artwork by Ryo Ueda; its straightforward effect and clean design make it both useful and collectible.
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October 16, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Twist Mountain (Dark Explorers #101)
Twist Mountain (bw5-101) Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Twist Mountain is an Uncommon Trainer card from the Dark Explorers set, numbered 101. It’s a Stadium card that stands out for collectors focused on Dark Explorers, especially those interested in Restored Pokémon mechanics.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Dark Explorers 101 Uncommon Ryo Ueda
- Card ID: bw5-101
- Stage: Stadium
- Retreat Cost: 0
- Subtypes: Stadium
- Pokémon: Twist Mountain
- Set Code: bw5
- Types: None
- Evolves From: None
- Weaknesses/Resistances: None
Key Printings

Appearing exclusively in Dark Explorers as card 101, Twist Mountain is a Stadium that remains in play until another Stadium replaces it. Its coin-flip ability supports Restored Pokémon strategies.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this Twist Mountain. Identify it by set code “bw5,” number “101,” and the Ryo Ueda illustration.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown

Rules: Once during each player’s turn, that player may flip a coin. If heads, that player may play a Restored Pokémon from their hand onto their Bench. This card stays in play when you play it. Discard this card if another Stadium card comes into play. If another card with the same name is in play, you can’t play this card.

Care & Storage Tips

Protect the artwork and condition by sleeving the card and storing it away from sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching—especially relevant given the lack of known print variants.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Dark Explorers: Twist Mountain debuts as a strategic Stadium card with a unique coin-flip mechanic to facilitate Restored Pokémon play. Its uncommon rarity and striking illustration make it a notable inclusion in this set.
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October 16, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Ultra Ball (Dark Explorers #102)
Ultra Ball (Dark Explorers 102) Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Ultra Ball is an Uncommon Trainer card from the Dark Explorers set, numbered 102. It’s a practical option for players seeking versatile support during matches.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Dark Explorers 102 Uncommon 5ban Graphics
- Card Number: 102
- Rarity: Uncommon
- Illustrator: 5ban Graphics
- Stage: Item
- Retreat Cost: 0
- Subtypes: Item
- Series: black_white
- Set Code: bw5
- Image:
Key Printings

This printing of Ultra Ball appears in the Dark Explorers expansion of the Black & White series, identified by set code “bw5” and card number 102. No other print variants are listed for this card.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants or alternate artworks for this Ultra Ball. Its identifiers include the set code “bw5,” Uncommon rarity status, and the 5ban Graphics illustrator credit.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown

Effect

This Item card allows the player to discard 2 cards from their hand to search their deck for a Pokémon, reveal it, and add it to their hand. The deck is then shuffled.

Players may play any number of Item cards during their turn before attacking, making Ultra Ball a versatile and frequently used card in gameplay.

Care & Storage Tips

Store the card in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the surface to maintain collectible value, and use a temperature-controlled environment to prevent warping or discoloration.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Dark Explorers (bw5): This set features Ultra Ball as an Uncommon Item card, integral for deck searching strategies. Illustrated by 5ban Graphics, it complements the set’s focus on tactical gameplay with reliable support cards.
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October 16, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Bulbasaur (Dark Explorers #1)
Bulbasaur (Dark Explorers 1) Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Bulbasaur from the Dark Explorers set is a common card numbered 1 with 60 HP. This charming Pokémon features the attack Razor Leaf, showcasing its natural prowess. It also has Tackle, underscoring its straightforward, beginner-friendly design. Its straightforward design makes it a staple for collectors exploring this set.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Dark Explorers 1 Common 60 Mitsuhiro Arita
- Type: Grass
- Stage: Basic
- Retreat Cost: 2
- Weakness: Fire (×2)
- Resistance: Water (-20)
- Attacks:
- Tackle (10 damage, costs 1 Grass)
- Razor Leaf (30 damage, costs 1 Grass + 2 Colorless)
- Flavor Text: “For some time after its birth, it grows by gaining nourishment from the seed on its back.”
- Set Code: bw5-1
- Series: Black & White
- Print Variants: None known
Key Printings

This exact printing is from the Dark Explorers set, numbered 1, and is classified as a Common card. It features no abilities but has two straightforward attacks: Tackle and Razor Leaf. The card’s illustrator, Mitsuhiro Arita, is well-known for his detailed and vibrant artwork, making this Bulbasaur a visually appealing collectible.

Variants & Identifiers

No print variants or alternate versions of this specific Bulbasaur card from Dark Explorers are documented. Identification is straightforward via the set code “bw5-1” and the card number “1.” The card’s rarity is Common, and it carries no regulation mark.

Legality & Play Notes
- Legality: unknown
  This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats according to available data. Its straightforward attacks and moderate HP make it a simple Basic Pokémon, but its tournament viability is unclear.
Care & Storage Tips

To preserve this card’s condition, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its common rarity, it is accessible but still benefits from careful handling to maintain its illustrated artwork by Mitsuhiro Arita. Avoid bending or exposure to extreme temperatures to keep the card in collectible shape.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Dark Explorers: This set includes Bulbasaur as card number 1, showcasing a classic Basic Grass-type with simple attacks and a naturalistic flavor text. It fits well within the Black & White series’ theme of exploring Pokémon habitats and behaviors.
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October 16, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Shelmet (Dark Explorers #10)
Shelmet Collector’s Guide: Dark Explorers #10

Character Intro

Shelmet from the Dark Explorers set is a Common card numbered 10 with 60 HP. This compact Pokémon features the attack Body Slam, offering straightforward gameplay. Its simple design fits well into many decks.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Dark Explorers 10 Common 60 Shigenori Negishi
- Type: Grass
- Stage: Basic
- Retreat Cost: 3
- Weakness: Fire ×2
- Attack: Body Slam (20 damage; flip a coin to potentially paralyze the Defending Pokémon)
- Flavor Text: When attacked, it defends itself by closing the lid of its shell. It can spit a sticky, poisonous liquid.
- Image:
Key Printings

This exact Shelmet card appears in the Black & White series set “Dark Explorers” as card number 10. It is a Common rarity card illustrated by Shigenori Negishi. No alternate printings or special variants are documented for this card.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants or alternate versions of this Shelmet card. Identification is straightforward by its set code “bw5-10,” Common rarity, and the distinctive artwork by Shigenori Negishi.

Legality & Play Notes
- Legality: unknown
- This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
- Its moderate HP and single attack with a coin flip effect make it more of a collector’s piece than a competitive staple.
Care & Storage Tips
- Store in a protective sleeve.
- Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture.
- Handle carefully to preserve the artwork and edges, even for a Common.
Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Dark Explorers: Shelmet debuts as a Basic Grass-type Pokémon with a simple but effective Body Slam attack. The set features detailed artwork and a focus on Pokémon with unique defensive traits, making this card a solid representation of Shelmet’s character.
This Shelmet card is a charming addition for collectors interested in the Black & White era and Grass-type Pokémon with defensive abilities.

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October 16, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Entei-EX (Dark Explorers #103)
Entei-EX Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Entei-EX from Dark Explorers is a Rare Ultra Basic Pokémon-EX with 180 HP. Numbered 103, it features the standout attack Grand Flame and vivid 5ban Graphics artwork, making it a striking addition to any collection.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Dark Explorers 103 Rare Ultra 180 5ban Graphics
- Pokémon: Entei-EX
- Type: Fire
- Stage: Basic, EX
- Retreat Cost: 3
- Weakness: Water ×2
- Resistance: None
- Rules: Pokémon-EX rule: When a Pokémon-EX has been Knocked Out, your opponent takes 2 Prize cards.
- Set Code: bw5
- Series: black_white
- Print Variants: None known
- Flavor Text: Unknown
- Regulation Mark: Unknown
Key Printings

This exact printing of Entei-EX appears in the Dark Explorers set as card number 103. It is a Rare Ultra card notable for its high HP and two attacks:
– Fire Fang, which inflicts Burn status
– Grand Flame, which allows energy retrieval from the discard pile

Variants & Identifiers

No known print variants. Identify this card by:
– Set code: “bw5”
– Card number: 103
– Illustration: 5ban Graphics
– Subtype: Basic, EX
– Type: Fire
– Retreat cost: three energy

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
According to the provided data, this card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Remember the Pokémon-EX rule: when this Pokémon is Knocked Out, the opponent takes 2 Prize cards.

Care & Storage Tips

Protect the artwork and condition by sleeving the card and keeping it away from sunlight and moisture. Given its Rare Ultra status, consider a top loader or rigid case for long-term storage. Avoid bending or scratching to preserve collector value.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Dark Explorers (bw5): Entei-EX debuts as a powerful Fire-type Basic Pokémon-EX with high HP and impactful attacks, showcasing aggressive play and energy manipulation that appeal to collectors and players alike.
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October 16, 2025