Tag: Collector’s Guide

  • Collector’s Guide: Joltik (Team Up #47)

    Collector’s Guide: Joltik (Team Up #47)

    Joltik (Team Up 47) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Joltik is a Common Pokémon card from the Team Up set, numbered 47. With 40 HP and the attack Leech Life, this small, energetic Basic fits well in many beginner decks.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Team Up 47 Common 40 Yuka Morii
    • Type: Lightning
    • Stage: Basic
    • Attack: Leech Life (10 damage, heals damage dealt)
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Fighting ×2
    • Resistance: Metal -20
    • Flavor Text: They attach themselves to large-bodied Pokémon and absorb static electricity, which they store in an electric pouch.
    • Set Code: sm9
    • Card ID: sm9-47
    • Legality: unknown
    • Image:
      sm9-47

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Joltik appears in the Sun & Moon series set Team Up with card number 47. It’s a Common card featuring Yuka Morii’s distinctive artwork. There are no evolutions or abilities on this card—its focus is the single attack, Leech Life.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Identifiers include the set code “sm9,” card number 47, and the illustrator credit to Yuka Morii. Its Lightning type and Basic stage are consistent identifiers.

    Legality & Play Notes

    The legality of this card in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats is unknown. While it has no special abilities, Leech Life provides light sustain that can be useful in casual play. Low HP and a single retreat make it a lightweight option in Lightning-type decks.

    Care & Storage Tips

    As a Common card without special print variants, standard sleeves and binder storage are sufficient. Avoid direct sunlight to preserve the vividness of Yuka Morii’s clay-style illustration, helping maintain its collectible appeal.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Team Up (sm9): Joltik appears as a Basic Lightning-type with a straightforward healing attack. It aligns with the set’s emphasis on accessible, utility-focused cards, and its Common rarity keeps it easy to collect.

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    Joltik (Team Up) #47

  • Collector’s Guide: Galvantula (Team Up #48)

    Collector’s Guide: Galvantula (Team Up #48)

    Galvantula Collector’s Guide (Team Up #48)

    Character Intro

    Galvantula from the Team Up set is a Rare Pokémon card numbered 48 with 90 HP. It features the ability Unnerve, which can disrupt your opponent’s strategy. Its attack, Spider Thread, adds a tactical edge to gameplay. This card offers a balanced combination of offense and utility.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Team Up 48 Rare 90 SATOSHI NAKAI
    • Type: Lightning
    • Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Joltik)
    • Ability: Unnerve — Prevents effects from opponent’s Item or Supporter cards targeting this Pokémon.
    • Attack: Spider Thread — Deals 40 damage and allows you to retrieve a card from your discard pile.
    • Weakness: Fighting (×2)
    • Resistance: Metal (-20)
    • Retreat Cost: 1

    Key Printings

    This exact printing is from the Team Up set (sm9), numbered 48, and classified as a Rare card. Illustrated by SATOSHI NAKAI, the artwork vividly portrays Galvantula’s electric threads. The card’s regulation mark and release date are unknown.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Identifiers include the set code “sm9” and the card number “48.” The card is a Stage 1 Lightning-type Pokémon with the subtype “Stage 1.” The market reference query is “Galvantula Team Up 48.”

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown

    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats according to the provided data. Its ability, Unnerve, offers strategic protection against opponent’s Item or Supporter cards, while its Spider Thread attack provides both damage and resource recovery.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the vibrant artwork and maintain card condition, store this rare card in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its unknown legality and rarity, maintaining mint condition could be valuable for collectors.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Team Up (sm9): This set features Galvantula as a rare Stage 1 Lightning-type Pokémon with a unique ability to counter opponent’s Item and Supporter cards. Its combination of moderate HP and tactical ability makes it a noteworthy card in the Sun & Moon series.

    Galvantula (Team Up) #48

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    Galvantula (Team Up) #48

  • Collector’s Guide: Helioptile (Team Up #49)

    Collector’s Guide: Helioptile (Team Up #49)

    Helioptile Collector’s Guide: Team Up (sm9-49)

    Character Intro

    Helioptile from the Team Up set is a common card numbered 49. It has 60 HP and features the attack Static Shock. This lively Electric-type Pokémon adds a spark to any collection.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Team Up 49 Common 60 Ken Sugimori
    • Type: Lightning
    • Stage: Basic
    • HP: 60
    • Attacks:
    • Pound (10 damage, 1 Colorless Energy)
    • Static Shock (40 damage, 1 Lightning + 2 Colorless Energy)
    • Weakness: Fighting ×2
    • Resistance: Metal -20
    • Retreat Cost: 1 Colorless Energy
    • Flavor Text: The frills on either side of its head have cells that generate electricity when exposed to sunlight.
    • Illustrator: Ken Sugimori
    • Set Code: sm9
    • Card Number: 49
    • Rarity: Common

    Attack Notes

    • Pound offers a low-cost opener.
    • Static Shock provides a stronger follow-up at a higher cost.

    Key Printings

    This exact printing appears in the Sun & Moon Team Up expansion, identified by set code sm9 and card number 49. It is a Basic Pokémon card with no evolutions or abilities, emphasizing straightforward attacks for early gameplay.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Key identifiers include its common rarity, Lightning type, and the distinctive Ken Sugimori illustration. The card’s weakness to Fighting and resistance to Metal are notable for deck-building considerations.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    According to the provided data, this card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its simple moveset and low HP make it better suited for casual play or collecting than competitive tournaments.

    Care & Storage Tips

    Protect the Ken Sugimori artwork and card condition by using sleeves, keeping the card away from direct sunlight and moisture, and storing it flat in a cool, dry place to prevent bending or warping.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Team Up (sm9): A set known for tag team mechanics and diverse typings. Helioptile’s inclusion as a common Lightning-type Basic provides a straightforward early-game option with classic artwork.

    Helioptile (Team Up) #49

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    Helioptile (Team Up) #49

  • Collector’s Guide: Nidoran ♀ (Team Up #54)

    Collector’s Guide: Nidoran ♀ (Team Up #54)

    Nidoran ♀ (Team Up 54) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Nidoran ♀ from the Team Up set is a Common card numbered 54. This lively Basic Pokémon has 60 HP and offers straightforward gameplay with its simple attacks, making it a solid pick for collectors who appreciate classic team members.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Team Up 54 Common 60 miki kudo
    • Type: Psychic
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1 Colorless
    • Weakness: Psychic ×2
    • Flavor Text: Although small, its venomous barbs render this Pokémon dangerous. The female has smaller horns.
    • Attacks:
    • Call for Family: Search your deck for a Basic Pokémon and put it onto your Bench. Then, shuffle your deck. (Cost: 1 Colorless)
    • Scratch: Deals 20 damage. (Cost: 2 Colorless)

    Key Printings

    This guide focuses on the Team Up set printing, card number 54, which is a Common rarity card. It is a Basic Pokémon card with no evolutions from previous stages. The card features no abilities but has two straightforward attacks useful for early-game bench setup and basic damage.

    Variants & Identifiers

    This printing has no known print variants. It is identified by the set code “sm9” and the card number “54.” The card’s Psychic typing and the illustrator credit to miki kudo are key identifiers. The card image can be referenced at /images/sm9/sm9-54.jpg.

    Legality & Play Notes

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

    Care & Storage Tips

    As a Common card from the Team Up set, standard protective measures are recommended. Use sleeves and store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to preserve the card’s condition and artwork. Avoid bending or exposure to moisture to maintain its collector value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Team Up (sm9): This set includes Nidoran ♀ as a Basic Psychic-type Pokémon with simple but effective attacks. It emphasizes bench development with “Call for Family” and basic damage output with “Scratch.” The card fits well into beginner decks and collectors focusing on early Sun & Moon series prints.

    This guide covers all known details for the Nidoran ♀ card from the Team Up set, providing collectors and players with a concise reference for this specific printing.

    Nidoran ♀ (Team Up) #54

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    Nidoran ♀ (Team Up) #54

  • Collector’s Guide: Nidorina (Team Up #55)

    Collector’s Guide: Nidorina (Team Up #55)

    Nidorina (Team Up 55) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Nidorina from the Team Up set is an uncommon card numbered 55. With 90 HP and two attacks—Family Rescue and Bite—it offers a straightforward, reliable option for collectors and players alike.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Team Up 55 Uncommon 90 Kagemaru Himeno
    • Type: Psychic
    • Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Nidoran ♀)
    • Attacks:
    • Family Rescue: Shuffle 5 Psychic Pokémon from your discard pile into your deck (Cost: 1 Colorless)
    • Bite: Deals 30 damage (Cost: 2 Colorless)
    • Weakness: Psychic ×2
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Flavor Text: The female has a gentle temperament. It emits ultrasonic cries that have the power to befuddle foes.
    • Set: Team Up (sm9)
    • Card Number: 55
    • Rarity: Uncommon
    • Illustrator: Kagemaru Himeno
    • Image:
      sm9-55

    Key Printings

    This guide focuses on the Team Up printing of Nidorina, card number 55. It is an uncommon card with no known alternate printings or special variants within this set.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants or alternate art versions for this exact printing. Identification is straightforward by the set code “sm9” and card number “55.” The card’s Psychic type and Stage 1 subtype further distinguish it.

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
    • This card is not currently listed as legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its playability status is unknown, so collectors should verify tournament rules if intending to use it competitively.

    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 detailed artwork by Kagemaru Himeno, maintaining its surface and edges is essential for long-term value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Team Up (sm9): This set features a diverse range of Pokémon from multiple types and stages. Nidorina stands out as a Psychic-type Stage 1 with utility in recycling Psychic Pokémon from the discard pile, fitting well into thematic decks focusing on Psychic synergy.

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    Nidorina (Team Up) #55

  • Collector’s Guide: Nidoqueen (Team Up #56)

    Collector’s Guide: Nidoqueen (Team Up #56)

    Nidoqueen (Team Up 56) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Nidoqueen from the Team Up set is a Rare card numbered 56 with 160 HP. Its Queen’s Call ability and Power Lariat attack make it a versatile, strategic Stage 2 option with a striking design.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Team Up 56 Rare 160 nagimiso

    Card Stats

    • HP: 160
    • Type: Psychic
    • Stage: Stage 2 (Evolves from Nidorina)
    • Retreat Cost: 3
    • Weakness: Psychic ×2
    • Ability: Queen’s Call (search your deck for a non-GX/EX Pokémon once per turn)
    • Attack: Power Lariat (10+ damage, +50 for each Evolution Pokémon on your Bench)
    • Flavor Text: Uses its scaly, rugged body to seal the entrance of its nest and protect its young from predators.
    • Illustrator: nagimiso
    • Set: Sun & Moon Team Up (sm9)
    • Card Number: 56
    • Rarity: Rare
    • Regulation Mark: Unknown
    • Image URL: /images/sm9/sm9-56.jpg

    Key Printings

    This exact printing appears in the Sun & Moon Team Up set as card number 56. It is a Rare Psychic-type Stage 2 Pokémon featuring Queen’s Call for deck searching and Power Lariat that scales with Evolution Pokémon on your Bench.

    Variants & Identifiers

    No print variants are listed for this card. Identify it by set code “sm9,” card number 56, and illustrator nagimiso. It features a Psychic type and a retreat cost of 3.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Queen’s Call provides once-per-turn searching for non-GX/EX Pokémon, and Power Lariat rewards benches filled with Evolution Pokémon—solid for casual or themed play.

    Care & Storage Tips

    Protect the artwork and condition by sleeving the card and keeping it away from sunlight and moisture. Use a rigid top-loader or a binder with individual pockets for safer handling and display.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Sun & Moon Team Up (sm9): Includes Nidoqueen as a Rare Psychic-type Stage 2 that synergizes with Evolution Pokémon via its ability and attack. The set is known for powerful Pokémon-GX alongside supportive Stage 2 Pokémon like Nidoqueen.

    This guide compiles essential details for identifying and caring for the Nidoqueen card from the Team Up set.

    Nidoqueen (Team Up) #56

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    Nidoqueen (Team Up) #56

  • Collector’s Guide: Nidoran ♂ (Team Up #57)

    Collector’s Guide: Nidoran ♂ (Team Up #57)

    Nidoran ♂ – Team Up (sm9-57) Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Nidoran ♂ from the Team Up set is a common card numbered 57 with 60 HP. This lively Pokémon features straightforward attacks like Horn Attack. Its simple design makes it a solid addition for collectors focusing on early-stage Pokémon.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Team Up 57 Common 60 Naoyo Kimura
    • HP: 60
    • Type: Psychic
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Psychic ×2
    • Attacks:
    • Peck (10 damage, 1 Colorless Energy)
    • Horn Attack (20 damage, 1 Psychic + 1 Colorless Energy)
    • Flavor Text: “It scans its surroundings by raising its ears out of the grass. Its toxic horn is for protection.”
    • Illustrator: Naoyo Kimura
    • Set Code: sm9
    • Rarity: Common
    • Regulation Mark: Unknown
    • Evolves From: None

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Nidoran ♂ appears in the Sun & Moon Team Up expansion as card 57. It is a Common card with no special print variants or alternate artworks reported. The Psychic typing and modest HP reflect its role as an early-stage Basic Pokémon.

    Variants & Identifiers

    No print variants or alternate versions are listed for this card. Identification relies on the set code “sm9,” card number 57, and the illustrator Naoyo Kimura’s art. The Psychic type and attacks—Peck and Horn Attack—further distinguish it.

    Legality & Play Notes

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

    Care & Storage Tips

    As a Common card from the Team Up set, preserving condition is key. Store it in a protective sleeve, away from direct sunlight and moisture to maintain the artwork and prevent edge wear. Avoid bending or heavy handling to preserve its value and appearance.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Team Up (sm9): Introduced Nidoran ♂ as a Psychic-type Basic Pokémon with straightforward attacks and a modest HP pool. The set’s artwork and card design emphasize accessibility for new players and collectors alike. This printing remains a staple example of early-stage Pokémon in the Sun & Moon era.

    sm9-57

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    Nidoran ♂ (Team Up) #57

  • Collector’s Guide: Nidorino (Team Up #58)

    Collector’s Guide: Nidorino (Team Up #58)

    Nidorino (Team Up 58) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Nidorino from the Team Up set is an Uncommon card numbered 58 with 90 HP. Featuring the straightforward attack suite of Peck and Horn Drill, it offers clean, no-frills damage and a lively, attentive artwork—an easy fit for collectors who appreciate the Sun & Moon era’s evolving style.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Team Up 58 Uncommon 90 Kouki Saitou
    • Evolves from: Nidoran ♂
    • Type: Psychic
    • Stage: Stage 1
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Weakness: Psychic ×2
    • Attacks: Peck (20 damage, 1 Colorless energy), Horn Drill (60 damage, 1 Psychic + 2 Colorless energies)
    • Flavor Text: “It raises its big ears to check its surroundings. If it senses anything, it attacks immediately.”
    • Regulation Mark: Unknown
    • Legality: unknown

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Nidorino appears in the Sun & Moon “Team Up” set as card number 58. It is classified as an Uncommon card and features the Psychic type, which is less common for Nidorino compared to its usual typings. The card does not have any special abilities but offers two straightforward attacks, making it a solid choice for collectors interested in this evolutionary line.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Identifiers include the set code “sm9” and the card number “58.” The illustrator is Kouki Saitou, whose artwork distinctly portrays Nidorino’s attentive pose. The card’s Psychic typing and Stage 1 subtype help distinguish it from other Nidorino cards.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality status: unknown. This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Players should verify tournament rules before including it in decks.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the card’s condition, store it in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight to prevent fading. Avoid exposure to moisture and handle the card with clean hands to maintain its surface quality. Given its Uncommon rarity, maintaining mint condition can enhance its collector value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Team Up (sm9): This set features Nidorino as a Psychic-type Stage 1 Pokémon with a balanced HP and two simple attacks. It fits well into collections focusing on the Sun & Moon era and the Team Up theme, which emphasizes cooperative battling strategies. The set’s artwork and card design reflect the evolving style of the series during this period.

    sm9-58

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    Nidorino (Team Up) #58

  • Collector’s Guide: Nidoking (Team Up #59)

    Collector’s Guide: Nidoking (Team Up #59)

    Nidoking (Team Up 59) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Nidoking from the Team Up set is a Rare card numbered 59 with 160 HP. This powerful Pokémon features the attack King’s Drum, adding strategic depth to gameplay. Its vibrant design makes it a notable addition to any collection.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Team Up 59 Rare 160 kawayoo
    • Type: Psychic
    • Stage: Stage 2 (Evolves from Nidorino)
    • Retreat Cost: 3
    • Weakness: Psychic ×2
    • Resistances: None
    • Abilities: None
    • Attacks:
    • Drag Off: Switch one of your opponent’s Benched Pokémon with their Active Pokémon and deal 50 damage to the new Active Pokémon.
    • King’s Drum: Does 100+ damage, with an additional 100 damage if Nidoqueen is on your Bench.

    Key Printings

    This guide focuses on the Team Up printing (card number 59), illustrated by kawayoo. It is a Rare, Psychic-type Stage 2 Nidoking.

    Variants & Identifiers

    • No print variants are listed for this card.
    • Identifiers include the set code “sm9” and the card number “59.”
    • The card’s market reference query is “Nidoking Team Up 59.”
    • 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.

    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, especially given its rarity and collector value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Team Up (sm9): This set features Nidoking as a powerful Psychic-type Stage 2 Pokémon with strategic attacks that can disrupt your opponent’s board and deal significant damage, especially when paired with Nidoqueen on your Bench.

    sm9-59

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    Nidoking (Team Up) #59

  • Collector’s Guide: Paras (Team Up #6)

    Collector’s Guide: Paras (Team Up #6)

    Paras Collector’s Guide: Team Up (sm9-6)

    Character Intro

    Paras from Team Up is a Common card, number 6, with 70 HP. It sports straightforward attacks—Scratch and Slash—making it an accessible pick for Team Up-focused collectors who appreciate a simple, clean design.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Team Up 6 Common 70 Naoyo Kimura
    • Type: Grass
    • Stage: Basic
    • Attacks:
    • Scratch (10 damage, 1 Colorless energy)
    • Slash (20 damage, 1 Grass + 1 Colorless energy)
    • Weakness: Fire ×2
    • Retreat Cost: 1 Colorless energy
    • Flavor Text: “Whether it’s due to a lack of moisture or a lack of nutrients, in Alola the mushrooms on Paras don’t grow up quite right.”
    • Image:
      sm9-6

    Key Printings

    From the Sun & Moon series’ Team Up set (sm9), this Paras is a Common, number 6. There are no known alternate printings or special editions of this exact card.

    Variants & Identifiers

    No print variants or alternate art versions are listed. Identification is straightforward via set code sm9, card number 6, and illustrator Naoyo Kimura.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. With simple attacks and low HP, it’s better suited to casual play or collection builds than competitive decks.

    Care & Storage Tips

    As a common card without special variants, standard protection is sufficient: sleeve it and store in a cool, dry place. Avoid direct sunlight to preserve the vibrancy of Naoyo Kimura’s illustration.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Team Up (sm9): A multi-type roster with teamwork themes. Paras contributes as a basic Grass-type that’s approachable for new players and collectors alike.

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    Paras (Team Up) #6