Tag: Collector’s Guide

  • Collector’s Guide: Blacephalon-GX (Lost Thunder #52)

    Collector’s Guide: Blacephalon-GX (Lost Thunder #52)

    Blacephalon-GX Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Blacephalon-GX from the Lost Thunder set is a Rare Holo GX card with 180 HP. This striking card features the powerful attack Mind Blown. As card number 52, it offers a vivid addition to any collection.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Lost Thunder 52 Rare Holo GX 180 5ban Graphics
    • Pokémon: Blacephalon-GX
    • Type: Fire
    • Stage: Basic, GX, Ultra Beast
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Weakness: Water ×2
    • Abilities: None
    • Attacks:
    • Bursting Burn: Burns and Confuses the opponent’s Active Pokémon (cost: 1 Fire Energy).
    • Mind Blown: Deals 50 damage times the number of Fire Energy cards sent to the Lost Zone (cost: 2 Fire Energy).
    • Burst-GX: Discard a Prize card; if it’s an Energy card, attach it to one of your Pokémon (cost: 1 Fire Energy). Only one GX attack per game.
    • Pokémon-GX Rule: When knocked out, opponent takes 2 Prize cards.

    Key Printings

    This guide focuses on the Lost Thunder set printing, card number 52, featuring the original holo GX version illustrated by 5ban Graphics. No other printings or reprints are documented for this exact card.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants or alternate artwork versions for this Blacephalon-GX card. Identification is straightforward via its set code “sm8-52” and its distinct Rare Holo GX rarity.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality status: unknown.
    Note that this card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats according to available data. The GX attack limitation applies, restricting Burst-GX usage to once per game.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the vibrant holo finish and maintain card condition, store Blacephalon-GX in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its rarity and unique artwork, consider a top-loader or binder with individual pockets for added protection.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Lost Thunder (sm8): This set introduced Blacephalon-GX as a fiery Ultra Beast with versatile attacks and a notable GX move. The card stands out for collectors due to its high HP and striking illustration by 5ban Graphics. Release date details remain unknown, but it remains a key piece within the Sun & Moon series.

    Blacephalon-GX (Lost Thunder) #52

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    Blacephalon-GX (Lost Thunder) #52

  • Collector’s Guide: Alolan Vulpix (Lost Thunder #53)

    Collector’s Guide: Alolan Vulpix (Lost Thunder #53)

    Alolan Vulpix (Lost Thunder 53) Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Alolan Vulpix from the Lost Thunder set is a common card numbered 53 with 60 HP. It features the intriguing ability Secret Alleyway and a simple attack called Gnaw. This card offers a charming glimpse into the Alolan region’s icy Pokémon.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Lost Thunder 53 Common 60 Naoyo Kimura
    • Type: Water
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Metal ×2
    • Ability: Secret Alleyway — If you have any Fairy Pokémon in play, this Pokémon has no Retreat Cost.
    • Attack: Gnaw — Deals 20 damage with a cost of two Colorless energies.
    • Flavor Text: In hot weather, this Pokémon makes ice shards with its six tails and sprays them around to cool itself off.
    • Regulation Mark: Unknown
    • Print Variants: None known

    sm8-53

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Alolan Vulpix appears in the Lost Thunder set (sm8), numbered 53. It is a Common rarity card, making it widely accessible for collectors and players. The card features the ability “Secret Alleyway,” which gives it no Retreat Cost if you have any Fairy Pokémon in play—a useful tactical element.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Identification is straightforward by its set code “sm8,” card number “53,” the Water type, Basic stage, and the illustration by Naoyo Kimura.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its ability to retreat freely when paired with Fairy Pokémon can offer strategic flexibility in casual or themed decks.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the vibrant illustration and maintain card condition, store this Alolan Vulpix in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its Common rarity, it is ideal for both beginner collectors and players who want to keep their decks in pristine shape.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Lost Thunder (sm8): Introduced as a Basic Water-type Pokémon with a retreat ability linked to Fairy Pokémon, this card adds tactical depth and aesthetic appeal to the set. The set’s focus on diverse typings and abilities is well represented by this charming Alolan Vulpix.

    This guide covers all known details for the Lost Thunder printing of Alolan Vulpix, providing collectors and players with a clear snapshot of its features and value.

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    Alolan Vulpix (Lost Thunder) #53

  • Collector’s Guide: Slowpoke (Lost Thunder #54)

    Collector’s Guide: Slowpoke (Lost Thunder #54)

    Slowpoke (Lost Thunder 54) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Slowpoke from the Lost Thunder set is a Common card numbered 54 with 70 HP. It features the attack Yawn, adding a strategic element to gameplay. This card offers a straightforward yet engaging addition to any collection.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Lost Thunder 54 Common 70 Tomokazu Komiya
    • Type: Water
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Weakness: Grass ×2
    • Attack: Yawn — Your opponent’s Active Pokémon is now Asleep (cost: 1 Colorless)
    • Abilities: None
    • Flavor Text: Alolan home cooking involves drying Slowpoke tails and then simmering them into a salty stew.
    • Regulation Mark: Unknown

    Key Printings

    This Slowpoke card is from the Lost Thunder set (sm8), number 54, and is classified as a Common rarity. It is a straightforward Basic Pokémon card with a single attack, Yawn, which can put the opponent’s Active Pokémon to sleep.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Identification is straightforward via its set code “sm8” and card number “54.” The illustrator Tomokazu Komiya’s artwork is a distinctive feature.

    Legality & Play Notes

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

    Care & Storage Tips

    To maintain the card’s condition, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its common rarity, it is ideal for casual collectors or players who appreciate the Lost Thunder set’s thematic elements.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Lost Thunder (sm8): This set includes Slowpoke as a Basic Water-type Pokémon with a simple but effective sleep-inducing attack. The card fits well into thematic decks focusing on status effects and Alolan lore.

    Slowpoke (Lost Thunder) #54

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    Slowpoke (Lost Thunder) #54

  • Collector’s Guide: Slowking (Lost Thunder #55)

    Collector’s Guide: Slowking (Lost Thunder #55)

    Slowking (Lost Thunder 55) Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Slowking from the Lost Thunder set is a Rare card numbered 55 with 120 HP. It pairs targeted disruption from Memory Melt with a scalable Psychic attack, offering a solid presence for collectors seeking balanced power and rarity.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Lost Thunder 55 Rare 120 sowsow
    • Type: Water
    • Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Slowpoke)
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Weakness: Grass ×2
    • Resistances: None
    • Abilities: None
    • Attacks:
    • Memory Melt: Look at your opponent’s hand and put a card you find there in the Lost Zone (cost: 1 Water).
    • Psychic: Deals 60+ damage plus 20 more damage for each Energy attached to the opponent’s Active Pokémon (cost: 3 Colorless).
    • Flavor Text: “This Pokémon is so famed for its intellect that a proverb still persists in some regions: ‘When in doubt, ask Slowking.’”

    Key Printings

    This exact printing appears in the Sun & Moon series’ Lost Thunder set as card number 55. It is a Rare illustrated by sowsow and features two attacks with no abilities.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Key identifiers are set code sm8 and card number 55. The card’s image can be referenced at /images/sm8/sm8-55.jpg.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its attacks offer strategic disruption via Memory Melt and scalable damage with Psychic based on the opponent’s Energy count.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve condition, store in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the surface to maintain value and artwork integrity.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Lost Thunder (sm8): Introduced Slowking with intellect-themed attacks and strategic hand disruption. This set emphasizes diverse Water-type Pokémon with unique abilities and attacks.

    This guide covers the exact Lost Thunder printing of Slowking, providing essential information for identification and care.

    Slowking (Lost Thunder) #55

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    Slowking (Lost Thunder) #55

  • Collector’s Guide: Lapras (Lost Thunder #56)

    Collector’s Guide: Lapras (Lost Thunder #56)

    Lapras (Lost Thunder 56) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Lapras from the Lost Thunder set is a Rare card numbered 56 with 120 HP. It features the ability Go for a Swim and the attack Ice Beam, showcasing its aquatic strength. This card offers a balanced combination of defense and offense for strategic play.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Lost Thunder 56 Rare 120 Sekio

    Card Stats & Text

    • Type: Water
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Weakness: Metal ×2
    • Ability: Go for a Swim — rearrange the top 2 cards of your deck once per turn before attacking
    • Attack: Ice Beam — 50 damage; flip a coin to potentially paralyze the opponent’s Active Pokémon
    • Flavor Text: These Pokémon were once near extinction due to poaching. Following protective regulations, there is now an overabundance of them.
    • Illustrator: Sekio
    • Image URL: /images/sm8/sm8-56.jpg

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Lapras appears in the Sun & Moon series, specifically the Lost Thunder set (sm8), numbered 56. It is a rare card with no known alternate print variants.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Identification is straightforward via its set code “sm8” and card number 56. The card’s rarity is marked as Rare, and it features the illustrator credit to Sekio.

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
    • This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
    • Its ability to manipulate deck order and its paralyzing Ice Beam attack make it a tactically interesting card for casual play.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve this rare Lapras card, store it in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the card surface to maintain its collector value. Using a top loader or a binder with individual pockets is recommended for long-term care.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Lost Thunder (sm8): This set features Lapras as a rare Basic Water-type Pokémon with a unique ability to reorder deck cards and a paralyzing Ice Beam attack. The set’s artwork and flavor text provide a glimpse into Lapras’s ecological background, making it a notable collectible within the Sun & Moon series.

    Lapras (Lost Thunder) #56

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    Lapras (Lost Thunder) #56

  • Collector’s Guide: Beartic (Lost Thunder #62)

    Collector’s Guide: Beartic (Lost Thunder #62)

    Beartic (Lost Thunder 62) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Beartic from the Lost Thunder set is a rare card numbered 62 with 140 HP. This sturdy Pokémon features the powerful attack Blizzard Burn, and its design captures the essence of a fierce, icy predator.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Lost Thunder 62 Rare 140 Mina Nakai
    • Type: Water
    • Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Cubchoo)
    • Weakness: Metal ×2
    • Retreat Cost: 3
    • Flavor Text: It freezes its breath to create fangs and claws of ice to fight with. Cold northern areas are its habitat.

    Key Printings

    This specific printing of Beartic appears in the Sun & Moon series set “Lost Thunder” with card number 62.

    Attacks

    • Resolute Claws: Deals extra damage against Pokémon-GX or Pokémon-EX.
    • Blizzard Burn: A high-damage attack that prevents Beartic from attacking next turn.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Identifiers include its set code “sm8” and rarity classified as Rare. The card’s image can be referenced at /images/sm8/sm8-62.jpg.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown

    This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its attacks provide strategic options against powerful GX and EX Pokémon, but its high retreat cost and attack restrictions should be considered in deck building.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve this card’s condition, store it in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the surface to maintain its collector value and visual appeal.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Lost Thunder (sm8): Introduced Beartic as a Water-type Stage 1 with strong offensive capabilities and thematic icy design, complementing the set’s diverse Pokémon roster.

    Beartic (Lost Thunder) #62

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    Beartic (Lost Thunder) #62

  • Collector’s Guide: White Kyurem (Lost Thunder #63)

    Collector’s Guide: White Kyurem (Lost Thunder #63)

    White Kyurem Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    White Kyurem from the Lost Thunder set is a Rare Holo card numbered 63. This striking Pokémon boasts 130 HP and features the powerful attack Freezing Flames. Its bold design captures the icy intensity of White Kyurem in battle.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Lost Thunder 63 Rare Holo 130 Hitoshi Ariga
    • HP: 130
    • Type: Water
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 3
    • Weakness: Metal ×2
    • No listed resistances or abilities

    Key Printings

    This specific printing is from the Lost Thunder set (set code sm8), numbered 63. It is classified as a Rare Holo card, making it a visually appealing collectible for fans of the Sun & Moon series.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It can be identified by:
    – Card number: 63
    – Set code: sm8
    – Illustrator: Hitoshi Ariga

    Attacks:
    – Field Crush: Discards an opponent’s Stadium card if in play.
    – Freezing Flames: Deals increased damage if Fire Energy is attached.

    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 card’s Rare Holo finish and detailed 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.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Lost Thunder (sm8): Introduced White Kyurem as a Basic Water-type with a unique freezing energy theme and strategic attacks that interact with Stadium cards and Fire Energy. This set is known for its diverse Pokémon and dynamic gameplay mechanics.

    sm8-63

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    White Kyurem (Lost Thunder) #63

  • Collector’s Guide: Popplio (Lost Thunder #64)

    Collector’s Guide: Popplio (Lost Thunder #64)

    Popplio (Lost Thunder 64) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Popplio from the Lost Thunder set is a Common card numbered 64. This lively Pokémon has 60 HP and features the attack Disarming Voice. Its playful design fits well within the vibrant collection of the set.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Lost Thunder 64 Common 60 Hitoshi Ariga
    • Type: Water
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Grass ×2
    • Attack: Disarming Voice (20 damage; flip a coin—if heads, opponent’s Active Pokémon is Confused)
    • Flavor Text: This Pokémon snorts body fluids from its nose, blowing balloons to smash into its foes. It’s famous for being a hard worker.
    • Image URL: /images/sm8/sm8-64.jpg

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Popplio appears in the Sun & Moon series set “Lost Thunder” with the set code sm8. It is a Common rarity card numbered 64. The card does not evolve from any other Pokémon and has no abilities, only one attack.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this Popplio card. It can be identified by its set code “sm8,” card number 64, and the distinctive illustration by Hitoshi Ariga. The card’s Water type and Basic stage classification further help distinguish it.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality status: unknown.
    This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats according to available data. It features a simple attack that can cause confusion, which may have niche utility in casual play.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the card’s vivid artwork and common rarity, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the surface to maintain its collectible condition. Given the unknown release date, keeping it in mint condition may enhance future value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Lost Thunder (sm8): Popplio appears as a Basic Water-type Pokémon with a straightforward attack and charming flavor text. This set is part of the Sun & Moon series and features artwork by Hitoshi Ariga. The card’s common rarity makes it accessible but still a valuable piece for fans of the set.

    Popplio (Lost Thunder) #64

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    Popplio (Lost Thunder) #64

  • Collector’s Guide: Popplio (Lost Thunder #65)

    Collector’s Guide: Popplio (Lost Thunder #65)

    Popplio Collector’s Guide: Lost Thunder #65

    Character Intro

    Popplio from the Lost Thunder set is a charming Common Pokémon card with 70 HP and the attack Blot—a simple, engaging option for play. As card number 65 in the set, it’s a neat, straightforward addition for collectors.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Lost Thunder 65 Common 70 Yusuke Ohmura
    • Type: Water
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Grass ×2
    • Attack: Blot — Deals 10 damage and heals 10 damage from itself (cost: 1 Water Energy)
    • Flavor Text: “This Pokémon can control water bubbles. It practice diligently so it can learn to make big bubbles.”
    • Regulation Mark: Unknown
    • Abilities: None

    Key Printings

    The notable printing is Lost Thunder #65: a Common card illustrated by Yusuke Ohmura featuring the single attack “Blot,” which both deals and heals 10. Its clean design highlights basic gameplay utility.

    Variants & Identifiers

    No known print variants exist for this Popplio. Identification is straightforward via set code “sm8” and card number “65,” alongside its Water type, Basic stage, and Common rarity.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This Popplio card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its simple attack and low HP make it better suited to casual play or collection than competitive tournament use.

    Care & Storage Tips

    Store in a protective sleeve away from sunlight and moisture to preserve condition. Even as a Common, it benefits from careful handling to keep Yusuke Ohmura’s artwork vibrant.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Lost Thunder (sm8): Popplio appears as a basic Water-type Pokémon with a healing attack, emphasizing its playful bubble-controlling nature. This set printing is a solid representation of Popplio’s character within the Sun & Moon series.

    sm8-65

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    Popplio (Lost Thunder) #65

  • Collector’s Guide: Delibird (Lost Thunder #57)

    Collector’s Guide: Delibird (Lost Thunder #57)

    Delibird (Lost Thunder 57) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Delibird from the Lost Thunder set is an Uncommon, 90 HP Basic Pokémon. It offers the utility attack Happy Delivery and the straightforward damage option Flap. This card is numbered 57 in the set.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Lost Thunder 57 Uncommon 90 Ken Sugimori
    • Type: Water
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Metal ×2
    • Attacks:
    • Happy Delivery (Cost: 1 Colorless): Attach Pokémon Tool cards from your deck to your Benched Pokémon without tools.
    • Flap (Cost: 2 Colorless): Deals 30 damage.
    • Flavor Text: “It has a generous habit of sharing its food with people and Pokémon, so it’s always scrounging around for more food.”
    • Regulation Mark: Unknown
    • Legal: unknown

    Key Printings

    This exact printing is from Lost Thunder (sm8), card number 57. It is an Uncommon card featuring Ken Sugimori’s classic illustration style. No alternate printings or promotional versions are noted for this card.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Identification is straightforward via set code “sm8” and card number “57.” The Water-type symbol and the unique attack names further distinguish this printing.

    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 Ken Sugimori artwork and maintain condition, store this card in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the surface, especially around the edges.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Lost Thunder (sm8): This set introduced Delibird as a Water-type Basic Pokémon with a unique tool-distributing attack, adding strategic depth to bench support roles. The set’s artwork and design maintain the classic Sun & Moon aesthetic.

    sm8-57

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    Delibird (Lost Thunder) #57