Tag: Collector’s Guide

Collector’s Guide: Froakie (XY #39)
Froakie (XY 39) Collectors Guide

Character Intro

Froakie is a common Pokémon card from the XY set, numbered 39. With 50 HP and a single attack, Bounce, it’s a straightforward addition to any collection.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

XY 39 Common 50 5ban Graphics

Card Stats
- Type: Water
- Stage: Basic
- Retreat Cost: 1
- Weakness: Grass ×2
- Attack: Bounce (10 damage) – Flip a coin; if heads, switch this Pokémon with one of your Benched Pokémon.
- Flavor Text: It secretes flexible bubbles from its chest and back. The bubbles reduce the damage it would otherwise take when attacked.
Key Printings

This guide focuses on the XY 39 printing of Froakie, a common card from the XY set. It is a straightforward Basic Pokémon card without any evolutions or special abilities.

Variants & Identifiers

This Froakie printing has no known print variants. It is identified by the set code “xy1” and card number 39. The card features no regulation mark and no special subtypes beyond “Basic.”

Legality & Play Notes

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

Care & Storage Tips

To preserve the vibrant artwork by 5ban Graphics and maintain condition, store this Froakie in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the surface to keep it collectible.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- XY Set: This Froakie is part of the original XY set, reflecting early XY-era design and basic gameplay mechanics—a solid foundation for collectors interested in Water-type Pokémon from this period.
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October 13, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Kakuna (XY #4)
Kakuna Collector’s Guide: XY Set

Character Intro

Kakuna from the XY set is an uncommon card numbered 4 with 70 HP. Its single attack, Harden, highlights its defensive theme and makes it a straightforward pick for collections centered on evolving Pokémon.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

XY 4 Uncommon 70 Kouki Saitou
- Type: Grass
- Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Weedle)
- HP: 70
- Attack: Harden — prevents damage from attacks dealing 60 or less during opponent’s next turn
- Retreat Cost: 2
- Weakness: Fire ×2
- Flavor Text: Almost incapable of moving, this Pokémon can only harden its shell to protect itself when it is in danger.
- Illustrator: Kouki Saitou
- Set: XY (xy1)
- Card Number: 4
- Rarity: Uncommon
- Image:
Key Printings

This guide focuses on the Kakuna card from the XY base set (set code xy1), card number 4. It is an uncommon card illustrated by Kouki Saitou. No other print variants are documented for this exact printing.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants or alternate versions of this Kakuna card.

Identification Checklist
- Set code: “xy1”
- Card number: “4”
- Illustrator: Kouki Saitou
- Grass type, Stage 1 subtype
- Features the Harden attack
Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
This Kakuna card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its gameplay utility centers on its Harden attack, which can mitigate damage from weaker attacks during the opponent’s next turn.

Care & Storage Tips
- Store in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture.
- Avoid bending or scratching the card surface, especially the illustrated area by Kouki Saitou.
- Use a rigid top-loader or a binder with acid-free pages to maintain condition over time.
Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- XY (xy1): The base XY set introduced this Kakuna as a solid Stage 1 Grass-type with a defensive Harden attack—ideal for collections focused on early XY expansions or Grass-type Pokémon.
- Other Sets: No other printings or reprints of this exact Kakuna card are known.
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October 13, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Frogadier (XY #40)
Frogadier (XY 40) Collectors Guide

Character Intro

Frogadier is an Uncommon Pokémon card from the XY set, numbered 40. With 80 HP and the attack Lick, it’s a straightforward add to any collection.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

XY 40 Uncommon 80 5ban Graphics
- Type: Water
- Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Froakie)
- Attack: Lick — Deals 30 damage and may paralyze the opponent’s Active Pokémon on a coin flip
- Retreat Cost: 1 Colorless
- Weakness: Grass (×2)
- Flavor Text: It can throw bubble-covered pebbles with precise control, hitting empty cans up to a hundred feet away.
- Image URL: /images/xy1/xy1-40.jpg
Key Printings

This exact Frogadier card is from the XY set, numbered 40, and classified as Uncommon. It features artwork by 5ban Graphics and is identified by the set code xy1. The card has no known release date.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this Frogadier card. It is uniquely identified by its set code (xy1), card number (40), and rarity (Uncommon). The card’s illustration and attack details remain consistent across this printing.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality status: unknown.
This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its single attack, Lick, offers a chance to paralyze the opponent’s Active Pokémon, which can be tactically useful but is limited by the coin flip mechanic.

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 surface, especially since the card’s artwork by 5ban Graphics is a key collectible feature. Keep it in a stable environment to maintain its value and appearance.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- XY Set: This Frogadier card is part of the original XY series, which introduced many Water-type Pokémon with dynamic artwork and balanced gameplay mechanics. It fits well within the set’s theme of evolution and tactical battling, despite its unknown release date and limited tournament legality.
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October 13, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Greninja (XY #41)
Greninja XY #41 Collectors Guide

Character Intro

Greninja from the XY set is a Rare Holo card with 130 HP. It features the Water Shuriken ability and the Mist Slash attack, underscoring its swift, tactical style. As card number 41, it’s a striking addition to any collection.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

XY 41 Rare Holo 130 5ban Graphics
- Type: Water
- Stage: Stage 2 (Evolves from Frogadier)
- Weakness: Grass ×2
- Retreat Cost: 1
- Ability: Water Shuriken – Discard a Water Energy to place 3 damage counters on an opponent’s Pokémon once per turn before attacking.
- Attack: Mist Slash – Deals 50 damage unaffected by Weakness, Resistance, or other effects.
- Flavor Text: It creates throwing stars out of compressed water. When it spins them and throws them at high speed, these stars can split metal in two.
- Image URL: /images/xy1/xy1-41.jpg
Key Printings

Printed in the XY set with set code xy1 and number 41, this Rare Holo is a desirable collectible for fans of Greninja and the XY series. The artwork by 5ban Graphics is distinctive and well-regarded.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this exact card. Identifiers include the set code (xy1), card number (41), and its Rare Holo classification. The ability and attack names—Water Shuriken and Mist Slash—also help distinguish it.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its playability in tournaments is therefore uncertain.

Care & Storage Tips

To preserve the Rare Holo finish and vibrant artwork, store the card in a protective sleeve, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching to maintain collector value.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- XY Set: Introduced as part of the XY series, this Greninja exemplifies the set’s focus on dynamic Water-type Pokémon with unique abilities and attacks. It remains a notable collectible despite unknown release date details.
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October 13, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Pikachu (XY #42)
Pikachu (XY 42) Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Pikachu from the XY set is a common, Basic Lightning-type card numbered 42 with 60 HP. With Nuzzle and Quick Attack, it’s a straightforward pick for early gameplay. Its simple design and balanced stats make it a staple in many collections.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

XY 42 Common 60 MAHOU
- Type: Lightning
- Stage: Basic
- Retreat Cost: 1
- Weakness: Fighting (×2)
- Resistance: Metal (-20)
- Attacks:
- Nuzzle: Flip a coin; if heads, the opponent’s Active Pokémon is Paralyzed.
- Quick Attack: Deals 20 damage plus 10 more if a coin flip is heads.
- Flavor Text: “It raises its tail to check its surroundings. The tail is sometimes struck by lightning in this pose.”
- Illustrator: MAHOU
- Set: XY (xy1)
- Card Number: 42
- Rarity: Common
Key Printings

This exact printing is from the XY set, identified as card number 42. It features the classic Pikachu with no evolutions from previous cards and no special abilities. The card’s simple but effective attacks and common rarity make it a staple Basic Lightning-type Pokémon in the set.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this card. It is identified by its set code “xy1” and number “42.” The card’s artwork by MAHOU and its common rarity are key identifiers. The card’s image can be referenced at /images/xy1/xy1-42.jpg.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
This card is not currently listed as legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its straightforward attacks and low HP suggest it is more suited for casual play or collection rather than competitive tournament use.

Care & Storage Tips

As a common card with no special print variants, standard card care applies: store in a protective sleeve and keep away from direct sunlight and moisture to preserve the vibrant artwork and card integrity. Avoid bending or scratching to maintain collector value.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- XY (xy1): This set introduced a fresh lineup of Pokémon cards, including this Pikachu with simple but thematic attacks reflecting its Electric type. The card fits well into beginner decks and collectors’ sets focusing on the XY series.
This guide covers the exact printing of Pikachu from the XY set, card number 42, providing collectors and players with essential information for identification and care.

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October 13, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Raichu (XY #43)
Raichu (XY 43) Collectors Guide

Character Intro

Raichu from the XY set is a Rare Holo card numbered 43. It boasts 90 HP and features the attacks Circle Circuit and Thunderbolt. This card’s vibrant design captures Raichu’s energetic spirit.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

XY 43 Rare Holo 90 Mitsuhiro Arita
- Type: Lightning
- Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Pikachu)
- Weakness: Fighting ×2
- Resistance: Metal -20
- Retreat Cost: 0
- Attacks:
- Circle Circuit: Does 20 damage times the number of your Benched Pokémon (cost: 2 Colorless).
- Thunderbolt: Deals 100 damage but requires discarding all Energy attached to Raichu (cost: 2 Lightning, 1 Colorless).
- Flavor Text: “When its electricity builds, its muscles are stimulated, and it becomes more aggressive than usual.”
- Illustrator: Mitsuhiro Arita
- Set: XY (xy1)
- Card Number: 43
- Rarity: Rare Holo
Key Printings

This exact printing of Raichu appears in the XY base set (xy1) as card number 43. It is a Rare Holo card featuring Mitsuhiro Arita’s detailed artwork. No release date is specified for this printing.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this card. Key identifiers include its card number (43), set code (xy1), and the absence of a regulation mark. The card’s unique attacks and the illustrator’s signature style also help distinguish it.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
This Raichu card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Specific tournament legality or ban status is unknown.

Care & Storage Tips

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

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- XY (xy1): This set introduced Raichu as a Stage 1 Lightning-type with versatile attacks that reward strategic benching. The card’s Rare Holo status and striking artwork make it a notable collectible from the XY base set.
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October 13, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Voltorb (XY #44)
Voltorb XY 44 Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Voltorb is a Common Pokémon card from the XY set, numbered 44. It has 50 HP, the Destiny Burst ability, and the straightforward Rollout attack for clean, low-cost pressure.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

XY 44 Common 50 Atsuko Nishida
- Type: Lightning
- Stage: Basic
- Retreat Cost: 1
- Weakness: Fighting (×2)
- Ability: Destiny Burst — If Voltorb is your Active Pokémon and is Knocked Out by damage from an opponent’s attack, flip a coin; if heads, place 5 damage counters on the Attacking Pokémon.
- Attack: Rollout — Deals 10 damage for one Colorless energy.
- Flavor Text: “It was discovered when Poké Balls were introduced. It is said that there is some connection.”
- Set Code: xy1-44
- Rarity: Common
- Regulation Mark: Unknown
- Legal Status: unknown
- Image:
Key Printings

This guide focuses on the XY set printing of Voltorb, card number 44. It is a common card with no known alternate printings or promotional versions.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants or alternate art versions for this exact printing. The card is identified by its set code xy1-44 and the illustrator Atsuko Nishida’s signature style.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality

The legality of this card is unknown. It is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.

Play Notes

The Destiny Burst ability offers a strategic edge by potentially punishing opponents when Voltorb is knocked out, while the Rollout attack provides a simple, low-cost damage option.

Care & Storage Tips

As a common card with low HP, preserving condition is essential for collectors. Store it in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture to maintain the vivid artwork by Atsuko Nishida.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- XY (xy1): Introduces Voltorb with the Destiny Burst ability and the simple Rollout attack. The flavor text nods to Poké Ball origins, making it a charming addition to any Lightning-type collection.
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October 13, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Electrode (XY #45)
Electrode (XY 45) Collectors Guide

Character Intro

Electrode from the XY set is an Uncommon card numbered 45 with 90 HP. This energetic Stage 1 Pokémon offers straightforward offense with Rollout and disruption with Eerie Impulse. Its clean design captures Electrode’s dynamic nature in battle.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

XY 45 Uncommon 90 Shigenori Negishi
- HP: 90
- Type: Lightning
- Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Voltorb)
- Retreat Cost: 1
- Weakness: Fighting ×2
- Abilities: None
- Attacks:
- Eerie Impulse: Flip a coin; if heads, discard an Energy attached to one of your opponent’s Pokémon (cost: 1 Lightning).
- Rollout: Deals 40 damage (cost: 2 Colorless).
- Flavor Text: “It explodes in response to even minor stimuli. It is feared, with the nickname of ‘The Bomb Ball.’”
Key Printings

This Electrode card is from the XY set, identified as card number 45. It is classified as an Uncommon rarity card. The illustrator credited is Shigenori Negishi. The exact release date of this printing is unknown.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this Electrode card. It can be identified by its set code “xy1” and card number 45. The card features a Lightning-type symbol and the Stage 1 subtype.

Legality & Play Notes
- Legality: unknown
- This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats according to available data.
- Strategic notes: Eerie Impulse offers energy denial, while Rollout provides reliable damage output.
Care & Storage Tips

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

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- XY Set: This Electrode card is part of the XY series, which features a variety of Pokémon with diverse abilities and attacks. It stands out for its energy disruption and solid damage potential, fitting well into Lightning-type themed decks. The set’s overall design emphasizes dynamic battle strategies and vibrant artwork.
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October 13, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Emolga-EX (XY #46)
Emolga-EX Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Emolga-EX from the XY set is a Rare Holo EX card with 110 HP. This energetic Pokémon features the attack Electron Crush, showcasing its electric prowess. As card number 46, it adds a vibrant spark to any collection.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

XY 46 Rare Holo EX 110 Eske Yoshinob
- Type: Lightning
- Stage: Basic, EX
- Retreat Cost: 0
- Weakness: Lightning ×2
- Resistance: Fighting -20
- Rules: Pokémon-EX rule: When a Pokémon-EX has been Knocked Out, your opponent takes 2 Prize cards.
Key Printings
- This exact printing is from the XY set, card number 46. It is a Rare Holo EX card featuring Emolga-EX with no evolutions from previous forms.
Attacks
- Energy Glide: Allows energy attachment and switching.
- Electron Crush: Can increase damage by discarding energy.
Variants & Identifiers
- There are no known print variants for this card.
- Identifiers include the set code “xy1” and the card ID “xy1-46.”
- The illustrator credit goes to Eske Yoshinob.
- The card’s image can be referenced at /images/xy1/xy1-46.jpg.
Legality & Play Notes
- Legality: unknown
- This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
- It follows the Pokémon-EX rule, where knocking out this Pokémon grants the opponent two Prize cards.
Care & Storage Tips

To preserve the card’s Rare Holo EX quality, store it in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture. Use rigid top loaders or binders designed for holo cards to prevent surface scratches and bending.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- XY Set: Emolga-EX appears as a Basic EX Pokémon with a focus on Lightning energy acceleration and flexible attack options. It contributes to the set’s diverse Lightning-type lineup with its unique Energy Glide ability and solid HP.
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October 13, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Ekans (XY #47)
Ekans XY 47 Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Ekans XY 47 is a Common from the XY set with 70 HP and a single attack, Bite. The card’s straightforward design presents a compact, battle‑ready Ekans.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

XY 47 Common 70 Shigenori Negishi
- Type: Psychic
- Stage: Basic
- Retreat Cost: 2
- Weakness: Psychic ×2
- Attack: Bite (20 damage, costs two Colorless energy)
- Flavor Text: “The older it gets, the longer it grows. At night, it wraps its long body around tree branches to rest.”
- Illustrator: Shigenori Negishi
- Image:
Key Printings

This Ekans card is printed solely in the XY set (set code xy1) and does not evolve from any other Pokémon. It is a Basic Pokémon card with no abilities and a single attack, Bite, which deals 20 damage.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this card. Identification is straightforward via its set number (47), set name (XY), and illustrator credit (Shigenori Negishi).

Legality & Play Notes
- Legality: unknown
- This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
  It has no special rules or abilities that affect gameplay beyond its single attack.
Care & Storage Tips

As a common card with a standard retreat cost and no special abilities, Ekans XY 47 should be stored in protective sleeves to preserve the vibrant artwork by Shigenori Negishi. Avoid exposure to direct sunlight and moisture to maintain card condition.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- XY: This set introduced Ekans as a Psychic-type Basic Pokémon with a simple attack and common rarity, emphasizing straightforward gameplay and classic design.
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October 13, 2025