Tag: Collector’s Guide

  • Collector’s Guide: Metapod (Fusion Strike #2)

    Collector’s Guide: Metapod (Fusion Strike #2)

    Metapod (Fusion Strike 2) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Metapod from the Fusion Strike set is an Uncommon Grass-type Stage 1 Pokémon with 80 HP. It features the sturdy Ability Exoskeleton and a straightforward attack called Ram. This printing is numbered 2 in its set.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Fusion Strike 2 Uncommon 80 Saya Tsuruta
    • Type: Grass
    • Stage: Stage 1
    • Retreat Cost: 3
    • Weakness: Fire ×2
    • Resistance: None
    • Ability: Exoskeleton (reduces damage taken by 20)
    • Attack: Ram (10 damage, costs 1 Grass energy)
    • Flavor Text: “Even though it is encased in a sturdy shell, the body inside is tender. It can’t withstand a harsh attack.”
    • Illustrator: Saya Tsuruta
    • Card Number: swsh8-2
    • Set Code: swsh8
    • Regulation Mark: E
    • Image:
      swsh8-2

    Key Printings

    This exact Metapod printing appears in the Sword & Shield Fusion Strike set as card number 2. It is an Uncommon card illustrated by Saya Tsuruta, featuring the Exoskeleton ability and a single Grass-type attack, Ram.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this Metapod card. It is identified by the set code swsh8 and card number 2. The regulation mark E and the illustrator’s signature style also help distinguish this printing.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats according to the provided data. Its defensive ability and moderate HP make it a durable option, but its single low-damage attack and high retreat cost may limit competitive play.

    Care & Storage Tips

    For preservation, store the card in a sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or surface scratches—Saya Tsuruta’s artwork is a highlight. A rigid top-loader or binder page is recommended for long-term storage.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Fusion Strike: Metapod appears as a solid defensive Stage 1 Grass-type with the Exoskeleton ability, emphasizing damage reduction over offense.

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    Metapod (Fusion Strike) #2

  • Collector’s Guide: Araquanid (Fusion Strike #20)

    Collector’s Guide: Araquanid (Fusion Strike #20)

    Araquanid Collector’s Guide: Fusion Strike #20

    Character Intro

    Araquanid from the Fusion Strike set is a Rare card numbered 20 with 120 HP. This vibrant Pokémon highlights the attack Bubble Launch and stands out as a distinctive addition to any collection thanks to its striking illustration and energy-shifting attack package.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Fusion Strike 20 Rare 120 KIYOTAKA OSHIYAMA
    • Pokémon: Araquanid
    • Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Dewpider)
    • Type: Grass
    • Weakness: Fire ×2
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Flavor Text: It acts as a caretaker for Dewpider, putting them inside its bubble and letting them eat any leftover food.
    • Attacks:
    • Bug Bite (30 damage, costs 1 Grass Energy)
    • Bubble Launch (110 damage, costs 1 Grass + 2 Colorless; allows moving an Energy from Araquanid to a Benched Pokémon)
    • Illustrator: KIYOTAKA OSHIYAMA
    • Regulation Mark: E
    • Set Code: swsh8
    • Series: Sword & Shield
    • Card ID: swsh8-20
    • Image:
      swsh8-20

    Key Printings

    This exact printing appears in the Fusion Strike set as card number 20. It is classified as a Rare card and features no additional print variants.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this Araquanid card. Identification relies on the set code “swsh8,” card number 20, and the illustrator KIYOTAKA OSHIYAMA’s distinctive artwork.

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
    • This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the card’s vibrant illustration and maintain its condition, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its rarity and unknown legality, keeping it in mint condition is advisable for both collectors and potential future play.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Fusion Strike: Introduced Araquanid as a Rare Grass-type Stage 1 Pokémon with a unique caretaker flavor and versatile attacks, emphasizing energy manipulation and moderate damage output.

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    Araquanid (Fusion Strike) #20

  • Collector’s Guide: Persian (Fusion Strike #200)

    Collector’s Guide: Persian (Fusion Strike #200)

    Persian (Fusion Strike 200) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Persian from the Fusion Strike set is an Uncommon card featuring 110 HP. This sleek Pokémon attacks with Bite, showcasing its sharp instincts. Numbered 200, it adds a distinctive edge to any collection.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Fusion Strike 200 Uncommon 110 Lee HyunJung
    • HP: 110
    • Type: Colorless
    • Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Meowth)
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Fighting ×2
    • Flavor Text: Its elegant and refined behavior clashes with that of the barbaric Perrserker. The relationship between the two is one of mutual disdain.
    • Card Number: swsh8-200
    • Set Code: swsh8
    • Series: Sword & Shield
    • Regulation Mark: E

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Persian is from the Fusion Strike set, numbered 200, and classified as an Uncommon card. It features two attacks: “Pay Day,” which allows you to draw a card and deals 30 damage for one Colorless energy, and “Bite,” which deals 70 damage for two Colorless energies. No abilities are present on this card.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Identifiers include its set code (swsh8), card number (200), and regulation mark (E). The illustrator is Lee HyunJung, whose artwork distinctly portrays Persian’s elegant nature.

    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 condition, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep it flat and avoid bending to maintain the integrity of the artwork by Lee HyunJung.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Fusion Strike: This set includes the elegant Persian as an Uncommon Stage 1 Pokémon, emphasizing a balance of moderate HP and straightforward attacks suitable for collectors and casual players alike.

    swsh8-200

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    Persian (Fusion Strike) #200

  • Collector’s Guide: Dodrio V (Fusion Strike #201)

    Collector’s Guide: Dodrio V (Fusion Strike #201)

    Dodrio V Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Dodrio V from the Fusion Strike set is a Rare Holo V card numbered 201. It boasts 200 HP, making it a sturdy addition to any deck. Its attack, Rampage Drill, offers a dynamic option for gameplay.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Fusion Strike 201 Rare Holo V 200 5ban Graphics
    • Pokémon: Dodrio V
    • Type: Colorless
    • Stage: Basic, V, Rapid Strike
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Lightning ×2
    • Resistance: Fighting -30
    • Regulation Mark: E
    • Card Number: 201
    • Set Code: swsh8
    • Series: Sword & Shield

    Key Printings

    This printing is from Fusion Strike (set code swsh8), card number 201. As a Rare Holo V, it features a holographic finish and the V rule: when a Pokémon V is Knocked Out, the opponent takes 2 Prize cards.

    Variants & Identifiers

    No known print variants exist for this card. The illustrator is 5ban Graphics, and the card’s Rapid Strike subtype and Colorless typing help it stand out within Fusion Strike.

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown

    • Attacks:

    • No Reprieve increases damage on the next turn.
    • Rampage Drill is a strong attack that also damages itself.

    These traits make Dodrio V a tactical pick, rewarding careful sequencing and risk management.

    Care & Storage Tips

    Protect the Rare Holo V finish and artwork with a snug sleeve, and keep the card away from sunlight and moisture. Use a rigid top-loader or a binder with individual pockets to prevent bending and surface wear.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Fusion Strike (swsh8): Dodrio V appears as a Basic, Rapid Strike Pokémon with a strong HP pool and versatile attacks, blending aggressive damage with self-risk mechanics. The set’s focus on Rapid and Fusion Strike styles is reflected in this card’s design and functionality.

    Dodrio V (Fusion Strike) #201

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    Dodrio V (Fusion Strike) #201

  • Collector’s Guide: Stantler (Fusion Strike #208)

    Collector’s Guide: Stantler (Fusion Strike #208)

    Stantler Collector’s Guide: Fusion Strike #208

    Character Intro

    Stantler from the Fusion Strike set is an uncommon card with 110 HP. It features the attack Wild Dive, adding strategic variety to gameplay. This card is numbered 208 in the set, making it a distinctive addition for collectors.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Fusion Strike 208 Uncommon 110 Shibuzoh.
    • Type: Colorless
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Fighting ×2
    • Resistance: None
    • Regulation Mark: E
    • Flavor Text: “The curved antlers subtly change the flow of air to create a strange space where reality is distorted.”

    Key Printings

    This exact Stantler card appears in the Fusion Strike set, numbered 208.

    • Attacks:
    • Rear Kick — deals 20 damage for one Colorless Energy.
    • Wild Dive — does 30 damage times the number of Energy attached to the opponent’s Active Pokémon, requiring two Colorless Energy.
    • There are no abilities on this card.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It is identified by the set code swsh8 and card number 208. The illustrator credit goes to Shibuzoh., and the card’s regulation mark is E.

    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 preserve the card’s uncommon rarity and detailed artwork, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the surface to maintain its collector value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Fusion Strike: This set includes Stantler as a Basic Colorless Pokémon with a unique flavor text emphasizing its reality-distorting antlers. It offers simple but potentially strategic attacks, fitting well into casual decks or collectors’ portfolios.

    Stantler (Fusion Strike) #208

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    Stantler (Fusion Strike) #208

  • Collector’s Guide: Smeargle (Fusion Strike #209)

    Collector’s Guide: Smeargle (Fusion Strike #209)

    Smeargle Collector’s Guide: Fusion Strike #209

    Character Intro

    Smeargle from the Fusion Strike set is a common Pokémon card numbered 209. It has 70 HP and features the attacks Sketching Trash and Tail Whap. This card offers a straightforward, agile presence in any collection.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Fusion Strike 209 Common 70 Mitsuhiro Arita
    • Type: Colorless
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Fighting ×2
    • Attacks:
    • Sketching Trash: Retrieve up to 2 Fusion Strike Trainer cards from your discard pile.
    • Tail Whap: Deals 80 damage with a cost of three Colorless energies.
    • Flavor Text: It draws symbols with the fluid that oozes from the tip of its tail. Depending on the symbol, Smeargle fanatics will pay big money for them.
    • Regulation Mark: E

    Key Printings

    This exact printing is from the Fusion Strike set, card number 209. It is a Common rarity card with no known alternate printings or special editions.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It is identified by its set code “swsh8” and card number 209. The illustrator Mitsuhiro Arita is a notable identifier for collectors.

    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 illustration and 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 collector value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Fusion Strike: Introduced Smeargle as a Basic Fusion Strike Pokémon with unique Trainer card retrieval capabilities and a solid damage attack, enriching the set’s strategic options.

    swsh8-209

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    Smeargle (Fusion Strike) #209

  • Collector’s Guide: Chansey (Fusion Strike #202)

    Collector’s Guide: Chansey (Fusion Strike #202)

    Chansey (Fusion Strike 202) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Chansey from the Fusion Strike set is a Common card numbered 202. It has 110 HP and features the attack Gentle Slap. This gentle Pokémon offers solid durability for its rarity.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Fusion Strike 202 Common 110 miki kudo
    • Type: Colorless
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Weakness: Fighting ×2
    • Resistance: None
    • Regulation Mark: E

    Key Printings

    Printed as number 202 in Fusion Strike at Common rarity, this Chansey has no known alternate print variants. The artwork by miki kudo captures Chansey’s gentle demeanor, making it a visually appealing piece for collectors.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this exact printing of Chansey. Key identifiers include its set code “swsh8-202,” the Fusion Strike set name, and the regulation mark “E.”

    • Attacks:
    • Drain Slap — deals 30 damage and heals 30 damage from Chansey
    • Gentle Slap — deals 70 damage
      Both attacks require Colorless energy.

    Legality & Play Notes

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

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the 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 artwork and structural integrity.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Fusion Strike: This set introduces a variety of dynamic Pokémon cards, including this gentle Chansey. The set focuses on synergy and strategic play, though this Chansey card is more notable for its collector appeal than competitive use.

    swsh8-202

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    Chansey (Fusion Strike) #202

  • Collector’s Guide: Blissey (Fusion Strike #203)

    Collector’s Guide: Blissey (Fusion Strike #203)

    Blissey Collector’s Guide: Fusion Strike #203

    Character Intro

    Blissey from the Fusion Strike set is a Rare card numbered 203 with 130 HP. It features the ability Expert in Roundness and the attack Let’s All Rollout. This card offers a unique blend of defensive stamina and strategic moves.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Fusion Strike 203 Rare 130 Mizue
    • HP: 130
    • Type: Colorless
    • Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Chansey)
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Weakness: Fighting ×2
    • Resistance: None
    • Regulation Mark: E

    Key Printings

    • Sword & Shield—Fusion Strike Rare #203 illustrated by Mizue.
    • Ability — Expert in Roundness: prevents damage from opponent’s Pokémon VMAX to your Pokémon with the “Let’s All Rollout” attack.
    • Attack — Let’s All Rollout: deals 20 damage times the number of your Benched Pokémon with the same attack.

    Variants & Identifiers

    • No known variants or alternate printings.
    • Identified by set code “swsh8-203” and the Fusion Strike set symbol.
    • Subtypes include Stage 1; Colorless-type with regulation mark E.

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
    • Not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
    • Its Ability and attack synergy support decks that stack multiple Pokémon with “Let’s All Rollout.”

    Care & Storage Tips

    • Use sleeves and store away from direct sunlight and moisture.
    • For extra protection, consider a top loader or a binder with individual pockets.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Fusion Strike (swsh8): This set features Blissey as a Rare Stage 1 card with a supportive Ability and a scaling attack that rewards bench presence. The card’s design and mechanics emphasize teamwork and resilience within the Fusion Strike theme.

    swsh8-203

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    Blissey (Fusion Strike) #203

  • Collector’s Guide: Kangaskhan (Fusion Strike #204)

    Collector’s Guide: Kangaskhan (Fusion Strike #204)

    Kangaskhan (Fusion Strike 204) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Kangaskhan from the Fusion Strike set is a Rare card with 120 HP. It features the dynamic attack “Coordinated One-Two Punch.” This card holds number 204 in the set.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Fusion Strike 204 Rare 120 Souichirou Gunjima
    • Type: Colorless
    • Stage: Basic, Rapid Strike
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Weakness: Fighting ×2
    • Resistance: None
    • Regulation Mark: E

    Key Printings

    This Kangaskhan card is from the Sword & Shield Fusion Strike expansion, identified by set code swsh8 and card number 204. It is a rare card with no evolutions from previous stages.

    Attacks

    • Pound — Deals 30 damage for one Colorless energy.
    • Coordinated One-Two Punch — Deals 60+ damage, with a chance to add 100 more damage by flipping a coin.

    Variants & Identifiers

    This printing has no known print variants. It is uniquely identified by its card ID swsh8-204 and the illustrator Souichirou Gunjima. The card’s subtype is Basic, Rapid Strike, and it carries the regulation mark E.

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
    • According to the provided data, this card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To maintain the card’s condition, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its rarity and detailed illustration, handle with clean hands and keep it in a rigid top-loader or binder.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Fusion Strike (swsh8): Features Kangaskhan as a Basic, Rapid Strike Pokémon with versatile attacks and a protective theme reflected in its flavor text. The card’s design and mechanics align with the set’s focus on dynamic battle strategies.

    swsh8-204

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    Kangaskhan (Fusion Strike) #204

  • Collector’s Guide: Eevee (Fusion Strike #205)

    Collector’s Guide: Eevee (Fusion Strike #205)

    Eevee (Fusion Strike 205) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Eevee from Fusion Strike is a common, Basic Colorless Pokémon card numbered 205. With 50 HP and the coin-flip attack Continuous Steps, it’s a simple, approachable addition for collectors.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Fusion Strike 205 Common 50 0313
    • Type: Colorless
    • Stage: Basic
    • Attack: Continuous Steps — Flip a coin until tails; 30 damage for each heads
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Fighting ×2
    • Flavor Text: Thanks to its unstable genetic makeup, this special Pokémon conceals many different possible evolutions.
    • Regulation Mark: E

    Key Printings

    This guide focuses on Eevee from the Fusion Strike set, card number 205. It’s a Common card with no evolutions or abilities and features a single attack that scales damage based on coin flips.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It is identified by set code “swsh8” and card number 205. The illustrator is listed as 0313, which distinguishes this exact printing.

    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

    As a common card with no special variants, standard protective sleeves and storage in a binder or card box are recommended to preserve condition. Avoid exposure to moisture and direct sunlight to maintain the card’s vibrant artwork and structural integrity.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Fusion Strike (swsh8): Includes Eevee card number 205, a Basic Colorless Pokémon with a coin-flip–based attack. The set is known for dynamic gameplay elements, while this Eevee remains straightforward and accessible for collectors and players.

    swsh8-205

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    Eevee (Fusion Strike) #205