Tag: Collector’s Guide

  • Collector’s Guide: Shellder (Fusion Strike #50)

    Collector’s Guide: Shellder (Fusion Strike #50)

    Shellder Collector’s Guide: Fusion Strike #50

    Character Intro

    Shellder (#50) is a Common Water-type from the Fusion Strike set with 70 HP. As a Basic Rapid Strike Pokémon featuring Tongue Slap and Wave Splash, it offers straightforward, dependable damage for simple deck builds.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Fusion Strike 50 Common 70 kawayoo
    • HP: 70
    • Type: Water
    • Stage: Basic, Rapid Strike
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Weakness: Lightning ×2
    • Attacks:
    • Tongue Slap (10 damage, Water energy)
    • Wave Splash (20 damage, Water + Colorless energy)
    • Flavor Text: Its hard shell repels any kind of attack. It is vulnerable only when its shell is open.
    • Illustrator: kawayoo
    • Set: Fusion Strike (swsh8)
    • Card Number: 50
    • Rarity: Common
    • Regulation Mark: E

    Key Printings

    This guide focuses on the Fusion Strike set printing of Shellder, card number 50. It is a Basic Rapid Strike Pokémon card with no evolutions from previous cards. The artwork by kawayoo is unique to this set.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Identifiers include the set code “swsh8” and the regulation mark “E.” The card is classified as Common rarity and features the subtype “Basic, Rapid Strike.”

    Legality & Play Notes

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

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the vivid illustration and card condition, store Shellder 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 (swsh8): Shellder appears as a Basic Rapid Strike Pokémon with straightforward Water-type attacks. The set emphasizes dynamic battle styles, and this card fits well into Water-themed decks despite its unknown tournament legality.

    swsh8-50

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    Shellder (Fusion Strike) #50

  • Collector’s Guide: Cloyster (Fusion Strike #51)

    Collector’s Guide: Cloyster (Fusion Strike #51)

    Cloyster (Fusion Strike 51) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Cloyster from the Fusion Strike set is a Rare card boasting 130 HP. Its ability, Shell Armor, offers a sturdy defense, while the attack Aqua Split provides a dynamic option in battle. This card is numbered 51 in the set.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Fusion Strike 51 Rare 130 nagimiso
    • Type: Water
    • Stage: Stage 1, Rapid Strike
    • Evolves From: Shellder
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Weakness: Lightning ×2
    • Resistance: None
    • Regulation Mark: E
    • Flavor Text: “Once it slams its shell shut, it is impossible to open, even by those with superior strength.”

    Key Printings

    This guide focuses on the Fusion Strike printing, card number 51. It is a Rare illustrated by nagimiso, featuring the ability Shell Armor and the attack Aqua Split, which deals damage to both the opponent’s active and benched Pokémon.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It is identified by its set code “swsh8” and the regulation mark “E.” The card is part of the Sword & Shield series and is classified under the Rapid Strike subtype.

    Legality & Play Notes

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

    • Shell Armor: reduces damage taken by 30.
    • Aqua Split: deals 60 damage to the active Pokémon plus 30 damage to two benched Pokémon, making it tactically versatile.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the card’s condition, store it in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the surface, especially since the card’s artwork and text are key to its collector value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Fusion Strike: Introduces Cloyster as a Rapid Strike Stage 1 Pokémon with a unique ability to reduce damage and an attack that targets multiple opponent Pokémon, adding strategic depth to Water-type decks.

    swsh8-51

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    Cloyster (Fusion Strike) #51

  • Collector’s Guide: Staryu (Fusion Strike #52)

    Collector’s Guide: Staryu (Fusion Strike #52)

    Staryu Collector’s Guide: Fusion Strike #52

    Character Intro

    Staryu from the Fusion Strike set is a common card numbered 52 with 60 HP. This agile Pokémon features the attack Spinning Attack, offering a straightforward option in battle. Its modest stats make it a versatile addition to many decks.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Fusion Strike 52 Common 60 tetsuya koizumi
    • Type: Water
    • Stage: Basic, Rapid Strike
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Lightning ×2
    • Resistance: None
    • Regulation Mark: E

    Key Printings

    This guide focuses on the Fusion Strike set printing, card number 52, which is a Common rarity.

    Attacks

    • Soak in Water — lets you attach a Water Energy from your hand.
    • Spinning Attack — dealing 10 damage for a single Water Energy.

    Variants & Identifiers

    • No known print variants.
    • Set code: “swsh8”
    • Regulation mark: “E”
    • Card ID: swsh8-52
    • Image path: /images/swsh8/swsh8-52.jpg

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
    • This Staryu card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
    • Its Rapid Strike subtype may synergize with other Rapid Strike cards in casual play.

    Care & Storage Tips

    • Use standard protective sleeves and store in a binder or card box.
    • Avoid exposure to moisture and direct sunlight to maintain artwork and prevent warping.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Fusion Strike: Introduces Staryu as a Basic, Rapid Strike Water-type with simple energy attachment and a low-damage attack, emphasizing quick energy acceleration and rapid gameplay.

    Staryu (Fusion Strike) #52

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    Staryu (Fusion Strike) #52

  • Collector’s Guide: Starmie (Fusion Strike #53)

    Collector’s Guide: Starmie (Fusion Strike #53)

    Starmie (Fusion Strike 53) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Starmie from the Fusion Strike set is a Rare Holo card numbered 53 with 90 HP, featuring the dynamic attack Multishot Star. A sleek addition to any collection.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Fusion Strike 53 Rare Holo 90 Megumi Mizutani
    • Evolves from: Staryu
    • Stage: Stage 1, Rapid Strike
    • Type: Water
    • Weakness: Lightning ×2
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Regulation Mark: E
    • Flavor Text: “It rotates its geometrically shaped body to swim through the water. It always seems to be sending out mysterious radio waves.”

    Key Printings

    This specific printing of Starmie is from the Fusion Strike set, identified as card number 53. It is a Rare Holo variant, showcasing holographic artwork that highlights its aquatic design.

    Variants & Identifiers

    • Print variants: No print variants are listed for this card.
    • Set code: swsh8-53
    • Subtypes: Stage 1, Rapid Strike
    • Illustrator: Megumi Mizutani
    • Regulation Mark: E

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
    • This Starmie card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
    • Attack — Multishot Star: A single Water Energy attack that allows discarding any amount of Water Energy to deal 30 damage per discarded Energy to opponent’s Pokémon, unaffected by Weakness or Resistance.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the card’s Rare Holo finish and maintain its value:
    – Store in a protective sleeve; avoid direct sunlight and moisture.
    – Avoid bending or scratching the surface.
    – Consider a top-loader or binder for additional protection.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Fusion Strike: This set introduced Starmie as a Rapid Strike Stage 1 Water-type with a unique attack that leverages Energy discarding for multi-target damage. The card’s holographic art and strategic attack make it a notable inclusion in the set.

    swsh8-53

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    Starmie (Fusion Strike) #53

  • Collector’s Guide: Lapras (Fusion Strike #54)

    Collector’s Guide: Lapras (Fusion Strike #54)

    Lapras (Fusion Strike 54) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Lapras from the Fusion Strike set is an Uncommon card numbered 54. It boasts 120 HP and features the attack Icy Wind. This serene Pokémon stands out with its cool, icy presence.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Fusion Strike 54 Uncommon 120 Naoki Saito
    • Type: Water
    • Stage: Basic, Rapid Strike
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Weakness: Lightning ×2
    • Resistances: None
    • Regulation Mark: E

    Key Printings

    This Lapras card is from the Fusion Strike set, identified as card number 54. It is an Uncommon rarity card, illustrated by Naoki Saito.

    Attacks

    • Icy Wind: Puts the opponent’s Active Pokémon to sleep.
    • Splash Arch: Returns all Energy attached to Lapras to the player’s hand and deals 100 damage to one of the opponent’s Benched Pokémon.

    Variants & Identifiers

    • No known print variants.
    • Set code: swsh8-54, within the Fusion Strike series.
    • Subtype: Basic, Rapid Strike (useful for deck-building strategies).

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
    • This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
    • Its Rapid Strike designation and attacks offer interesting tactical options, but tournament play status is not confirmed.

    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 features detailed artwork by Naoki Saito. Keeping it in a rigid top-loader or binder is recommended for long-term collection.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Fusion Strike: This set introduced Lapras as a Basic, Rapid Strike Pokémon with versatile attacks that blend disruption and damage. The card fits well into decks focusing on energy manipulation and status effects.

    swsh8-54

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    Lapras (Fusion Strike) #54

  • Collector’s Guide: Croconaw (Fusion Strike #56)

    Collector’s Guide: Croconaw (Fusion Strike #56)

    Croconaw Collector’s Guide: Fusion Strike #56

    Character Intro

    Croconaw (Fusion Strike #56) is an Uncommon Stage 1 Water-type with 100 HP. Its straightforward kit—Wave Splash and Surf—makes it a balanced, easy-to-slot addition to a collection focused on clean, classic designs.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Fusion Strike 56 Uncommon 100 Tomokazu Komiya
    • Type: Water
    • Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Totodile)
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Weakness: Lightning ×2
    • Resistance: None
    • Regulation Mark: E

    Key Printings

    This Croconaw card appears in the Sword & Shield Fusion Strike expansion, identified by set code swsh8-56.

    • Attacks:
    • Wave Splash — 30 damage for one Water Energy
    • Surf — 60 damage for one Water and two Colorless Energies
    • Abilities: None

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this Croconaw. It is classified as an Uncommon rarity card with Regulation Mark E.
    Unique identifier: swsh8-56.
    Official market reference query: “Croconaw Fusion Strike 56.”

    Legality & Play Notes

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

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the artwork and condition, store the card 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

    • Fusion Strike (swsh8): Croconaw appears as a reliable Stage 1 Water-type with straightforward attacks and solid HP. Its inclusion in this set complements the aggressive and tactical themes of Fusion Strike.

    swsh8-56

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    Croconaw (Fusion Strike) #56

  • Collector’s Guide: Feraligatr (Fusion Strike #57)

    Collector’s Guide: Feraligatr (Fusion Strike #57)

    Feraligatr (Fusion Strike 57) Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Feraligatr from the Fusion Strike set is a Rare Holo card boasting 170 HP. This fierce Pokémon features the Rowdy ability and the powerful Crunch attack. It is card number 57 in the set.

    Why it stands out

    • Disruption from Rowdy can pressure decks at key evolution turns.
    • Crunch provides solid 140 damage plus energy denial for tempo swings.
    • As a Stage 2 Water-type, it appeals to fans of the Totodile line and Sword & Shield-era holofoils.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Fusion Strike 57 Rare Holo 170 Anesaki Dynamic
    • Type: Water
    • Stage: Stage 2 (Evolves from Croconaw)
    • Ability: Rowdy — When evolving this Pokémon, flip a coin to discard cards from either your or your opponent’s deck.
    • Attack: Crunch — Deals 140 damage and discards an Energy from the opponent’s Active Pokémon.
    • Retreat Cost: 3
    • Weakness: Lightning ×2
    • Resistance: None
    • Regulation Mark: E
    • Flavor Text: “When it bites with its massive and powerful jaws, it shakes its head and savagely tears its victim up.”

    Key Printings

    This guide focuses on the Fusion Strike printing (card 57), a Rare Holo illustrated by Anesaki Dynamic. Its disruptive ability and energy-stripping attack make it a notable choice for Water-type collectors and fans of the Fusion Strike series.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Key identifiers:
    – Set code: “swsh8”
    – Card number: 57
    – Rarity: Rare Holo
    – Regulation mark: E
    – Series: Sword & Shield

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card’s current tournament legality status is unknown and is not listed as legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited based on available data.

    Gameplay snapshot

    • Rowdy introduces deck disruption at evolution timing.
    • Crunch pairs damage with energy discard to slow opposing attackers.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the card’s holofoil finish and artwork:
    – Sleeve immediately; use a rigid top-loader or binder with individual pockets.
    – Keep away from direct sunlight, humidity, and extreme temperatures.
    – Handle with clean, dry hands to avoid oils and dirt.
    – Minimize friction to reduce holo scratching.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Fusion Strike (swsh8): Features dynamic, strategic Pokémon. Feraligatr stands out for high HP, a disruptive Rowdy ability, and a strong Crunch attack.

    swsh8-57

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    Feraligatr (Fusion Strike) #57

  • Collector’s Guide: Marill (Fusion Strike #58)

    Collector’s Guide: Marill (Fusion Strike #58)

    Marill Collector’s Guide: Fusion Strike #58

    Character Intro

    Marill from the Fusion Strike set is a Common card numbered 58 with 50 HP. It features the attack Let’s All Rollout, offering a straightforward option for gameplay. This charming Pokémon adds a splash of strategy to any collection.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Fusion Strike 58 Common 50 sowsow
    • Type: Water
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Lightning ×2
    • Resistance: None
    • Regulation Mark: E
    • Flavor Text: Even after Marill swims in a cold sea, its water-repellent fur dries almost as soon as Marill leaves the water. That’s why this Pokémon is never cold.

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Marill appears in the Sword & Shield Fusion Strike expansion, card number 58. It is a Common rarity card with no evolutions from previous forms.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It can be identified by its set code “swsh8-58” and the illustrator credit to sowsow. The card features two attacks: “Aqua Liner,” which targets an opponent’s Benched Pokémon, and “Let’s All Rollout,” which scales damage based on the number of Benched Pokémon with the same attack.

    Legality & Play Notes

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

    Care & Storage Tips

    Store the card in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the surface to maintain its collectible value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Fusion Strike: Marill appears as a Basic Water-type Pokémon with unique bench-targeting and scaling attacks, fitting well into thematic decks focusing on bench synergy. The set emphasizes dynamic gameplay with a fresh roster of Pokémon and strategies.

    swsh8-58

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    Marill (Fusion Strike) #58

  • Collector’s Guide: Azumarill (Fusion Strike #59)

    Collector’s Guide: Azumarill (Fusion Strike #59)

    Azumarill (Fusion Strike 59) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Azumarill from the Fusion Strike set is a Rare card numbered 59. It boasts a sturdy 120 HP and features the attack Surf. This card offers a balanced presence for collectors and players alike.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Fusion Strike 59 Rare 120 Sanosuke Sakuma
    • Type: Water
    • Stage: Stage 1
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Weakness: Lightning ×2
    • Resistance: None
    • Regulation Mark: E
    • Flavor Text: The bubble-like pattern on its stomach helps it camouflage itself when it’s in the water.

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Azumarill appears in the Sword & Shield Fusion Strike expansion, card number 59.

    Attacks

    • Dive and Rescue: Allows retrieval of up to three Pokémon and Supporter cards from the discard pile.
    • Surf: Deals 90 damage with a three Colorless energy cost.

    Variants & Identifiers

    This card has no known print variants. It is identified by the set code “swsh8” and the card number 59. The illustrator is Sanosuke Sakuma, and the card’s rarity is Rare. The official market reference query is “Azumarill Fusion Strike 59.”

    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 vibrant artwork and maintain card condition, store this Azumarill card in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the surface to keep its collector value intact.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Fusion Strike (swsh8): Azumarill is a reliable Stage 1 Water-type with utility in card recovery and solid damage output, fitting well into decks that benefit from resource recursion and consistent attacks.

    swsh8-59

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    Azumarill (Fusion Strike) #59

  • Collector’s Guide: Breloom V (Fusion Strike #6)

    Collector’s Guide: Breloom V (Fusion Strike #6)

    Breloom V Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Breloom V is a Rare Holo V card from the Fusion Strike set, numbered 6. It boasts a robust 210 HP, making it a sturdy addition to any deck. Its single attack, Mach Cross, offers a straightforward offensive option. This card combines striking design with solid gameplay potential.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Fusion Strike 6 Rare Holo V 210 PLANETA Mochizuki
    • Pokémon: Breloom V
    • Type: Grass
    • Stage: Basic, V, Single Strike
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Weakness: Fire ×2
    • Regulation Mark: E
    • Set Code: swsh8
    • Card ID: swsh8-6
    • Image:
      swsh8-6

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Breloom V is from the Fusion Strike set, numbered 6. It is a Rare Holo V card, notable for its high HP and two attacks: “Counter,” which deals increased damage if Breloom V was damaged last turn, and “Mach Cross,” a powerful 140 damage attack. No abilities or flavor text are present on this card.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It can be identified by its set code “swsh8,” number 6, and the illustrator PLANETA Mochizuki. The card’s subtype is Basic, V, Single Strike, and it carries the regulation mark “E.”

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card follows the V rule: when your Pokémon V is Knocked Out, your opponent takes 2 Prize cards. It is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the vibrant holofoil and detailed artwork by PLANETA Mochizuki, store this card in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Use a rigid top-loader or binder with individual pockets to prevent bending and surface scratches.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Fusion Strike (swsh8): This set introduces Breloom V as a powerful Grass-type Basic V Pokémon with strong offensive capabilities and a unique “Counter” attack mechanic, enhancing strategic play. The set is known for its dynamic artwork and Single Strike subtype focus.

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    Breloom V (Fusion Strike) #6