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Tag: Collector’s Guide

  • Collector’s Guide: Pokémon Communication (Black White #99)

    Collector’s Guide: Pokémon Communication (Black White #99)

    Pokémon Communication (Black White #99) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Pokémon Communication is an Uncommon Trainer card from the Black White set, numbered 99. Its design underscores the set’s emphasis on streamlined, tactical deckbuilding. This card is a solid pickup for collectors focused on Black White–era gameplay.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Black White 99 Uncommon 5ban Graphics
    • Card Name: Pokémon Communication
    • Set: Black White (bw1)
    • Card Number: 99
    • Rarity: Uncommon
    • Stage: Item
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Illustrator: 5ban Graphics
    • Image:

    Key Printings

    This card appears exclusively in the Black White set as card number 99. There are no known alternate printings or reprints of this exact version.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It can be identified by its set code “bw1-99,” the Uncommon rarity symbol, and the distinctive 5ban Graphics illustration style.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown

    • Reveal a Pokémon from your hand and place it on top of your deck.
    • Then search your deck for a Pokémon, add it to your hand, and shuffle your deck.
    • You may play as many Item cards as you like during your turn before attacking.

    Care & Storage Tips

    Store in a protective sleeve, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its Uncommon rarity, preserving edges and surface quality will help retain its collector value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Black White (bw1): Introduced as a versatile Item card that facilitates deck search and hand management. Its straightforward effect and moderate rarity make it a staple for collectors focusing on the Black White era.

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    Pokémon Communication (Black White) #99

  • Collector’s Guide: Starmie (BREAKthrough #30)

    Starmie – BREAKthrough (xy8-30) Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Starmie from the BREAKthrough set is an Uncommon card featuring 90 HP. This sleek Pokémon wields the attack Balance Bind, adding strategic depth to gameplay. As card number 30, it offers collectors a distinctive addition to their collection.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    BREAKthrough 30 Uncommon 90 Mitsuhiro Arita
    • Pokémon: Starmie
    • Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Staryu)
    • Type: Water
    • Weakness: Grass ×2
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Flavor Text: At the center of its body is a red core, which sends mysterious radio signals into the night sky.
    • Image:

    Key Printings

    This exact printing is from the BREAKthrough set, card number 30, featuring the classic artwork by Mitsuhiro Arita. It is classified as an Uncommon rarity card, making it moderately accessible for collectors focusing on the XY series.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants or alternate versions of this card. The card is identified by the set code “xy8” and the card number “30.” It carries no regulation mark, which is typical for many XY series cards.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown

    This Starmie card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.

    • Deep Sea Swirl: Shuffle your hand into your deck and draw 7 cards.
    • Balance Bind: Deals 30 damage and can paralyze the opponent’s Active Pokémon if both players have the same number of Benched Pokémon.

    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, maintaining sharp corners and a clean surface will help retain its collector value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • BREAKthrough (xy8): Features Starmie as a Stage 1 Water-type Pokémon with strategic attacks and a visually captivating design. The set’s focus on dynamic gameplay is reflected in Starmie’s ability to disrupt hand management and paralyze opponents. The card’s release date remains unknown, but it stands as a solid collectible within the XY series.

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    Starmie (BREAKthrough) #30

  • Collector’s Guide: Remoraid (BREAKthrough #31)

    Remoraid (BREAKthrough 31) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Remoraid from the BREAKthrough set is a Common card numbered 31. This Pokémon has 60 HP and features the straightforward Water Gun attack. Its simple design makes it a versatile addition to many decks.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    BREAKthrough 31 Common 60 Suwama Chiaki
    • Type: Water
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1 Colorless
    • Weakness: Grass ×2
    • Abilities: None
    • Attacks:
    • Wild River: Switch this Pokémon with one of your Benched Pokémon (cost: 1 Colorless).
    • Water Gun: Deals 20 damage (cost: 1 Water, 1 Colorless).

    Key Printings

    This printing is from the BREAKthrough set, identified as card number 31. It is a Common rarity card with no evolutions from previous stages. The card features Suwama Chiaki’s distinctive artwork.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It can be identified by its set code “xy8” and card number “31.” The card’s subtype is Basic, and it carries no regulation mark. The image for this card is located at /images/xy8/xy8-31.jpg.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality status: unknown. This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats according to the provided data. Players should verify current tournament rules before use.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the vivid artwork and maintain card condition, store this 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

    • BREAKthrough (XY8): This set includes the Remoraid card as a Common Basic Water-type Pokémon with simple but effective attacks. It fits well in casual decks focusing on Water-type synergy but has limited tournament viability based on current legality data.

    Remoraid (BREAKthrough) #31

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    Remoraid (BREAKthrough) #31

  • Collector’s Guide: Remoraid (BREAKthrough #32)

    Remoraid (BREAKthrough XY8-32) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Remoraid from the BREAKthrough set is a Common Pokémon card numbered 32. With 60 HP and the straightforward Water Gun attack, it’s a simple, vibrant addition to any collection.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    BREAKthrough 32 Common 60 Suwama Chiaki
    • Type: Water
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1 Colorless
    • Weakness: Grass ×2
    • Abilities: None
    • Attacks:
    • Ion Pool: Discard any Stadium card in play (cost: 1 Colorless)
    • Water Gun: Deals 20 damage (cost: 1 Water, 1 Colorless)
    • Flavor Text: Using its dorsal fin as a suction pad, it clings to a Mantine’s underside to scavenge for leftovers.
    • Illustrator: Suwama Chiaki
    • Image URL: /images/xy8/xy8-32.jpg

    Key Printings

    This guide focuses on the single known printing of Remoraid from the BREAKthrough set (set code xy8), card number 32. It is a Common rarity card and does not evolve from any other Pokémon.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this specific Remoraid card. Identification is straightforward via its set code (xy8), card number (32), and illustrator credit to Suwama Chiaki.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality status: unknown. This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. It features no special abilities but has two simple attacks useful for discarding Stadium cards or dealing modest damage.

    Care & Storage Tips

    As a Common card with no special print variants, standard protective sleeves and storage in a binder or card box are recommended to preserve its condition. Avoid exposure to direct sunlight and moisture to maintain the vibrant illustration by Suwama Chiaki.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • BREAKthrough (xy8): Introduced Remoraid as a Basic Water-type with practical attacks and a unique flavor text emphasizing its ecological niche. This set is known for its dynamic artwork and diverse Pokémon roster, with Remoraid fitting in as a modest but charming addition.

    This concise guide should assist collectors and players in identifying and appreciating the Remoraid card from the BREAKthrough set.

    Remoraid (BREAKthrough) #32

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    Remoraid (BREAKthrough) #32

  • Collector’s Guide: Octillery (BREAKthrough #33)

    Octillery (BREAKthrough 33) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Octillery from the BREAKthrough set is a Rare Holo card numbered 33 with 90 HP. It features the ability Abyssal Hand and the attack Hug. With vivid artwork and strategic utility, it stands out as a distinctive addition to any collection.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    BREAKthrough 33 Rare Holo 90 Kyoko Umemoto
    • Type: Water
    • Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Remoraid)
    • Ability: Abyssal Hand — Allows drawing cards until you have 5 in hand once per turn before attacking.
    • Attack: Hug — Deals 40 damage and prevents the Defending Pokémon from retreating during your opponent’s next turn.
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Weakness: Grass (×2)
    • Resistance: None
    • Flavor Text: It traps foes with the suction cups on its tentacles, then smashes them with its rock-hard head.
    • Regulation Mark: Unknown
    • Release Date: Unknown

    Key Printings

    This exact printing is from the BREAKthrough set, numbered 33, and is a Rare Holo card. It features the classic XY series design and is illustrated by Kyoko Umemoto. There are no known alternate printings or special variants for this card.

    Variants & Identifiers

    • Card ID: xy8-33
    • Set Code: xy8
    • Subtypes: Stage 1
    • Types: Water
    • Print Variants: None listed
    • Market Reference Query: Octillery BREAKthrough 33
    • Image URL: /images/xy8/xy8-33.jpg

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
      This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its play viability is limited to casual or collector formats.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the holo finish and artwork, store the card in a sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Use a rigid top-loader or a binder with individual pockets to prevent bending and surface scratches. Minimize handling to maintain condition and value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • BREAKthrough (XY8): Introduces Octillery as a Rare Holo Stage 1 Water-type with a draw-focused ability and an attack that restricts retreat. Fits Water-type builds that value hand advantage and disruption. Release date and regulation mark remain unknown.

    Octillery (BREAKthrough) #33

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    Octillery (BREAKthrough) #33

  • Collector’s Guide: Glalie-EX (BREAKthrough #34)

    Glalie-EX (BREAKthrough 34) Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Glalie-EX from BREAKthrough is a Rare Holo EX with 170 HP and the standout attack Instant Freeze. Numbered 34 in the set, it appeals to collectors seeking dynamic EX cards.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    BREAKthrough 34 Rare Holo EX 170 Eske Yoshinob

    Card Details

    • Type: Water
    • Stage: Basic, EX
    • Retreat Cost: 3
    • Weakness: Metal ×2
    • Attacks:
    • Italic textIce Breath: Flip a coin; if heads, opponent’s Active Pokémon is Paralyzed.
    • Italic textInstant Freeze: Does 50+ damage, plus 100 more if you have the same number of cards in hand as your opponent.
    • Pokémon-EX Rule: When knocked out, opponent takes 2 Prize cards.
    • Illustrator: Eske Yoshinob
    • Image:

    Key Printings

    This printing is from the BREAKthrough set, card number 34. It is a Rare Holo EX notable for its high HP and dual-effect attacks that combine status conditions with conditional damage boosts.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Identifiers include its set code “xy8-34” and its classification as a Basic, EX subtype Water-type Pokémon.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    As a Pokémon-EX, when Glalie-EX is knocked out, the opponent takes 2 Prize cards—a key strategic consideration.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the holographic finish and maintain value, store the card in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching to retain a pristine condition.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • BREAKthrough: Features Glalie-EX as a powerful Water-type Basic EX with disruptive and conditional damage attacks, contributing to the set’s dynamic gameplay and collectible diversity.
    • Other Sets: No other printings or variants of this card are documented.

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    Glalie-EX (BREAKthrough) #34

  • Collector’s Guide: M Glalie-EX (BREAKthrough #35)

    M Glalie-EX (BREAKthrough 35) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    M Glalie-EX is a Rare Holo EX from the BREAKthrough set, numbered 35. With a formidable 220 HP and the chilling Cryo Mouth attack, it’s a durable, hard-hitting Mega Evolution for Water-type enthusiasts.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    BREAKthrough 35 Rare Holo EX 220 5ban Graphics
    • Type: Water
    • Stage: MEGA, EX
    • Retreat Cost: 3
    • Weakness: Metal ×2
    • Evolves From: Glalie-EX
    • Attack: Cryo Mouth — 100 base damage, plus 150 more if M Glalie-EX has 10 or more damage counters
    • Rules: Mega Evolution ends your turn; Pokémon-EX grants opponent 2 Prize cards when knocked out
    • Illustrator: 5ban Graphics
    • Image:

    Key Printings

    A single known printing: BREAKthrough card number 35. As a Rare Holo EX, it’s a desirable pickup for Mega Evolution and Water-type collectors.

    Variants & Identifiers

    No alternate print variants or special editions are documented. Identify by set code “xy8,” card number 35, and 5ban Graphics’ unique artwork.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its Mega Evolution and Pokémon-EX rules demand careful timing—your turn ends upon Mega Evolution, and giving up 2 Prize cards on a knockout raises the stakes.

    Care & Storage Tips

    Protect the holofoil and artwork with sleeves or a top loader, keep away from direct sunlight and moisture, and avoid bending or scratching to preserve value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • BREAKthrough (xy8): Debuts M Glalie-EX as a high-HP Water-type Mega Evolution EX with a conditional high-damage attack, enhancing both gameplay excitement and collectibility.

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    M Glalie-EX (BREAKthrough) #35

  • Collector’s Guide: Piplup (BREAKthrough #36)

    Piplup (BREAKthrough 36) Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Piplup from the BREAKthrough set is a charming Common card numbered 36. It has 60 HP and features the attack Wave Splash. This lively Pokémon adds a splash of energy to any deck.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    BREAKthrough 36 Common 60 Kanako Eo
    • Type: Water
    • Stage: Basic
    • Attack: Wave Splash (30 damage, costs Water + Colorless)
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Grass (×2)
    • Flavor Text: Because it is very proud, it hates accepting food from people. Its thick down guards it from cold.
    • Image:

    Key Printings

    This exact printing is from the BREAKthrough set, numbered 36, and classified as a Common rarity card. It does not evolve from any other Pokémon and has no abilities, focusing solely on its single attack, Wave Splash.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Identifiers include its set code “xy8” and its card ID “xy8-36.” The card’s subtype is Basic, and it carries no regulation mark.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. It has a simple attack and low HP, making it more suitable for casual play or collectors rather than competitive decks.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the vibrant artwork and maintain card condition, store this card in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its Common rarity, it is accessible but still benefits from careful handling to avoid edge wear and surface scratches.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • BREAKthrough (xy8): This set features Piplup as a Basic Water-type Pokémon with a straightforward attack and modest HP. It fits well into beginner decks or collections focusing on the XY series. The set is known for its clean art style and balanced gameplay elements.

    This Piplup card offers a simple yet charming addition to any collection, especially for fans of the BREAKthrough set or Water-type Pokémon.

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    Piplup (BREAKthrough) #36

  • Collector’s Guide: Empoleon (BREAKthrough #38)

    Empoleon (BREAKthrough 38) Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Empoleon from the BREAKthrough set is a Rare Holo card numbered 38, boasting 140 HP. It features the ability Dignified Fighter and the attack Hydro Splash, making it a striking addition to any collection.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    BREAKthrough 38 Rare Holo 140 Satoshi Shirai
    • Type: Water
    • Stage: Stage 2 (Evolves from Prinplup)
    • Ability: Dignified Fighter — boosts damage of your Basic Pokémon’s attacks by 20 before Weakness and Resistance
    • Attack: Hydro Splash — deals 70 damage, costs Water + Colorless energy
    • Weakness: Grass ×2
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Flavor Text: “The three horns that extend from its beak attest to its power. The leader has the biggest horns.”
    • Set: XY BREAKthrough
    • Card Number: 38
    • Rarity: Rare Holo
    • Image:

    Key Printings

    This guide focuses on the Empoleon card from the XY BREAKthrough set, card number 38. It is a Rare Holo with no known alternate printings or promotional variants.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this Empoleon card. Identification is straightforward via its set code “xy8-38,” rarity as Rare Holo, and the distinctive illustration by Satoshi Shirai.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its ability, Dignified Fighter, enhances Basic Pokémon attacks, making it potentially useful in casual play, but official tournament status is unclear.

    Care & Storage Tips

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

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • XY BREAKthrough: This set features Empoleon as a powerful Stage 2 Water-type with a unique ability that supports Basic Pokémon, adding strategic depth. The card fits well within the set’s theme of dynamic evolutions and strong abilities.

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    Empoleon (BREAKthrough) #38

  • Collector’s Guide: Snover (BREAKthrough #39)

    Snover (BREAKthrough 39) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Snover is a Common Pokémon card from the BREAKthrough set (xy8-39). A Basic with 80 HP, it features the attack Double Smash and makes a straightforward addition to any collection.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    BREAKthrough 39 Common 80 Yukiko Baba
    • Type: Water
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 3
    • Weakness: Metal ×2
    • Resistance: None
    • Evolves From: None
    • Subtypes: Basic
    • Regulation Mark: Unknown

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Snover is from the BREAKthrough set, numbered 39. It is a common rarity card and features two attacks:
    – Powder Snow — puts the opponent’s Active Pokémon to sleep.
    – Double Smash — deals 30 damage times the number of heads from flipping two coins.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It can be identified by its set code “xy8-39” and the illustrator Yukiko Baba. The card’s image can be referenced at /images/xy8/xy8-39.jpg.

    Legality & Play Notes

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

    Care & Storage Tips

    As a common card with a moderate retreat cost and no special abilities, preserving the card’s condition is essential for collectors. Store it in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture to maintain its vibrant artwork and structural integrity.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • BREAKthrough (XY8): This set includes the Snover card as a Basic Water-type Pokémon with useful sleep-inducing and damage-dealing attacks. It fits well into casual collections and provides a flavorful representation of the Pokémon’s berry-growing trait.

    Snover (BREAKthrough) #39

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    Snover (BREAKthrough) #39