Tag: Pokemon TCG

  • Collector’s Guide: Torterra (Plasma Storm #3)

    Collector’s Guide: Torterra (Plasma Storm #3)

    Torterra (Plasma Storm 3) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Torterra from the Plasma Storm set is a rare card numbered 3 with a solid 150 HP. Featuring the powerful attack Rumble Stomp and a naturally sturdy presence, it’s a notable addition to any collection and reflects the strength typical of Torterra in battle.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Plasma Storm 3 Rare 150 5ban Graphics
    • Type: Grass
    • Stage: Stage 2, Team Plasma
    • Evolves From: Grotle
    • Weakness: Fire ×2
    • Resistance: Water -20
    • Retreat Cost: 4
    • Attacks:
    • Guard Press: Reduces damage taken by 20 during opponent’s next turn.
    • Rumble Stomp: Deals 80+ damage, flipping coins to add 20 damage per heads.
    • Flavor Text: Some Pokémon are born on a Torterra’s back and spend their entire life there.
    • Image:

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Torterra appears as card number 3 in the Plasma Storm set. It is a rare card with no known alternate printings or promotional versions. The card features the Team Plasma subtype, aligning it with the thematic elements of the set.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants or alternate artworks for this specific card. Identification is straightforward via its set code “bw8-3,” rarity designation as Rare, and the unique illustration by 5ban Graphics.

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
    • This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
    • Its high HP and damage-reducing attack make it a durable option, though its high retreat cost of 4 may affect mobility in gameplay.

    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. Given its rarity and detailed illustration, consider using a top-loader or binder with rigid pages for long-term storage.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Plasma Storm: This set introduces Team Plasma-themed cards with unique abilities and attacks. Torterra stands out as a powerful Stage 2 Grass-type with defensive capabilities and a thematic connection to the set’s storyline.

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    Torterra (Plasma Storm) #3

  • Collector’s Guide: Articuno-EX (Plasma Storm #25)

    Collector’s Guide: Articuno-EX (Plasma Storm #25)

    Articuno-EX Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Articuno-EX from the Plasma Storm set is a Rare Holo EX card featuring 170 HP. This striking Pokémon boasts the powerful attack Frost Prison. It is card number 25 in the set.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Plasma Storm 25 Rare Holo EX 170 Toyste Beach
    • Type: Water
    • Stage: Basic, EX, Team Plasma
    • Weakness: Metal ×2
    • Resistance: Fighting -20
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Rules: Pokémon-EX rule applies (opponent takes 2 Prize cards when knocked out)
    • Attacks:
    • Blizzard: Deals 60 damage and 10 damage to each of your opponent’s Benched Pokémon.
    • Frost Prison: Deals 80 damage and paralyzes the Defending Pokémon if Plasma Energy is attached.

    Printing Details

    This exact printing is from the Plasma Storm set, card number 25. It is a Rare Holo EX card illustrated by Toyste Beach. The card is a Basic EX Pokémon with Team Plasma subtypes, emphasizing its unique place in the Black & White series.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Identifiers include the set code “bw8” and the card ID “bw8-25.” The card’s image can be referenced at /images/bw8/bw8-25.jpg.

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
    • This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
    • The Pokémon-EX rule applies, meaning when Articuno-EX is knocked out, the opponent takes two Prize cards.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the card’s holo finish and vibrant 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 scratching.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Plasma Storm (bw8): Features Team Plasma-themed cards with powerful EX Pokémon like Articuno-EX, emphasizing strategic energy attachments and status effects. This set is known for its rare holo EX cards with detailed artwork and impactful gameplay mechanics.

    Articuno-EX (Plasma Storm) #25

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    Articuno-EX (Plasma Storm) #25

  • Collector’s Guide: Swinub (Plasma Storm #26)

    Collector’s Guide: Swinub (Plasma Storm #26)

    Swinub (Plasma Storm 26) Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Swinub from the Plasma Storm set is a common card numbered 26. It features 60 HP and a straightforward attack called Double Headbutt. This modest yet charming Pokémon fits well into any collection seeking classic simplicity.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Plasma Storm 26 Common 60 Kouki Saitou
    • Type: Water
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Weakness: Metal (×2)
    • Attack: Double Headbutt — Flip 2 coins; this attack does 20 damage times the number of heads.
    • Flavor Text: Rooting the tip of its snout into the ground, it searches for food. Sometimes, it even digs up a hot spring.
    • Illustrator: Kouki Saitou
    • Image URL: /images/bw8/bw8-26.jpg

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Swinub appears in the Plasma Storm set, identified by card number 26. It is a common rarity card and is part of the Black & White series. The card features no evolutions and no special abilities, focusing on a straightforward attack mechanic.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this Swinub card. It is identified by its Water type, common rarity, and the unique attack “Double Headbutt,” which requires Water and Colorless energy. The card’s illustrator, Kouki Saitou, provides a distinctive artistic style that can help collectors verify authenticity.

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality status: unknown.
    • This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
    • No additional tournament rules or restrictions are noted.

    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 still valuable for completing Plasma Storm collections or thematic Water-type decks. Avoid bending or scratching the card surface to preserve the vivid illustration by Kouki Saitou.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Plasma Storm: This set includes Swinub as a basic Water-type Pokémon with a simple but effective attack. It fits well into Water-themed decks and offers collectors a charming depiction of this ground-searching Pokémon. The set’s focus on Plasma-themed cards makes this Swinub a subtle but essential piece for fans of the series.

    This Swinub card is a solid, straightforward addition to any collection focusing on the Black & White era or Water-type Pokémon.

    Swinub (Plasma Storm) #26

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    Swinub (Plasma Storm) #26

  • Collector’s Guide: Piloswine (Plasma Storm #27)

    Collector’s Guide: Piloswine (Plasma Storm #27)

    Piloswine Collector’s Guide: Plasma Storm #27

    Character Intro

    Piloswine from the Plasma Storm set is an Uncommon card with 100 HP. It features the strong attack Quintuple Headbutt, making it a solid choice for battle. This card is numbered 27 in the set, offering collectors a distinctive addition to their collection.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Plasma Storm 27 Uncommon 100 Suwama Chiaki
    • Type: Water
    • Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Swinub)
    • Weakness: Metal ×2
    • Retreat Cost: 3
    • Flavor Text: With its excellent sense of smell, it’s even able to find mushrooms that are buried under frozen ground.
    • Attacks:
    • Ice Beam: 20 damage; flip a coin, if heads the Defending Pokémon is Paralyzed.
    • Quintuple Headbutt: Flip 5 coins; this attack does 40 damage times the number of heads.

    Key Printings

    This guide focuses on the Plasma Storm set printing, card number 27, featuring artwork by Suwama Chiaki. It is an Uncommon rarity card with no known alternate printings or special variants.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants or alternate versions of this Piloswine card. Identifiers include the set code “bw8” and the card number “27.” The card’s image can be referenced at /images/bw8/bw8-27.jpg.

    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 this card’s condition, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its uncommon rarity, maintaining mint condition can help retain collector value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Plasma Storm: This set includes Piloswine as a Water-type Stage 1 Pokémon with versatile coin-flip based attacks. It fits into the set’s theme of dynamic battle mechanics and features detailed artwork by Suwama Chiaki.

    Piloswine (Plasma Storm) #27

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    Piloswine (Plasma Storm) #27

  • Collector’s Guide: Mamoswine (Plasma Storm #28)

    Collector’s Guide: Mamoswine (Plasma Storm #28)

    Mamoswine Collector’s Guide: Plasma Storm #28

    Character Intro

    Mamoswine from the Plasma Storm set is a Rare card numbered 28. With a sturdy 150 HP, it’s a resilient choice in battle. Its attacks offer straightforward offense, making this a notable addition to any collection.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Plasma Storm 28 Rare 150 match
    • Type: Water
    • Stage: Stage 2 (Evolves from Piloswine)
    • Weakness: Metal ×2
    • Retreat Cost: 4
    • Attacks:
    • Frost Stone: Deals 50+ damage; flip a coin to add 20 damage and paralyze the Defending Pokémon.
    • Continuous Headbutt: Flip coins until tails; deals 90 damage per heads.
    • Flavor Text: “When the temperature rose at the end of the ice age, most Mamoswine disappeared.”
    • Image: Mamoswine

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Mamoswine appears in the Black & White series, specifically the Plasma Storm expansion. It is card number 28 and is classified as Rare. No release date is documented for this printing.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Key identifiers include its set code “bw8,” rarity as Rare, and the illustrator match. The card’s Water type and Stage 2 subtype also help distinguish it.

    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 artwork and condition, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its rarity, consider using a top loader or binder with individual pockets to prevent edge wear and bending.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Plasma Storm: This set features Mamoswine as a powerful Water-type Stage 2 Pokémon with high HP and versatile attacks that can paralyze or deal escalating damage. It fits well into decks that capitalize on coin flip mechanics and heavy retreat costs.

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    Mamoswine (Plasma Storm) #28

  • Collector’s Guide: Lombre (Plasma Storm #30)

    Collector’s Guide: Lombre (Plasma Storm #30)

    Lombre (Plasma Storm 30) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Lombre is an Uncommon Pokémon card from the Plasma Storm set, numbered 30. It has 80 HP and features two attacks—Jump On and Wave Splash—making it a straightforward addition to any collection focused on this set.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Plasma Storm 30 Uncommon 80 Suwama Chiaki
    • Type: Water
    • Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Lotad)
    • Weakness: Lightning (×2)
    • Retreat Cost: 2 Colorless Energy
    • Flavor Text: It has a mischievous spirit. If it spots an angler, it will tug on the fishing line to interfere.
    • Image:

    Key Printings

    This exact printing is from the Plasma Storm set, card number 30, featuring artwork by Suwama Chiaki. It is classified as an Uncommon rarity card within the Black & White series.

    Variants & Identifiers

    No known print variants exist for this card. It can be identified by its set code “bw8-30″ and the illustration by Suwama Chiaki. The card’s attacks—”Jump On” and “Wave Splash”—along with its Water type and Stage 1 subtype, help distinguish it from other Lombre cards.

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality status: unknown.
    • This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
    • Attacks: “Jump On” can do extra damage on a coin flip; “Wave Splash” is a straightforward 50 damage attack.

    Care & Storage Tips

    Store the card in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its Uncommon rarity and detailed artwork, keeping it flat and in a cool, dry environment will help maintain its value and appearance.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Plasma Storm: This set introduced Lombre as a Water-type Stage 1 Pokémon with playful and disruptive traits. The card fits well within the aquatic theme of the set and showcases Suwama Chiaki’s vibrant illustration style.

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    Lombre (Plasma Storm) #30

  • Collector’s Guide: Ludicolo (Plasma Storm #31)

    Collector’s Guide: Ludicolo (Plasma Storm #31)

    Ludicolo (Plasma Storm 31) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Ludicolo from the Plasma Storm set is a Rare card with 130 HP. It features the Ability Rain Dish and the attack Groovy Dance. This vibrant card is numbered 31 in the set.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Plasma Storm 31 Rare 130 match
    • Type: Water
    • Stage: Stage 2
    • Evolves From: Lombre
    • Retreat Cost: 3
    • Weakness: Lightning ×2
    • Resistance: None
    • Flavor Text: If it hears festive music, all its muscles fill with energy. It can’t help breaking out into a dance.

    Key Printings

    • Set identifier: bw8-31 (Plasma Storm)
    • Ability — Rain Dish: heals 20 damage between turns
    • Attack — Groovy Dance: deals 70 damage and can confuse the opponent if an Energy is discarded
    • Rarity: Rare

    Variants & Identifiers

    • There are no known print variants for this card.
    • Uniquely identified by set code bw8 and card number 31.
    • Illustrator: match
    • Card image: /images/bw8/bw8-31.jpg

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

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Plasma Storm: Includes Ludicolo as a Rare Stage 2 Water-type Pokémon with a unique ability and a disruptive attack. It fits well into decks that benefit from healing and status effects but is currently not legal for tournament play.

    For collectors, this Ludicolo card offers a colorful and dynamic addition to any Black & White series collection.

    Ludicolo (Plasma Storm) #31

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    Ludicolo (Plasma Storm) #31

  • Collector’s Guide: Carvanha (Plasma Storm #32)

    Collector’s Guide: Carvanha (Plasma Storm #32)

    Carvanha (Plasma Storm 32) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Carvanha is a Common Pokémon card from the Plasma Storm set, numbered 32. With 60 HP and the straightforward attack Bite, it’s a simple, dynamic addition to any collection.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Plasma Storm 32 Common 60 Mitsuhiro Arita
    • HP: 60
    • Type: Water
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Lightning ×2
    • Attack: Bite (Water + Colorless) — 20 damage
    • Flavor Text: “They swarm any foe that invades their territory. Their sharp fangs can tear out boat hulls.”
    • Illustrator: Mitsuhiro Arita
    • Image:

    Key Printings

    This Carvanha is from the Plasma Storm set, identified as card number 32. It is a Common card featuring classic artwork by Mitsuhiro Arita. As a Basic Pokémon, it does not evolve from another Pokémon and has no special abilities beyond its single attack, Bite.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It is identified by the set code “bw8” and card number “32.” The card’s subtype is Basic, and it carries no regulation mark.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats according to the provided data. Its straightforward attack and low HP make it a simple choice for collectors rather than competitive play.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the artwork and condition, store the card in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the surface, especially since it is a Common card that may be handled frequently.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Plasma Storm: Features Carvanha as a Common Water-type Basic Pokémon with a single attack. It fits the set’s Plasma theme but does not possess any special Plasma abilities or effects.

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    Carvanha (Plasma Storm) #32

  • Collector’s Guide: Sharpedo (Plasma Storm #33)

    Collector’s Guide: Sharpedo (Plasma Storm #33)

    Sharpedo (Plasma Storm 33) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Sharpedo from the Plasma Storm set is a rare card numbered 33 with 90 HP. A Team Plasma Stage 1 Water-type, it pairs the Rough Skin ability with the Hard Bite attack for a clean, aggressive package. The card stands out with its distinct design and balanced stats.

    Quick Facts

    • HP: 90
    • Type: Water
    • Stage: Stage 1, Team Plasma
    • Weakness: Lightning ×2
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Ability: Rough Skin (damages opponent when Sharpedo is attacked)
    • Attack: Hard Bite (40+ damage with a coin flip for extra damage)
    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Plasma Storm 33 Rare 90 5ban Graphics

    Key Printings

    This exact printing is from the Plasma Storm set, identified by the set code “bw8” and card number 33. It features the Team Plasma subtype and is a Stage 1 evolution from Carvanha.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Key identifiers include its rarity as Rare, the illustrator 5ban Graphics, and its unique ability “Rough Skin.” The card’s retreat cost of zero and its Water typing also help distinguish it.

    Legality & Play Notes

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

    Rough Skin provides a defensive trigger when attacked, Hard Bite threatens bonus damage on a coin flip, and the zero Retreat Cost supports flexible board positioning.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the card’s vibrant artwork and condition, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the surface, especially around edges where wear is most common.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Plasma Storm: This set introduces the Team Plasma theme, with Sharpedo exemplifying the aggressive Water-type Pokémon. The set focuses on dynamic abilities and attacks, with Sharpedo’s Rough Skin ability providing a strategic defensive edge.

    Sharpedo Plasma Storm 33

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    Sharpedo (Plasma Storm) #33

  • Collector’s Guide: Manaphy (Plasma Storm #34)

    Collector’s Guide: Manaphy (Plasma Storm #34)

    Manaphy Collector’s Guide: Plasma Storm #34

    Overview

    Manaphy from the Plasma Storm set is a Rare Holo card numbered 34. This 70 HP Pokémon features the unique ability Final Wish and the attack Seafaring. Its design captures Manaphy’s graceful aquatic nature.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Plasma Storm 34 Rare Holo 70 Naoki Saito
    • Type: Water
    • Stage: Basic
    • Weakness: Lightning ×2
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Flavor Text: “It is born with a wondrous power that lets it bond with any kind of Pokémon.”

    Card Text

    • Ability: Final Wish — When Knocked Out by damage from an opponent’s attack, search your deck for a card and put it into your hand.
    • Attack: Seafaring — Flip 3 coins; for each heads, attach a Water Energy card from your discard pile to your Benched Pokémon in any way you like.

    Printings, Variants, and Identifiers

    • This guide focuses on the exact printing of Manaphy from the Plasma Storm set, card number 34. It is a Rare Holo with no known alternate print variants.
    • This card has no known print variants or alternate art versions. Identification is straightforward by its set code “bw8” and card number 34. The illustrator credit to Naoki Saito is a key identifying feature.

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
    • This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its ability and attack offer strategic value in casual play, particularly for energy acceleration and deck searching upon being Knocked Out.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the holofoil surface and maintain card condition, store Manaphy in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the card to retain its collector value.

    Set Context

    • Plasma Storm (bw8): This set includes Manaphy as a Rare Holo Basic Water-type Pokémon with a unique ability that supports deck searching and energy attachment mechanics. The set’s artwork and card design highlight the Pokémon’s mystical bonding power.

    Manaphy Plasma Storm 34

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    Manaphy (Plasma Storm) #34