Tag: Pokemon TCG

  • Collector’s Guide: Machamp-GX (Burning Shadows #135)

    Collector’s Guide: Machamp-GX (Burning Shadows #135)

    Machamp-GX Collector’s Guide

    Overview

    Machamp-GX from the Burning Shadows set is a Rare Ultra card boasting a robust 250 HP. This powerful Pokémon features the dynamic Muscle Punch-GX attack, making it a notable addition to any collection. Its striking presence is captured in card number 135.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Burning Shadows 135 Rare Ultra 250 5ban Graphics
    • Type: Fighting
    • Stage: Stage 2, GX
    • Weakness: Psychic ×2
    • Retreat Cost: 3
    • Abilities: None
    • Attacks:
    • Cross-Cut (60+ damage; +60 if opponent’s Active Pokémon is an Evolution)
    • Bedrock Breaker (130 damage; discards any Stadium card in play)
    • Muscle Punch-GX (180 damage; damage unaffected by Resistance; limited to one GX attack per game)
    • Pokémon-GX Rule: When knocked out, opponent takes 2 Prize cards

    Attacks at a Glance

    • Cross-Cut offers flexible damage that spikes against Evolution targets.
    • Bedrock Breaker pairs solid damage with Stadium removal for board control.
    • Muscle Punch-GX delivers a clean 180 that ignores Resistance, but remember the once-per-game GX limit.

    Key Printing

    The key printing of Machamp-GX is from the Burning Shadows set, identified as card number 135. This printing is classified as a Rare Ultra, making it a notable collectible within the Sun & Moon series.

    Variants & Identifiers

    This printing has no known print variants. It can be identified by its set code “sm3-135” and the distinctive Fighting-type iconography. The card’s illustrator, 5ban Graphics, is credited on the bottom right, and the card features a Stage 2, GX subtype.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    Note that as a Pokémon-GX, Machamp-GX follows the GX rule: when it is Knocked Out, the opponent takes 2 Prize cards. This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.

    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 card surface, especially the holographic areas common in Rare Ultra cards. Use a rigid top-loader or binder for added protection during handling and display.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Burning Shadows (sm3): This set introduced Machamp-GX as a powerful Fighting-type GX card with strong offensive capabilities and strategic utility through its Bedrock Breaker attack. It remains a visually striking and sought-after card for collectors of the Sun & Moon era.

    sm3-135

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    Machamp-GX (Burning Shadows) #135

  • Collector’s Guide: Lycanroc-GX (Burning Shadows #136)

    Collector’s Guide: Lycanroc-GX (Burning Shadows #136)

    Lycanroc-GX Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Lycanroc-GX from the Burning Shadows set is a Rare Ultra card numbered 136. It boasts a solid 200 HP, making it a resilient choice in battle. Its signature attack, Lycanfang-GX, adds a strategic edge to gameplay.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Burning Shadows 136 Rare Ultra 200 5ban Graphics
    • Type: Fighting
    • Stage: Stage 1, GX
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Grass ×2
    • Evolves From: Rockruff
    • GX Rule: When your Pokémon-GX is Knocked Out, your opponent takes 2 Prize cards.

    Key Printings

    The key printing of Lycanroc-GX is from the Burning Shadows expansion (set code sm3), numbered 136.

    Attacks

    • Crunch: Discards an Energy from the opponent’s Active Pokémon.
    • Accelerock: A high-damage move.
    • Lycanfang-GX: Requires discarding Energy but deals significant damage.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this exact printing of Lycanroc-GX. The card can be identified by its set code sm3-136, Fighting type, and the distinctive 5ban Graphics illustration. The card’s rarity is Rare Ultra, making it a desirable piece for collectors focusing on the Burning Shadows set.

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
    • According to the provided data, this card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
    • Remember the GX Rule: when Lycanroc-GX is Knocked Out, the opponent takes 2 Prize cards, which can significantly impact gameplay strategy.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the vibrant 5ban Graphics artwork and maintain the card’s condition, store Lycanroc-GX in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its rarity and potential value, consider using a top loader or a hard case for long-term storage.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Burning Shadows (sm3): The sole printing of this Lycanroc-GX card, featuring strong Fighting-type attacks and a high HP pool. This set is known for its diverse GX Pokémon and dynamic gameplay options. The card’s rarity and unique attack set make it a standout in this expansion.

    sm3-136

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    Lycanroc-GX (Burning Shadows) #136

  • Collector’s Guide: Acerola (Burning Shadows #142)

    Collector’s Guide: Acerola (Burning Shadows #142)

    Acerola (Burning Shadows 142) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Acerola is a Rare Ultra card from the Burning Shadows set, numbered 142. Its distinctive design stands out in any collection, and its rarity makes it a notable pickup for enthusiasts seeking distinctive cards.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Burning Shadows 142 Rare Ultra Megumi Mizutani
    • Card ID: sm3-142
    • Series: Sun & Moon
    • Set Code: sm3
    • Stage: Supporter
    • Subtypes: Supporter
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Weaknesses: None
    • Resistances: None
    • Evolves From: None
    • Abilities: None
    • Attacks: None
    • Rules Text: “Put 1 of your Pokémon that has any damage counters on it and all cards attached to it into your hand. | You may play only 1 Supporter card during your turn (before your attack).”
    • Flavor Text: Unknown

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Acerola appears only in the Burning Shadows set as card number 142. It is classified as a Rare Ultra card, making it a valuable piece for collectors focusing on the Sun & Moon era.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Identification is straightforward via the set code “sm3” and card number “142.” The illustrator Megumi Mizutani’s signature style also helps authenticate this printing.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its Supporter effect allows you to return a damaged Pokémon and its attachments to your hand, providing strategic recovery options during gameplay.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the vibrant artwork and maintain card condition, store Acerola in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its rarity, consider using a top loader or a binder with individual pockets to prevent edge wear and surface scratches.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Burning Shadows (sm3): Acerola appears as a Rare Ultra Supporter card, contributing a unique recovery mechanic to the Sun & Moon series. This set is known for its diverse Supporter cards and striking artwork, with Acerola standing out due to its illustrator and rarity.

    sm3-142

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    Acerola (Burning Shadows) #142

  • Collector’s Guide: Guzma (Burning Shadows #143)

    Collector’s Guide: Guzma (Burning Shadows #143)

    Guzma Collector’s Guide: Burning Shadows #143

    Character Intro

    Guzma from the Burning Shadows set is a Rare Ultra card, numbered 143. This striking card captures the essence of the character with bold artwork and a dynamic pose. Collectors will appreciate its distinct rarity within the set.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Burning Shadows 143 Rare Ultra Masakazu Fukuda
    • Card ID: sm3-143
    • Type: Supporter
    • Stage: Supporter
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Rules: Switch 1 of your opponent’s Benched Pokémon with their Active Pokémon. If you do, switch your Active Pokémon with 1 of your Benched Pokémon. You may play only 1 Supporter card during your turn (before your attack).
    • Weaknesses/Resistances: None listed
    • Evolves From: None
    • Abilities/Attacks: None

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Guzma is from the Burning Shadows set, numbered 143, and classified as a Rare Ultra card. It is illustrated by Masakazu Fukuda, whose artwork captures the essence of the character vividly. No alternate printings or reprints are documented for this card.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this Guzma card. Identification relies on the set code “sm3,” the card number 143, and the illustrator credit to Masakazu Fukuda. The card does not have a regulation mark, and no alternate artwork or holofoil variants are noted.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This Guzma card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its Supporter rules allow strategic switching of Active and Benched Pokémon, making it a tactical choice in gameplay where legal.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the vivid artwork and rare ultra status, store this Guzma card in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture. Use a rigid top-loader or binder with individual pockets to prevent bending or surface damage. Handle with clean hands to maintain its pristine condition.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Burning Shadows (sm3): Guzma #143 is a Rare Ultra Supporter card featuring dynamic bench-switching mechanics. Its striking illustration by Masakazu Fukuda makes it a standout collectible from this set. The card’s release date and additional flavor details remain unknown, adding to its enigmatic appeal.

    sm3-143

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    Guzma (Burning Shadows) #143

  • Collector’s Guide: Kiawe (Burning Shadows #144)

    Collector’s Guide: Kiawe (Burning Shadows #144)

    Kiawe (Burning Shadows 144) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Kiawe from the Burning Shadows set is a Rare Ultra card, numbered 144. This vibrant character adds a distinctive presence to any collection, and its rarity makes it a notable find for dedicated collectors.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Burning Shadows 144 Rare Ultra Naoki Saito
    • Card Type: Supporter
    • Stage: Supporter
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Abilities/Attacks: None
    • Rules Text: Search your deck for up to 4 Fire Energy cards and attach them to 1 of your Pokémon. Then, shuffle your deck. Your turn ends. You may play only 1 Supporter card during your turn (before your attack).
    • Evolves From: None
    • Weaknesses/Resistances: None
    • Regulation Mark: Unknown
    • Flavor Text: Unknown

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Kiawe appears solely in the Burning Shadows set, numbered 144. It is classified as a Rare Ultra card, making it a notable find for collectors focusing on Supporter cards or Fire-type energy acceleration.

    Variants & Identifiers

    • Variants: There are no known print variants for this card.
    • Set code: “sm3”
    • Card number: “144”
    • Illustrator: Naoki Saito
    • Regulation mark: None
    • Type: Unspecified

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats according to available data. Its effect is straightforward, enabling rapid Fire Energy attachment but ending the player’s turn immediately.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the vivid artwork and maintain card condition, store Kiawe in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its rarity as a Rare Ultra, consider using a top loader or a binder with individual pockets for added protection.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Burning Shadows (sm3): Kiawe appears as a Supporter card that accelerates Fire Energy attachment, enhancing Fire-type decks. It stands out as a Rare Ultra with no HP or attacks, emphasizing strategic energy management over direct combat.

    sm3-144

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    Kiawe (Burning Shadows) #144

  • Collector’s Guide: Plumeria (Burning Shadows #145)

    Collector’s Guide: Plumeria (Burning Shadows #145)

    Plumeria (Burning Shadows 145) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Plumeria is a Rare Ultra card from the Burning Shadows set, numbered 145. Its distinctive design captures attention among collectors, and its rarity adds notable appeal for enthusiasts seeking unique cards.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Burning Shadows 145 Rare Ultra Sanosuke Sakuma
    • Card ID: sm3-145
    • Stage: Supporter
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Subtypes: Supporter
    • Series: Sun & Moon
    • Set Code: sm3
    • Evolves From: None
    • Types: None
    • Weaknesses: None
    • Resistances: None
    • Abilities: None
    • Attacks: None
    • Rules: Discard 2 cards from your hand. If you do, discard an Energy attached to 1 of your opponent’s Pokémon. You may play only 1 Supporter card during your turn (before your attack).

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Plumeria appears solely in the Burning Shadows set as card number 145. It is classified as a Rare Ultra card, making it a valuable find for collectors focusing on the Sun & Moon era.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Identification is straightforward via its set code (sm3) and card number (145). The illustrator credit to Sanosuke Sakuma further distinguishes this printing.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its Supporter effect requires discarding cards and energy, which can be tactically significant in casual play.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the vivid artwork and rare ultra quality, store this card in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its Supporter subtype and no retreat cost, it is primarily a collector’s piece rather than a staple for competitive decks.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Burning Shadows (sm3): Introduced Plumeria as a Rare Ultra Supporter card with a unique discard effect, adding strategic depth to the Sun & Moon series. This set is known for its diverse character cards and dynamic artwork styles.

    sm3-145

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    Plumeria (Burning Shadows) #145

  • Collector’s Guide: Sophocles (Burning Shadows #146)

    Collector’s Guide: Sophocles (Burning Shadows #146)

    Sophocles – Burning Shadows (sm3-146) Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Sophocles is a Rare Ultra Supporter from the Burning Shadows set, numbered 146. Its vibrant, set-matching design makes it a standout piece for collectors focused on high-rarity Trainer cards.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Burning Shadows 146 Rare Ultra Sanosuke Sakuma
    • Card ID: sm3-146
    • Pokémon: Sophocles
    • Stage: Supporter
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Subtypes: Supporter
    • Series: Sun & Moon
    • Set Code: sm3
    • Rules: Discard 2 cards from your hand. If you do, draw 4 cards. You may play only 1 Supporter card during your turn (before your attack).

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Sophocles appears solely in the Burning Shadows set (set code sm3, card number 146). Classified as a Rare Ultra card, it’s a notable target for collectors prioritizing high-rarity Supporter cards.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Identify it by card ID sm3-146 and the illustration by Sanosuke Sakuma. The absence of a regulation mark and unknown release date also help distinguish this printing.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown

    As a Supporter card, Sophocles trades resources for draw power: discard 2 cards from your hand to draw 4 cards. The standard rule of playing only one Supporter per turn applies.

    Care & Storage Tips

    Protect the card’s Rare Ultra finish and artwork with a sleeve, stored 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

    • Burning Shadows (sm3): Sophocles debuts as a rare ultra Supporter card with a unique hand-refreshing effect, illustrated by Sanosuke Sakuma. Its gameplay utility and striking design make it a collectible highlight within this set.

    sm3-146

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    Sophocles (Burning Shadows) #146

  • Collector’s Guide: Wicke (Burning Shadows #147)

    Collector’s Guide: Wicke (Burning Shadows #147)

    Wicke (Burning Shadows 147) Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Wicke is a Rare Ultra card from the Burning Shadows set, numbered 147. Its distinctive design and rarity make it a notable addition for dedicated collectors.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Burning Shadows 147 Rare Ultra Naoki Saito
    • Card ID: sm3-147
    • Series: Sun & Moon
    • Set Code: sm3
    • Stage: Supporter
    • Subtype: Supporter
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Rules Text: Each player counts the cards in their hand, shuffles those cards into their deck, then draws that many cards. You may play only 1 Supporter card during your turn (before your attack).
    • Types, HP, Abilities, Attacks: Unknown
    • Evolves From: None
    • Flavor Text: Unknown

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Wicke appears solely in the Burning Shadows set as card number 147. It is classified as a Rare Ultra, making it a prized piece for collectors focusing on high-rarity Supporter cards within the Sun & Moon era.

    Variants & Identifiers

    No print variants are documented for this card. Identification relies on the set code “sm3,” card number 147, and the illustrator credit to Naoki Saito. The card’s image can be referenced at /images/sm3/sm3-147.jpg.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card’s Supporter rules allow each player to shuffle their hand into their deck and draw the same number of cards, providing a refreshing hand reset mechanic. Players may only play one Supporter per turn before attacking, a standard rule for Supporter cards.

    Care & Storage Tips

    • Store in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture.
    • For long-term preservation, consider a top-loader or a graded case.
    • Handle with clean hands to avoid oils or dirt damaging the card surface.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Burning Shadows (sm3): Wicke debuts as a Rare Ultra Supporter card, notable for its unique hand-refreshing effect and striking illustration by Naoki Saito. No other sets or reprints are known.

    Wicke (Burning Shadows) #147

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    Wicke (Burning Shadows) #147

  • Collector’s Guide: Golisopod-GX (Burning Shadows #148)

    Collector’s Guide: Golisopod-GX (Burning Shadows #148)

    Golisopod-GX Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Golisopod-GX from the Burning Shadows set is a Rare Rainbow card with 210 HP. Featuring the powerful Crossing Cut-GX and vivid rainbow treatment, it stands out as a striking addition to any collection.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Burning Shadows 148 Rare Rainbow 210 5ban Graphics
    • Type: Grass
    • Stage: Stage 1, GX (evolves from Wimpod)
    • Retreat Cost: 3
    • Weakness: Fire ×2
    • Abilities: None
    • Attacks:
    • First Impression (30+ damage): Deals 90 more damage if switched from Bench to Active this turn.
    • Armor Press (100 damage): Reduces damage taken by 20 during opponent’s next turn.
    • Crossing Cut-GX (150 damage): Switch this Pokémon with a Benched Pokémon; only one GX attack per game.
    • Pokémon-GX Rule: When knocked out, opponent takes 2 Prize cards.

    Key Printings

    This guide focuses on the exact printing of Golisopod-GX from the Burning Shadows set, card number 148. This particular printing is notable for its Rare Rainbow rarity and the unique 5ban Graphics illustration style.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Identifiers include its set code “sm3-148” and its classification as a Stage 1, GX Grass-type Pokémon. The card’s image can be referenced at: /images/sm3/sm3-148.jpg.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats according to the provided data. Players should note the Pokémon-GX rule that awards the opponent 2 Prize cards if Golisopod-GX is knocked out.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the vibrant Rare Rainbow foil and detailed 5ban Graphics illustration, store this card in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching to maintain its collector value.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Burning Shadows (sm3): Introduced Golisopod-GX as a powerful Grass-type Stage 1 GX Pokémon with versatile attacks and a strong HP pool. This set is known for its striking artwork and rare foil variants, including this Rare Rainbow printing. Release date is unknown.

    Golisopod-GX (Burning Shadows) #148

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    Golisopod-GX (Burning Shadows) #148

  • Collector’s Guide: Tapu Bulu-GX (Burning Shadows #149)

    Collector’s Guide: Tapu Bulu-GX (Burning Shadows #149)

    Tapu Bulu-GX Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Tapu Bulu-GX is a Rare Rainbow card from the Burning Shadows set, numbered 149. With 180 HP, it’s a sturdy Basic GX that can anchor Grass builds. Its Tapu Wilderness-GX attack provides strong strategic utility, and the vibrant finish captures its imposing presence.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Burning Shadows 149 Rare Rainbow 180 5ban Graphics
    • Type: Grass
    • Stage: Basic, GX
    • Retreat Cost: 3
    • Weaknesses: None listed
    • Resistances: None listed
    • Rules: When your Pokémon-GX is Knocked Out, your opponent takes 2 Prize cards.

    Key Printings

    The key printing of Tapu Bulu-GX is from Burning Shadows, card number 149. This Rare Rainbow variant stands out for its shimmering foil and vibrant illustration.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this exact printing. It is identified by set code “sm3-149” and the illustrator credit to 5ban Graphics. The rarity is Rare Rainbow, a popular target for collectors.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown

    • “Horn Attack”: 30 damage for one Grass Energy.
    • “Nature’s Judgment”: 120+ damage if all Energy is discarded.
    • “Tapu Wilderness-GX”: heals all damage from this Pokémon; can only be used once per game.

    Care & Storage Tips

    Protect the Rare Rainbow foil and artwork with sleeves, keep it out of direct sunlight and moisture, and store in rigid top loaders or acid-free binder pages to prevent bending and surface wear.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Burning Shadows: Tapu Bulu-GX appears as a powerful Grass-type Basic GX with high HP and versatile attacks. Its Rare Rainbow rarity and striking 5ban Graphics illustration make it a standout collectible within this set.

    sm3-149

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    Tapu Bulu-GX (Burning Shadows) #149