Tag: Pokemon TCG

  • Collector’s Guide: Emolga-EX (XY #143)

    Emolga-EX Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Emolga-EX is a Rare Ultra card from the XY set, numbered 143. This vibrant Pokémon boasts 110 HP and features the striking attack Electron Crush. Its energetic design captures the dynamic spirit of the set.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    XY 143 Rare Ultra 110 Ryo Ueda
    • Type: Lightning
    • Stage: Basic, EX
    • Weakness: Lightning ×2
    • Resistance: Fighting -20
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Rules: Pokémon-EX rule applies (opponent takes 2 Prize cards when knocked out)
    • Image: Emolga-EX

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Emolga-EX appears in the XY set, identified as card number 143. It is a Rare Ultra card, notable for its clean design and energetic artwork by Ryo Ueda.

    Attacks

    • Energy Glide: Allows searching and attaching a Lightning Energy from the deck.
    • Electron Crush: Can deal increased damage by discarding energy.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this Emolga-EX card. It is uniquely identified by its set code “xy1-143” and the illustrator credit to Ryo Ueda. The card’s subtypes are Basic and EX, and it carries the Pokémon-EX rule, distinguishing it from regular Basic Pokémon cards.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Players should be aware of the Pokémon-EX rule, which awards two Prize cards to the opponent when this Pokémon is knocked out, making strategic play essential.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the vibrant artwork and maintain card condition, store Emolga-EX in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its rarity and potential collector value, consider using a top-loader or a binder with rigid pages. Handle the card with clean hands to avoid oils and dirt that can degrade the surface.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • XY Set: Emolga-EX debuts as a Rare Ultra card with a focus on Lightning Energy acceleration and flexible attack options. Its zero retreat cost and resistance to Fighting-type attacks make it a versatile addition to the set’s lineup of EX Pokémon. The card’s unknown release date adds to its collectible intrigue.

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    Emolga-EX (XY) #143

  • Collector’s Guide: Yveltal-EX (XY #144)

    Yveltal-EX Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Yveltal-EX is a Rare Ultra card from the XY set, numbered 144. With 170 HP and the standout attack Y Cyclone, this powerful Pokémon is a notable addition for collectors and players alike thanks to its striking design and impactful stats.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    XY 144 Rare Ultra 170 5ban Graphics
    • Type: Darkness
    • Stage: Basic, EX
    • Weakness: Lightning (×2)
    • Resistance: Fighting (-20)
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Pokémon-EX Rule: When knocked out, opponent takes 2 Prize cards

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Yveltal-EX is from the XY set, card number 144. It is a Rare Ultra rarity card, notable for its high HP and strong attacks.

    • Evil Ball: Scales damage with Energy attached to both Active Pokémon.
    • Y Cyclone: Deals 90 damage and allows Energy movement to a Benched Pokémon.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It can be identified by its card number (144), set code (xy1), and the distinctive artwork by 5ban Graphics. The card’s Darkness type and EX subtype also help distinguish it from other Yveltal cards.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. It follows the Pokémon-EX rule where knocking it out awards the opponent 2 Prize cards, making it a high-risk, high-reward option in gameplay.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the vivid artwork and maintain card condition, store Yveltal-EX in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its rarity and collectible status, consider using a top-loader or binder with individual pockets for added protection.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • XY Set: Yveltal-EX debuts as a powerful Basic EX card with strong Darkness-type attacks and solid HP, making it a standout Rare Ultra in the set. Its unique attack mechanics and resistance profile add strategic depth to the XY series gameplay.

    Yveltal-EX

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    Yveltal-EX (XY) #144

  • Collector’s Guide: Skarmory-EX (XY #145)

    Skarmory-EX (XY 145) Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Skarmory-EX from the XY set is a Rare Ultra card with 170 HP and the headline attack Tailspin Piledriver. As card number 145, it stands out in any collection with bold design and solid stats.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    XY 145 Rare Ultra 170 Ryo Ueda
    • Type: Metal
    • Stage: Basic, EX
    • Weakness: Fire (×2)
    • Resistance: Psychic (-20)
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Rules: Pokémon-EX rule applies—when knocked out, opponent takes 2 Prize cards.
    • Attacks:
    • Joust: Discards all Pokémon Tool cards attached to the opponent’s Active Pokémon before dealing 30 damage.
    • Tailspin Piledriver: Deals 80 damage plus 40 more if the opponent’s Active Pokémon already has damage counters.

    Key Printings

    This exact printing is from the XY set, card number 145, classified as a Rare Ultra. It is a Basic Pokémon-EX with no evolutions and no additional abilities beyond its attacks.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Identifiers include its set code “xy1” and its card ID “xy1-145.” The card’s vivid illustration by Ryo Ueda and its Rare Ultra rarity help distinguish it within the XY series.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown

    As a Pokémon-EX, when Skarmory-EX is knocked out, your opponent takes 2 Prize cards—a key strategic consideration. Joust offers disruption by stripping Tools before damage, while Tailspin Piledriver capitalizes once damage counters are already on the opponent’s Active Pokémon.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the card’s vibrant artwork and maintain its value, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the surface, especially since it is a Rare Ultra card prized by collectors.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • XY Set: This Skarmory-EX is part of the original XY series, known for introducing powerful EX cards with high HP and impactful attacks. It fits well within the Metal-type theme of the set and offers tactical disruption through its Joust attack.

    Skarmory-EX XY 145

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    Skarmory-EX (XY) #145

  • Collector’s Guide: Xerneas-EX (XY #146)

    Xerneas-EX Collector’s Guide (XY 146)

    Character Intro

    Xerneas-EX is a Rare Ultra card from the XY set, numbered 146. With 170 HP and the hard-hitting attack X Blast, it pairs striking artwork with straightforward, powerful gameplay.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    XY 146 Rare Ultra 170 5ban Graphics
    • Type: Fairy
    • Stage: Basic, EX
    • Weakness: Metal ×2
    • Resistance: Darkness -20
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Attacks:
    • Break Through (60 damage + 30 to a Benched Pokémon)
    • X Blast (140 damage; cannot use next turn)
    • Pokémon-EX Rule: When knocked out, opponent takes 2 Prize cards.

    Key Printings

    This guide focuses on the XY set printing of Xerneas-EX, card number 146. It is a Rare Ultra card illustrated by 5ban Graphics. No other printings or reprints are documented for this exact version.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Identification is straightforward by its set code “xy1-146,” rarity as Rare Ultra, and the distinctive 5ban Graphics illustration style. The card’s Fairy type and EX subtype further distinguish it.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    Xerneas-EX is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats according to available data. Its powerful attacks and the Pokémon-EX rule make it a formidable card in casual play, but tournament legality is unclear.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the vivid artwork and maintain card condition, store Xerneas-EX in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its Rare Ultra status, handle with care to avoid edge wear and surface scratches.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • XY Set: Xerneas-EX appears as a key Rare Ultra Basic EX Pokémon with strong Fairy-type attacks and a high HP pool, contributing to the set’s dynamic gameplay. The set’s release date remains unknown, but this card is a notable collectible for fans of the XY series.

    Xerneas-EX XY 146

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    Xerneas-EX (XY) #146

  • Collector’s Guide: Scatterbug (XY #15)

    Scatterbug (XY 15) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Scatterbug is a common Pokémon from the XY set, numbered 15. With 40 HP and the attack Bug Bite, it’s a simple, charming basic that makes a straightforward addition to a collection.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    XY 15 Common 40 5ban Graphics
    • Type: Grass
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 1 Colorless Energy
    • Weakness: Fire ×2
    • Attack: Bug Bite (10 damage, costs 1 Colorless Energy)
    • Flavor Text: When under attack from bird Pokémon, it spews a poisonous black powder that causes paralysis on contact.
    • Image:

    Key Printings

    This exact printing appears in the XY set as card 15 and is classified as a Common. It does not evolve from a previous Pokémon and has no special abilities, focusing solely on the straightforward Bug Bite attack.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Key identifiers include its set code “xy1,” the illustrator 5ban Graphics, and its common rarity status. The card’s simple design and lack of a regulation mark make it easily recognizable within the XY series.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality status: unknown.
    This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
    It has no special rules or abilities beyond its basic attack and stats.

    Care & Storage Tips

    Store in a sleeve and keep away from sunlight and moisture to preserve the artwork and condition. As a common, it’s ideal for beginner collectors, but careful handling helps maintain its appearance.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • XY Set: Introduced as a Basic Grass-type with a simple attack and low HP, Scatterbug XY 15 is an accessible entry point for collectors and players exploring the early XY series. Its straightforward design and flavor text add to the set’s thematic variety.

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    Scatterbug (XY) #15

  • Collector’s Guide: Spewpa (XY #16)

    Spewpa (XY 16) Collector’s Guide

    Character Intro

    Spewpa from the XY set is an Uncommon Pokémon card with 80 HP. Featuring the attack Stun Spore for added tactical pressure, this card—numbered 16 in the set—makes a solid addition for collectors.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    XY 16 Uncommon 80 5ban Graphics
    • Type: Grass
    • Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Scatterbug)
    • Attacks:
    • Bug Bite (10 damage, costs 1 Colorless)
    • Stun Spore (40 damage, costs 1 Grass + 2 Colorless; may Paralyze opponent’s Active Pokémon on heads flip)
    • Weakness: Fire ×2
    • Retreat Cost: 3 Colorless
    • Flavor Text: Lives hidden within thicket shadows, bristles fur to threaten predators.
    • Image: Spewpa XY 16

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Spewpa is from the XY set, identified as card number 16. It is an Uncommon rarity card illustrated by 5ban Graphics. No alternate printings or special editions are noted for this card.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this Spewpa card. It can be identified by its set code “xy1-16,” Stage 1 subtype, and the distinctive artwork by 5ban Graphics. The card’s retreat cost of 3 and its combination of attacks also help distinguish it from other Spewpa cards.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality status: unknown. This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats according to available data. Its moderate HP and useful paralysis effect make it a potentially strategic choice in casual play.

    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 unknown release date, maintaining its surface and edges will help retain collector value. Avoid bending or exposure to extreme temperatures.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • XY Set: Spewpa appears as a Stage 1 Grass-type Pokémon evolving from Scatterbug, featuring two attacks that balance low damage with a chance to paralyze. The card fits well into thematic decks focusing on status effects and evolution lines. Its design and stats reflect the XY series’ focus on strategic gameplay and detailed artwork.

    This Spewpa card remains a quietly appealing piece for collectors interested in the XY era and Grass-type Pokémon.

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    Spewpa (XY) #16

  • Collector’s Guide: Vivillon (XY #17)

    Vivillon Collector’s Guide (XY 17)

    Character Intro

    Vivillon from the XY set is a Rare Holo card numbered 17. It features 130 HP and a vibrant attack called Colorful Wind. This card stands out with its striking design and solid stats.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    XY 17 Rare Holo 130 5ban Graphics
    • Type: Grass
    • Stage: Stage 2 (Evolves from Spewpa)
    • Weakness: Fire ×2
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Flavor Text: Vivillon with many different patterns are found all over the world. These patterns are affected by the climate of their habitat.
    • Attacks:
    • Conversion Powder: Choose either Asleep or Poisoned to inflict a Special Condition on the opponent’s Active Pokémon.
    • Colorful Wind: Deals 30+ damage, increasing by 30 for each different type of basic Energy attached to Vivillon.

    Key Printings

    This card is from the XY set, numbered 17, and is a Rare Holo variant. It features no additional print variants. The card’s artwork and holo treatment make it a notable piece for collectors focusing on the XY series or Grass-type Pokémon.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this Vivillon card. Identification is straightforward by:
    – Set code “xy1-17”
    – Rarity: Rare Holo
    – Illustrator: 5ban Graphics
    – Card details such as its retreat cost, HP, and attacks

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its play viability is therefore uncertain, and it is primarily of interest to collectors rather than competitive players.

    Care & Storage Tips

    • Store in a protective sleeve and keep away from direct sunlight and moisture.
    • Avoid bending or scratching the holo surface.
    • Use a rigid top-loader or a binder with individual pockets for optimal protection.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • XY Set: This Vivillon card is part of the original XY set, which introduced many new Pokémon and mechanics. It stands out with its unique Special Condition attack and synergy with multiple Energy types, reflecting the set’s focus on strategic gameplay and diverse Pokémon designs.

    Vivillon XY 17

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    Vivillon (XY) #17

  • Collector’s Guide: Skiddo (XY #18)

    Skiddo Collector’s Guide (XY 18)

    Character Intro

    Skiddo (XY 18) is a Common Basic Grass-type with 70 HP and two straightforward attacks—Lead and Tackle. It’s a simple, charming pickup for XY-era collections.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    XY 18 Common 70 5ban Graphics
    • Type: Grass
    • Stage: Basic
    • Retreat Cost: 2 Colorless
    • Weakness: Fire ×2
    • Attacks:
    • Lead: Flip a coin; if heads, search your deck for a Supporter card and add it to your hand.
    • Tackle: Deals 40 damage with a cost of Grass + 2 Colorless energy.
    • Flavor Text: Thought to be one of the first Pokémon to live in harmony with humans, it has a placid disposition.
    • Regulation Mark: Unknown
    • Release Date: Unknown

    Key Printings

    This exact printing appears in the XY set, numbered 18, and is classified as Common rarity. It features the original 5ban Graphics illustration and carries no special print variants.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants or alternate artworks for this card. Identification relies on the set code “xy1” and card number 18. The card’s lack of a regulation mark and unknown release date are notable identifiers.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats, but its exact tournament status is unknown. Its simple attacks and moderate HP make it more suited for casual play or collection rather than competitive use.

    Care & Storage Tips

    As a common card with no special variants, standard protection applies. Use sleeves and store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to preserve the vibrant 5ban Graphics illustration. Avoid bending or exposure to moisture to maintain condition.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • XY: Introduces Skiddo as a Basic Grass-type with a supportive Lead attack and a straightforward Tackle attack, fitting the set’s early Kalos theme and clean 5ban Graphics artwork.

    Skiddo (XY) #18

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    Skiddo (XY) #18

  • Collector’s Guide: Gogoat (XY #19)

    Gogoat (XY 19) Collectors Guide

    Character Intro

    Gogoat is a Rare Holo from the XY set, numbered 19. With 110 HP and the dynamic Charge Dash attack, it’s a vibrant addition to any collection thanks to its striking design.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    XY 19 Rare Holo 110 5ban Graphics

    Card Stats

    • Type: Grass
    • Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Skiddo)
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Weakness: Fire ×2
    • Abilities: None
    • Attacks:
    • Lead: Search your deck for up to 2 Supporter cards, reveal them, and put them into your hand. Shuffle afterward. (Cost: 1 Colorless)
    • Charge Dash: Deals 70+ damage; may do 20 more damage but Gogoat takes 20 damage itself. (Cost: 1 Grass, 2 Colorless)
    • Flavor Text: “It can tell how its trainer is feeling by subtle shifts in the grip on its horns. This empathetic sense lets them run as if one being.”

    Key Printings

    This exact printing is from the XY set, card number 19, featuring a Rare Holo rarity. Illustrated by 5ban Graphics, it is a visually striking card that highlights Gogoat’s empathetic bond with its trainer.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. It is identified by its set code “xy1-19” and the unique artwork by 5ban Graphics. The card’s rarity symbol and holofoil pattern confirm its Rare Holo status.

    Legality & Play Notes

    Legality: unknown
    This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its Lead attack provides useful Supporter card search capability, while Charge Dash offers flexible damage output at the cost of self-damage.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the holofoil finish and vibrant artwork, store this card 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

    • XY Set: This Gogoat card debuted as a Rare Holo in the original XY set, showcasing the Pokémon’s empathetic traits and strategic Supporter search ability. It remains a notable collectible for fans of the Grass-type and the XY series.

    Gogoat (XY) #19

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    Gogoat (XY) #19

  • Collector’s Guide: M Venusaur-EX (XY #2)

    Collector’s Guide: M Venusaur-EX (XY 2)

    Character Intro

    M Venusaur-EX from the XY set is a Rare Holo EX card with 230 HP. Numbered 2 in the set, it showcases the attack Crisis Vine and vivid artwork, making it a notable addition for collectors.

    Quick Facts

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    XY 2 Rare Holo EX 230 5ban Graphics
    • Pokémon: M Venusaur-EX
    • Type: Grass
    • Stage: MEGA, EX (Evolves from Venusaur-EX)
    • Retreat Cost: 4
    • Weakness: Fire ×2
    • Attack: Crisis Vine (120 damage; Paralyzes and Poisons opponent’s Active Pokémon)
    • Rules: Mega Evolution rule ends your turn upon evolving; Pokémon-EX rule awards opponent 2 Prize cards if knocked out.
    • Flavor Text: Unknown
    • Regulation Mark: Unknown

    Key Printings

    Printed in the XY set as card number 2 and classified as a Rare Holo EX. Illustrated by 5ban Graphics. No other printings or reprints are documented.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Identification is straightforward via its set code “xy1-2” and the unique combination of its Mega Evolution and EX subtypes.

    Legality & Play Notes

    • Legality: unknown
    • This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
      Players should note the Mega Evolution rule, which ends the turn immediately upon evolving, and the Pokémon-EX rule, which grants the opponent two Prize cards if this Pokémon is knocked out.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the card’s Rare Holo EX finish and detailed artwork, store it in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its high retreat cost and fragile status in gameplay, collectors may prefer to keep it in mint condition rather than use it in play.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • XY Set: Introduced as a powerful Mega Evolution card with a strong attack that inflicts multiple status conditions. It stands out for its high HP and strategic gameplay impact, despite unknown release date details.

    M Venusaur-EX (XY) #2

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    M Venusaur-EX (XY) #2