Tag: Sandstorm

Collector’s Guide: Omastar (Sandstorm #19)
Omastar (ex2-19) Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Omastar is a Rare card from the Sandstorm set, numbered 19. It has 110 HP and features the attack Hydrocannon. This card offers a solid addition for collectors seeking powerful Water-type Pokémon.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Sandstorm 19 Rare 110 Kouki Saitou
- Type: Water
- Stage: Stage 2 (Evolves from Omanyte)
- Retreat Cost: 2 Colorless Energy
- Weakness: Lightning ×2
- Abilities: None
- Attacks:
- Pull Down: Returns the highest Stage Evolution card from each of your opponent’s Evolved Pokémon to their hand.
- Hydrocannon: Deals 30 damage plus up to 40 additional damage depending on extra Water Energy attached.
Key Printings

This exact printing of Omastar appears exclusively in the Sandstorm set (ex2), identified by card number 19. It is a rare card with no known alternate printings or reprints under this specific set code.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this Omastar card. Key identifiers include its set code “ex2,” card number 19, and the illustrator Kouki Saitou. The card’s artwork and attack text are consistent with the Sandstorm release.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its unique attack “Pull Down” can disrupt evolved Pokémon, while “Hydrocannon” scales damage with attached Water Energy, offering tactical flexibility.

Care & Storage Tips

To preserve this rare Omastar card, store it in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the card surface to maintain its condition and value. Use a rigid top-loader or binder for added protection.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Sandstorm (ex2): This set introduced Omastar as a rare Stage 2 Water-type Pokémon with disruptive and scalable attacks. The card’s detailed Kouki Saitou illustration and strategic moves make it a notable inclusion in the Sandstorm lineup.
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October 12, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Cacturne (Sandstorm #2)
Cacturne (ex2-2) Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Cacturne is a Rare Holo card from the Sandstorm set, numbered 2. It features 80 HP and the ability Poison Payback, adding strategic depth to gameplay. Its attack, Feint Attack, offers a straightforward offensive option. The card’s artwork captures Cacturne’s distinctive desert-themed essence.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Sandstorm 2 Rare Holo 80 Atsuko Nishida
- Type: Grass
- Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Cacnea)
- Weakness: Fire ×2
- Retreat Cost: 1
- Ability: Poison Payback (Poison the attacking Pokémon if Cacturne is damaged)
- Attack: Feint Attack (40 damage ignoring Weakness, Resistance, and other effects)
- Rarity: Rare Holo
- Illustrator: Atsuko Nishida
- Image:
Key Printings

This exact printing of Cacturne appears in the Sandstorm expansion of the ex series, identified by the card number 2/100. It is a Rare Holo card, making it a desirable find for collectors focusing on holofoil cards from the early ex sets.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this card. It is uniquely identified by its set code “ex2” and card number “2.” The card’s distinct Poké-Body ability, “Poison Payback,” and its attack “Feint Attack” help distinguish it from other Cacturne printings.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its unique ability and attack make it an interesting card for casual play or collection but not for official tournament use.

Care & Storage Tips

To preserve the holofoil surface and vibrant artwork, store this card in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture. Use a top loader or a binder with rigid pages to prevent bending or edge wear, especially given its rarity status.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Sandstorm (ex2): This set introduced Cacturne as a Rare Holo Stage 1 Grass-type Pokémon with a strategic Poké-Body and a versatile attack. The set is known for its diverse Grass-type Pokémon and strong holo cards, making this Cacturne a notable inclusion.
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October 12, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Pichu (Sandstorm #20)
Pichu (Sandstorm 20) Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Pichu from the Sandstorm set is a rare card with 40 HP and the Baby Evolution Poké-Power. Its Energy Retrieval attack adds strategic value to any deck. As card number 20, it holds a distinct spot in the collection.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Sandstorm 20 Rare 40 Naoyo Kimura
- Type: Lightning
- Stage: Basic
- Retreat Cost: 1
- Weakness: Fighting ×2
- Ability: Baby Evolution (Poké-Power)
- Attack: Energy Retrieval (cost: 1 Lightning Energy)
- Evolves From: None
Key Printings

This exact printing is identified as card number 20 in the Sandstorm (ex2) set. It is a Rare card featuring the Baby Evolution Poké-Power, which is a notable mechanic for evolving Pichu into Pikachu during gameplay.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this card. It is a Basic Lightning-type Pokémon with a single retreat cost and a Fighting-type weakness. The card’s unique identifier is ex2-20, and it is part of the ex series.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality

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

Play Notes

Its Baby Evolution Poké-Power allows strategic evolution and healing, while the Energy Retrieval attack helps recycle basic Energy cards at the cost of damage counters.

Care & Storage Tips

To preserve this rare Pichu card, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the card surface to maintain its collectible value and the integrity of Naoyo Kimura’s artwork.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Sandstorm (ex2): This set includes the rare Pichu card with Baby Evolution, emphasizing Lightning-type Pokémon and unique evolution mechanics. The card stands out for its strategic ability and charming illustration.
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October 12, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Sandslash (Sandstorm #21)
Sandslash Collector’s Guide: ex2-21 from Sandstorm

Character Intro

Sandslash ex2-21 is a Rare from the Sandstorm set. This sturdy Stage 1 Pokémon features 70 HP and the hard-hitting Earthquake attack. Its artwork captures the rugged essence of a desert dweller.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Sandstorm 21 Rare 70 Kouki Saitou
- Type: Fighting
- Stage: Stage 1
- Weakness: Grass ×2
- Retreat Cost: 0
- Attacks:
- Sand Swirl: Deals 20 damage to each Defending Pokémon and prevents retreat until the end of your opponent’s next turn.
- Earthquake: Deals 60 damage but also damages each of your Benched Pokémon by 10 (ignoring Weakness and Resistance).
- Abilities: None
- Flavor Text: Unknown
- Regulation Mark: None
Key Printings

This exact printing is from the Sandstorm expansion of the ex series, identified as card number 21. It is classified as a Rare card and features artwork by Kouki Saitou. No alternate print variants are documented for this card.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants or alternate versions of this Sandslash card. The card can be identified by its set code “ex2-21,” Fighting type, and the distinctive artwork by Kouki Saitou. The card’s lack of retreat cost and its unique attack effects also help distinguish it.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its play viability is limited to casual or collector-focused environments due to its rarity and unique attack effects.

Care & Storage Tips

To preserve this rare Sandslash card, store it in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the card surface to maintain its condition and value. Consider using a top-loader or a graded case for long-term protection.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Sandstorm (ex2): This set features Sandslash as a Rare Fighting-type Stage 1 Pokémon with notable attacks that affect both the opponent’s active Pokémon and your own bench. The set emphasizes dynamic battle mechanics and detailed artwork, with Kouki Saitou’s illustration adding a vivid touch to this Sandslash card.
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October 12, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Shiftry (Sandstorm #22)
Shiftry (ex2-22) Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Shiftry is a Rare card from the Sandstorm set, numbered 22, with 120 HP and the attack Slash. It offers a solid presence for collectors interested in the Sandstorm series, with Feint Attack providing a notable tactical option.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Sandstorm 22 Rare 120 Ken Sugimori
- Type: Grass
- Stage: Stage 2 (Evolves from Nuzleaf)
- Weakness: Fire ×2
- Retreat Cost: 2 Colorless Energy
- Attacks:
- Feint Attack: Choose 1 of your opponent’s Pokémon; this attack does 40 damage ignoring Weakness, Resistance, Poké-Powers, Poké-Bodies, or other effects.
- Slash: Deals 60 damage with a cost of Grass + 3 Colorless Energy.
Key Printings

This exact printing appears in the Sandstorm set (ex2), numbered 22, and is classified as a Rare card. It is a Stage 2 evolution from Nuzleaf with no special abilities beyond its attacks.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this card. Identification is straightforward by its set code “ex2-22,” rarity as Rare, and the distinctive Ken Sugimori artwork. The card’s type, attacks, and retreat cost also help distinguish it.

Legality & Play Notes
- Legality: unknown
- Format status: This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
- Play note: Feint Attack ignores many defensive effects, which can be tactically advantageous in casual play.
Care & Storage Tips

To preserve the vivid Ken Sugimori illustration and maintain condition, store this card in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its rarity and unknown release date, keeping it in a top-loader or binder is recommended for long-term collection value.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Sandstorm (ex2): Includes Shiftry as a Rare Stage 2 Grass-type Pokémon with a unique Feint Attack that bypasses many defensive effects, making it a memorable addition to the set’s lineup.
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October 12, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Steelix (Sandstorm #23)
Steelix (ex Sandstorm 23) Collectors Guide

Character Intro

Steelix is a Rare card from the Sandstorm set, numbered 23. This Stage 1 Metal-type evolution comes with 100 HP and two attacks—Rage and Spinning Tail—offering both damage-scaling potential and board-wide pressure. A sturdy pick with straightforward play patterns for collectors and casual players alike.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Sandstorm 23 Rare 100 Midori Harada
- Type: Metal
- Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Onix)
- Weakness: Fire ×2
- Resistance: Grass -30
- Retreat Cost: 4
- Attacks:
- Rage: Does 10 damage plus 10 more damage for each damage counter on Steelix.
- Spinning Tail: Does 20 damage to each of your opponent’s Pokémon (excluding Weakness and Resistance for Benched Pokémon).
- Abilities: None
- Flavor Text: Unknown
- Regulation Mark: Unknown
Key Printings

This exact printing is from the ex Sandstorm set, card number 23, and is classified as Rare. Illustrated by Midori Harada, the artwork underscores Steelix’s metallic, powerful presence. It stands out for its high HP, a damage-scaling attack in Rage, and Spinning Tail’s ability to target all opposing Pokémon.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this Steelix card. Identifiers include the set code “ex2” and the card number “23.” Its Metal type, Stage 1 subtype, and the absence of any abilities further distinguish it.

Legality & Play Notes
- Legality: unknown
- Not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
- With a high retreat cost and a multi-target attack, it functions best as a tactical option for casual play or as a collection piece rather than a competitive staple.
Care & Storage Tips

To preserve the card’s condition, store it in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture. Given its rarity and unknown release date, maintaining its pristine state is essential for collectors. Avoid bending or scratching the card, especially the illustrated front by Midori Harada.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- ex Sandstorm: A rare highlight of the set, showcasing a powerful Metal-type Pokémon with versatile attacks. The set is known for robust Pokémon and strategic gameplay elements, and Steelix fits this theme with its damage-scaling and multi-target attacks.
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October 12, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Umbreon (Sandstorm #24)
Umbreon (ex2-24) Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Umbreon from the Sandstorm set is a rare card numbered 24 with 80 HP. This sleek Pokémon features the attack Moon Impact, adding a strategic element to gameplay. Its design captures Umbreon’s mysterious and nocturnal nature.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Sandstorm 24 Rare 80 Kagemaru Himeno
- Type: Darkness
- Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Eevee)
- HP: 80
- Attacks:
- Confuse Ray: Flip a coin; if heads, the Defending Pokémon is Confused. Deals 10 damage.
- Moon Impact: Deals 40 damage.
- Weakness: Fighting ×2
- Resistance: Psychic -30
- Retreat Cost: 1 Colorless Energy
- Rarity: Rare
- Illustrator: Kagemaru Himeno
- Set: ex Sandstorm (ex2)
- Card Number: 24
Key Printings

This exact printing is from the ex Sandstorm expansion, identified by the set code ex2 and card number 24. It is a rare card featuring Umbreon with no special abilities but two distinct attacks that offer both status effect potential and straightforward damage.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this card. Key identifiers include the Darkness type, Stage 1 subtype, and the illustrator Kagemaru Himeno’s signature art style. The card’s image can be referenced at /images/ex2/ex2-24.jpg.

Legality & Play Notes
- Legality status: unknown.
- This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats.
- Players should verify tournament rules before use.
Care & Storage Tips

Store the card in a protective sleeve, away from sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the surface—especially the illustrated front. A rigid top-loader or an acid-free binder page will help maintain condition over time.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- ex Sandstorm (ex2): This set includes this rare Umbreon card, showcasing Darkness-type Pokémon with a mix of tactical attacks and solid HP values. The set is known for its distinctive artwork and evolving Pokémon lines, with Umbreon standing out as a Stage 1 evolution from Eevee.
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October 12, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Vaporeon (Sandstorm #25)
Vaporeon (ex Sandstorm 25) Collectors Guide

Character Intro

Vaporeon from the Sandstorm set is a rare card numbered 25 with 70 HP. It features the attack Aqua Sonic, showcasing its aquatic prowess. This card offers a sleek addition to any collection.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Sandstorm 25 Rare 70 Hajime Kusajima
- Type: Water
- Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Eevee)
- Weakness: Lightning ×2
- Retreat Cost: 1
- Attacks:
- Aurora Beam: Deals 30 damage, costs 1 Water and 1 Colorless energy.
- Aqua Sonic: Deals 50 damage, costs 1 Water and 2 Colorless energies; damage is not affected by Resistance.
Key Printings

This guide focuses on the exact printing from the ex Sandstorm set, card number 25. It is a rare card illustrated by Hajime Kusajima. No alternate printings or reprints of this exact card are documented here.

Variants & Identifiers
- There are no known print variants for this card.
- Identifiers include the set code “ex2” and the card number “25”.
- The card is part of the “ex” series and has no regulation mark.
- The market reference query is “Vaporeon Sandstorm 25”.
Legality & Play Notes
- Legality: unknown
- This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats according to the provided data.
- No additional tournament or play notes are available.
Care & Storage Tips

To preserve the vibrant artwork by Hajime Kusajima and maintain card condition, store this rare card in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Use a rigid top-loader or binder with individual pockets to avoid bending or surface damage.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- ex Sandstorm: This set includes the rare Vaporeon card number 25, featuring Water-type attacks and a moderate HP of 70. The set is known for its detailed illustrations and Stage 1 evolutions like this Vaporeon. Release date is unknown.
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October 12, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Golduck (Sandstorm #17)
Golduck (ex2-17) Collector’s Guide

Character Intro

Golduck from the Sandstorm set is a Rare, 70 HP Stage 1 featuring the Chaos Flash Poké-Power and the Special Blow attack. It is number 17 in the set.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Sandstorm 17 Rare 70 Hajime Kusajima
- Type: Water
- Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Psyduck)
- Retreat Cost: 1
- Weakness: Lightning ×2
- Ability: Chaos Flash (Poké-Power) can confuse the opponent’s Pokémon once per turn if Golduck is active and not affected by a Special Condition.
- Attack: Special Blow deals 30+ damage, with an additional 40 damage if the Defending Pokémon has Special Energy attached.
Key Printings

This exact printing is from the ex Sandstorm set, card number 17. It is classified as a Rare card and features the unique ability Chaos Flash alongside the Special Blow attack. The card’s artwork by Hajime Kusajima is a notable aspect for collectors.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this card. It can be identified by its set code “ex2” and number “17” in the Sandstorm series. The card’s rarity symbol and illustrator credit also help confirm authenticity.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
This card is not currently legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its strategic use revolves around its ability to confuse opponents and capitalize on Special Energy attachments on opposing Pokémon.

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 surface, especially the illustrated area by Hajime Kusajima, to maintain its collector value.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- ex Sandstorm: This set includes Golduck as a rare Stage 1 Water-type Pokémon with a unique Poké-Power and a damage-scaling attack, adding tactical depth to Water decks. The set’s print details for this card remain partially unknown, including the release date.
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October 12, 2025
Collector’s Guide: Baltoy (Sandstorm #32)
Baltoy (ex2-32) Collectors Guide

Character Intro

Baltoy is an Uncommon Pokémon card from the Sandstorm set, numbered 32. It has 50 HP and features the attack Rapid Spin. A straightforward addition to any collection focused on the Sandstorm series.

Quick Facts

set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator

Sandstorm 32 Uncommon 50 Midori Harada
- Type: Fighting
- Stage: Basic
- Retreat Cost: 1 Colorless Energy
- Weakness: Grass (×2)
- Resistance: None
- Regulation Mark: Unknown
Key Printings

This exact printing of Baltoy appears in the Sandstorm expansion (ex2), numbered 32. It has no evolutions printed on this card and features a single attack, Rapid Spin, which deals 10 damage and allows switching of both the opponent’s defending Pokémon and Baltoy with benched Pokémon if available.

Variants & Identifiers

There are no known print variants for this card. Identifiers include its set code “ex2” and card number “32.” The illustrator Midori Harada is a key identifying feature for collectors seeking this specific artwork.

Legality & Play Notes

Legality: unknown
This card is not legal in Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited formats. Its single attack, Rapid Spin, offers tactical switching options but no abilities or special rules are present.

Care & Storage Tips

To preserve the card’s condition, store it in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or exposure to extreme temperatures to maintain the integrity of the artwork and card stock.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries
- Sandstorm (ex2): Baltoy appears as an uncommon Fighting-type basic Pokémon with a straightforward attack and a simple design by Midori Harada. This set’s printing is notable for its clean illustration and functional gameplay role, despite limited tournament legality.
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October 12, 2025