Pokémon Online Help
Offered every Thursday 3-5 PST in the TCG Forum of the
Wizards.Community chat site!
Featuring Master_Trainers Mike and Pat from Customer Service
Master Trainer Pat: Hi Gang! We've done some homework for you guys with
respect to hunting down some answers for last week. MT Mike Do you have
those ready?
Master Trainer Mike: Hi gang. Let's start with some rules answers to
last week's questions.
First Misty's Staryu's SWIFT attack. The SWIFT attack ignores all
Pokémon Powers, Weaknesses, Resistances, or ANY other effects that
attempt to alter the amount of damage done by this attack. SWIFT does
NOT prevent anything that prevents the attack from actually occurring
however like Smokescreen or Transparency. So SWIFT will ignore a
Defender that is attached to the Defending Pokémon, as it is an affect
that is attempting to alter the amount of damage done by the attack.
Second, the RECALL Trainer cards. This has the same sort of effect as
Metronome or Ditto in that any self-referencing in the attack is
changed to the active Pokémon's name instead. Meaning if you used
RECALL to use the Energy Loop attack on Sabrina's Abra when it is
evolved to Sabrina's Kadabra (or Sabrina's Alakazam), you would replace
the topmost evolution step's name into the attack. In other words you
would still have to return a psychic energy card attached to it in
order to the Energy Loop attack. The easiest way to think of it is that
the RECALL Trainer gives the Active Pokémon the attack of your choice
from one of its previous evolutions, with all of its positive and
negative effects affecting your active Pokémon. So if you used RECALL
on Gyarados to use Magickarp's Flail attack, it is possible for that
attack to do up to 90 damage.
Rocket's Scyther's Shadow Images attack is NOT cumulative.
Clarification on the whole Knock Out/triggered effects steps in Pokémon
as well. When a Pokémon receives sufficient damage to be knocked out it
is INSTANTLY knocked out (before anything else is done). HOWEVER, Prize
cards are NOT drawn AND replacement Pokémon is NOT moved up until ALL
triggered effects are resolved. Meaning that if Blaine's Moltres does
its attack and Knocks out Dark Gyarados, the Dark Gyarados would get
its chance with its Final Beam attack effect BEFORE the Moltres can
return to your hand (if you flipped tails). Blaine's Moltres states
that it would be returned to your hand AFTER DOING DAMAGE. This means
AFTER all triggered effects are resolved (in this case the Dark
Gyarados's Final Beam). So after everything has resolved THEN prizes
are drawn and replacement Benched Pokémon are moved up (with the player
whose turn is next choosing first).
Lastly as some of you may have heard, we will be making appearances at
some of the East Coast Mall Tour stops. Dark Master Trainer Mike (our
boss) will be at the Baltimore and Miami stops, Master Trainer Pat will
appear at the Chicago location, and I (Master Trainer Mike) will be at
the Boston stop. So stop by and say hello, and bring your best decks to
show us what you can do!
1. Does Ditto keep its resistance and weakness after it transforms and
gain the weakness and resistance of the Pokémon it transform into?
Master Trainer Pat: Ditto will copy all the characteristics of the
Pokémon that it transforms into, while it is transformed it doesn't
have it's original Weakness.
2. If you run out of Japanese sets to translate, since your doing it
faster than they make them, do you think you'll make your own
expansion?
Master Trainer Mike: Maybe
3. When will victory road start?
Master Trainer Mike: After season 8 finishes.
4. What are promos 19 and 24+?
Master Trainer Mike: Dunno yet.
5. Any more on Prop15 (15 trainers only rule) and the one trainer per
turn rule?
Master Trainer Mike: Nope, still lots of playtesting to do.
6. Do you have the NEO rights yet?
Master Trainer Pat: No announcements yet on that sigh!
7. If I use gust of wind for Ditto, he automatically becomes my active
Pokémon with transform, right?
Master Trainer Mike: Yes.
8. Are there any advantages to the trainer: Charity? I don't think it
does any good for the user of this trainer or am I wrong? If so, what
are the benefits?
Master Trainer Pat: Good for dealing with Mr. Mime that's about it.
9. According to Charity, you may reduce the damage you deal to the
defending Pokémon. Common laws of math state that you may increase an
amount by reducing by a negative number. So, can you reduce by say, 100, to deal 100 more damage?
Master Trainer Mike: Umm no. No donuts for you smart guy.
10. Any new info on any new Promos?
Master Trainer Pat: No new ones to tell you about.
11. Doesn't the Ancient Mew have the same name as Mew? It has 3 runes
for the name. We've seen conflicting answers on this. PokePop: TC
Master Trainer Mike: No it does not. Ancient Mew is a different name so
if you were foolish and wanted 4 of that lousy card in your deck with 4
Mews you could. However, I did hear that the ancient Mew card would no
longer be allowed in Sanctioned Play as it is considered a non-playable
card just like the oversized Pikachu.
12. Any word on promo 19?
Master Trainer Pat: Nope not yet.
13. "Mr. Mime's Sleight of Hand reads. "Choose up to three cards from
your hand and put them on top of your deck. Then search your deck for
that many basic Energy cards. Show these cards to your opponent, then
put them your hand. Shuffle your deck afterwards." Can we simply keep
putting cards back into our deck and not draw energy if there is none
left?
Master Trainer Mike: No you cannot. But we will check that answer with
R&D first.
14. Is 3 Badges in effect for STS I need to know soon to make
arrangements?
Master Trainer Pat: Yes that’s how they'll do it.
15. If you have a PlusPower attached to an attack that does 10 damage,
would Erika's Dratini receive 10 or 20 damage after applying the
"Strange Barrier" Pokémon power.
Master Trainer Mike: It would take 10, as you add Trainer effects
BEFORE relevant Pokémon Powers.
16. Any word on year 2 of the Pokemon league?
Master Trainer Pat: Starts in January
17. My GYM leader does not hand out the PRERELEASES for the movie adds
because she says it is unfair to those who don't have the cards, with
the puzzle. Is there some place I can mail in my cards and get the
PRERELASE or some where I can report my GYM leader?
Master Trainer Mike: Please email us with the name of this location as
they are running this promotion incorrectly. custserv@wizards.com
18. What happens to the Voltorb card when you Buzzap an Electrode? Does
it stay attached or does it go into the discard pile?
Master Trainer Pat: The Voltorb goes to the discard pile.
19. Are there any banning/restrictions in place?
Master Trainer Mike: Nope.
20. If you have a DCE on Erika's Oddish (40HP) can you Energy Transfer
it to another grass Pokémon?
Master Trainer Pat: Yes, you can; though it will change back as soon as
it's transferred.
21. Can you do an Energy Flow on a Buzzap'd Electrode to return it (and
its attached Voltorb) into your hand?
Master Trainer Mike: You could return the Buzzaped Electrode to your
hand as it is now an energy card but the Voltorb is already discarded
by this point so it would not return.
22. When will the neo cards be released in English?
Master Trainer Mike: Dunno.
23. Is it possible to retreat a Scyther after it wakes from sleep with
another retreat costless Pokémon, retreat that, then attack with the
original Scyther?
Master Trainer Pat: Yes, but why?
24. Do you lose if you flip tails on Blaine's Moltres with no bench?
Master Trainer Mike: Yes the way it is written you would lose, as you
would not have a Pokémon in play, so I wouldn't risk it.
25. I have a non holo base Mewtwo. Have you ever heard of one of these?
It is not fake I have had many people check it.
Master Trainer Pat: Nope, never heard nor seen one that wasn't fake.
26. Will Imakuni's Doduo be in Challenge?
Master Trainer Mike: Dunno.
Master Trainer Pat: Nope.
27. If Cool Porygon comes in the Victory Road season, then how do you
get the Promo Psyduck?
Master Trainer Mike: You earn Psyduck by earning 10 points (2 for a win
1 for a loss) if you have already earned all 8 badges. You earn a Cool
Porygon only if you win 5 matches in row.
28. If Hitmonchan uses Crosscounter and Dratini tails strikes for 30
and I flip heads with Crosscounter will Erika's Dratini be Ko'd?
Master Trainer Pat: No, because Crosscounter actually says that it is
an attack, so Erika's Dratini would Strange Barrier.
29. Last week it was said Goop Gas made Energy Burned cards revert to
original Energy. This conflicts with a ruling saying a Slept Char's
Energy stayed Fire. PokePop: TC
Master Trainer Mike: Sorry but MT Pat was wrong. He ate some bad
donuts. The energy would NOT revert.
Master Trainer Pat: Bad Donuts mmm
30. What is your personal deck types and can you gives some examples of
your Pokémon and trainers? Thanks
Master Trainer Mike: That's too long a question, I mostly play
Raindance or Stall decks.
31. Do you answer Top Deck Q's?
Master Trainer Pat: Sometimes they came downstairs and ask us.
32. Can Magikarp do fail for 90 with recall?
Master Trainer Mike: No, but Gyarados could.
33. Do you apply weakness and resistance for Team Rockets Hitmochan
cross counter?
Master Trainer Pat: Yes, you do
34. Is Misty's Tears gonna be a promo?
Master Trainer Pat: We don't know yet.
35. Erika's Oddish's Pokémon power makes all energy grass energy. Does
it stay that way when I evolve?
Master Trainer Mike: Nope.
36. "A" has a Rocket's Hitmonchan with 1 fighting energy & 20 damage.
"A" attacks with Crosscounter. "B" has Mr. Mime with 2 psychic
energies. "B" attacks with Meditate for 30 damage, plus 30 more for
weakness, for a total of 60 damage. Does Mr. Mime
Master Trainer Pat: You wouldn't count the weakness, but the
Crosscounter would return an attack for 60 damage against Mr.Mime.
37. Why is the Dark Magneton Holo background different from the nonholo version one?
Master Trainer Mike: Dunno.
38. Will the East STS be at the Continental Arena, in the Meadowlands?
Master Trainer Mike: Dunno.
39. How many promos are there without the promo star and number?
Master Trainer Pat: 10 or 11
40. Why didn't Brock's Ninetales wasn't in the Heroes set? Same with
Misty's Golduck and Garaydos.
Master Trainer Pat: They're probably in the next one.
41. "Rocket's Scyther's Shadow Images reads "Whenever Rocket's Scyther
is attacked, your opponent flips a coin. If tails this attack does no
damage to Rocket's Scyther (Any other effects of the attack still
happen) this effect lasts until Rocket's Scyther takes damage or is
benched or is evolved." So, say a defending Pokémon had an attack [L]
Damage: 10, Text: Flip a coin if heads the defending Pokémon is
poisoned, would that Pokémon flip two coins, if either was heads shadow
images is no longer in effect?"
Master Trainer Mike: Yes.
42. Will there be any promo for the victory road like the Eevee and
Computer Error?
Master Trainer Mike: That is what the Psyduck and Cool Porygon are (but
only if you have earned all 8 badges).
43. What is the EXACT DATE that victory road starts?
Master Trainer Mike: Depends on the location, after season 8 ends.
44. Is the Promo Psyduck Picture I've seen of #19 real or is it a fake?
Master Trainer Pat: We have not seen it yet, sorry.
45. Will there be a promo in the G/S player's guide/game?
Master Trainer Mike: Dunno.
46. What is THE BEST DECK in your opinion?
Master Trainer Mike: One that wins a lot.
47. Will there any super rare or uncommon card in the next set?
Master Trainer Pat: There will be uncommon’s, that's for sure.
48. Are they planning a tournament when someone who wins a qualifier
and gets and invitation actually means something? No 3 badge rule. Only
invitation winners.
Master Trainer Mike: No, why? This is supposed to be a FUN game.
49. Are you going to make a Promotional Series? Like decks made of
completely promotional cards?
Master Trainer Pat: No plans to do that at this time.
50. Any new way to the Promo Jigglypuff?
Master Trainer Pat: No, new ways to obtain that no.
51. Will a card come with the Pokémon 2000 movie if so what?
Master Trainer Mike: Don’t know.
52. Why isn't the oversized "Articuno, Moltres, and Zapdos" Card not a
normal sized, playable kind? Will it be?
Master Trainer Pat: Not that we know of, I don't know why they didn't
make it normal sized.
53. It's my understanding from the translation of the Ancient Mew card
that it's name is simply "Mew" (c'mon, there's only three symbols) and
you should not be allowed to have 4 of them PLUS 4 normal Mews in a
deck. Please confirm thanks.
Master Trainer Mike: Sorry but in our cards it is Ancient Mew, a
different name, (this comes from R&D).
54. Will there be any promo in the future that will the same as the
promo Pikachu in which you can get as many as you want?
Master Trainer Pat: Haven't heard of any.
55. Any word on the next Movie?
Master Trainer Mike: Spectacular and a must-see. How's that.
Master Trainer Pat: Thumbs up.
56. Will there be free trips at the qualifier.
Master Trainer Mike: Nope, but a good prize structure though.
57. "Ancient Mew" is just the nickname of the card, like "Movie Promo
Mewtwo". Why is it considered a different name?
Master Trainer Pat: That's what R&D told us today, I thought the same
thing.
58. Earlier you stated that all effects of the attack must be resolved
prior to getting your prize. What happens in the case of Team Rockets
Meowth where you each have just one prize left and at the end of the
flips you would both be knocked out.
Master Trainer Mike: Game ends in a draw.
59. Are there going to be more locations for the Gym: Challenge Prerelease this time?
Master Trainer Pat: We're trying to get a lot more places to hold it
this time.
60. Are you making Base set 3 or is this some crazy rumor?
Master Trainer Mike: We are discussing the possibility of a Base Set 3
for later next year primarily as a sealed deck tournament enhances.
61. Will there be a new Promo for the second league when it starts?
Master Trainer Pat: There will be more promos, yes.
62. When I use Trash Exchange, do I shuffle Trash Exchange back into my
deck too?
Master Trainer Pat: I assume that you don't, but we'll double check on
that for next week.
63. Will Toys R Us have the League Season 2?
Master Trainer Mike: I think so.
64. What does Erika's Oddish do?
Master Trainer Pat: There are two different ones...we can't list off
the cards for you.
65. What are your guy's favorite and most hated deck types?
Master Trainer Mike: Love Raindance and hate donut stealing decks.
Master Trainer Pat: Haymaker/Wigglytuff
66. Any news on another Super Trainer Showdown? I mean, I don't want
alot of info, but is there any news on another one?
Master Trainer Mike: Nothing to release yet, sorry.
67. Would the neo set come after the next Gym set, right? Or would the
vending sheet come first?
Master Trainer Pat: Don’t know.
68. Since you don't do super rares/uncommon - how about a super common?
Master Trainer Mike: Nope.
69. Is there an official release date yet for Gym: Challenge?
Master Trainer Mike: Mid-October.
70. Is there such thing as Ancient Mewtwo? A person here claims to have
one.
Master Trainer Pat: Never heard of that one.
71. I saw a great idea on PokeGym. It was an idea about an American
Promo Set. If you get a chance to look at it, you should. Now my
question: Is an American Promo Set a possibility?
Master Trainer Mike: Don’t know, we don't own the game so we don't get
to dictate it much.
72. Master Trainer Mike, if somebody wins first place in one of the
qualifier tournaments do they get a free trip to new jersey for the
east coast super trainer showdown?
Master Trainer Mike: Sorry but they do not, they do get an invitation
and some cool prizes.
73. Why is Brock's Zubat Rare?
Master Trainer Pat: Just like Misty's Goldeen, some rare slots ended up
being filled with special cards from the Japanese PCD's
74. Will there be any other spin off series like Base Set 3 a combo of
base, Jungle and fossil?
Master Trainer Mike: Base Set 3 (if it happens) would probably be
through Rocket, but it is only in very early discussions.
75. 'No Removal Gym' - after you discard 2 cards, you still need to pay
for the Super Energy Removal, correct? Or does the 2 cards pay for it?
Master Trainer Pat: Yes, you would still have to discard the energy for
SER
76. In the gym leader sets are there cards that have ""Team Rocket's""
in the name?
Master Trainer Mike: No but there are cards that have "Rocket" as part
of their name.
77. I just notice this now but why is the Non-Holo Gym card (example
Misty) looks different from its Holo version (Ex. Misty was just
looking happy on the non-holo version and Misty on the holo version is
putting both her hands on her waist) in gym heroes?
Master Trainer Pat: We don't know why they changed the art on that.
78. Will the 15-trainer rule be applied for Pokémon League 2?
Master Trainer Mike: No, it is only being considered as a possible
tournament format NOT for the league.
79. Can an energy-burned rainbow energy still be moved around with
energy transfer?
Master Trainer Pat: No, you wouldn't be able to do that.
80. I have seen some uncut holo sheet and I was wondering how could I
get one?
Master Trainer Mike: Dunno, they are sometimes given out as prizes or
in promotions, I would check on the secondary market.
81. You can only play Misty on Misty's Pokémon, so why did topdeck's
solution to a puzzle have you playing it on Blaine's Magmar?
Master Trainer Mike: Because they were wrong, should have checked with
us, hee hee hee
Master Trainer Pat: You can still play Misty on any Pokémon, but it
will only give the extra 20 damage to a Misty's Pokémon
82. Will Misty's Golduck and Misty's Gyarados be included in the Gym
Challenge series?
Master Trainer Pat: Golduck is in there, it is Nasty.
83. Is the Gym Heroes expansion the first expansion without any
mistakes? If so, congrats guys. If not, what are they?
Master Trainer Mike: What mistakes? We include creative accuracy errors
as a bonus for you the consumer!
Master Trainer Pat: Artistic License. That sort of thing.
84.Is there a limit to how many fire energies I can attach to dark
Charizard? With 5 or 6, his damage would KO almost anything
Master Trainer Mike: There is no limit, but you have to flip heads for
damage and then you would have to discard that energy card. Its tough
but limited.
85. Any news on being able to Recall TR Magicarp's RapidEvolution to
stack multiple Gyaradoses (or would that be Gyaradese)?
Master Trainer Pat: Yes, MT Mike, didn't R&D say that yes you could do
that, but that you would ignore the previous evolution.
Master Trainer Mike: Yes you can do that. The older Gayrados would
basically be out of play (turn it upside down under the basic Pokémon).
If you devolved that Pokémon it would go back to the earlier stage
evolution NOT the previous Gyarados. The out of play Gyaradoses stay
until the entire Pokémon leaves play. R&D is talking with Japan about
possible illegal evolution rules but at this time you CAN do that with
Recall.
Master Trainer Pat: So, for instance, I have a Magikarp evolved to
Gyarados. If I use Recall to Rapid Evolve into D. Gyarados. Then I
would turn the other Gyrados upside down and ignore it until that
Pokémon gets KO’d
86. Why did they stop making the regular Base and Jungle?
Master Trainer Mike: This is a trading card product and if we printed
them forever they would all become as worthless as Teenage Mutant Ninja
Turtles toys did. Though I do like my Shredder cereal bowl set.
87. If you devolve a Charizard with Devolution Spray into Charmeleon
after you use Energy Burn, can you use flame-thrower?
Master Trainer Pat: Sure, the energy will stay fire energy until the
end of the turn
88. Will there be an STS in Canada, we've been waiting.
Master Trainer Mike: Not that I know of.
89. Was Sabrina's Gengar's Art changed?
Master Trainer Pat: There were two different artworks for that card
originally.
90. It is a bit early but are you doing Surfing, Flying, Birthday, etc.
Pikachu in English?
Master Trainer Mike: Sorry no info to give out yet.
91. If the opponent retreats their active after a successful Misty's
Tentacool's Crystal attack, would they be able to attach energy to it?
Master Trainer Pat: That's an attack effect that will be removed in the
normal ways.
92. If Imakuni's Doduo and _____'s Chansey are in Challenge, will they
stay banned?
Master Trainer Mike: There are no Imakuni cards in challenge.
93.Dark Raichu was included in Neo 2;Beyond the Ruins. Will other
American cards that only appeared here appear in later series in Japan?
Master Trainer Mike: Maybe, dunno.
94. Will the Super Trainer Showdown ever be in California ever again?
Say it isn't so...<sob>.
Master Trainer Mike: Not this year but who knows what the future
brings.
95. Will there be an Elite Four for the Victory Road league?
Master Trainer Mike: Not that I know of.
96. What Number is League promo Porygon?
Master Trainer Mike: 15 as usual.
97. Clarification on Mr. Mime v. R. Hitmonchan: Mimes attack doubles
from 30 to 60, but Chan bases his Crosscounter on 30x2, not 60x2?
Master Trainer Pat: It would be 60 by 2, you're right.
98. Is Wizards' goal to eventually catch up with the Japanese cards so
that both forms are released in unison?
Master Trainer Pat: That sure would be easier on us.
99. Will you guys put out Championship decks like you did for Magic
only for STS Champs?
Master Trainer Mike: No plans that I know of.
100. In Japanese Gym 1 there was a derangement gym, but in American Gym
1 there isn't. Why was it taken out? Will it become a promo like the
Fossil Mew?
Master Trainer Pat: Many of the names were changed to protect the
innocent. It may be in the next set under a different name.
101. On your website, it said Promo cards will be handed out in the
East Coast Tournament. What is the Promo card given out on the East
Coast Tournament?
Master Trainer Mike: Sorry but I don't know, I will find out for next
week though.
102. Can you get a promo card with the Pokémon 2000 soundtrack?
Master Trainer Pat: We don't know yet.
103. Is it true that there will be a limit of trainers in each deck?
Master Trainer Mike: No, that is just one of many forms we are testing
as a possible tournament format only.
104. Will there be any Gym Promo in the next league?
Master Trainer Mike: Sorry don't know yet.
105. What's the prerelease CARD for Gym: Challenge?
Master Trainer Mike: Dunno.
106. Why did Wizards include such meager cards as Misty's Goldeen,
Misty's Tentacool and Brock's Zubat in Gym Heroes?
Master Trainer Mike: We translate the cards that were made in Japan,
they made those cards, and we translated them.
107. Will there be any more "super rare" promos in the future (like
Cool Porygon
Master Trainer Mike: Not that I know of.
Master Trainer Pat: Don't know.
108. How was GENCON?
Master Trainer Mike: Was fun, I won a costume contest (gave me money to
spend).
109. Are there going to be Giovanni and Koga preconstructed decks or
just Blaine and Sabrina like in Japan?
Master Trainer Pat: Yes, both will have their own decks.
110. In the league book there is a place for a stamp for the base set.
Can we give stamps to kids that complete the base set 2 instead since
base set 1 is not made anymore?
Master Trainer Mike: That would be up to your Gym leader, I would say
they could if they wanted to.
111. Why don't you have just one STS and have it in the center of the
country?
Master Trainer Mike: Cuz 2 is twice as good!
112. Re: Q#62. Wouldn't Mr. Mime's Invisible Wall prevent 60 damage
from Rocket's Hitmonchan Crosscounter attack? Why wouldn't you count
weakness, if you were playing weakness & resistance?
Master Trainer Pat: Yes, it would, I didn't calculate in the Weakness
before...
113. What do you think will be the first Gym promo card?
Master Trainer Mike: I'm pushing for Weedle with a donut.
114. At Tropic Mega Battle can you use base set 2 cards?
Master Trainer Pat: I think you can, yeah.
115. Was the 15 Trainer meant to destroy the archetypes?
Master Trainer Mike: Guys, it is only a possible tournament format to
help increase deck creativity and loosen up the competitive
environment, we really can't comment any further than that at this
time.
116. In Year 2 of the Pokémon League can we keep the points from this
year or do we have to start over with new books?
Master Trainer Pat: I'm pretty sure that you'll be starting over with a
new league book.
117. Have they stopped making Charizards or are they still being made?
Master Trainer Mike: Base Set 2 Charizard's are still in print.
118. Will there be any more promo that you get in the Nintendo power
magazine?
Master Trainer Mike: Possibly.
119. After Victory Road, you said that the Pokemon League Year 2
happens in January. So how is this structured: New books and badges or
just an extension for the newcomers to earn their badges?
Master Trainer Mike: No specific information yet, I think you will
start anew with new books and badges but we don't know yet.
120. What is the rarest card in Gym Heroes? Where I'm from it's
Rocket's Scyther.
Master Trainer Mike: There is no rarest card, just rare holos.
121. There's a TR Zapdos and a TR Moltres, is there a TR Articuno?
Master Trainer Mike: Not that we know of.
122. Any new non-basic Energy card?
Master Trainer Mike: Not yet.
123. Are there going to be vending sheets in English?
Master Trainer Mike: Don’t know.
124. Anything from R&D on the Clefable/Rocket Karp thing? (I still say
you can't evolve)
Master Trainer Pat: At this point you can, but we'll be checking with
Creatures on this one.
125. I saw on a magazine a Pikachu card with a 3d Pikachu and thunder
around him under his picture there is a camera like where it would say
r for team rocket what kind of card is this?
Master Trainer Pat: I think that's a Japanese promo card. I don't know
where it came from originally
126. In one of your earlier chats, you said in response to "Why do you
put energy in Gym Packs"? You said when Base 2 Goes out of print. Why
not just make packs of energy?
Master Trainer Pat: Who would buy those?
127. Then how would the person get to New Jersey no parent would want
to buy two tickets to take them to that?
Master Trainer Mike: If you want to go to the World Series you pay to
go right? Same thing.
128. Will there be any common Pokémon such as Rattata to be a rare in
the next Gym set?
Master Trainer Pat: Maybe.
Master Trainer Mike: You cannot compare the Japanese market with the US
one, different markets and different logic.
129. Is there a way to get a list of the demo decks you use at
conventions so we can use them at the league?
Master Trainer Mike: We only use the base set 2-starter deck to demo
with.
130.Funny Q's: What does the ESP stand for in Sabrina's ESP?
Master Trainer Pat: Extra Sabrina Protection?
Master Trainer Mike: Extra salty pretzels? Product placement.
131. Can you get R&D to reconsider the Ancient Mew thing?
Master Trainer Mike: They already have, besides Ancient Mew will NOT be
allowed as a playable cards in sanctioned events anyway.
Master Trainer Pat: It's not that good, either.
132. Will the 15 Trainer or 2 Trainer-a-turn Rule be in effect for the
East Coast STS?
Master Trainer Mike: Maybe, don’t know.
133. Will the 3 badge rule (or similar) be in effect at the East STS?
Master Trainer Mike: Yes it will.
134. What will the prizes be for those who compete in the Tropical Mega
Battle?
Master Trainer Mike: Sorry not public knowledge yet (I'm not sure
either).
135. How long will TCG league 2 be?
Master Trainer Mike: Don’t know, too far away yet.
136. When will we know about STS info? For instance, will three badges
qualify you etc.
Master Trainer Mike: It will be posted once it is finalized, sorry but
I don't know a date yet.
137. Why aren't there many draft format tournaments run. I think they
would make the game more fair for newbies and people on a budget.
Master Trainer Mike: Right now there aren't boosters or decks out there
that work well with a draft format. Base Set 3 is being considered for
just such a thing.
138. What do you prefer - Scyther or Rocket's Scyther?
Master Trainer Mike: Scyther - free retreat is cool.
139. Why are there TWO rare Electabuzzes in Gym Heroes?
Master Trainer Mike: We just translate them guys, I dunno.
140. Is there any way besides seeing PTM2k I can get an MP Articuno?
Master Trainer Mike: Not from us, try the secondary market.
141. Would it be possible to use 4 Blaine's Vulpix, 4 Brock's Vulpix,
and 4 Base Vulpix in the same deck, or would it constitute an illegal
deck?
Master Trainer Mike: You could as they all have different names.
142. What are you going to do about Sears selling Gym Packs ahead of
the Release Date?
Master Trainer Mike: The date wasn't set in stone for Heroes, we are
working to fix that for Challenge.
143. Re: Q#96. Our TRU Gym Leader said their contract for the league is
up this year and they haven't signed a new contract for next year. Do
you know if they have & that's why you answered, "I think so." that
Toys R Us would have a second season?
Master Trainer Mike: These sorts of things DON'T get signed so many
months in advance as they are always changing. Also we talk with the
corporate heads of Toys R Us first, not the local gym leaders so they
might not hear of it yet.
144. Can you buy gym heroes from pretty much any places with cards (Ex.
Toys R Us maybe malls books a million?)
Master Trainer Mike: Should be able to yes.
145. Why did you only make the Misty trainer card work with Misty's
Pokémon only? The Japanese translation (I believe) states that it can
do 20 damage when attached to Any Pokémon.
Master Trainer Pat: For Game balance.
146. If a Rocket's Snorlax gets attacked and gets hit with sleep, and
it wasn't asleep before the attack, would Rocket Snorlax's Poke Power
deal 20 to the Pokémon that put it to sleep?
Master Trainer Pat: Nope.
147. Can you use the English/Japanese Exggutor in tournament? Is this
card going be a promo anytime soon?
Master Trainer Pat: No.
148. Can I evolve Team's Rockets Meowth into Dark Persian?
Master Trainer Mike: Nope.
149. Sorry if you already answered this in an earlier chat, but here
goes. If a Dark Golbat uses Sneak Attack on a Dark Gyarados and KOs it,
will it deal 20 times the number of water, with heads on the toss, to
the Defending Pokémon, or to Dark Golbat(assuming the two are
different)?
Master Trainer Pat: Final Beam says that it triggers when D. Gyarados
is knocked out by an attack. D. Golbat's P Power is not an attack.
150. In the fossil set Psyduck was weak to lighting but in the Gym
Heroes set Psyduck is weak to grass. Why is this?
Master Trainer Mike: It is a different version, so sometimes the
weakness or resistances are different.
151. Can energy removal remove a DCE? And is it the same for super E.R?
Master Trainer Mike: Yes they can.
152. The TCG gameboy game doesn't allow evolutions from Clefairy Doll.
But in real life. You can evolve Clefairy Doll into any stage 1, right?
Master Trainer Mike: NO!
153. If I have a NidoKing as my active and I do toxic does it
immediately do 40 damage after my turn?
Master Trainer Pat: It will do 20 for the attack and 20 for the poison
at the end of your turn
154. I'm confused about water gun like Poliwags water gun (normal plain
old Poliwag) when it says does 10 more damage for every water energy
attached to Poliwag but not used to pay for this attack's energy cost
you can't add more than 20 damage in this way does that mean as many
energies that is on him only 20 damage can be added?
Master Trainer Mike: Correct.
155. Re Q128: Thanks for the answer on Recall & Rapid Evolution. Now
then, if using DevoSpray it says you can choose a level of Evolution.
What if you stack multiple Gyaradoses to allow you to use DevoSpray to
"pick & choose"?
Master Trainer Mike: You cannot choose one of those previously played
Gyaradoses. When you played another from Rapid Evolution using Recall,
the older version in effect leaves play and cannot be devolved to it.
We mentioned this earlier in the announcements.
156. Why is WotC still treating Pokémon as "only" a kid’s game? There
are plenty of Serious players that would like to see Serious
tournaments... the West STS should have at least shown you that...
Master Trainer Pat: Do you think that we (mike and I) treat you like
kids?
Master Trainer Mike: Do you have any idea how much time and effort and
money go into the league and tournaments and STS's?
Master Trainer Pat: We certainly take it seriously.
Master Trainer Mike: Pokémon is an introductory level TCG but it is
getting more complex as it goes.
157. Like Pikachu Promotional No.1, Will the giant Articuno, Zapdos,
Moltres be playable? I have a special place in my deck waiting for him.
Master Trainer Pat: Oversized cards have never been playable.
158. Do you apply weakness and resistance to R. Hitmonchan's
Crosscounter? It says he ATTACKS for double the damage but it could be
just straight damage
Master Trainer Mike: You would apply weakness and Resistance to the
Crosscounter attack.
159. Ok, ha ha, about the mistakes. But are their any errors for the
gym heroes?
Master Trainer Mike: Orange has never been Misty’s best color choice.
Master Trainer Pat: I don't know of any. Mike?
Master Trainer Mike: Hmmm, not enough Weedles?
Master Trainer Pat: Misty's fashion sense!
160. So MTM and MTP. Where can we find a comprehensive rules document
for Pokémon TCG? *wink*
Master Trainer Mike: Dunno, where? hee hee. Check out the Team
Compendium on the web, a great fan created collection of rulings!
161. Where might I find a list of the misprint cards?
Master Trainer Pat: Don't have one of those yet.
162. MTP TC is still waiting for your bio your hero is still Scyther?
Master Trainer Pat: Yea, I was on the site last night and noticed. I'll
get you in something soon. I tried out the Rocket's Scyther good, but
no free retreat.
163. Why did it take so long for Gym Heroes to come out?
Master Trainer Mike: What do you mean so long? 3 months is the normal
in between set time.
164. Can Promo Eevee's Pokémon power, chain reaction, cause it to
evolve even if it's not "Eevee's" turn?
Master Trainer Pat: Yes.
165. Blastoise's Rain dance says that you may attach a water energy to
any water Pokémon. Does that include from your deck?
Master Trainer Pat: No.
166. Why are there no free trips given for the STS? Like the West Cost
Master Trainer Mike: There are legal issues as well as the fact that it
makes it TOO competitive, remember this is SUPPOSED to be for fun.
Everyone having fun?
167. With tickling Machine, can your opponent use the cards, even
though they can look at them?
Master Trainer Pat: You're opponent's cards are out of play, so no they
can't look at them or use them.
168. Will you need 8 badges to start year 2? Or can you drop and begin
the New Year without finishing the first.
Master Trainer Mike: It should be open to anyone.
Master Trainer Pat: What other Pokémon from Heroes are seeing play in
your decks?
Master Trainer Mike: I like Misty's Poliwag and Energy Flow!
Master Trainer Pat: Let us know, Misty's Poliwag has been seeing alot
of use in Raindance decks around here.
Master Trainer Mike: Yeah!
169. What set is after neo 2?
Master Trainer Mike: Don’t know, that is a question for Creatures us.
170. Just wanted to know what is so special about Scyther (jungle)? I
find it hard to use.
Master Trainer Mike: It comes in so many fruityful flavors!
Master Trainer Pat: In a word. Incredible.
Master Trainer Mike: Or is that Fruit Loops? I always get those two
confused.
Master Trainer Pat: Resistance to fighting, free retreat, 70 HP. 60
damage and he has the Mantis Style martial arts.
171. How many seasons will be in League year 2?
Master Trainer Mike: Don’t know yet.
172. In the UK we get most promos eventually, but the 2 Nintendo Power
ones wont since that mag is unavailable here. So will they be released
in another fashion?
Master Trainer Mike: Sorry but we don't know that.
173. I read a magazine that said ancient mews states don't remember the
magazine can you conform his hp is 40 and his attack does 80 or 60?
Master Trainer Mike: Our version has 30 hps.
174. Why have qualifiers if no free trips?
Master Trainer Mike: Why do you have to have free trips? The point of
the qualifiers is to compete and have fun if you HAVE to be paid to do
so, maybe you shouldn't go.
175. If I have a Dark Gyrados who uses Ice beam and flips heads does it
do 30 to a Mr. Mime (Because of Parlays) Sorry if that's been asked
already.
Master Trainer Mike: It would NOT do 30 damage as the damage is done
BEFORE the paralysis effect, so Mr. Mime's Barrier would prevent the
damage.
176. How exactly does Sabrina's ESP work?
Master Trainer Mike: You attach it to a Pokémon with Sabrina in the
name. If any attack uses coin flips, you can flip all of those coins
again (basically giving you 2 chances to get the result you want).
177. If you have "stacked Gyaradoses" (from a Recalled Rapid
Evolution), can you use Recall to use one of the other Gyaradoses
attacks?
Master Trainer Pat: No, this is how it was described to us: If you use
Rapid Evolution on a Magikarp that has already R. Evolved. Then you
take the Gyarados or D. Gyarados that was there first, turn it upside
down and place it beneath that Magikarp. It is considered out of play
until that Pokémon gets K.O'd
178. Is there any Giovanni's cards in gym heroes?
Master Trainer Mike: No.
179. Where can I find pictures of gym heroes cards?
Master Trainer Pat: Top Deck magazine.
180. I have a mis-print fossil Magmar. Is it rare or valuable?
Master Trainer Mike: Sorry but we don't get involved in secondary
market value, I have no idea.
181. How many cards will there be in gym challenge? BTW hey mike do you
fall off of stage intentionally?
Master Trainer Mike: 132,
182. Can Eevee use Chain Reaction if Aerodactyl is in play?
Master Trainer Mike: Yup.
Master Trainer Pat: Yes.
183.Does Misty's Staryu swift ignore defender?
Master Trainer Mike: Yup.
184. Do you know what kinds of prizes you get in the qualifier
tournaments for East Coast STS?
Master Trainer Mike: Don't have specifics, as of yet, it will be posted
online when we do.
185. Can they use the card they drew at the start of their turn, or
does that join the others out of play (Tickling Machine again)
Master Trainer Pat Yes, they could.
186. If you used Porygons conversion 1, what would happen if you change
the defending Pokemon's weakness to the same type that it is resistance
against?
Master Trainer Mike: It would have the same weakness and resistance.
Weakness is calculated first in an attack.
187. Our local Toys R Us seems pretty unorganized and halfhearted...can an individual host the league on his own? If so, how?
Master Trainer Mike: The League is a promotion run through
participating retail locations. I would recommend offering them to help
run and organize their league. Most locations would be glad for the
help.
188. If Rocket's Scyther's attack stops working when it evolves, does
that mean there could be a Rocket's Scizor? Or could a Scizor that says
Evolves from Scyther also evolve from Rocket's Scyther?
Master Trainer Pat: We just don't know yet.
189. What’s the next promo coming out?
Master Trainer Mike: The Psyduck and Cool Porygon's for Victory Road
Season.
190. Do I re-flip all the coin for Sabrina's Haunter's Night Spirits?
Master Trainer Pat: Do you mean if you have S. ESP attached? Then, yes,
you would.
191. Why is the ages only 11-14 for the tropical mega battle?
Master Trainer Mike: The Tropical Mega Battle is primarily a pr event
for Creatures and the Japanese market and most Japanese players are
that age. It is their event and they make the rules.
192. Maybe you should point out that the STS qualifiers are really for
those with less than 3 badges to gain entry, if you have more, then
you're fine as you stand!
Master Trainer Pat: Good call, Ikendall, though it still would be a
good chance to see what other trainers are playing.
193. Why is there 12 from America and only from 2 from every other
country?
Master Trainer Mike: Right now, the American Market is the largest one,
as that changes, you might see the Mega Battle change.
194. When is Canada getting DCI?
Master Trainer Pat: Canada already has the DCI.
195. Is there a Misty's Blastoise in heroes or challenge?
Master Trainer Pat: No
196. So in the case of "Stacked Gyaradoses", what will Mew's Devolution
Beam do to it/them?
Master Trainer Mike: Nothing as already stated you ignore them.
197. Why are there no Giovanni's cards in the gym set?
Master Trainer Pat: Giovanni's Pokémon all ended up in Gym: Challenge
198. Is there going to be a dark Raichu in English neo2 since there was
one in TR?
Master Trainer Pat: I don't know, I still have not seen the Japanese
Neo 2 Raichu, does it translate the same?
199. In Dark Vileplume, if it's weakness is fighting is it a miss-print
or what?
Master Trainer Pat: The non-holo was a misprint though it should be
played as is.
200. Why was the qualifier for the tropical mega battle in Canada only
in Calgary? Do you expect al the other Canadians to drive to Calgary?
Master Trainer Mike: As stated, the Mega Battle is basically a small PR
event NOT a major tournament, they will run it as they choose.
201. How soon do you think a exalt date for the STS become available?
Master Trainer Pat: Soon.
202. Will the winners from the West Coast be in the next top deck?
Master Trainer Mike: Maybe, not sure.
203. Are there any cards coming up that will be used similar to
'instants' like in the Magic Game...
Master Trainer Pat: Don't think so...
204. Do you think that there could be a box for the winner of their
tourney for the prizes? Or less?
Master Trainer Mike: Sorry but we don't know yet.
205. Would you be able 2 play in tournaments if u didn't join the
league? (I'm asking this 4 my friend)
Master Trainer Pat: Yes.
206. Why does Vulpix not get evolutions in Heroes? The only good fire
Pokemon IMO in the set is Rockets Moltres!
Master Trainer Mike: Ninetails will be in Challenge.
207. Can you get a book and DCI card direct from wizards? Our league
location has run out and not had any since June
Master Trainer Mike: Sorry no, make sure that the league coordinator is
contacting the correct people.
208. Since STS type events tend to be US only, could a UK resident, for
example, attend if the had the badges and flew over?
Master Trainer Pat: Yes, I suppose so.
209. Where are the DCI in Canada?
Master Trainer Mike: Look on our website on the event location page.
There are hundreds of sanctioned events in Canada throughout the year.
210. Do you get a Prize for defeating each Stacked Gyarados?
Master Trainer Pat: No, they're out of play.
211. Is there any difference between the cool Porygon from the N64 and
the one for the League?
Master Trainer Mike: Nope.
212. Is there going to be a Mistys Golduck in challenge?
Master Trainer Pat: Yes there's two different ones...one has a nasty,
nasty Damage Shift attack.
213. If Giovanni's Nidoking used threaten/intimidate or whatever it's
called, would Misty Staryu still be able 2 attack it
Master Trainer Mike: Sorry but we can't answer rules questions on
Challenge cards yet.
214. Sorry to be a pain, but please clarify exactly what I'm supposed
to do when my opponent uses Mew's Devolution Beam on my "stacked
Gyaradese"
Master Trainer Mike: Ok, you simply remove the in play Gyarados card
(the last one played). Your Pokémon is now a Magickarp, tat simple. The
other Gyarodoses are OUT OF PLAY and do NOT affect the game in any way!
Master Trainer Pat: Chrisbo, you earned your donuts today. Now quit
with the Gyarados'
215. Are there more gym stadium cards in the next set.
Master Trainer Mike: Yup!
216. What’s the difference between a gold invitation and a regular one?
Master Trainer Pat: There isn't a difference anymore
217. Do Dark Muk and Base Dragonair combo well together?
Master Trainer Pat: That might do the trick, though you are talking
about two evolution chains you'll need to get into play.
218. Ask is it possible to get more than one Cool Porygon on Victory
Road?
Master Trainer Pat: It is, but it won't be easy.
219. On the original Vulpix, his hp says HP 50. Why is Vulpix
different?
Master Trainer Pat: He was the proud recipient of a misprint. Enjoy!
220. If you win 10 in a row, do you get 2 cool Porygons?
Master Trainer Pat: Yes, and 15 in a row gets you a stuffed animal from
the _top_ shelf. Just kiddin'
221. In our league they never have new worksheets. Do you print them?
Master Trainer Mike: No, we have MAGIC ELVES WITH THEIR PURPLE CRAYONS.
Master Trainer Mike: Thank you all for coming this week, I will try and
have fun in Hawaii for you all! hee hee hee
Master Trainer Pat: Bye everyone, we'll see you next Thursday.
Master Trainer Mike: Look for us at the various Mall Tour stops and
stop by and say hi.