Pokémon Gym Challenge – Complete Guide

Gym Challenge is the second and final set in the Gym series, released in October 2000. It expanded on the Gym Heroes concept, introducing new Gym Leaders and even more powerful Trainer-owned Pokémon. It’s widely considered one of the most competitive and collectible sets from the WOTC era.

Quick Facts

Release Date: October 16, 2000
Total Cards: 132
Notable Pokémon: Blaine’s Charizard, Sabrina’s Gengar, Rocket’s Mewtwo, Giovanni’s Machamp
Set Symbol: Black building pillars (same as Gym Heroes)

Popular Cards

Gym Challenge features some of the most competitive and visually iconic Trainer cards of the vintage era. A few standouts include:

Legacy and Collectibility

Gym Challenge marked the final appearance of Kanto’s Gym Leaders in the WOTC era and included stronger cards and better holofoil artwork than its predecessor. It’s also known for higher-value 1st Edition cards.

Fun Facts

This set featured the first ever Charizard card owned by a Trainer (Blaine).
Sabrina’s Gengar has one of the most mysterious artworks in the TCG, with ghostly faces in the background.
Rocket’s Mewtwo was one of the few Psychic-type cards with competitive viability in tournaments.

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FAQs About Gym Challenge

❓ How is Gym Challenge different from Gym Heroes?

Gym Challenge introduced a new set of Gym Leaders and stronger, more battle-ready Pokémon. It also featured more aggressive strategies and rarer holos.

❓ What is the most valuable card in Gym Challenge?

Blaine’s Charizard in 1st Edition PSA 10 condition is among the most valuable, often commanding four-figure prices.

❓ Are these cards legal in current tournament play?

No, Gym Challenge cards are no longer legal in standard format play but remain popular in retro formats and for collecting.