Nick Hargrave - August, 30th 2023

Base Set Pokémon and the Original 102.

Pokémon, the phenomenon that took the world by storm, is a franchise that has touched multiple generations. But before the world of Pokémon GO, and the many video game iterations, there was the magic of base set Pokémon cards. These cards, first released in the US in 1999, were more than just collectibles; they represented a new era in trading card games, fandom, and pop culture. Let’s take a journey back to those early days

Origins of the Base Set

Originating in Japan, Pokémon cards were an expansion of the already successful video game franchise. The cards were introduced to America under the name Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) and the initial release, known as the Base Set, comprised 102 unique cards. This set laid the foundation for what would become one of the most successful and enduring trading card games in history.

Image depicts the first rare limited editions of the original Pokémon base set

Iconic Cards of the Base Set

Within this initial collection, several cards quickly rose to legendary status. The most iconic of them all? The Base Set Charizard. This card, with its fiery artwork and powerful attacks, became the aspiration of every young collector. But Charizard wasn’t alone. Blastoise and Venusaur, the other final evolution forms of the starter Pokémon, also held their prestigious spots.

Pokémon - 69 cards:

1. Alakazam
2. Beedrill
3. Blastoise
4. Bulbasaur
5. Caterpie
6. Charizard
7. Charmander
8. Charmeleon
9. Clefairy
10. Clefairy Doll (though not a Pokémon, it's a Trainer card with Pokémon in its name)
11. Diglett
12. Dugtrio
13. Farfetched
14. Gyarados
15. Hitmonchan
16. Ivysaur
17. Machamp
18. Machoke
19. Machop
20. Magnemite
21. Magneton
22. Metapod
23. Nidoking 24.
24. Nidoran ♂
25. Nidorino
26. Ninetales
27. Onix
28. Pidgeotto
29. Pidgey
30. Pikachu
31. Poliwhirl
32. Poliwrath
33. Ponyta
34. Porygon
35. Raichu
36. Rattata
37. Raticate
38. Sandshrew
39. Sandslash
40. Squirtle
41. Starmie
42. Staryu
43. Tangela
44. Voltorb
45. Vulpix
46. Wartortle
47. Weedle
48. Zapdos
49. Abra
50. Arcanine
51. Chansey

52. Dewgong
53. Doduo
54. Dragonair
55. Dratini
56. Drowzee
57. Electabuzz
58. Electrode
59. Gastly
60. Growlithe
61. Haunter
62. Jynx
63. Kadabra
64. Kakuna
65. Koffing
66. Magikarp
67. Magmar
68. Nidoran♀
69. Nidorina

Trainers - 26 cards:

70. Bill
71. Computer Search
72. Defender
73. Devolution Spray
74. Energy Retrieval
75. Full Heal
76. Gust of Wind
77. Impostor Professor Oak
78. Item Finder
79. Lass
80. Maintenance
81. Pokémon Breeder
82. Pokémon Center
83. Pokémon Flute
84. Pokédex
85. Potion
86. Professor Oak
87. Revive
88. Super Energy Retrieval
89. Super Potion
90. Switch
91. Scoop Up
92. PlusPower
93. Double Colorless Energy
94. Energy Removal
95. Super Energy Removal

Energy - 7 cards:

96. Fighting Energy
97. Fire Energy
98. Grass Energy
99. Lightning Energy
100. Psychic Energy
101. Water Energy
102. Double Colorless Energy (though listed earlier among trainers due to its special nature, it's technically an energy card)

Mechanics and Gameplay

Beyond collecting, the Pokémon TCG introduced a strategic gameplay element. Players could battle using their cards, mirroring the video game’s battle mechanics. Each card had its own abilities, strengths, and weaknesses, and it was up to the trainer to tactically use them in battles. This gave the cards additional value, as players sought to not only collect but also to optimize their decks for competitive play.

Trainer cards allow battlefield control and special effects. Image credit: Sarah Jarvis

Cultural Impact

The release of the Base Set cards caused a cultural tidal wave. Schools became arenas for trading and battling. Friendships were formed and tested over trades. The playground buzzed with rumors of rare card locations and tales of epic battles.

But it wasn’t just about the cards themselves. The Pokémon TCG spurred a slew of ancillary products and events. Official tournaments were organized, strategy guides were written, and protective sleeves became must-have accessories.

Collectible Value

Fast forward to today, and Base Set Pokémon cards have become highly valuable collectibles. Pristine, graded examples of cards, especially the elusive Charizard, can fetch astronomical prices at auctions. The nostalgic value combined with the rarity of mint-condition cards has made them a sought-after item for collectors and investors alike.

In Conclusion

The Base Set Pokémon cards were more than just pieces of cardboard with artwork. They were gateways to adventures, stories, and friendships. For many, they represent a cherished piece of childhood, a tangible link to a time of wonder and discovery.

Today, as the Pokémon franchise continues to evolve and expand, the Base Set remains a testament to its humble beginnings and the joy it brought to millions. Whether you were a casual collector or a competitive player, the memories of those early days of Pokémon cards are etched into the hearts of many. And as time goes on, they only seem to grow more precious.

Thanks for reading, from your friends at Booster Crate!

From the Vault: Lessons from Discontinued Trading Card Games

Item added to your cart