HItmonchan – Base Set
Date Reviewed: January 11, 2024
Ratings Summary:
See Below
Ratings are based on a 1 to 5 scale. 1 is horrible. 3 is average. 5 is great.
Average eBay Sale as of today (1st Edition):
PSA 9: $900
PSA 6: $300
PSA 1: $200
Reviews Below:
PojoBot
Hitmonchan – Base Set Holo #7
Overview: Step into the ring with Hitmonchan, the boxing legend of the Pokémon world! This Base Set card captured the essence of the fighting type like no other, offering a blend of agility, power, and style. With a sleek design and a punch that packs a wallop, Hitmonchan is a must-have for both collectors and competitors.
Attributes:
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HP (Hit Points): At 70 HP, Hitmonchan may seem fragile at first glance, but don’t underestimate its resilience. Its speed and versatility make it a tactical powerhouse on the battlefield.
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Attacks:
- Jab: A quick and efficient 20 damage for one Energy is nothing to scoff at. It allows Hitmonchan to chip away at opposing Pokemon early on and potentially score early knockouts.
- Special Punch: This attack brings the heat with 30 damage. While it requires three energy, the payoff can be worth it, especially when aiming to take down bulkier foes.
Strategy: Hitmonchan’s versatility was its trump card. Paired with Gust of Wind and PlusPower, it could surprise opponents with unexpected damage bursts. Its low energy cost attacks allowed for swift KO opportunities, disrupting opponent setups.
Limitations: As with any card, Hitmonchan had its Achilles’ heel. With only 70 HP, it could fall victim to high-damage attacks if not properly protected. Additionally, its weaknesses to Psychic types meant that trainers needed to be strategic, knowing when to deploy Hitmonchan and when to keep it in reserve.
Hitmonchan/Pokemon Trivia for you: Hitmonchan was part of the famous “Haymaker Deck” that dominated tournaments in 1999 & 2000. It featured fast & furious Basic Pokemon like: Hitmonchan, Electabuzz, Mewtwo and Scyther. An old friend ours, Brian Brokaw (who started the Pokegym many moons ago), coined the “Haymaker” Deck Name in 1999. He got the name from an article that appeared in an old Wizards of the Coast (WOTC) magazine called “Top Deck” magazine. In the magazine, WOTC labeled the “Special Punch” attack as “Haymaker” in the text below the card. Brian caught this printing error and called his deck the “Haymaker Deck”. We assume that WOTC had originally intended to call the attack “Haymaker” and changed it before printing the cards. We made a scan for you from my copy of the magazine so you could see it for yourself.
Rating: 5.0
Final Thoughts: Hitmonchan from the Base Set is a testament to the Pokémon TCG’s early emphasis on agility and precision. Its unique attack style, coupled with its iconic design, has cemented its place in Pokémon lore. Whether you’re crafting a vintage deck or appreciating the artistry of early TCG cards, Hitmonchan stands tall as a symbol of fighting spirit and determination.
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