In our latest blog post, we delve into the fascinating world of the Pokémon Gym Heroes set. This set, the sixth main installment in the Pokémon Trading Card Game, transports us to the exciting Kanto region and introduces us to the Gym Leaders and their powerful Pokémon.
It features first-generation Pokémon and the Gym Leaders of the Kanto region. The English version of the set was released on August 14, 2000 , while the Japanese version was released on October 24, 1998. Gym Heroes combines its Japanese counterpart with the Challenge from the Darkness expansion.
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Discover the special features of Gym Heroes
The Pokémon Gym Heroes set, known as “Leaders’ Stadium” in Japan, was introduced as the sixth expansion to the Pokémon Card Game.
Based on the Pokémon Red , Blue , and Green games, it introduces the beloved Pokémon of the first generation as well as the challenging Gym Leaders of the Kanto region. The English version was released on August 14, 2000, while the Japanese version was released on October 24, 1998.
Gym Heroes combines the Japanese version with the “Challenge from the Darkness” expansion.
The most important facts
- Gym Heroes is the sixth main expansion set of the Pokémon Trading Card Game and was released in English on August 14, 2000 .
- The set is based on the video games Pokémon Red, Blue, and Green and includes Pokémon from the first generation as well as the gym leaders of the Kanto region.
- A unique feature of the Gym Heroes set are the "Owner's Pokémon" cards, which depict Pokémon belonging to a specific Trainer. These cards feature an image of the Trainer in the lower right corner, along with their Gym Leader's badge in the background.
- The Retreat Cost symbol on the cards has been moved below the Weakness and Resistance, and the Pokédex entries are missing from the Trainer cards.
- Gym Heroes also introduced Stadium cards, a subset of Trainer cards that can influence the playing field.
This information provides insight into the unique aspects and gameplay mechanics of the Pokémon Gym Heroes set.

Discover the uniqueness of the set
A standout feature of Gym Heroes are the “ Owner's Pokémon ” cards, which depict a trainer's Pokémon.
Unlike regular cards, these have a picture of the trainer in the bottom right corner, along with their arena badge in the background.
The retreat cost was moved to Weakness and Resistance, and the cards no longer included Pokédex entries . This set also introduced Stadium cards as a subset of Trainer cards.
Difference between Gym Heroes and Gym Challenge?
The differences between the Pokémon Gym Heroes Set and the Gym Challenge Set are subtle, but still notable.
The Gym Heroes Set focuses on the Gyms and Gym Leaders of the Kanto region . It features cards inspired by the various Gyms and their leaders, as well as Pokémon related to these themes. The cards in the Gym Heroes Set reflect the atmosphere and spirit of the Gyms, offering players a unique gaming experience.
In contrast, the Gym Challenge Set focuses on the challenges and battles Trainers face on their journey through the Pokémon League . It features cards inspired by the Kanto region's top Trainers and members of the Elite Four, as well as Pokémon associated with these powerful Trainers. The Gym Challenge Set offers players the opportunity to prepare for the ultimate challenges and test their skills as Trainers.
Although both sets are thematically related and focus on different aspects of the Pokémon world , they offer players different experiences and ways to expand their collections.
The Top 10 Cards from the Gym Heroes Set
Now let’s take a closer look at the ten rarest cards from the Gym Heroes set.

Crispycards
Pokémon Gym Heroes: Top 10
CrispyCards now presents the rarest Pokémon cards from the Gym Heroes set. We hope you enjoy them. The ratings are based on PSA 10.
- as of May 2024.
10th place: Misty [1st Edition] #18
In tenth place is Misty (1st Edition) #18. This card is a true treasure for collectors and fans of the Pokémon Gym Heroes set. With its unique artwork and rare 1st Edition marking, it's sure to catch the eye. This card is valued at approximately €480 in PSA 10.

9th place: Erika's Dragonair [1st Edition] #4
In ninth place is Erika's Dragonair (1st Edition) #4. This card perfectly captures the elegance and grace of Dragonair and is a popular choice for collectors. With its charming artwork and coveted 1st Edition marking, it's a true gem. This card retails for approximately €550 in PSA 10.

8th place: Lt. Surge [1st Edition] #17
Ranked eighth is Lt. Surge (1st Edition) #17. This card depicts the mighty Gym Leader Lt. Surge in full battle readiness, radiating an aura of strength. With its striking design and coveted 1st Edition markings, it's a must-have for any collection. In PSA 10 condition, this card sells for approximately €600.

7th place: Brock's Rhydon [1st Edition] #2
Brock's Rhydon (1st Edition) #2 takes eighth place on our list. This powerful card features Rhydon, Brock's Pokémon, in an imposing battle pose. With its 1st Edition markings and impressive design, it's a coveted collector's item. In PSA 10 condition, this card is valued at approximately €700.

6th place: Rocket's Moltres [1st Edition] #12
In sixth place is Rocket's Moltres (1st Edition) #12. This card perfectly captures the striking grace of the legendary Pokémon Moltres from Team Rocket. With its 1st Edition markings and stunning design, it's a true collector's gem. In PSA 10 condition, this card is valued at approximately €780.

5th place: Lt. Surge's Fearow [1st Edition] #7
In fifth place is Lt. Surge's Fearow (1st Edition) #7. This card showcases the impressive power of Lt. Surge's Pokémon and is a must-have for fans of the legendary trainer. In PSA 10 condition, this card is valued at approximately €1,000.

4th place: Rocket's Scyther [1st Edition] #13
Rocket's Scyther (1st Edition) #13 is ranked fourth. This card showcases the impressive power of the Rocket Gang and is a coveted collectible for fans of the sinister team. In PSA 10 condition, this card is valued at approximately €1,200.

3rd place: Brock [1st Edition] #15
Brock (1st Edition) #15 ranks third. This card celebrates the Rock-type Trainer Brock and is a symbol of his strength and wisdom. In PSA 10 condition, this card is valued at approximately €1,900.

2nd place: Sabrina's Gengar [1st Edition] #14

1st place: Blaine's Moltres [1st Edition] #1

Useful information about Pokémon Gym Heroes
If you want to delve deeper into the world of Gym Challenge Set prices, the PSA Grading website is just what you need. Here you'll find every single Pokémon card from this set and can even see recent sales.
In conclusion, the Pokémon Gym Challenge Set is far more than just an expansion to the trading card game. It's a piece of Pokémon history that has captivated generations of fans and collectors.
I hope our journey through the Gyms in this set has given you new insights and that you'll continue to enjoy expanding and expanding your Pokémon collection. You can find the products for this set in our online shop.