Pokémon Base Set 2 – Complete Guide

Base Set 2 was released by Wizards of the Coast in February 2000. It was the first attempt to reprint and merge cards from two earlier sets — Base Set and Jungle — into a single expansion. While not introducing any new cards, it gave players another chance to collect some of the most iconic cards in the game’s early history.

Quick Facts

Release Date: February 24, 2000
Total Cards: 130
Notable Pokémon: Charizard, Blastoise, Alakazam, Mewtwo, Clefable, Kangaskhan
Set Symbol: Number "2" inside a Poké Ball

What’s Different About Base Set 2?

Although no new cards were introduced, Base Set 2 had different artwork backgrounds and a unique set symbol. It also featured slightly updated formatting in some areas, such as energy costs and wording.

Collectibility and Rarity

Base Set 2 was not as limited as the original Base Set or Jungle, so prices are generally lower — but holo Charizard and other high-grade cards still command strong interest. It’s considered a good entry point for vintage collectors due to its accessibility and nostalgic appeal.

Fun Facts

It was the first Pokémon set to include cards from two different expansions.
The "2" Poké Ball symbol is unique to this set.
Charizard from Base Set 2 has a slightly darker background than the original Base Set version.

Browse the Full Base Set 2

View All Base Set 2 Cards

FAQs About Base Set 2

❓ Is Base Set 2 as valuable as the original Base Set?

Generally no. While some cards like Charizard still carry significant value, Base Set 2 had a wider print run, making most cards less scarce than their Base Set equivalents.

❓ Are Base Set 2 cards official and tournament legal?

Yes, they were fully official and legal during the WOTC era. However, like all vintage sets, they’re no longer legal in modern tournament formats.

❓ How can I tell if my card is from Base Set 2?

Look for the number "2" inside a Poké Ball symbol in the bottom right of the card’s artwork. This identifies it as part of the Base Set 2 release.

BASE SET 2

Sealed Products

Base Set 2 Booster Box

Base Set 2 Booster Pack

Base Set 2 - 2-Player CD-ROM Starter Set

Base Set 2 Theme Deck - "Grass Chopper"

Base Set 2 Theme Deck - "Hot Water"

Base Set 2 Theme Deck - "Lightning Bug"

Cards

#4Charizard

#2Blastoise

#18Venusaur

#10Mewtwo

#16Raichu

#1Alakazam

#7Gyarados

#20Zapdos

#11Nidoking

#14Pidgeot

#13Ninetales

#5Clefable

#12Nidoqueen

#17Scyther

#30Snorlax

#6Clefairy

#9Magneton

#8Hitmonchan

#19Wigglytuff

#3Chansey

#15Poliwrath

#22Dragonair

#103Item Finder

#44Ivysaur

#27Mr. Mime

#25Electrode

#28Pidgeotto

#107Scoop Up

#99Vulpix

#32Victreebel

#67Bulbasaur

#24Electabuzz

#31Venomoth

#29Pinsir

#26Kangaskhan

#105Pokémon Breeder

#23Dugtrio

#37Dodrio

#106Pokémon Trader

#102Imposter Professor Oak

#62Tauros

#21Beedrill

#56Persian

#87Pikachu

#124Double Colorless Energy

#104Lass

#108Super Energy Removal

#52Marowak

#101Computer Search

#48Lickitung

#35Charmeleon

#46Kadabra

#59Rhydon

#63Wartortle

#50Magikarp

#93Squirtle

#86Pidgey

#33Arcanine

#54Nidorino

#57Poliwhirl

#36Dewgong

#97Venonat

#34Butterfree

#77Jigglypuff

#42Growlithe

#43Haunter

#41Fearow

#38Dratini

#69Charmander

#58Raticate

#116Professor Oak