View source for Appendix:Glossary (TCG)

This glossary is a list of general terms used in the [[Pokémon Trading Card Game]] or TCG.  See {{DL|Pokémon Trading Card Game|How to play}} for a brief description of the game.  Also see [[:Category:Pokémon Trading Card Game]] for an exhaustive list of Pokémon Trading Card Game related articles.

==Deck==
{{main|Deck}}
Both players in a [[Pokémon Trading Card Game]] require a playing '''Deck'''. An official deck is either purchased or built with 60 cards, composed of [[#Pokémon card|Pokémon cards]], [[#Energy card|Energy cards]], and [[#Trainer card|Trainer cards]].

===Booster pack===
{{main|Booster pack (TCG)}}
'''Booster packs''' are currently packs of 10 cards from a given [[#Expansion|Expansion]]. Boosters offer the chance to acquire stronger cards to strengthen a [[#Theme Deck|Theme Deck]], create new decks of cards, or customize old ones. Every booster pack is guaranteed to contain at least one ''Rare'' ({{rar|Rare}}) card, with generally three ''Uncommon'' ({{rar|Uncommon}}) cards and the remainder being ''Common'' ({{rar|Common}}). Since the release of the {{TCG|Legendary Collection}} set, one ''[[#Holofoil card|reverse Holofoil]]'' print of a common, uncommon, or rare card has also been included in every pack.

===Constructed Deck===
{{main|Deck#Constructed Deck|Constructed Deck}}
A '''Constructed Deck''' (also referred to as ''Full Deck'') is a 60-card deck built by a player from that player's own [[Pokémon Trading Card Game]] collection.

===Deck archetype===
{{main|Deck archetype (TCG)}}
A '''Deck archetype''' is a player [[#Constructed Deck|Constructed Deck]] utilizing a set structure or theme (a certain [[#Pokémon type|Pokémon type]] and/or [[#Energy card|Energy type]], specific [[#Pokémon card|Pokémon cards]] and/or [[#Trainer card|Trainer cards]], etc.).  Various players often have slight differences between their own decks of the same archetype.

===Expansion===
{{main|List of Pokémon Trading Card Game expansions}}
After the release of the original {{TCG|Base Set}} in 1996/1999, each subsequent release of [[#Pokémon card|Pokémon card]] sets has been known as an '''Expansion''' set. Typically four expansions are released per year. They become [[#Standard format|Standard]] and [[#Expanded format|Expanded]] format legal three weeks after they are released in the United States. Expansions are grouped into a [[#Series|series]] often taking its title from the first expansion in that given grouping (itself typically based off of the title of a [[Pokémon games|video game]] release), such as the {{DL|Pokémon Trading Card Game|HeartGold & SoulSilver Series}}, the {{DL|Pokémon Trading Card Game|Black & White Series}}, or the {{DL|Pokémon Trading Card Game|XY Series}}.  Players who have collected all of the cards released in a given Expansion are considered to have a ''Complete set''.

===Half Deck===
{{main|Half Deck (TCG)}}
The '''Half Deck''' is popular among many [[Pokémon Trading Card Game]] players, particularly in Japan. In Half Deck play, both players use a 30-card deck instead of a traditional 60-card one and lays out three [[#Prize Card|Prize cards]] instead of six.

===Promotional card===
{{main|Promotional cards (TCG)}}
Unlike regular [[#Expansion|Expansion sets]] and [[#Booster pack|Booster packs]], '''Promotional cards''' are not available for purchase in stores. They are given way as special gifts.
A great many Promotional card sets have been produced over the years for the Pokémon Trading Card Game.

===Preconstructed Deck===
See ''[[#Theme Deck|Theme Deck]]'' or ''[[#Trainer kit|Trainer kit]]'' below.

===Theme Deck===
{{main|Theme Deck (TCG)}}
A '''Theme Deck''' is a ''Preconstructed'' 60-card deck that is sold pre-packaged (also referred to as ''Full Deck''). Most Theme Decks are designed with a [[#Deck archetype|specific strategy]] (such as [[#Special Conditions|Special Conditions]]) or theme (such as [[Starter Pokémon]]) in mind. They tend not to be as strong as player [[#Constructed Deck|Constructed Decks]], but can otherwise be a sound introduction to the game for new players since they have all the cards necessary for a single player to begin playing immediately. Theme Decks are also a defined gameplay category in the [[Pokémon Trading Card Game Online]].

===Trainer kit===
{{main|Deck#Trainer kit|Trainer kit}}
Similar to [[#Theme Deck|Theme Decks]], '''Trainer kits''', such as the {{TCG|Black & White Trainer Kit}}, come with two ''[[#Theme Decks|Preconstructed]]'' 30-card decks or [[#Half Deck|Half Decks]], which may be combined to form one complete 60-card deck or can be built upon with a player’s own cards to make two 60-card play decks. Trainer kits also typically include game aids such as [[#Booster pack|Booster packs]], a rulebook, a [[#Field|double-player playmat]], [[#Damage|damage counters]], [[#Special conditions|status counters]], a [[#Coin|coin]], and a deck box – almost everything a single player could need to begin playing immediately.

==Energy card==
{{main|Energy card (TCG)}}
===Basic Energy card===
A '''Basic Energy card''' (Japanese: {{tt|基本|きほん}}エネルギー ''Basic Energy'') is one unit of Energy. Energy is attached to a [[#Pokémon card|Pokémon card]] in order to use [[#Attack|Attacks]]. There are nine types of basic Energy card: {{TCG|Grass Energy|Grass}} {{ene|Grass}}, {{TCG|Fire Energy|Fire}} {{ene|Fire}}, {{TCG|Water Energy|Water}} {{ene|Water}}, {{TCG|Lightning Energy|Lightning}} {{ene|Lightning}}, {{TCG|Psychic Energy|Psychic}} {{ene|Psychic}}, {{TCG|Fighting Energy|Fighting}} {{ene|Fighting}}, {{OBP|Darkness Energy|Basic|Darkness}} {{ene|Darkness}}, {{OBP|Metal Energy|Basic|Metal}} {{ene|Metal}}, and {{TCG|Fairy Energy|Fairy}} {{ene|Fairy}}. The exact amount and type of Energy is required in order to use an [[#Attack|Attack]], except for {{TCG|Colorless|Colorless Energy}} {{ene|Colorless}} (for which any type of Energy can be used). For example, if the player has Grass Energy, they cannot use an attack requiring one Lightning Energy, but they can use any attacks that require Grass and/or Colorless Energy.

===Special Energy card===
'''Special Energy cards''' (Japanese: '''{{tt|特殊|とくしゅ}}エネルギー''' ''Special Energy'') are cards that provide more than one [[#Energy card|Energy card]] of a specific type and/or have an additional effect besides providing Energy. Some may heal the [[#Pokémon card|Pokémon]] they're attached to, add [[#Damage|Damage]] to their [[#Attack|Attack]]s, or may even provide several different types of Energy at once. A majority of them provide only {{TCG|Colorless Energy|Colorless energy}}; however, there are several which provide one or more of any type of Basic energy.

==Formats==
===Expanded format===
{{main|Expanded format (TCG)}}
'''Expanded format''' defines which cards may be used in officially-sanctioned [[#Play! Pokémon|Play! Pokémon]] events. This format was introduced in the {{TCG|2014-15 Expanded format|2014-2015 season}}. It allows a greater number of [[#Expansion|expansions]] than the ''Standard format'' but is not as unpredictable as the ''Unlimited format''. It remains to be seen if Play! Pokémon will begin {{TCG|Rotation|rotating}} out sets once per year, after the [[World Championships]], as they currently do with the Standard format.

===Standard format===
{{main|Standard format (TCG)}}
'''Standard format''' defines which cards may be used in officially-sanctioned [[#Play! Pokémon|Play! Pokémon]] events.  This format was previously called the '''Modified format''' prior to the {{TCG|2013-14 Modified format|2013-2014 season}}.  Standard format cards are also known as ''Standard-legal'' or ''Modified-legal''. The current Standard format {{TCG|Rotation|rotates}} sets that are usable once per year, usually after the [[World Championships]].

===Unlimited format===
{{main|Unlimited format (TCG)}}
The '''Unlimited format''' allows for the inclusion of any card that is or was playable in [[#Tournament|Tournaments]]. This format is not used in tournaments sanctioned by [[#Play! Pokémon|Play! Pokémon]]. It is, however, used in [[Pokémon Trading Card Game Online]] and can be used in {{TCG|Pokémon League|Pokémon Leagues}} if the {{DL|Pokémon League (TCG)|League Leader}} wishes to allow it. Because of the lack of restrictions in Unlimited, [[#Deck|decks]] can use combinations of cards which are not possible in [[#Standard format|Standard]] or [[#Expanded format|Expanded]] format play.

==Miscellaneous terminology==

===Active Pokémon===
The '''Active Pokémon''' (Japanese: バトルポケモン ''Battle Pokémon'') is the [[#Pokémon card|Pokémon]] that the player has chosen as their main lead. During the player's [[#Turn|Turn]], they are able to attach [[#Energy card|Energy cards]] and [[#Pokémon Tool|Pokémon Tools]] to their Active Pokémon, [[#Evolution card|evolve it]], use a {{TCG|Pokémon LV.X|Level Up}} card on it, [[#Attack|Attack]] with it or [[#Retreat|Retreat]] it. The Active Pokémon is also sometimes referred to by the opponent as the ''Attacking Pokémon'' or, if affected by an opponent's attack, the ''[[#Defending Pokémon|Defending Pokémon]]''.

===Arena===
In {{ga|Pokémon Trading Card Game|the Game Boy Color game}}, the '''Arena''' (バトル場 ''Battle Place'') is the location of the [[#Active Pokémon|Active Pokémon]].

===Bench===
During play, any [[#Pokémon card|Pokémon]] that are not considered to be the [[#Active Pokémon|Active Pokémon]] may be put onto the '''Bench''' (Japanese: ベンチ ''Bench''). These are classed as '''Benched Pokémon''' (Japanese: ベンチポケモン ''Bench Pokémon''), of which each player can have no more than five at a time. They cannot [[#Attack|Attack]] or [[#Retreat|Retreat]], but they may be able to use [[#Ability|Abilities]], [[#Poké-POWER|Poké-POWERS]] and [[#Poké-BODY|Poké-BODIES]] if they do not state that the Pokémon must be [[#Active Pokémon|Active]] to use them, and they can also be switched out into the Active position if the current Active Pokémon retreats. Some attacks allow a Pokémon to deal [[#Damage|Damage]] to the opponent's Benched Pokémon (and some even deal damage to the player's own Benched Pokémon). In these cases, [[#Weakness|Weakness]] and [[#Resistance|Resistance]] are not applied to the Benched Pokémon. Unlike Active Pokémon, a {{TCG|Pokémon LV.X}} card cannot be played in order to Level Up a Benched Pokémon.

===Coins or Dice===
{{main|Coin (TCG)}}
'''Coins'''  (Japanese: '''ポケモンコイン''' ''Pokémon Coin''), also officially recognized as '''metallic coins''', are ''one of two types of randomizers'' that players can use during a Pokémon Trading Card Game [[#Match|Match]]. The majority of official coins released are made of plastic with a metallic Pokémon design on the front. Coin flips (''Heads'' or ''Tails'') are an integral part of the game. They help determine which player starts a match and determine the effect on many cards. Coins have begun to fall out of favor among Pokémon players, who have gradually started to prefer the second officially recognized randomizer: '''dice (Six-sided Dice)''', for their utility and convenience, where the ''even number'' sides represent ''Heads'' and the ''odd number'' sides represent ''Tails''.

===Damage===
When an [[#Active Pokémon|Active Pokémon]] attacks, the [[#Attack|Attack]] they use may specify an amount of '''Damage''' (Japanese: ダメージ ''Damage'') to be done to the [[#Pokémon card|Pokémon]] being attacked, conventionally divisible by amounts of 10. Damage is tallied up, by way of '''Damage Counters''' (Japanese: ダメカン ''Dame-kan'', short for ダメージカウンター ''Damage Counter''), in order to [[#Knock Out|Knock Out]] an opponent's Pokémon. Each damage counter counts as 10 damage.  For example, if a Pokémon has 120 [[#Hit Points|Hit Points]] and has twelve or more damage counters on it, it would be ''Knocked Out''. Damage done by attacks may also be affected by the [[#Weakness|Weakness]] or [[#Resistance|Resistance]] of the Pokémon being attacked. In place of actual counters, dice are often used to indicate damage; this is very common practice and it saves time. An example would be if a Pokémon had a die with the 5 side up, it would have 50 damage.

===Defending Pokémon===
A Defending [[#Pokémon card|Pokémon]] is the opponent's [[#Active Pokémon|Active Pokémon]] at the time that an [[#Attack|Attack]] is used. When attacking, the effect of an attack may mention the '''Defending Pokémon''' in the event that it is being affected by a [[#Special Conditions|Special Condition]] or other effect.

===Discard Pile===
When cards are taken out of play, they are moved into the '''Discard Pile''' (Japanese: トラッシュ ''Trash''). Either player can look at the cards in their own Discard Pile, as well as those in their opponent's. When a [[#Pokémon card|Pokémon]] is [[#Knocked Out|Knocked Out]], it is moved to the Discard Pile, along with all cards attached to it. When a [[#Trainer card|Trainer card]] is used, it is often immediately moved to the Discard Pile after being used. Similarly, a [[#Supporter card|Supporter card]] is moved into the Discard Pile at the end of the [[#Turn|Turn]] in which it was used. [[#Energy card|Energy cards]] used to [[#Retreat cost|Retreat]] or Energy cards discarded as part of an [[#Attack|Attack]] or due to an effect of a [[#Trainer card|Trainer card]] are also moved into the Discard Pile. Some cards allow the player to recollect cards from their Discard Pile.

===Duel===
In {{ga|Pokémon Trading Card Game|the Game Boy Color game}}, a Match is often called a '''Duel''' (Japanese: {{tt|対戦|たいせん}} ''competition'').

===Field===
The '''Field''' is the '''Play Area''' or '''Playmat''' for a [[Pokémon Trading Card Game]] game or [[#Match|Match]]. There are also ''playmats'' that players can use that define all the special location on the field. A field is roughly split in half with each player utilizing the half closest to them. Each player’s [[#Shuffle|shuffled]] [[#Deck|deck]] is placed face down on the upper right side of their respective half. The [[#Discard Pile|Discard Pile]] is located on the right side just below their deck. The [[#Active Pokémon|Active Pokémon]] (of which each player can only have one at a time) is placed in front of the player toward the upper center of their half of the field. Their [[#Bench|Bench]] is directly in front of each player. No more than five Pokémon may occupy a given player’s Bench at the same time. Finally, six [[#Prize card|Prize cards]] are placed face down to the left side of the each player’s half of the field.

===Hand===
Generally held in the player’s hands, a player’s '''Hand''' is the group of cards that only he or she is allowed to look at (not his or her opponent) and play from during his or her [[#Turn|Turn]]. At the beginning of a [[#Match|Match]], players take seven cards from the top of their respective [[#Deck|decks]] and places them into their hand. At the beginning of each turn, players take one card from the top of their respective decks and also place it into their hand. Certain [[#Trainer card|Trainer cards]] and [[#Pokémon card|Pokémon cards]] have [[#Attack|Attacks]] or [[#Ability|Abilities]] that may also allow a player to draw a card or cards from their respective deck.

===HP===
{{main|HP (TCG)}}

'''HP''' (Japanese: {{tt|ＨＰ|エイチピー}} ''HP''), short for '''Hit Point''' (Japanese: '''{{j|ヒットポイント}}''' ''Hit Point''), represents the health of each {{TCG|Pokémon}} card. This is the amount of [[#Damage|Damage]] it can take before being [[#Knocked Out|Knocked Out]]. This value is a multiple of 10. A Pokémon's damage is tallied up by way of damage counters, each counter representing 10 damage. For example, if a Pokémon with 120 HP has 3 damage counters, that is equivalent to 30 HP damage, with 90 HP still remaining for this Pokémon. If a Pokémon has lost all their HP (for instance, a Pokémon with 120 HP with twelve or more damage counters on it), it is Knocked Out. Once a Pokémon card is Knocked Out, it and all cards attached are sent to the discard pile, and the opponent takes one of their Prize cards.

===Holofoil card===
{{main|Holofoil (TCG)}}
Also known as '''Holographic Foil''', '''Foil''', '''Holo''', '''Reverse-Holo''', '''Reverse foil''' or '''Holographic''' cards. They are identical to their normal counterpart aside from a Holofoil effect in the picture (''Holo'') or the card background (''Reverse-Holo''). A small amount of [[#Rarity|Rare]] ({{rar|Rare}}) cards within each [[#Expansion|expansion]] are Holofoil. They may be pulled from [[#Booster pack|Booster packs]] as the rare card, but it is not guaranteed. They are rarer compared to non-Holofoil rare cards.

===Knock Out===
When a [[#Pokémon card|Pokémon]]'s [[#Damage|Damage]] equals or exceeds its [[#Hit Points|Hit Points]], it is considered '''Knocked Out'''. Knocked Out Pokémon are placed face up in the player’s [[#Discard Pile|Discard Pile]] along with any other cards that were attached to it (such as {{TCG|Energy card|Energy cards}}).

===Lost Zone===
The '''Lost Zone''' is an area considered to be a more advanced form of the [[#Discard Pile|Discard Pile]]. The Lost Zone was introduced in the [[Platinum (TCG)|Platinum]] expansion. Unlike cards in the Discard Pile, cards moved to the Lost Zone are kept face-up and are considered to be "outside" the [[#Field|Play Area]] due to the fact they are not kept on the playmat if one is used. As such, cards moved to the Lost Zone are no longer considered to be in play, and cannot be retrieved at any time, or by any means during gameplay.

===Match===
A game of [[Pokémon Trading Card Game]] is often called a '''Match'''.

===Play! Pokémon===
{{main|Play! Pokémon}}
'''Play! Pokémon''', formerly known as ''Pokémon Organized Play'' or ''POP'', is an official gathering of players of the [[Pokémon Trading Card Game]] and [[Pokémon games|video games]] to play, trade, and just generally have fun and learn about the games. It was formed by [[The Pokémon Company International]] in 2003 to officially sanction and organize game play, including {{TCG|Pokémon League|Leagues}}, [[#Tournament|Tournaments]], and prize systems.

===Pokémon League===
{{main|Pokémon League (TCG)}}
A '''Pokémon League''', often referred to simply as '''League''', is a periodic gathering, typically weekly, of players of both the [[Pokémon Trading Card Game]] and [[Pokémon games|Pokémon video games]]. During a League session, players battle and trade for fun. It is typically not a structured [[#Tournament|Tournament]]. However, each player can obtain an official {{DL|Play! Pokémon|Registration|Player ID}}. Event organizers will upload player event play information to [[Play! Pokémon]], eventually resulting in [[#Current rewards|minor prizes]].

===Pokémon type===
{{main|Type (TCG)}}
Unlike in the [[Pokémon games|video games]], there are only eleven known '''Pokémon Types''': {{TCG|Grass}} {{e|Grass}}, {{TCG|Fire}} {{e|Fire}}, {{TCG|Water}} {{e|Water}}, {{TCG|Lightning}} {{e|Lightning}}, {{TCG|Fighting}} {{e|Fighting}}, {{TCG|Psychic}} {{e|Psychic}}, {{TCG|Colorless}} {{e|Colorless}}, {{TCG|Darkness}} {{e|Darkness}}, {{TCG|Metal}} {{e|Metal}}, {{TCG|Dragon}} {{e|Dragon}}, and {{TCG|Fairy}} {{e|Fairy}}. When a Pokémon [[#Attack|Attacks]], the type of [[#Damage|Damage]] it does is based on the Pokémon's type (not the [[#Energy card|Energy type]]). [[#Weakness|Weaknesses]] and [[#Resistance|Resistances]] are also affected by Pokémon type.

===Prize card===
{{redirect|Prize|money given to the winner of a battle by the loser|prize money}}
A '''Prize card''' (Japanese: サイド ''Side'') is a card taken by a player for [[#Knock Out|Knocking Out]] one of their opponent's [[#Pokémon card|Pokémon]]. The Prize cards are laid face-down at the start of the game and are unknown from both players. When using the regular 60-card [[#Deck|deck]], six prizes are put down at the start of the game. However, three are put down if using a 30-card [[#Half Deck|Half Deck]], and four are put down if using a 40-card prerelease deck. When a Pokémon is Knocked Out, the opponent player takes a certain number of prize cards - typically one, though some Pokémon have attacks which change this and certain types of cards (such as [[Pokémon-GX]] or [[Pokémon V]]) allow the opposing player to take more Prize Cards when they are Knocked Out. The first player to take all of their Prize cards [[#Winning|Wins]] the game.

===Public information===
{{main|Public information (TCG)}}
'''Public information''' is information related to a [[#Match|Match]] that is readily accessible by either player at any time, as long as such requests are not used for stalling. Public information includes all cards in play, such as: 1) [[#Pokémon card|Pokémon cards]], including any [[#Evolution card|evolutionary]] stages underneath [[#Active Pokémon|Active]] and [[#Benched Pokémon|Benched Pokémon]]; 2) [[#Energy card|Energy cards]] and [[#Trainer card|Trainer cards]] attached to Pokémon and in the [[#Field|Play Area]]; 3) the cards in each player's [[#Discard Pile|Discard Pile]]; 4) the number of cards in a player's hand, and 5) the number of remaining [[#Prize Card|Prize Cards]] of each player.

===Rarity===
{{main|Rarity}}
On the bottom right corner of most cards, there is a small symbol that indicates its '''Rarity''' (how easy it is to find or obtain): [[File:Rarity Common.png]] (Common), [[File:Rarity Uncommon.png]] (Uncommon), [[File:Rarity Rare.png]] (Rare). No symbol usually denotes a card that is part of a {{TCG|Promotional cards|Promotional set}} or a [[#Basic Energy card|Basic Energy card]].

===Reprinted card===
{{main|Reprinted card}}
{{main|Rotation (TCG)}}
A '''Reprinted card''' is a card that has been printed in a previous [[Pokémon Trading Card Game]] set and has been included in a newer set. When a card is reprinted, older versions of a card can still be used in [[#Standard format|Standard format]] and [[#Expanded format|Expanded format]] [[#Tournament|Tournaments]] provided the text of the card has not changed or if a single copy of a card with the current text is set aside for reference. This reference card cannot be actively used in the player's [[#Deck|deck]].

===Series===
{{main|Pokémon Trading Card Game#Wizards of the Coast sets|Series}}
A '''Series''' is a grouping of [[#Expansion|Expansion]] sets based on a certain [[Generation]] of expansions, such as {{DL|Pokémon Trading Card Game|Generation I}}, {{DL|Pokémon Trading Card Game|Generation II}}, {{DL|Pokémon Trading Card Game|Generation III}}, {{DL|Pokémon Trading Card Game|Generation IV}}, {{DL|Pokémon Trading Card Game|Generation V}}, or {{DL|Pokémon Trading Card Game|Generation VI}}. Concurrently, series groupings are also taken from the title of the first expansion in that given grouping (itself typically based off of the title of a [[Pokémon games|video game]] release), such as the {{DL|Pokémon Trading Card Game|HeartGold & SoulSilver Series}}, the {{DL|Pokémon Trading Card Game|Black & White Series}}, and the {{DL|Pokémon Trading Card Game|XY Series}}.

===Shuffle===
'''Shuffling''' mixes the cards in a player’s [[#Deck|deck]] in a randomly and unpredictable way.

===Special Conditions===
{{main|Special Conditions (TCG)}}
A '''Special Condition''' (Japanese: {{tt|特殊状態|とくしゅじょうたい}} ''Special Condition'') is a result that some [[#Attack|Attack]]s have. Specific attacks may cause the [[#Defending Pokémon|Defending Pokémon]] to be affected by at least one of the five Special Conditions: ''Asleep'', ''Burned'', ''Confused'', ''Paralyzed'' and ''Poisoned''.

Unlike [[status ailment]]s in the video games, Special Conditions are not necessarily mutually exclusive. Poisoned and Burned are recognized by placing a specific marker (known as ''status counters'') on the afflicted Pokémon (and can be combined), while Asleep, Confused, and Paralyzed are recognized by rotating the Active Pokémon's card (thus it can only be affected by one of these at a time with the newest condition overriding the previous one).  Also unlike the video games, Special Conditions are healed upon an [[#Evolution card|Evolution]], {{TCG|Pokémon Lv.X|level-up}} or being switched out of the [[#Active Pokémon|Active]] position and placed on the [[#Bench|Bench]].

===Tournament===
{{main|Play! Pokémon#Local Tournaments|Tournaments}}
'''Tournaments''' are meant for both fun and practice. They are usually held in a gaming store or community center by a local {{DL|Pokémon League (TCG)|League Leader}} or {{TCG|Tournament Organizer}}. They are often but not always free to enter. [[#Play! Pokémon|Play! Pokémon]] sanctioned tournaments are either single elimination, Swiss, or Swiss followed by single elimination rounds. Formal Play! Pokémon tournaments also include: {{DL|Play! Pokémon|Prerelease Tournaments|Prerelease Tournaments}}, {{DL|Play! Pokémon|Battle Road Tournaments|Battle Road Tournaments}}, {{DL|Play! Pokémon|City Championships|City Championships}}, {{DL|Play! Pokémon|State/Province/Territory Championships|State/Province/Territory Championships}}, {{DL|Play! Pokémon|Regional Championships|Regional Championships}}, {{DL|Play! Pokémon|National Championships|National Championships}}, and {{DL|Play! Pokémon|World Championships|World Championships}}. Many tournaments also are divided into three {{DL|Play! Pokémon|Age divisions}}: ''Junior'' (roughly up to ten year olds), ''Senior'' (roughly 11 to 14 year olds), and ''Master'' (roughly 15 year olds and older).

===Turn===
{{main|Pokémon Trading Card Game#How to play|How to play}}
A '''Turn''' consists of the following for each player:
# First, draw a card from the top of that player's [[#Deck|deck]];
# Attach one [[#Energy card|Energy card]] to one of that player’s Pokémon in play (either [[#Active Pokémon|Active]] or [[#Bench|Bench Pokémon]]);
# Play [[#Basic Pokémon|Basic Pokémon]] to that player's Bench,
# [[#Evolution card|Evolve]] any of that player's Pokémon in play;
# [[#Retreat cost|Retreat]] that player's Active Pokémon if the Active Pokémon can satisfy the {{TCG|Energy card}} retreat cost;
# Play any [[#Trainer card|Trainer cards]] in that player's [[#Hand|Hand]] pertaining to the rules on each Trainer card and then typically placing that Trainer card face up in the player’s [[#Discard Pile|Discard Pile]];
# Use any [[#Ability|Abilities]] or [[#Pokémon Power|Pokémon Powers]] that appear on that player's Active or Bench Pokémon, and
# Finally, [[#Attack|Attack]] if that player has the appropriate [[#Energy card|Energy card(s)]] attached on that player's {{DL|Glossary (TCG)|Active Pokémon}}. Attacking '''always ends''' that player’s turn. The first player to have a turn is not allowed to attack, but all other actions are allowed as described above.
Other than the first and last actions, players may perform any action in any order. Players alternate turns until one player [[#Winning|Wins]] the game.

===Winning===
{{main|Pokémon Trading Card Game#How to play|How to play}}
As explained under {{DL|Pokémon Trading Card Game|How to play}}, players can '''Win''' a [[Pokémon Trading Card Game]] in three different ways:
# Take their ''[[#Prize Card|six prize cards]]'' by [[#Knock Out|Knocking Out]] their opponent's Pokémon by using various [[#Attack|Attack]]s to reduce the opponent's [[#Hit Points|HP to zero]];
# If their opponent ''runs out of Pokémon'' on the field (which includes their [[#Active Pokémon|Active Pokémon]] and [[#Bench|Bench Pokémon]]), or
# If their opponent ''cannot draw a card'' from their [[#Deck|deck]] at the beginning of their [[#Turn|Turn]].

==Pokémon card==
{{main|Pokémon (TCG)}}
'''Pokémon cards''' are the focus of the [[Pokémon Trading Card Game]]. The most common type of Pokémon card is a [[#Basic Pokémon|Basic Pokémon]], but others include [[#Baby Pokémon|Baby Pokémon]], [[#Evolution card|Stage 1 and Stage 2 Pokémon]], [[#Restored Pokémon|Restored Pokémon]], [[#Pokémon-EX|Pokémon-EX and M Pokémon-EX]], [[#Fossil card|Fossil Pokémon]], and [[#Pokémon LEGEND|Pokémon LEGEND]].

===Ability===
{{main|Ability (TCG)}}
An '''Ability''' is a [[#Pokémon card|Pokémon]] power that is active for as long as the Pokémon that has it is in play.  Abilities typically trigger once or multiple times during a [[#Turn|Turn]], before a Pokémon attacks. Others are active for as long as the Pokémon that has it is in play. With the release of {{TCG|Black & White}}, [[#Pokémon Power|Pokémon Power]]s ([[#Poké-BODY|Poké-BODY]] and [[#Poké-POWER|Poké-POWER]]) were combined into one mechanic and renamed [[#Ability|Abilities]] (Japanese: '''特性''' ''special characteristic''), after the analogous element in the main [[Pokémon games|video series games]].

===Attack===
{{main|Attack (TCG)}}
'''Attacks''' are skills on a [[#Pokémon card|Pokémon card]] usable by the player's [[#Active Pokémon|Active Pokémon]] on the player's [[#Turn|Turn]], which are similar to [[#Move|moves]] in the [[Pokémon games|video games]]. Nearly every [[#Pokémon card|Pokémon card]] has at least one attack. When players use an attack, that player's turn ends. Every attack has an attack cost, which is printed as energy symbols to the left of the attack name. A Pokémon card can only use an attack if it has enough [[#Energy card|Energy]] attached to it to pay for that attack's cost. Additionally, only Active Pokémon may use attacks, although players may attach energy to [[#Bench|Bench]] Pokémon in order to get them ready to attack if and when they make a given Bench Pokémon their Active Pokémon. Finally, the first player in a [[#Match|Match]] to have a [[#Turn|Turn]] is not allowed to attack, although they may perform all other actions types.

===Baby Pokémon===
{{main|Baby Pokémon#In the TCG|Baby Pokémon}}
A '''Baby Pokémon''' (Japanese: ベイビィポケモン ''Baby Pokémon'') is a type of [[#Pokémon card|Pokémon card]] introduced in {{TCG|Neo Genesis}} to be treated as a [[#Basic Pokémon|Basic Pokémon]]. Baby Pokémon are pre-evolved forms of existing Basic Pokémon, such as {{TCG|Pichu}} is to {{TCG|Pikachu}}, and thus are able to evolve into their respective Basic Pokémon (which are then treated as [[#Evolution card|Evolved Pokémon]]). Up to the {{TCG|Skyridge}} [[#Expansion|Expansion]], the opponent was also forced to flip a [[#Coin|coin]] when attacking a Baby Pokémon: if tails, the [[#Attack|Attack]] would fail. As of the {{TCG|EX Sandstorm}} [[#Expansion|Expansion]], Baby Pokémon are officially Basic Pokémon, and instead have a Baby Evolution [[#Poké-POWER|Poké-POWER]] to allow them to evolve into their respective evolutions.

===Basic Pokémon===
A '''Basic Pokémon''' (Japanese: たねポケモン ''Seed Pokémon'') is a form of [[#Pokémon card|Pokémon]] which does not [[#Evolution card|evolve]] from any other Pokémon. A Basic Pokémon can be placed directly into play, either as the [[#Active Pokémon|Active Pokémon]] at the start of the game or as a [[#Benched Pokémon|Benched Pokémon]] any time during play. Some Basic Pokémon, such as {{TCG|Mewtwo}}, do not evolve; some, such as {{TCG|Bulbasaur}}, do; and some, such as {{TCG|Pikachu}} can evolve from Baby Pokémon, either classified as a Baby Pokémon or with the Baby Evolution [[#Poké-POWER|Poké-POWER]]. In these cases, Basic Pokémon that are evolved from Baby Pokémon or other Basic Pokémon are considered to be Evolved Pokémon.  [[#Pokémon-EX|Pokémon-EX]] are also Basic Pokémon.

===Evolution card===
{{main|Evolution (TCG)}}
'''Evolution cards''', split into '''Stage 1 Pokémon''' (Japanese: １{{tt|進化|しんか}}ポケモン ''1st Evolution Pokémon'') and '''Stage 2 Pokémon''' (Japanese: ２{{tt|進化|しんか}}ポケモン ''2nd Evolution Pokémon''), are types of [[#Pokémon card|Pokémon]] that evolve from other Pokémon. Both the player's [[#Active Pokémon|Active Pokémon]] and their [[#Benched Pokémon|Benched Pokémon]] can be evolved during their [[#Turn|Turn]]. Pokémon cannot evolve on a player's first turn. Pokémon also cannot be evolved more than once during a turn. Evolved Pokémon count as one card while in play, regardless of how many evolution stages it has.

====Stage 1 card====
{{main|Stage 1 Pokémon (TCG)}}
'''Stage 1 Pokémon''' are placed onto [[#Basic Pokémon|Basic Pokémon]] (including those evolved from [[#Baby Pokémon|Baby Pokémon]]) and Stage 2 Pokémon are placed onto Stage 1 Pokémon. Pokémon that are resurrected from Fossils (in the original mechanic), such as {{TCG|Omanyte}} and {{TCG|Kabuto}}, are Stage 1 Pokémon, as their respective Fossil Trainer cards, {{TCG|Helix Fossil}} and {{TCG|Dome Fossil}}, are classed as Basic Pokémon.

====Stage 2 card====
{{main|Stage 2 Pokémon (TCG)}}
'''Stage 2 Pokémon''' are placed onto [[#Stage 1 card|Stage 1 Pokémon]]. Some cards, such as {{TCG|Rare Candy}}, even allow the player to bypass a Stage 1 Pokémon by evolving a [[#Basic Pokémon|Basic Pokémon]] directly into a Stage 2 Pokémon.

====Mega Evolution card====
'''M Pokémon-EX''' were introduced in {{TCG|XY}} [[#Expansion|expansion]] and introduce the [[Mega Evolution]] mechanic featured in [[Pokémon X and Y]]. They are identified by a stylized {{Mega}} graphic on the card name. M Pokémon-EX can only be played by Mega Evolving from basic [[#Pokémon-EX|Pokémon-EX]].  Doing so ends a players [[#Turn|Turn]] immediately. Other than this, M Pokémon-EX share the same rules and design as regular Pokémon-EX and [[#Evolution card|evolving Pokémon]], with the addition of boosted [[#Hit Points|Hit Points]] and more powerful [[#Attack|Attack]]s.

====BREAK card====
{{main|Pokémon BREAK (TCG)}}
'''Pokémon BREAK''' were introduced in the {{TCG|BREAKthrough}} [[#Expansion|expansion]]. They are easily identified through the stylized golden Pokémon graphic. A BREAK card retains the attacks, Abilities, Weakness, Resistance, and Retreat Cost of its previous Evolution.

====Restored Pokémon====
{{main|Restored Pokémon (TCG)}}
A '''Restored Pokémon''' (Japanese: {{tt|復元|ふくげん}}ポケモン ''Restored Pokemon'') is a form of [[#Pokémon card|Pokémon]] that is revived to life from a [[#Fossil card|Fossil]]. As with the [[Pokémon games|video games]], only eleven Pokémon have been classified as Restored Pokémon ({{TCG|Aerodactyl}}, {{TCG|Amaura}}, {{TCG|Anorith}}, {{TCG|Archen}}, {{TCG|Cranidos}}, {{TCG|Kabuto}}, {{TCG|Lileep}}, {{TCG|Omanyte}}, {{TCG|Shieldon}}, {{TCG|Tirtouga}}, and {{TCG|Tyrunt}}). In order to play a Restored Pokémon, the player must first play the respective [[#Fossil card|Fossil card]], search the bottom seven cards of their [[#Deck|deck]] for the corresponding Pokémon, and then place it onto his or her [[#Bench|Bench]]. This type of card was reintroduced with the above mechanic in the {{TCG|Noble Victories}} [[#Expansion|expansion]].

===Fossil card===
{{main|Fossil}}
'''Fossils''' or [[#Restored Pokémon|Restored Pokémon]] can only be played on to a player’s [[#Bench|Bench]] through the use of special [[#Trainer card|Trainer cards]], such as {{TCG|Cover Fossil}} and {{TCG|Plume Fossil}} to play {{TCG|Tirtouga}} and {{TCG|Archen}}. In order to play a Restored Pokémon, the player must first play the respective Fossil card, search the bottom seven cards of their [[#Deck|deck]] for the corresponding Pokémon, and then place it onto his or her [[#Bench|Bench]].

===Poké-BODY===
A '''Poké-BODY''' (Japanese: ポケボディー ''Poké-Body'') is a type of [[#Pokémon Power|Pokémon Power]] that is active for as long as the [[#Pokémon card|Pokémon]] that has it is in play. A Poké-BODY is sometimes reminiscent of that Pokémon's in-game [[Ability]], such as [[Ludicolo (Secret Wonders 13)|Ludicolo's Rain Dish]] Ability. Poké-BODIES have a variety of different effects and can affect almost any aspect of gameplay.

===Poké-POWER===
A '''Poké-POWER''' (Japanese: ポケパワー ''Poké-Power'') is a type of [[#Pokémon Power|Pokémon Power]] that the player is able to use during their [[#Turn|Turn]]. In a similar fashion to [[#Poké-BODY|Poké-BODIES]], Poké-POWERS can affect almost any aspect of gameplay, and can often be used once during the player's turn, before their [[#Attack|Attack]]. Some can be used multiple times and some are designed to cause an after-effect to the [[#Pokémon card|Pokémon]] with it being [[#Knock Out|Knocked Out]].

===Pokémon-EX===
{{main|Pokémon-EX (TCG)}}
'''Pokémon-EX''' (Japanese: '''ポケモンEX''' ''Pokémon EX'') are [[#Basic Pokémon|Basic Pokémon]] with significantly higher [[#Hit Points|Hit Points]] compared to the majority of regular Basic Pokémon. They were first introduced in the {{TCG|Next Destinies}} [[#Expansion|expansion]], replacing {{TCG|Pokémon LV.X}} [[#Pokémon LEGEND|Legendary Pokémon]]. Similar to the {{TCG|Pokémon-ex}} released during the {{DL|Pokémon Trading Card Game|EX Series}}, when a Pokémon-EX is defeated, the opponent takes two [[#Prize card|Prize cards]] instead of one.

'''M Pokémon-EX''' were introduced in {{TCG|XY}} [[#Expansion|expansion]] and introduce the [[Mega Evolution]] mechanic featured in [[Pokémon X and Y]]. They are identified by a stylized {{Mega}} graphic on the card name. M Pokémon-EX can only be played by Mega Evolving from the previous stage Pokémon-EX, and doing so ends a player's [[#Turn|Turn]] immediately. Other than this, M Pokémon-EX share the same rules and design as regular Pokémon-EX and [[#Evolution card|evolving Pokémon]], with the addition of boosted [[#Hit Points|Hit Points]] and more powerful [[#Attack|Attacks]].

===Pokémon-GX===
{{main|Pokémon-GX (TCG)}}
'''Pokémon-GX''' were introduced in the {{TCG|Sun & Moon}} expansion. They are similar to Pokémon-EX, but with two main differences - they aren't always Basic Pokémon (for example, a Pokémon that is typically Stage 1 will have a Stage 1 Pokémon-GX) and they have access to special GX attacks, which are very powerful but only one GX attack can be used per game. Like with Pokémon-EX, defeating a Pokémon-GX would net two Prize Cards.

'''Tag Team Pokémon-GX''' were introduced in the {{TCG|Team Up}} expansion. These depict pairs or sometimes trios of Pokémon, are always Basic, and are even more powerful than other Pokémon-GX, with HP ranging from 250 to 300, but defeating them nets three Prize Cards.

===Pokémon LEGEND===
{{main|Pokémon LEGEND (TCG)}}
'''Legend cards''' or '''Legendary Pokémon''' first appeared in {{TCG|HeartGold & SoulSilver}} [[#Expansion|expansion]] as one of the two variants of {{TCG|Pokémon LV.X}}: the top half and the bottom half.  Both card halves use the same name, so each one counts toward the four card of the same name [[#Deck|deck]] rule. Pokémon Legend cards cannot be played during setup, and both card halves must be played on the Bench at the same time.  The two cards count as one card while in play.

===Pokémon Power===
{{main|Pokémon Power (TCG)}}
'''Pokémon Powers''' (Japanese: '''特殊能力''' ''special ability'') are additional effects that the [[#Pokémon card|Pokémon card's]] player can trigger once or multiple times during their [[#Turn|Turn]], before they [[#Attack|Attack]]. Starting with {{TCG|Expedition Base Set}} [[#Expansion|Expansion]], Pokémon Powers were split into two groups: [[#Poké-POWER|Poké-POWERS]] and [[#Poké-BODY|Poké-BODIES]]. Poké-POWERS are special effects that the player must trigger or announce using. A Poké-BODY's effect is one that is in effect regardless. Both, however, are still officially considered to be Pokémon Powers. With the release of the {{TCG|Black & White}} [[#Expansion|Expansion]], Pokémon Powers were combined into one mechanic once again and renamed [[#Ability|Abilities]].

===Resistance===
If a [[#Pokémon card|Pokémon]] has '''Resistance''' (Japanese: {{tt|抵抗力|ていこうりょく}} ''Resistance'') to a certain type, it means that if it is [[#Attack|Attack]]ed by a Pokémon of that type, it will receive less [[#Damage|Damage]]. While not exceedingly rare, Resistance isn't very common either — most Pokémon don't have any. An example of a Pokémon with Resistance is {{TCG ID|Fossil|Ditto|3}} in the {{TCG|Fossil}} [[#Expansion|Expansion]] set. An example a Pokémon without is {{TCG ID|Aquapolis|Grimer|79}} in the {{TCG|Aquapolis}} expansion. The {{TCG|EX Dragon}} expansion introduced some [[Pokémon-ex]] with two different Resistances on the same card, such as {{TCG ID|EX Dragon|Rayquaza ex|97}}. Resistances were initially fixed at -30 damage, meaning the Pokémon would take 30 less damage from an attack. Unlike Weakness, this rule was always printed on the card, either to the left of or above the Resistance-type in the form of "-30". From the {{TCG|Diamond & Pearl}} set to {{TCG|Sword & Shield}}, Resistances were always -20 damage (also printed on the cards) unless on a reprint of a [[#Pokémon card|Pokémon card]] that originally had a -30 Resistance. With {{TCG|Sword & Shield}}, resistances are now -30 again.

===Retreat cost===
{{main|Retreat cost}}
When a player wants to move his or her [[#Active Pokémon|Active Pokémon]] to the [[#Bench|Bench]], that player can '''Retreat''' (Japanese: にげる ''Retreat'') that [[#Pokémon card|Pokémon]]. Then, a Pokémon on the Bench must replace the previous Active Pokémon. Each Pokémon has a '''Retreat Cost''': a specific number of [[#Energy card|Energy]] that must be discarded from the Pokémon being retreated in order to move it back to the Bench. Retreating can only be done once per [[#Turn|Turn]]. If the player doesn't have the required amount of Energy attached to discard or doesn't have any Benched Pokémon, his or her Pokémon is unable to retreat. Some Pokémon have no Retreat Cost and thus can retreat for free; others have a Retreat Cost of between one and five {{e}} Energies. Any type of Energy can be used for retreating, as any Energy can count as {{TCG|Colorless}}.

===Weakness===
If a [[#Pokémon card|Pokémon]] has '''Weakness''' (Japanese: {{tt|弱点|じゃくてん}} ''Weakness'') to a certain [[#Type|type]], it means that if it is [[#Attack|Attack]]ed by a Pokémon of that type, it will receive more [[#Damage|Damage]]. Most Pokémon have one Weakness, such as {{TCG ID|Base Set|Diglett|47}} in the {{TCG|Base Set}}, but some have none, such as {{TCG ID|Neo Destiny|Togepi|56}} in the {{TCG|Neo Destiny}} [[#Expansion|Expansion]] set. The {{TCG|EX Sandstorm}} expansion introduced some [[Pokémon-ex]] with two different Weaknesses on the same card, such as {{TCG ID|EX Sandstorm|Aggron ex|95}}. Weaknesses were initially fixed at ×2 damage, meaning the Pokémon would take twice the amount of damage dealt by an attack. Variable Weaknesses were later introduced in the {{TCG|Diamond & Pearl}} expansion, with Weaknesses of +10, +20, +30, +40 and ×2. Generally, with variable weaknesses, [[#Basic Pokémon|Basic Pokémon]] will have a Weakness of +10, Stage 1 Pokémon one of +20, and Stage 2 Pokémon one of +30, with a select few having one of +40. There is no general pattern (except perhaps [[#Pokémon LEGEND|Legendary Pokémon]]) of Pokémon with a ×2 Weakness; although, {{TCG|Pokémon SP}} always have a weakness of ×2. From {{TCG|HeartGold & SoulSilver}} expansion onwards, Weaknesses return to ×2.

==Trainer card==
{{main|Trainer card (TCG)}}
A '''Trainer card''' (Japanese: トレーナーズ ''Trainer's'') is one of three main types of card found in the [[Pokémon Trading Card Game]], alongside [[#Pokémon card|Pokémon cards]] and [[#Energy card|Energy cards]]. While Pokémon cards do the direct [[#Attack|Attack]]ing of an opponent's cards and Energy cards power their attacks, Trainers provide a more supportive role, allowing a player to search through their [[#Deck|deck]], draw cards, or other special effects. During a player's [[#Turn|Turn]], he or she may play a Trainer card from his or her hand, follow its instructions, and then typically [[#Discard pile|discard it]].

===Ace Spec===
{{main|Ace Spec card (TCG)}}
'''Ace Spec''' are powerful [[#Trainer card|Trainer cards]] with a special drawback: there can only be one Ace Spec in a [[#Deck|deck]].

===Item card===
{{main|Item card (TCG)}}
The '''Item card''' (Japanese: グッズ ''Goods'')  is the main type of [[#Trainer card|Trainer card]]. It was the first to be introduced, and was the only type of Trainer card until [[#Supporter card|Supporter cards]] and [[#Stadium card|Stadium cards]] were split into their own categories in the {{TCG|Diamond & Pearl}} [[#Expansion|Expansion]] set. Unlike these two, Item cards have subtypes, and thus have a wide range of effects. The two main subtypes of Item card are [[#Pokémon Tool|Pokémon Tools]], which act very much like held items in the games, and {{DL|Trainer card (TCG)|Technical Machine}}s, which include one additional [[#Attack|Attack]] usable by the [[#Pokémon card|Pokémon]] the card is attached to. Other set-specific types, such as {{DL|Trainer card (TCG)|Goldenrod Game Corner}} and {{DL|Trainer card (TCG)|Rocket's Secret Machine}}, also exist. The {{TCG|Boundaries Crossed}} expansion introduced [[#Ace Spec|Ace Spec]] Trainer cards, really powerful cards with the drawback that there can only be one in a [[#Deck|deck]].

===Stadium card===
{{main|Stadium card (TCG)}}
A '''Stadium card''' (Japanese: スタジアム ''Stadium'') is one of three types of [[#Trainer card|Trainer cards]] and is designed to change an aspect of gameplay for both players. Unlike [[#Item card|Item cards]] and [[#Supporter card|Supporter cards]], Stadium cards cause a long-term change in gameplay and may only be removed when another Stadium card is played. They are often played in order to help the player or hinder the opponent. For example, the {{TCG|Battle Frontier}} Stadium card would not be used by players whose [[#Deck|decks]] included Colorless-[[#Pokémon type|type]], Darkness-type or Metal-type [[#Evolution card|Evolved Pokémon]].

===Supporter card===
{{main|Supporter card (TCG)}}
A '''Supporter card''' (Japanese: サポート ''Support'') is one of three types of [[#Trainer card|Trainer cards]]. Supporter cards are based on characters who are, more often than not, included in the [[Pokémon games|video games]], such as {{TCG|Scott}}, {{TCG|Professor Rowan}} and {{TCG|Bebe's Search|Bebe}}. A player can only play '''one''' Supporter card each [[#Turn|Turn]], this is because they are usually very helpful to the player. They stay in play until the end of the player's turn — they are then discarded.

===Pokémon Tool===
{{main|List of Pokémon Tool cards}}
'''Pokémon Tools''' (Japanese: ポケモンのどうぐ ''Pokemon Tool'') are a special type of [[#Trainer card|Trainer]] [[#Item card|Item card]] that provide a special benefit to the [[#Pokémon card|Pokémon]] they are attached. [[#Active Pokémon|Active Pokémon]] and [[#Bench|Bench Pokémon]] may only have one Pokémon Tool attached to it, and it may not be removed unless specifically instructed.

{{Project TCG notice}}

[[Category:Pokémon Trading Card Game]]
[[Category:Lists]]

[[fr:Glossaire du jeu de cartes à collectionner Pokémon]]
[[it:Glossario (GCC)]]
[[ja:ポケモンカードゲーム用語一覧]]
[[zh:名词列表（集换式卡片）]]