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[[Image:Cardback.jpg|frame|right|Reverse of an English language card]]
{{search|Trading Card Game itself|the [[Game Boy Color]] game|Pokémon Trading Card Game (video game)}}
[[File:Pokémon TCG logo.png|right|200px|thumb|International logo]]
The '''Pokémon Trading Card Game''' (Japanese: '''ポケモンカードゲーム''', ''Pokémon Card Game''), often abbreviated as '''Pokémon TCG''' or just '''PTCG''' (Japanese: '''ポケカ''' ''Pokéca''), is a tabletop game developed by [[Creatures, Inc.]] that involves collecting, trading and playing with Pokémon-themed playing cards. It has its own set of rules but uses many motifs and ideas derived from the [[core series|video games]]. There are {{TCG|Pokémon|Pokémon card}}s for every [[List of Pokémon by National Pokédex number|species]] of Pokémon, as well as {{TCG|Trainer card}}s featuring characters, items and other themes of the franchise (each with a different use) and {{TCG|Energy card}}s to power attacks. The artwork for the cards is often created specifically for the TCG by numerous artists, though occasionally pre-existing art made for the core series is used.


The <b>Pokémon Trading Card Game</b> (or Pokémon TCG) is one of the most popular and steady aspects of the [[Pokémon]] franchise (next to the video game and animated television series). The Pok&eacute;mon TCG revolves around buying, collecting, and trading playing cards with various likenesses of Pokémon on them. To play, a person must build a deck of sixty cards using a combination of various "Pokémon" cards (creatures that do battle), "Trainer" cards (which have special effects on them) and "Energy" cards (a method of cost). To win, a player must "knock out" six of their opponent's Pokémon creatures. A player can also win if their opponent no longer has any Pok&eacute;mon creatures left to battle with, or if their opponent runs out of cards in their deck.
The Pokémon TCG is a popular and steady aspect of the [[Pokémon]] franchise and is played and enjoyed by many fans. As of March 31, 2024, over 64.8 billion Pokémon Trading Card Game cards have been produced worldwide in 15 languages and sold in 93 countries and regions.<ref>[https://corporate.pokemon.co.jp/en/aboutus/figures/ Pokémon in Figures｜The Pokémon Company]</ref> The game is part of the [[Play! Pokémon]] organized play along with the video game series and is also used in the [[Pokémon Trading Card Game Live]].


Unlike classic card games which uses a single deck of 52 cards, a ''trading card game'' (TCG) is constantly and continuously growing. New cards with new game abilities are released at a steady interval in order to keep the game fresh and alive. The only cost of TCG's, however, is that it forces a player to constantly keep in touch with the game, as well as having to purchase new cards from newly released sets. Players who don't keep up run the risk of falling behind other players.
==History==
[[File:JPCardback.jpg|thumb|left|150px|Original back of Japanese cards]]
The Pokémon Trading Card Game was originally published in Japan in October 1996 by [[Media Factory]]. While other series of collectible Pokémon cards existed in the past (such as the [[Pocket Monsters Carddass Trading Cards]] released in September 1996), this was the first card game based on the [[Pokémon]] series. The first Pokémon TCG sets took inspiration from the then released {{game2|Red|Green|Blue}} video games and initially featured illustrations by [[Ken Sugimori]], [[Mitsuhiro Arita]] and [[Keiji Kinebuchi]]. Soon new [[List of Pokémon Trading Card Game expansions|expansions]] began to release with many new artists contributing artwork. Three years later in 1999, Pokémon TCG was introduced in North America by [[Wizards of the Coast]] with the {{TCG|Base Set}}, and worldwide soon after. In 2003, Wizards of the Coast's license was transferred to [[The Pokémon Company International]].


As of July 2006, over 14 billion cards have been sold.
With the release of {{game|Gold and Silver|s}} video games, the ''[[#Neo Series|Neo Series]]'', the second series of [[List of Pokémon Trading Card Game expansions|expansions]], brought several [[Generation II|new Pokémon]] into play. The {{TCG|Metal}} and {{TCG|Darkness}} {{TCG|type}}s of Pokémon cards were also introduced, along with {{TCG|Light Pokémon}} and {{TCG|Dark Pokémon}}. These were eventually discontinued to prevent confusion with the {{tcg|Darkness|Darkness type}}, but returned briefly with the release of the {{TCG|Neo Destiny}} expansion. The ''[[#e-Card Series|e-Card Series]]'' used [[Game Boy Advance]] add-on [[e-Reader]] to display [[Pokédex]] data about the Pokémon, play a minigame, play various tunes in a [[Melody Box]], or activate a special attack for that Pokémon. The ''[[#EX Series|EX Series]]'' was released next, the first series produced by [[The Pokémon Company International]] instead of [[Wizards of the Coast]], which introduced the stronger {{TCG|Pokémon-ex}} into the game. The ''[[#Diamond & Pearl Series|Diamond & Pearl Series]]'' brought {{TCG|Pokémon LV.X}}, which were stronger, "Leveled-up" versions of final evolutions. Pokémon LV.X essentially replaced Pokémon-ex and continued until the {{TCG|Platinum: Arceus}} expansion. The ''[[#HeartGold & SoulSilver Series|HeartGold & SoulSilver Series]]'' featured two more types of card, {{TCG|Pokémon LEGEND}}, two-part cards with one Pokémon on each card, and {{TCG|Pokémon Prime}}, Pokémon with powerful and/or tactical attacks. With the release of the {{TCG|Black & White}} expansion, {{TCG|Poké-Power}}s ({{DL|Appendix:Glossary (TCG)|Poké-POWER}}s and {{DL|Appendix:Glossary (TCG)|Poké-BODY}}s) were combined into one mechanic and renamed {{DL|Appendix:Glossary (TCG)|Ability|Abilities}}. ''Pokémon-ex'' returned as {{TCG|Pokémon-EX}} in the ''[[#Black & White Series|Black & White Series]]'' starting with the {{TCG|Next Destinies}} expansion. The {{TCG|Dragon}} Pokémon {{TCG|type}} was introduced in the {{TCG|Dragon Vault}} expansion of the ''Black & White Series''. ''{{DL|Pokémon-EX (TCG)|M Pokémon-EX}}'' were introduced in the {{TCG|XY}} expansion and introduce the [[Mega Evolution]] mechanic featured in the [[Pokémon X and Y]] video games to the TCG.  The ''[[#XY Series|XY Series]]'' also introduced the {{TCG|Fairy}} {{TCG|type}} Pokémon. {{TCG|Pokémon-GX}} was introduced in the ''Sun & Moon Series''.


==Card types==
With the release of the ''[[#EX Series|EX Series]]'' worldwide, Pokémon TCG was published by [[The Pokémon Company International|Pokémon USA]] and distributed by [[Nintendo of America]], instead of [[Wizards of the Coast]].<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20131017132016/http://www.seattlepi.com/business/article/It-s-Wizards-vs-Pokemon-as-ex-partners-square-off-1126716.php It's Wizards vs. Pokemon as ex-partners square off | Seattle Post-Intelligencer], archived October 17th, 2013</ref> In 2006, Nintendo of America transferred distribution responsibilities to Pokémon USA.<ref>[https://icv2.com/articles/games/view/7925/pokemon-usa-charge Pokemon USA In Charge | ICv2]</ref> In 2000, [[The Pokémon Company]] replaced Media Factory in publishing the cards in Japan starting with the [[Awakening Legends (TCG)|Awakening Legends]] expansion. Media Factory continued to distribute the cards until the ''[[#DP_era|DP era]]''.{{fact}}
*[[Card types|Summary of Card Types]]
*{{TCG|Elemental types}}
**{{TCG|Grass}}
**{{TCG|Fire}}
**{{TCG|Water}}
**{{TCG|Lightning}}
**{{TCG|Fighting}}
**{{TCG|Psychic}}
**{{TCG|Colorless}}
**{{TCG|Darkness}}
**{{TCG|Metal}}
*{{TCG|Pokémon}}
**{{TCG|Basic Pokémon}}
**{{TCG|Evolution}}
**{{TCG|Dark Pokémon}}
**{{TCG|Light Pokémon}}
**{{TCG|Shining Pokémon}}
**{{TCG|Crystal Pokémon}}
**{{TCG|Pokémon ex}}
**{{TCG|Pokémon Star}}
**{{TCG|δ Delta Species}}
**{{TCG|Owner's Pokémon}}
**{{TCG|Pokémon Lv. X}}
*{{TCG|Trainer card}}
*{{TCG|Energy card}}


==Wizards of the Coast (English) sets==
Two [[Game Boy Color]] video games based on the card game were created: {{vg|Pokémon Trading Card Game}} was released in 1998 and worldwide in 2000, and its sequel, [[Pokémon Trading Card Game 2: The Invasion of Team GR!]], was released three years later. [[Pokémon Card Game: How to Play DS]] was released in Japan in 2011 and taught players how to play the Pokémon TCG. In 2011, the [[Pokémon Trading Card Game Online]] was introduced as a ''browser-based'' game but later became a downloadable game for PC, Mac, and iPad.  Other media related to Pokémon TCG include several {{pkmn|manga}} titles, such as the series [[How I Became a Pokémon Card]].
[[Image:Wizards.jpg |frame|right|Wizards of the Coast ran the game between 1999 and 2003]]
*Original releases
**{{TCG|Base Set}}
**{{TCG|Jungle}}
**{{TCG|Fossil}}
**{{TCG|Base Set 2}}
**{{TCG|Team Rocket}}
*Gym series
**{{TCG|Gym Heroes}}
**{{TCG|Gym Challenge}}
*Neo series
**{{TCG|Neo Genesis}}
**{{TCG|Neo Discovery}}
**{{TCG|Neo Revelation}}
**{{TCG|Neo Destiny}}
*{{TCG|Legendary Collection}}
*e-Card series
**{{TCG|Expedition Base Set}}
**{{TCG|Aquapolis}}
**{{TCG|Skyridge}}
*{{TCG|Southern Islands}}
*{{TCG|Wizards Black Star Promos}}
*{{TCG|Best of Game Cards}}


==Wizards of the Coast (English) unreleased sets==
==How to play==
{{incomplete|section|needs=More detail, especially as part of game flow.}}
[[File:Cardback.jpg|thumb|right|150px|Back of an English language card]]
:''See the {{TCG|Appendix:Glossary}} for a definition of most the Pokémon Trading Card Game terms.''
:''Also see the [https://tcg.pokemon.com/en-us/learn-to-play/ FAQ Video Series] on [[Pokémon.com]] for a visual introduction to the card game.''
The ''Pokémon Trading Card Game'' is a two player game for all ages.  Each player builds a [[Deck]] of sixty (60) cards using a combination of various ''"{{TCG|Pokémon|Pokémon card}}s"'' (the main type of cards used to battle), ''"{{TCG|Trainer card}}s"'' (cards with special effects), and ''"{{TCG|Energy card}}s"'' (cards that are required to perform most "''{{TCG|Attack}}s''"). New cards and decks are constantly being released, and players may purchase "''{{TCG|Booster pack}}s''" to integrate these cards into their own decks or purchase pre-made "''{{DL|Appendix:Glossary (TCG)|Trainer kit}}s''" or "''{{TCG|Theme deck|Theme Deck}}s''" that already have all the cards needed to play. The ''Pokémon Trading Card Game'' officially requires a deck of 60 cards for {{TCG|Standard format|Standard}} or {{TCG|Expanded format|Expanded}} play, though shorter {{DL|Appendix:Glossary (TCG)|Match}}es can be held with "''{{TCG|Half Deck}}s''" consisting of 30 cards instead. During a 60 card match, only four of any one card, excluding {{TCG|Energy card|Basic Energy}} cards, are allowed in each deck. This is further limited to two of any one card in a Half Deck match. Many fans have also created their own game rules and playing methods and have websites devoted to providing alternative playing methods. These rules and methods are not allowed in [[Play! Pokémon]] competitions.
 
===Setting Up to Play===
To begin a match, players need a {{TCG|Coin|coin}} or a six-sided die (where the even-numbered sides represent "heads" and the odd-numbered sides represent "tails"). One player calls ''heads'' or ''tails'', while the other player flips the coin or rolls the die. If the player calling the coin flip gets their choice (heads or tails), that player gets to choose which player goes first. If the player calling the coin flip does not get their choice, the player flipping the coin gets to choose which player goes first. The player who goes first is not allowed to {{TCG|Attack|attack}} or play any {{TCG|Supporter card|Supporter cards}} on that player's first turn. In best-of-three match play, after a game has been completed, the loser of that game decides who goes first in the next game instead of determining it by a coin flip. This decision is made at the same point during setup that the coin flip would take place.<!--Dead link: <ref>[https://assets.pokemon.com//assets/cms2/pdf/play-pokemon/rules/play-pokemon-tournament-rules-handbook-03312021-en.pdf Play! Pokémon Tournament Rules Handbook]</ref>-->
 
After determining which player goes first, both players must {{DL|Appendix:Glossary (TCG)|Shuffle|shuffle}} their own decks and allow their opponent to make a deck cut; alternatively, the opponent may choose to shuffle the other player's deck and allow the deck owner to make a deck cut. Each player then places their deck faces-down in the play area or "{{DL|Appendix:Glossary (TCG)|Field|field}}" in a north/south orientation, with the short sides of cards facing each player, and any card sleeve openings facing the opponent. The players then each take seven cards from the top of their respective decks. These cards go into their {{DL|Appendix:Glossary (TCG)|Hand|hand}}. Players then place at least one {{TCG|Pokémon|Basic Pokémon}} from their hand face down into play: one to the {{DL|Appendix:Glossary (TCG)|Active Spot}} and up to five onto the {{DL|Appendix:Glossary (TCG)|Bench}}. Next, each player sets aside six cards from the top of their deck face down as {{DL|Appendix:Glossary (TCG)|Prize Card|Prize cards}}. Finally, each player flips over their Active and Benched Pokémon and the game starts.
 
====Mulligan====
If a player does not have any Basic Pokémon in their hand while setting up to play, after their opponent sets aside the Prize cards, they must take a mulligan. For each mulligan a player takes, that player’s opponent may draw a card.
 
If both players had to take mulligans, the player that took fewer mulligans may draw a number of cards up to the difference in the numbers of mulligans. This means if the player took 1 mulligan and the opponent took 3, the player may draw up to 2 cards.
 
===Turns===
At the start of each player's turn, they must draw a card. Then, they may take any of the following actions in any order they like.
* Attach up to one {{TCG|Energy card}} from their hand to one of their Pokémon
* Play as many {{TCG|Pokémon|Basic Pokémon}} from their hand onto their Bench as they like
* {{DL|Evolution|In the TCG|Evolve}} as many of their Pokémon as they like
* [[Retreat cost|Retreat]] their Active Pokémon up to one time
* Play as many {{TCG|Trainer card|Trainer cards}} in their {{DL|Appendix:Glossary (TCG)|Hand|hand}} as they like (but only one Supporter card and one Stadium card)
* Use any {{DL|Appendix:Glossary (TCG)|Ability|Abilities}} or {{DL|Appendix:Glossary (TCG)|Pokémon Power|Pokémon Powers}}
{{TCG|Attack|Attacking}} will end a player's turn regardless of how many other actions they have taken, but a player may choose to end their turn without attacking.
 
===Finishing a match===
To finish a match, players must take their six [[Appendix:Glossary (TCG)#Prize Card|Prize cards]] by {{DL|Appendix:Glossary (TCG)|Knock Out|Knocking Out}} their opponent's Pokémon by using {{TCG|attack}}s to reduce the opponent's [[Appendix:Glossary (TCG)#Hit Points|HP to zero]]. The player that does so wins the game.
 
One player may also run out of Pokémon in play, i.e. they have no [[Appendix:Glossary (TCG)#Active Pokémon|Active Pokémon]] or [[Appendix:Glossary (TCG)#Bench|Benched Pokémon]]. The player that runs out of Pokémon in play loses the game.
 
At the beginning of a turn, if a player must draw a card from an empty [[deck]], that player loses the game. Winning or losing can also be achieved directly with the effect of {{cat|Cards that finish the game|certain cards}}.
{{-}}
 
==[[Card types]]==
{| cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="{{{class|}}} multicol" style="background:{{{bgColor|transparent}}}; width:{{{width|100%}}};"
{{Col-2}}
==={{TCG|Pokémon|Pokémon card}}===
*{{TCG|Basic Pokémon}}
*{{DL|Evolution|Baby Pokémon}}
*{{TCG|Crystal Pokémon}}
*{{TCG|Dark Pokémon}}
*{{TCG|Evolution}} - Stage 1 and Stage 2
*{{TCG|Light Pokémon}}
*{{TCG|M Pokémon-EX}}
*{{TCG|Owner's Pokémon}}
*{{TCG|Pokémon BREAK}}
*{{TCG|Pokémon-ex}}
*{{TCG|Pokémon-EX}}
*{{TCG|Pokémon ex}}
*{{TCG|Pokémon-GX}}
*{{TCG|Pokémon LEGEND}}
*{{TCG|Pokémon LV.X}}
*{{TCG|Pokémon Prime}}
*{{TCG|Pokémon SP}}
*{{TCG|Pokémon V}}
*{{TCG|Pokémon VMAX}}
*{{TCG|Pokémon VSTAR}}
*{{TCG|Pokémon V-UNION}}
*{{TCG|Pokémon ☆}}
*{{TCG|Radiant Pokémon}}
*{{TCG|Restored Pokémon}}
*{{TCG|Shining Pokémon}}
*{{TCG|Pokémon-GX|Tag Team Pokémon-GX}}
*{{DL|Team Plasma|In the TCG|Team Plasma cards}}
*{{TCG|δ Delta Species}}
 
{{Col-2}}
 
==={{TCG|Trainer card}}s===
*{{TCG|ACE SPEC card}}
*{{TCG|Goldenrod Game Corner card}}
*{{TCG|Item card}}
*{{TCG|Pokémon Tool}}
*{{TCG|Rocket's Secret Machine card}}
*{{TCG|Stadium card}}
*{{TCG|Supporter card}}
*{{TCG|Technical Machine}}
==={{TCG|Energy card}}s===
*{{DL|Energy card (TCG)|Basic Energy cards}}
*{{DL|Energy card (TCG)|Special Energy cards}}
===[[Rarity]]===
On the bottom right corner of most cards, there is a small logo that indicates its rarity. Below is a list of these rarities:
*{{Rar|Common}} (Common)
*{{Rar|Uncommon}} (Uncommon)
*{{Rar|Rare}} (Rare)
*{{Rar|Ultra-Rare Rare}} (Ultra-Rare Rare)
*{{Rar|Double Rare}} (Double Rare)
*{{Rar|Ultra Rare}} (Ultra Rare)
*{{Rar|Illustration Rare}} (Illustration Rare)
*{{Rar|Special Illustration Rare}} (Special illustration Rare)
*{{Rar|Hyper Rare}} (Hyper Rare)
*{{Rar|Shiny Rare}} (Shiny Rare)
*{{Rar|Shiny Ultra Rare}} (Shiny Ultra Rare)
*{{Rar|ACE SPEC Rare}} (ACE SPEC Rare)
No symbol usually denotes a card that is part of a promotional set or a Basic Energy card. In addition, some cards are rarer than the symbol alone indicates, including due to it being a Holographic version, Secret Rare or alternate art print.
|}
 
{{-}}
 
==International sets==
{| cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="{{{class|}}} multicol" style="background:{{{bgColor|transparent}}}; width:{{{width|100%}}};"
{{Col-2}}
===[[Generation I]]===
====Original Series====
*{{exp|Base Set}} {{TCG|Base Set}}
*{{exp|Jungle}} {{TCG|Jungle}}
*{{exp|Fossil}} {{TCG|Fossil}}
*{{exp|Base Set 2}} {{TCG|Base Set 2}}
*{{exp|Team Rocket}} {{TCG|Team Rocket}}
*{{exp|Gym Heroes}} {{TCG|Gym Heroes}}
*{{exp|Gym Challenge}} {{TCG|Gym Challenge}}
===[[Generation II]]===
====Neo Series====
*{{exp|Neo Genesis}} {{TCG|Neo Genesis}}
*{{exp|Neo Discovery}} {{TCG|Neo Discovery}}
*{{exp|Neo Revelation}} {{TCG|Neo Revelation}}
*{{exp|Neo Destiny}} {{TCG|Neo Destiny}}
====Legendary Collection Series====
*[[File:None2.png|7px]][[File:SetSymbolLegendary Collection.png|16px]][[File:None2.png|7px]] {{TCG|Legendary Collection}}
====e-Card Series====
*{{exp|Expedition}} {{TCG|Expedition Base Set}}
*{{exp|Aquapolis}} {{TCG|Aquapolis}}
*{{exp|Skyridge}} {{TCG|Skyridge}}
 
{{Col-2}}
[[Image:Wizards.png|right|thumb|Wizards of the Coast were the western distributors of the game between 1999 and 2003|200px]]
==={{DL|Promotional cards (TCG)|Wizards of the Coast sets era|Promotional series}}===
*{{exp|Southern Islands}} {{TCG|Southern Islands}}
*{{exp|Sample}} {{TCG|Sample Set}}
*{{exp|Best}} {{TCG|Best of Game Cards}}
*{{exp|Promo}} {{TCG|Wizards Black Star Promos}}
*[[File:Gold W.jpg|40px]] {{TCG|W Promotional cards}}
*{{DL|Miscellaneous Promotional cards (TCG)/1999-2008|Miscellaneous Promotional cards 1999-2002}}
*{{DL|Error cards|Error cards (until e-Card Series)}}
 
===Unreleased sets===
*{{TCG|Crosstrainer}}
*{{TCG|Crosstrainer}}
*{{TCG|Unnamed Wizards Set}}
*{{TCG|Unnamed Wizards Set}}
*{{TCG|Jamboree}}
*{{TCG|Jamboree}}
*{{TCG|Legendary Collection 2}}
*{{TCG|Legendary Collection 2}}
|}
{{-}}
{| cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="{{{class|}}} multicol" style="background:{{{bgColor|transparent}}}; width:{{{width|100%}}};"
{{Col-2}}
===[[Generation III]]===
====EX Series====
*{{exp|Ruby and Sapphire}} {{TCG|EX Ruby & Sapphire}}
*{{exp|Sandstorm}} {{TCG|EX Sandstorm}}
*{{exp|Dragon}} {{TCG|EX Dragon}}
*{{exp|Team Magma vs Team Aqua}} {{TCG|EX Team Magma vs Team Aqua}}
*{{exp|Hidden Legends}} {{TCG|EX Hidden Legends}}
*{{exp|FireRed and LeafGreen}} {{TCG|EX FireRed & LeafGreen}}
*{{exp|Team Rocket Returns}} {{TCG|EX Team Rocket Returns}}
*{{exp|Deoxys}} {{TCG|EX Deoxys}}
*{{exp|Emerald}} {{TCG|EX Emerald}}
*{{exp|Unseen Forces}} {{TCG|EX Unseen Forces}}
*{{exp|Delta Species}} {{TCG|EX Delta Species}}
*{{exp|Legend Maker}} {{TCG|EX Legend Maker}}
*{{exp|Holon Phantoms}} {{TCG|EX Holon Phantoms}}
*{{exp|Crystal Guardians}} {{TCG|EX Crystal Guardians}}
*{{exp|Dragon Frontiers}} {{TCG|EX Dragon Frontiers}}
*{{exp|Power Keepers}} {{TCG|EX Power Keepers}}
{{Col-2}}
[[Image:The Pokémon Company International logo.png|thumb|right|The Pokémon Company International has since taken over the TCG from Wizards of the Coast.]]
===[[Generation IV]]===
====Diamond & Pearl Series====
*{{exp|Diamond and Pearl}} {{TCG|Diamond & Pearl}}
*{{exp|Mysterious Treasures}} {{TCG|Mysterious Treasures}}
*{{exp|Secret Wonders}} {{TCG|Secret Wonders}}
*{{exp|Great Encounters}} {{TCG|Great Encounters}}
*{{exp|Majestic Dawn}} {{TCG|Majestic Dawn}}
*{{exp|Legends Awakened}} {{TCG|Legends Awakened}}
*{{exp|Stormfront}} {{TCG|Stormfront}}
====Platinum Series====
*{{exp|Platinum}} {{TCG|Platinum}}
*{{exp|Rising Rivals}} {{TCG|Rising Rivals}}
*{{exp|Supreme Victors}} {{TCG|Supreme Victors}}
*{{exp|Arceus|Arceus}} {{TCG|Platinum: Arceus|Arceus}}
====HeartGold & SoulSilver Series====
*{{exp|HeartGold and SoulSilver}} {{TCG|HeartGold & SoulSilver}}
*{{exp|Unleashed}}  {{TCG|Unleashed}}
*{{exp|Undaunted}} {{TCG|Undaunted}}
*{{exp|Triumphant}} {{TCG|Triumphant}}
====Call of Legends Series====
*{{exp|Call of Legends}} {{TCG|Call of Legends}}
{{-}}
|-
{{Col-2}}
===[[Generation V]]===
====Black & White Series====
*{{exp|Black and White}} {{TCG|Black & White}}
*{{exp|Emerging Powers}} {{TCG|Emerging Powers}}
*{{exp|Noble Victories}} {{TCG|Noble Victories}}
*{{exp|Next Destinies}} {{TCG|Next Destinies}}
*{{exp|Dark Explorers}} {{TCG|Dark Explorers}}
*{{exp|Dragons Exalted}} {{TCG|Dragons Exalted}}
*''{{exp|Dragon Vault}} {{TCG|Dragon Vault}} — Special Set''
*{{exp|Boundaries Crossed}} {{TCG|Boundaries Crossed}}
*{{exp|Plasma Storm}} {{TCG|Plasma Storm}}
*{{exp|Plasma Freeze}} {{TCG|Plasma Freeze}}
*{{exp|Plasma Blast}} {{TCG|Plasma Blast}}
*{{exp|Legendary Treasures}} {{TCG|Legendary Treasures}}
{{Col-2}}
===[[Generation VI]]===
==== XY Series ====
*''{{exp|Kalos_Starter_Set}} {{TCG|Kalos Starter Set}} — Special Set''
*{{exp|XY}} {{TCG|XY}}
*{{exp|Flashfire}} {{TCG|Flashfire}}
*{{exp|Furious Fists}} {{TCG|Furious Fists}}
*{{exp|Phantom Forces}} {{TCG|Phantom Forces}}
*{{exp|Primal Clash}} {{TCG|Primal Clash}}
*''{{exp|Double Crisis}} {{TCG|Double Crisis}} — Special Set''
*{{exp|Roaring Skies}} {{TCG|Roaring Skies}}
*{{exp|Ancient Origins}} {{TCG|Ancient Origins}}
*{{exp|BREAKthrough}} {{TCG|BREAKthrough}}
*{{exp|BREAKpoint}} {{TCG|BREAKpoint}}
*''{{exp|Generations}} {{TCG|Generations}} — Special Set''
*{{exp|Fates Collide}} {{TCG|Fates Collide}}
*{{exp|Steam Siege}} {{TCG|Steam Siege}}
*{{exp|Evolutions}} {{TCG|Evolutions}}
{{-}}
|-
{{Col-2}}
===[[Generation VII]]===
==== Sun & Moon Series ====
*{{exp|Sun and Moon}} {{TCG|Sun & Moon}}
*{{exp|Guardians Rising}} {{TCG|Guardians Rising}}
*{{exp|Burning Shadows}} {{TCG|Burning Shadows}}
*''{{exp|Shining Legends}} {{TCG|Shining Legends}} — Special Set''
*{{exp|Crimson Invasion}} {{TCG|Crimson Invasion}}
*{{exp|Ultra Prism}} {{TCG|Ultra Prism}}
*{{exp|Forbidden Light}} {{TCG|Forbidden Light}}
*{{exp|Celestial Storm}} {{TCG|Celestial Storm}}
*''{{exp|Dragon Majesty}} {{TCG|Dragon Majesty}} — Special Set''
*{{exp|Lost Thunder}} {{TCG|Lost Thunder}}
*{{exp|Team Up}} {{TCG|Team Up}}
*''{{exp|Detective Pikachu}} {{TCG|Detective Pikachu}} — Special Set''
*{{exp|Unbroken Bonds}} {{TCG|Unbroken Bonds}}
*{{exp|Unified Minds}} {{TCG|Unified Minds}}
*''{{exp|Hidden Fates}} {{TCG|Hidden Fates}} — Special Set''
*{{exp|Cosmic Eclipse}} {{TCG|Cosmic Eclipse}}
{{Col-2}}
===[[Generation VIII]]===
==== Sword & Shield Series ====
*{{exp|Sword and Shield}} {{TCG|Sword & Shield}}
*{{exp|Rebel Clash}} {{TCG|Rebel Clash}}
*{{exp|Darkness Ablaze}} {{TCG|Darkness Ablaze}}
*''{{exp|Champion Path}} {{TCG|Champion's Path}} — Special Set''
*{{exp|Vivid Voltage}} {{TCG|Vivid Voltage}}
*''{{exp|Shining Fates}} {{TCG|Shining Fates}} — Special Set''
*{{exp|Battle Styles}} {{TCG|Battle Styles}}
*{{exp|Chilling Reign}} {{TCG|Chilling Reign}}
*{{exp|Evolving Skies}} {{TCG|Evolving Skies}}
*''{{exp|Celebrations}} {{TCG|Celebrations}} — Special Set''
*{{exp|Fusion Strike}} {{TCG|Fusion Strike}}
*{{exp|Brilliant Stars}} {{TCG|Brilliant Stars}}
*{{exp|Astral Radiance}} {{TCG|Astral Radiance}}
*''{{exp|Pokémon GO}} {{TCG|Pokémon GO}} — Special Set''
*{{exp|Lost Origin}} {{TCG|Lost Origin}}
*{{exp|Silver Tempest}} {{TCG|Silver Tempest}}
*''{{exp|Crown Zenith}} {{TCG|Crown Zenith}} — Special Set''
{{-}}
|-
{{Col-2}}
===[[Generation IX]]===
==== Scarlet & Violet Series ====
*{{exp|Scarlet and Violet}} {{TCG|Scarlet & Violet}}
*{{exp|Paldea Evolved}} {{TCG|Paldea Evolved}}
*{{exp|Obsidian Flames}} {{TCG|Obsidian Flames}}
*''{{exp|151}} {{TCG|151}} — Special Set''
*{{exp|Paradox Rift}} {{TCG|Paradox Rift}}
*''{{exp|Paldean Fates}} {{TCG|Paldean Fates}} — Special Set''
*{{exp|Temporal Forces}} {{TCG|Temporal Forces}}
*{{exp|Twilight Masquerade}} {{TCG|Twilight Masquerade}}
*''{{exp|Shrouded Fable}} {{TCG|Shrouded Fable}} — Special Set''
*{{exp|Stellar Crown}} {{TCG|Stellar Crown}}
{{-}}
|-
{{Col-2}}
==={{TCG|World Championships Deck}}s===
*{{DL|World Championships Deck (TCG)|2004 World Championships}}
*{{DL|World Championships Deck (TCG)|2005 World Championships}}
*{{DL|World Championships Deck (TCG)|2006 World Championships}}
*{{DL|World Championships Deck (TCG)|2007 World Championships}}
*{{DL|World Championships Deck (TCG)|2008 World Championships}}
*{{DL|World Championships Deck (TCG)|2009 World Championships}}
*{{DL|World Championships Deck (TCG)|2010 World Championships}}
*{{DL|World Championships Deck (TCG)|2011 World Championships}}
*{{DL|World Championships Deck (TCG)|2012 World Championships}}
*{{DL|World Championships Deck (TCG)|2013 World Championships}}
*{{DL|World Championships Deck (TCG)|2014 World Championships}}
*{{DL|World Championships Deck (TCG)|2015 World Championships}}
*{{DL|World Championships Deck (TCG)|2016 World Championships}}
*{{DL|World Championships Deck (TCG)|2017 World Championships}}
*{{DL|World Championships Deck (TCG)|2018 World Championships}}
*{{DL|World Championships Deck (TCG)|2019 World Championships}}
*{{DL|World Championships Deck (TCG)|2022 World Championships}}
*{{DL|World Championships Deck (TCG)|2023 World Championships}}


==Nintendo (English) sets==
==={{TCG|Deck#Trainer_Kit|Trainer Kit}}s===
[[Image:Nintendo.jpg|thumb|right|Nintendo has since taken over the TCG from Wizards]]
*[[File:SetSymbolLatias Half Deck.png|22px]] [[File:SetSymbolLatios Half Deck.png|22px]] {{TCG|EX Trainer Kit}}
===Sets===
*[[File:SetSymbolPlusle Half Deck.png|22px]] [[File:SetSymbolMinun Half Deck.png|22px]] {{TCG|EX Trainer Kit 2}}
*EX series
*[[File:SetSymbolManaphy Half Deck.png|22px]] [[File:SetSymbolLucario Half Deck.png|22px]] {{TCG|Diamond & Pearl Trainer Kit}}
**{{TCG|EX Ruby & Sapphire}}
*[[File:SetSymbolGyarados Half Deck.png|22px]] [[File:SetSymbolRaichu Half Deck.png|22px]] {{TCG|HS Trainer Kit}}
**{{TCG|EX Sandstorm}}
*[[File:SetSymbolExcadrill Half Deck.png|22px]] [[File:SetSymbolZoroark Half Deck.png|22px]] {{TCG|Black & White Trainer Kit}}
**{{TCG|EX Dragon}}
*[[File:SetSymbolSylveon Half Deck.png|22px]] [[File:SetSymbolNoivern Half Deck.png|22px]] {{TCG|XY Trainer Kit}}
**{{TCG|EX Team Magma vs Team Aqua}}
*[[File:SetSymbolBisharp Half Deck.png|22px]] [[File:SetSymbolWigglytuff Half Deck.png|22px]] {{TCG|XY Trainer Kit: Bisharp & Wigglytuff}}
**{{TCG|EX Hidden Legends}}
*[[File:SetSymbolLatias XY Half Deck.png|22px]] [[File:SetSymbolLatios XY Half Deck.png|22px]] {{TCG|XY Trainer Kit: Latias & Latios}}
**{{TCG|EX FireRed & LeafGreen}}
*[[File:SetSymbolPikachu Libre Half Deck.png|22px]] [[File:SetSymbolSuicune Half Deck.png|22px]] {{TCG|XY Trainer Kit: Pikachu Libre & Suicune}}
**{{TCG|EX Team Rocket Returns}}
*[[File:SetSymbolLycanroc Half Deck.png|22px]] [[File:SetSymbolAlolan Raichu Half Deck.png|22px]] {{TCG|Sun & Moon Trainer Kit: Lycanroc & Alolan Raichu}}
**{{TCG|EX Deoxys}}
*[[File:SetSymbolBase Set.png|22px|link=]] [[File:SetSymbolBase Set.png|22px|link=]] {{TCG|Sun & Moon Trainer Kit: Alolan Sandslash & Alolan Ninetales}}
**{{TCG|EX Emerald}}
**{{TCG|EX Unseen Forces}}
*δ Delta Species series
**{{TCG|EX Delta Species}}
**{{TCG|EX Legend Maker}}
**{{TCG|EX Holon Phantoms}}
**{{TCG|EX Crystal Guardians}}
**{{TCG|EX Trainer Kit}}
**{{TCG|EX Dragon Frontiers}}
**{{TCG|EX Power Keepers}}
*Diamond & Pearl series
**{{TCG|Diamond & Pearl}}
**{{TCG|Mysterious Treasures}}
**{{TCG|Secret Wonders}}
**{{TCG|Great Encounters}}
**{{TCG|Majestic Dawn}}
**{{TCG|Legends Awakened}}


===Other Merchandise===
{{Col-2}}
*{{TCG|EX Battle Stadium}}
 
*{{TCG|EX Series Value Pack}}
==={{DL|Promotional cards (TCG)|Nintendo sets era|Promotional series}}===
*{{TCG|World Championships 2004}}
{{exp|Promo}} ''{{TCG|Black Star Promos}}''
*{{TCG|World Championships 2005}}
*{{TCG|World Championships 2006}}
*{{TCG|World Championships 2007}}
*{{TCG|Nintendo Black Star Promos}}
*{{TCG|Nintendo Black Star Promos}}
*{{TCG|DP Black Star Promos}}
*{{TCG|DP Black Star Promos}}
*{{TCG|HGSS Black Star Promos}}
*{{TCG|BW Black Star Promos}}
*{{TCG|XY Black Star Promos}}
*{{TCG|SM Black Star Promos}}
*{{TCG|SWSH Black Star Promos}}
*{{exp|SVP Black Star Promos}} {{TCG|SVP Black Star Promos}}
''[[Play! Pokémon#POP packs|POP Series]]'' — ''EX, Diamond & Pearl and Platinum Series''
*{{exp|POP Series 1}} {{TCG|POP Series 1}}
*{{exp|POP Series 2}} {{TCG|POP Series 2}}
*{{exp|POP Series 3}} {{TCG|POP Series 3}}
*{{exp|POP Series 4}} {{TCG|POP Series 4}}
*{{exp|POP Series 5}} {{TCG|POP Series 5}}
*{{exp|POP Series 6}} {{TCG|POP Series 6}}
*{{exp|POP Series 7}} {{TCG|POP Series 7}}
*{{exp|POP Series 8}} {{TCG|POP Series 8}}
*{{exp|POP Series 9}} {{TCG|POP Series 9}}
''McDonald's Collection'' — ''since Black & White Series''
*{{exp|McDonalds Collection}} {{TCG|McDonald's Collection 2011}}
*{{exp|McDonalds Collection 2012}} {{TCG|McDonald's Collection 2012}}
*{{exp|McDonalds Collection 2013}} {{TCG|McDonald's Collection 2013}} — French print only, non-tournament legal
*{{exp|McDonalds Collection 2014}} {{TCG|McDonald's Collection 2014}}
*{{exp|McDonalds Collection 2015}} {{TCG|McDonald's Collection 2015}}
*{{exp|McDonalds Collection 2016}} {{TCG|McDonald's Collection 2016}}
*{{exp|McDonalds Collection 2017}} {{TCG|McDonald's Collection 2017}}
*{{exp|McDonalds Collection 2018}} {{TCG|McDonald's Collection 2018}}
*{{exp|McDonalds Collection 2019}} {{TCG|McDonald's Collection 2019}}
*{{exp|McDonalds Collection 2021}} {{TCG|McDonald's Collection 2021}}
*{{exp|McDonalds Collection 2022}} {{TCG|McDonald's Collection 2022}}
*{{exp|McDonalds Collection 2023}} {{TCG|McDonald's Collection 2023}}
''Miscellaneous sets''
*{{exp|Best}} {{TCG|Winner cards}} — ''Neo and EX Series''
*[[File:Kids WB logo.png|22px]][[File:None2.png|7px]] {{TCG|Poké Card Creator Pack}} — ''EX Series'' (non-tournament legal)
*{{exp|Pokémon Rumble}} {{TCG|Pokémon Rumble}} — ''Platinum Series''
*[[File:Yellow A symbol.png]] {{TCG|Yellow A Alternate cards}} — ''XY and Sun & Moon Series''
*{{exp|Pokémon Futsal}} {{TCG|Pokémon Futsal}} — ''Sword & Shield Series''
*{{exp|Base Set}} {{TCG|Prerelease cards}}
*{{exp|Base Set}} {{TCG|Jumbo cards}} — non-tournament legal
''Miscellaneous cards''
*{{DL|Miscellaneous Promotional cards (TCG)/1999-2008|2003|Miscellaneous Promotional cards 2003-2008}}
*{{DL|Miscellaneous Promotional cards (TCG)/2009-2014|Miscellaneous Promotional cards 2009-2014}}
*{{DL|Miscellaneous Promotional cards (TCG)/2015-2018|Miscellaneous Promotional cards 2015-2018}}
*{{DL|Miscellaneous Promotional cards (TCG)|2019|Miscellaneous Promotional cards 2019-2024}}
*{{DL|Error cards|EX Series|Error cards (since EX Series)}}
|}


==Media Factory/The Pokémon Company (Japanese) sets==
==Japanese sets==
*{{TCG|Vending Machine Cards}}
{| cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="{{{class|}}} multicol" style="background:{{{bgColor|transparent}}}; width:{{{width|100%}}};"
*{{TCG|Pokémon VS}}
{{Col-2}}
*{{TCG|Pokémon Web}}
===[[Generation I]]===
*{{TCG|5th Movie Half Deck}}
====Original era====
*{{TCG|6th Movie Half Deck}}
*{{exp|Base Set}} {{TCG|Expansion Pack}}
*{{TCG|7th Movie Half Deck}}
*{{exp|Jungle}} {{TCG|Pokémon Jungle}}
*{{TCG|8th Movie Half Deck}}
*{{exp|Fossil}} {{TCG|Mystery of the Fossils}}
*{{TCG|9th Movie Half Deck}}
*{{exp|Team Rocket}} {{TCG|Rocket Gang}}
*{{TCG|Japanese promotional cards}}
*[[File:SetSymbolGym Booster.png|32px]] {{TCG|Leaders' Stadium}}
*[[File:SetSymbolGym Booster.png|32px]] {{TCG|Challenge from the Darkness}}
 
===[[Generation II]]===
====Neo era====
*{{exp|Neo Genesis}} {{TCG|Gold, Silver, to a New World...}}
*{{exp|Neo Discovery}} {{TCG|Crossing the Ruins...}}
*{{exp|Neo Revelation}} {{TCG|Awakening Legends}}
*{{exp|Neo Destiny}} {{TCG|Darkness, and to Light...}}
====e-Series====
*[[File:SetSymbolBase Expansion Pack.png|30px]] {{TCG|Base Expansion Pack}}
*[[File:SetSymbolThe Town on No Map.png|30px]] {{TCG|The Town on No Map}}
*[[File:SetSymbolWind from the Sea.png|30px]] {{TCG|Wind from the Sea}}
*[[File:SetSymbolSplit Earth.png|30px]] {{TCG|Split Earth}}
*[[File:SetSymbolMysterious Mountains.png|30px]] {{TCG|Mysterious Mountains}}
 
===[[Generation III]]===
====ADV era====
*{{exp|Ruby and Sapphire}} {{TCG|ADV Expansion Pack}}
*{{exp|Sandstorm}} {{TCG|Miracle of the Desert}}
*{{exp|Dragon}} {{TCG|Rulers of the Heavens}}
*{{exp|Team Magma vs Team Aqua}} {{TCG|Magma VS Aqua: Two Ambitions}}
*{{exp|Hidden Legends}} {{TCG|Undone Seal}}
====PCG era====
*[[File:SetSymbolFlight of Legends.png|30px]] {{TCG|Flight of Legends}}
*{{exp|Deoxys}} {{TCG|Clash of the Blue Sky}}
*{{exp|Team Rocket Returns}} {{TCG|Rocket Gang Strikes Back}}
*{{exp|Unseen Forces}} {{TCG|Golden Sky, Silvery Ocean}}
*{{exp|Legend Maker}} {{TCG|Mirage Forest}}
*{{exp|Delta Species}} {{TCG|Holon Research Tower}}
*{{exp|Holon Phantoms}} {{TCG|Holon Phantom}}
*{{exp|Crystal Guardians}} {{TCG|Miracle Crystal}}
*{{exp|Dragon Frontiers}} {{TCG|Offense and Defense of the Furthest Ends}}
*[[File:None2.png|7px]]{{exp|Power Keepers}} {{TCG|World Champions Pack}}
 
===[[Generation IV]]===
====DP era====
*[[File:SetSymbolSpace-Time Creation.png|40px]] {{TCG|Space-Time Creation}}
*[[File:SetSymbolSecret of the Lakes.png|40px]] {{TCG|Secret of the Lakes}}
*[[File:SetSymbolShining Darkness.png|40px]] {{TCG|Shining Darkness}}
*[[File:SetSymbolMoonlit Pursuit Dawn Dash.png|40px]] {{TCG|Moonlit Pursuit}}
*[[File:SetSymbolMoonlit Pursuit Dawn Dash.png|40px]] {{TCG|Dawn Dash}}
*[[File:SetSymbolCry from the Mysterious Temple of Anger.png|40px]] {{TCG|Cry from the Mysterious}}
*[[File:SetSymbolCry from the Mysterious Temple of Anger.png|40px]] {{TCG|Temple of Anger}}
*[[File:SetSymbolIntense Fight in the Destroyed Sky.png|40px]] {{TCG|Intense Fight in the Destroyed Sky}}
====DPt era====
*[[File:SetSymbolGalactic Conquest.png|40px]] {{TCG|Galactic's Conquest}}
*[[File:SetSymbolBonds to the End of Time.png|40px]] {{TCG|Bonds to the End of Time}}
*[[File:SetSymbolBeat of the Frontier.png|40px]] {{TCG|Beat of the Frontier}}
*[[File:SetSymbolAdvent of Arceus.png|40px]] {{TCG|Advent of Arceus}}
====LEGEND era====
*[[File:SetSymbolHeartGold Collection.png|35px]] {{TCG|HeartGold Collection}}
*[[File:SetSymbolSoulSilver Collection.png|35px]] {{TCG|SoulSilver Collection}}
*[[File:SetSymbolReviving Legends.png|35px]] {{TCG|Reviving Legends}}
*[[File:SetSymbolLost Link.png|35px]] {{TCG|Lost Link}} — mini set
*[[File:SetSymbolClash at the Summit.png|35px]] {{TCG|Clash at the Summit}}
 
===[[Generation V]]===
====BW era====
*[[File:SetSymbolBlack Collection.png|40px]] {{TCG|Black Collection}}
*[[File:SetSymbolWhite Collection.png|40px]] {{TCG|White Collection}}
*[[File:SetSymbolRed Collection.png|40px]] {{TCG|Red Collection}}
*[[File:SetSymbolPsycho Drive.png|40px]] {{TCG|Psycho Drive}}
*[[File:SetSymbolHail Blizzard.png|40px]] {{TCG|Hail Blizzard}}
*[[File:SetSymbolDark Rush.png|40px]] {{TCG|Dark Rush}}
*[[FILE:SetSymbolDragon_Selection.png|40px]] {{TCG|Dragon Selection}} — mini set
*[[File:SetSymbolDragon Blast.png|40px]] {{TCG|Dragon Blast}}
*[[File:SetSymbolDragon Blade.png|40px]] {{TCG|Dragon Blade}}
*[[File:SetSymbolFreeze Bolt.png|40px]] {{TCG|Freeze Bolt}}
*[[File:SetSymbolCold Flare.png|40px]] {{TCG|Cold Flare}}
*[[File:SetSymbolPlasma Gale.png|40px]] {{TCG|Plasma Gale}}
*[[File:SetSymbolSpiral Force.png|40px]] {{TCG|Spiral Force}}
*[[File:SetSymbolThunder Knuckle.png|40px]] {{TCG|Thunder Knuckle}}
*[[File:SetSymbolShiny Collection.png|40px]] {{TCG|Shiny Collection}} — mini set
*[[File:SetSymbolMegalo Cannon.png|40px]] {{TCG|Megalo Cannon}}
*[[File:SetSymbolEX Battle Boost.png|40px]] {{TCG|EX Battle Boost}}
 
{{Col-2}}
[[File:TCG Card Back Japanese.jpg|thumb|right|150px|Back of the current Japanese language card, since 2002]]
 
===[[Generation VI]]===
====XY era====
*[[File:SetSymbolCollection_X.png|40px]] {{TCG|Collection X}}
*[[File:SetSymbolCollection_Y.png|40px]] {{TCG|Collection Y}}
*[[File:SetSymbolWild_Blaze.png|40px]] {{TCG|Wild Blaze}}
*[[File:SetSymbolRising_Fist.png|40px]] {{TCG|Rising Fist}}
*[[File:SetSymbolPhantom_Gate.png|40px]] {{TCG|Phantom Gate}}
*[[File:SetSymbolGaia_Volcano.png|40px]] {{TCG|Gaia Volcano}}
*[[File:SetSymbolTidal_Storm.png|40px]] {{TCG|Tidal Storm}}
*[[File:SetSymbolDoubleCrisis.png|40px]] {{TCG|Magma Gang vs Aqua Gang: Double Crisis}} — mini set
*[[File:SetSymbolEmerald_Break.png|40px]] {{TCG|Emerald Break}}
*[[File:SetSymbolBandit_Ring.png|40px]] {{TCG|Bandit Ring}}
*[[File:SetSymbolLegendary Shine Collection.png|40px]] {{TCG|Legendary Shine Collection}} — mini set
 
====XY BREAK era====
*[[File:SetSymbolBlue_Shock.png|40px]] {{TCG|Blue Shock}}
*[[File:SetSymbolRed_Flash.png|40px]] {{TCG|Red Flash}}
*[[File:SetSymbolRage of the Broken Heavens.png|40px]] {{TCG|Rage of the Broken Heavens}}
*[[File:SetSymbolPokéKyun Collection.png|40px]] {{TCG|PokéKyun Collection}}
*[[File:SetSymbolBREAK Starter Pack.png|40px]] {{TCG|Generations|Starter Pack}}
*[[File:SetSymbolAwakening Psychic King.png|40px]] {{TCG|Awakening Psychic King}}
*[[File:SetSymbolPremium Champion Pack.png|40px]] {{TCG|Premium Champion Pack}}
*[[File:SetSymbolFever-Burst Fighter.png|40px]] {{TCG|Fever-Burst Fighter}}
*[[File:SetSymbolCruel Traitor.png|40px]] {{TCG|Cruel Traitor}}
*[[File:SetSymbolMythical Legendary Dream Shine Collection.png|40px]] {{TCG|Mythical & Legendary Dream Shine Collection}}
*[[File:SetSymbolExpansion Pack 20th Anniversary.png|40px]] {{TCG|Expansion Pack 20th Anniversary}}
* [[File:SetSymbolXY reprint.png|40px]]{{TCG|The Best of XY}}
 
===[[Generation VII]]===
====SM era====
* [[File:SetSymbolCollection Sun.png|40px]]{{TCG|Collection Sun}}
* [[File:SetSymbolCollection Moon.png|40px]]{{TCG|Collection Moon}}
* [[File:SetSymbolSM1Plus.png|40px]]{{TCG|Enhanced Expansion Pack Sun & Moon|Sun & Moon}}
* [[File:SetSymbolIslands Await You.png|40px]]{{TCG|Islands Await You}}
* [[File:SetSymbolAlolan Moonlight.png|40px]]{{TCG|Alolan Moonlight}}
* [[File:SetSymbolFacing_a_New_Trial.png|40px]]{{TCG|Facing a New Trial}}
* [[File:SetSymbolTo_Have_Seen_the_Battle_Rainbow.png|40px]]{{TCG|To Have Seen the Battle Rainbow}}
* [[File:SetSymbolDarkness_that_Consumes_Light.png|40px]]{{TCG|Darkness that Consumes Light}}
* [[File:SetSymbolShiningLegends.png|40px]]{{TCG|Shining Legends}}
* [[File:SetSymbolAwakened_Heroes.png|40px]]{{TCG|Awakened Heroes}}
* [[File:SetSymbolUltradimensional_Beasts.png|40px]]{{TCG|Ultradimensional Beasts}}
* [[File:SetSymbolGX Battle Boost.png|40px]]{{TCG|GX Battle Boost}}
* [[File:SetSymbolUltra Sun.png|40px]]{{TCG|Ultra Sun}}
* [[File:SetSymbolUltra Moon.png|40px]]{{TCG|Ultra Moon}}
* [[File:SetSymbolUltra Force.png|40px]]{{TCG|Ultra Force}}
* [[File:SetSymbolForbiddenLight.png|40px]]{{TCG|Forbidden Light}}
* [[File:SetSymbolDragon Storm.png|40px]]{{TCG|Dragon Storm}}
* [[File:SetSymbolChampion Road.png|40px]]{{TCG|Champion Road}}
* [[File:SetSymbolSky-Splitting Charisma.png|40px]]{{TCG|Sky-Splitting Charisma}}
* [[File:SetSymbolThunderclap Spark.png|40px]]{{TCG|Thunderclap Spark}}
* [[File:SetSymbolFairy Rise.png|40px]]{{TCG|Fairy Rise}}
* [[File:SetSymbolSuper-Burst Impact.png|40px]]{{TCG|Super-Burst Impact}}
* [[File:SetSymbolDark Order.png|40px]]{{TCG|Dark Order}}
* [[File:SetSymbolGX Ultra Shiny.png|40px]]{{TCG|GX Ultra Shiny}}
* [[File:SetSymbolTag Bolt.png|40px]]{{TCG|Tag Bolt}}
* [[File:SetSymbolNight Unison.png|40px]]{{TCG|Night Unison}}
* [[File:SetSymbolFull Metal Wall.png|40px]]{{TCG|Full Metal Wall}}
* [[File:SetSymbolDouble Blaze.png|40px]]{{TCG|Double Blaze}}
* [[File:SetSymbolGG End.png|40px]]{{TCG|GG End}}
* [[File:SetSymbolSky Legend.png|40px]]{{TCG|Sky Legend}}
* [[File:SetSymbolMiracle Twin.png|40px]]{{TCG|Miracle Twin}}
* [[File:SetSymbolRemix Bout.png|40px]]{{TCG|Remix Bout}}
* [[File:SetSymbolDream League.png|40px]]{{TCG|Dream League}}
* [[File:SetSymbolAlter Genesis.png|40px]]{{TCG|Alter Genesis}}
* [[File:SetSymbolTag All Stars.png|40px]]{{TCG|Tag All Stars}}
 
===[[Generation VIII]]===
====SWSH era====
* [[File:SetSymbolSword.png|40px]] {{TCG|Sword}}
* [[File:SetSymbolShield.png|40px]] {{TCG|Shield}}
* [[File:SetSymbolVMAX Rising.png|40px]] {{TCG|VMAX Rising}}
* [[File:SetSymbolRebellion Crash.png|40px]] {{TCG|Rebellion Crash}}
* [[File:SetSymbolExplosive Walker.png|40px]] {{TCG|Explosive Walker}}
* [[File:SetSymbolInfinity Zone.png|40px]] {{TCG|Infinity Zone}}
* [[File:SetSymbolLegendary Heartbeat.png|40px]] {{TCG|Legendary Heartbeat}}
* [[File:SetSymbolAmazing Volt Tackle.png|40px]] {{TCG|Amazing Volt Tackle}}
* [[File:SetSymbolShiny Star V.png|40px]] {{TCG|Shiny Star V}}
* [[File:SetSymbolSingle Strike Master.png|40px]] {{TCG|Single Strike Master}}
* [[File:SetSymbolRapid Strike Master.png|40px]] {{TCG|Rapid Strike Master}}
* [[File:SetSymbolPeerless Fighters.png|40px]] {{TCG|Peerless Fighters}}
* [[File:SetSymbolSilver Lance.png|40px]] {{TCG|Silver Lance}}
* [[File:SetSymbolJet-Black Spirit.png|40px]] {{TCG|Jet-Black Spirit}}
* [[File:SetSymbolEevee Heroes.png|40px]] {{TCG|Eevee Heroes}}
* [[File:SetSymbolSkyscraping Perfection.png|40px]] {{TCG|Skyscraping Perfection}}
* [[File:SetSymbolBlue Sky Stream.png|40px]] {{TCG|Blue Sky Stream}}
* [[File:SetSymbolFusion Arts.png|40px]] {{TCG|Fusion Arts}}
* [[File:SetSymbol25th Anniversary Collection.png|40px]] {{TCG|25th Anniversary Collection}}
* [[File:SetSymbolVMAX Climax.png|40px]] {{TCG|VMAX Climax}}
* [[File:SetSymbolStar Birth.png|40px]] {{TCG|Star Birth}}
* [[File:SetSymbolBattle Region.png|40px]] {{TCG|Battle Region}}
* [[File:SetSymbolTime Gazer.png|40px]] {{TCG|Time Gazer}}
* [[File:SetSymbolSpace Juggler.png|40px]] {{TCG|Space Juggler}}
* [[File:SetSymbolDark Phantasma.png|40px]] {{TCG|Dark Phantasma}}
* [[File:SetSymbolS10b.png|40px]] {{TCG|Pokémon GO}}
* [[File:SetSymbolLost Abyss.png|40px]] {{TCG|Lost Abyss}}
* [[File:SetSymbolIncandescent Arcana.png|40px]] {{TCG|Incandescent Arcana}}
* [[File:SetSymbolParadigm Trigger.png|40px]] {{TCG|Paradigm Trigger}}
* [[File:SetSymbolVSTAR Universe.png|40px]] {{TCG|VSTAR Universe}}
{{-}}
|-
{{Col-2}}
 
===[[Generation IX]]===
====SV era====
* [[File:SetSymbolScarlet ex.png|40px]] {{TCG|Scarlet ex}}
* [[File:SetSymbolViolet ex.png|40px]] {{TCG|Violet ex}}
* [[File:SetSymbolTriplet Beat.png|40px]] {{TCG|Triplet Beat}}
* [[File:SetSymbolSnow Hazard.png|40px]] {{TCG|Snow Hazard}}
* [[File:SetSymbolClay Burst.png|40px]] {{TCG|Clay Burst}}
* [[File:SetSymbolPokémon Card 151.png|40px]] {{TCG|Pokémon Card 151}}
* [[File:SetSymbolRuler of the Black Flame.png|40px]] {{TCG|Ruler of the Black Flame}}
* [[File:SetSymbolRaging Surf.png|40px]] {{TCG|Raging Surf}}
* [[File:SetSymbolAncient Roar.png|40px]] {{TCG|Ancient Roar}}
* [[File:SetSymbolFuture Flash.png|40px]] {{TCG|Future Flash}}
* [[File:SetSymbolShiny Treasure ex.png|40px]] {{TCG|Shiny Treasure ex}}
* [[File:SetSymbolWild Force.png|40px]] {{TCG|Wild Force}}
* [[File:SetSymbolCyber Judge.png|40px]] {{TCG|Cyber Judge}}
* [[File:SetSymbolCrimson Haze.png|40px]] {{TCG|Crimson Haze}}
* [[File:SetSymbolTransformation Mask.png|40px]] {{TCG|Transformation Mask}}
* [[File:SetSymbolNight Wanderer.png|40px]] {{TCG|Night Wanderer}}
* [[File:SetSymbolStellar Miracle.png|40px]] {{TCG|Stellar Miracle}}
{{-}}
|-
 
===Exclusive sets===
''Original era''
*[[File:SetSymbolVending.png|25px]] [[Vending Machine cards (TCG)#Vending Machine cards Series 1 (Blue)|Vending Machine cards Series 1 (Blue)]]
*[[File:SetSymbolVending.png|25px]] [[Vending Machine cards (TCG)#Vending Machine cards Series 2 (Red)|Vending Machine cards Series 2 (Red)]]
*[[File:SetSymbolVending.png|25px]] [[Vending Machine cards (TCG)#Vending Machine cards Series 3 (Green)|Vending Machine cards Series 3 (Green)]]
''VS era''
*[[File:SetSymbolVS.png|45px]] {{TCG|Pokémon VS}} — minor expansion
''Web era''
*[[File:Pokémon Card web Icon.png|35px]] {{TCG|Pokémon Web}} — minor expansion
 
{{Col-2}}
===Promotional sets===
''Original era''
*{{exp|Base Set}} {{TCG|Unnumbered Promotional cards}}
*[[File:SetSymbolVending.png|28px]] {{TCG|Vending Machine cards|Expansion Sheet}} Series 1 to 3
*{{exp|Southern Islands}}  {{TCG|Southern Islands}}
''e-Card era''
*{{exp|Promo}} {{TCG|P Promotional cards}}
*[[File:SetSymbolTrainer Magazine.png|35px]] {{TCG|T Promotional cards}}
*{{exp|Promo}} {{TCG|J Promotional cards}}
*[[File:SetSymbolMcDonalds Minimum Pack.png|30px]] {{TCG|McDonald's Pokémon-e Minimum Pack}}
''ADV era''
*{{exp|Promo}} {{TCG|ADV-P Promotional cards}}
*[[File:SetSymbolPokémon Players.png|25px]][[File:None2.png|7px]] {{TCG|PLAY Promotional cards}}
''PCG era''
*{{exp|Promo}} {{TCG|PCG-P Promotional cards}}
*[[File:SetSymbolPokéPark Blue.png|35px]] {{TCG|PokéPark Blue}}
*[[File:SetSymbolPokéPark Forest.png|35px]] {{TCG|PokéPark Forest}}
''DP era''
*{{exp|Promo}} {{TCG|DP-P Promotional cards}}
*[[File:SetSymbolPokémon Players.png|25px]][[File:None2.png|7px]] {{TCG|PPP Promotional cards}}
*[[File:SetSymbol10th Movie Commemoration Set.png|30px]] {{TCG|10th Movie Commemoration Set}}
*[[File:SetSymbol11th Movie Commemoration Set.png|30px]] {{TCG|11th Movie Commemoration Set}}
''DPt era''
*{{exp|Promo}} {{TCG|DPt-P Promotional cards}}
*[[File:SetSymbolMelee Pokémon Scramble.png|30px]] {{TCG|Melee! Pokémon Scramble}}
*[[File:SetSymbolMovie Commemoration Random Pack.png|30px]] {{TCG|Movie Commemoration Random Pack}}
''LEGEND era''
*{{exp|Promo}} {{TCG|L-P Promotional cards}}
*{{exp|Base Set}} {{TCG|World Collection|World Collection - Pikachu World 2010}}
''BW era''
*{{exp|Promo}} {{TCG|BW-P Promotional cards}}
*[[File:SetSymbolJourney Partners Collection.png|30px]] {{TCG|Journey Partners}}
''XY era''
*{{exp|Promo}} {{TCG|XY-P Promotional cards}}
''SM era''
*[[File:SetSymbol SMPromo.png|30px]] {{TCG|SM-P Promotional cards}}
*[[File:SetSymbolGreat Detective Pikachu.png|40px]]{{TCG|Great Detective Pikachu}}
''S&S era''
*[[File:SetSymbol SMPromo.png|30px]] {{TCG|S-P Promotional cards}}
''SV era''
*[[File:SetSymbol SMPromo.png|30px]] {{TCG|SV-P Promotional cards}}
''Miscellaneous''
*{{TCG|Unreleased cards}}
*{{TCG|Unreleased cards}}
|}


==History of the Pokémon TCG==
==Logo==
The Pokémon TCG was created by Media Factory in Japan. It was first released in Japan in 1997. [[Wizards of the Coast]], seeing a great opportunity to ride the new Pokémon wave, was licensed the game and introduced Pokémon TCG to North America in 1999. In 2003, [[Nintendo of America]] took over the game from Wizards of the Coast, and is currently releasing new sets for it. During the early part of its run, two [[Game Boy Color]] games were also released, [[Pokémon Trading Card Game (game)|Pokémon Trading Card Game]] and [[Pokémon Card GB 2]], though only the first was released outside of Japan.
<gallery>
File:Pokémon TCG Indonesia logo.png|TCG logo in {{pmin|Indonesia}}n
File:Pokémon TCG Indonesia logo 2023.png|TCG logo used in {{pmin|Indonesia}}n TCG products since October 27, 2023
File:Pokémon TCG Greater China logo.png|TCG logo in {{pmin|Greater China|Chinese}}
File:Pokémon TCG South Korea logo.png|TCG logo in {{pmin|South Korea|Korean}}
File:Pokémon TCG Thailand logo.png|TCG logo in {{pmin|Thailand|Thai}}
</gallery>
 
==In other languages==
{{Langtable|color={{red color}}|bordercolor={{blue color dark}}|textcolor=fff
|zh_yue=寶可夢集換式卡牌遊戲 ''{{tt|Pokémon Jaahpwuhnsīk Kǎpáai Yóuxì|Pokémon Collectible Card Game}}'' (TCG){{tt|*|October 19, 2019-present}}<br>寶可夢集換式戰鬥遊戲卡 ''{{tt|Pokémon Jaahpwuhnsīk Jindau Yàuhhei Kāat|Pokémon Collectible Battle Game Cards}}'' (TCG){{tt|*|October 16-19, 2019}}
|zh_cmn=寶可夢集換式卡牌遊戲 / 宝可梦集换式卡牌游戏 ''{{tt|Pokémon Jíhuànshì Kǎpái Yóuxì|Pokémon Collectible Card Game}}'' (TCG){{tt|*|October 19, 2019-present}}<br>寶可夢集換式戰鬥遊戲卡 ''{{tt|Pokémon Jíhuànshì Zhàndòu Yóuxì Kǎ|Pokémon Collectible Battle Game Cards}}'' (TCG){{tt|*|October 16-19, 2019}}<br>神奇寶貝集換式卡片遊戲 ''{{tt|Shénqí Bǎobèi Jíhuànshì Kǎpiàn Yóuxì|Pokémon Collectible Card Game}}'' (TCG){{tt|*|2000, 2006}}
|nl=Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG)<br>{{tt|Pokémon Ruilkaartspel|Pokémon Trading Card Game}}
|fr={{tt|Cartes à Jouer et à Collectionner Pokémon|Pokémon Collectible Card Game}} (JCC)<br>{{tt|Jeu de Cartes à Collectionner Pokémon|Pokémon Collectible Card Game}} (JCC)
|de={{tt|Pokémon-Sammelkartenspiel|Pokémon Collectible Card Game}} (TCG)
|id={{tt|Pokémon Game Kartu Koleksi|Pokémon Collectible Card Game}} (TCG)
|it={{tt|Gioco di Carte Collezionabili Pokémon|Pokémon Collectible Card Game}} (GCC)
|ko=포켓몬 카드 게임 ''Pokémon Card Game''<br>포켓몬 트레이딩 카드 게임 ''Pokémon Trading Card Game''
|pl=Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG)
|pt_br={{tt|Pokémon Estampas Ilustradas|Pokémon Ilustrated Pictures}} (TCG)
|pt_eu=Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG)
|ru={{tt|Покемон Коллекционная Карточная Игра|Pokémon Collectible Card Game}} (ККИ)
|es={{tt|Juego de Cartas Coleccionables Pokémon|Pokémon Collectible Card Game}} (JCC)<br>{{tt|Juego de Cartas Intercambiables Pokémon|Pokémon Trading Card Game}}
|sv={{tt|Pokémon Samlarkortspel|Pokémon Collectible Card Game}} (TCG)
|th=โปเกมอน เทรดดิ้งการ์ดเกม ''Pokémon Trading Card Game''<br>โปเกมอน การ์ดเกม ''Pokémon Card Game''
|uk={{tt|Pokémon Колекційна Карточна Гра|Pokémon Collectible Card Game}}
}}
 
==See also==
*[[Play! Pokémon]] Pokémon Organized Play
*{{TCG|Appendix:Glossary|Appendix:Glossary of TCG terms}}
*[[:Category:Pokémon Trading Card Game]] for a categorized list of all articles related to the TCG
*[[Pokémon Trading Card Game Online]]
*[[Pokémon Trading Card Game Live]]
*[[Pokémon Card Channel]]
*[[Pokémon Card Game Rule Song]]
*[[Pokémon Card Game Rule Song – Sword & Shield Ver]]
*[[Pokémon Card Game Rule Song – Scarlet & Violet Ver]]
 
==References==
{{reflist}}


==External links==
==External links==
*[http://www.pokegym.net The PokéGym]
*[http://www.pokemon.com/us/pokemon-tcg/ Pokémon.com] The official United States Pokémon TCG website
*[http://www.pokebeach.com Pokébeach]
*[http://www.pokemon.com/us/pokemon-tcg/play-online/tutorial/ Step-by-step Web Browser TCG Tutorials] (on official website)
*[http://www.pokemonmarriland.com Pokémon Marriland]
*[http://forums.pokemontcg.com/ forums.pokemontcg.com] Official English TCG Forums
===On Bulbagarden forums===
*[http://www.pokemon-card.com Pokémon-Card.com] Official Japanese TCG Website (Japanese)
*[http://bmgf.bulbagarden.net/forumdisplay.php?f=283 Pokémon Trading Card Game discussion forum]
 
{{Project TCG notice}}


[[Category:TCG|*]]
[[Category:Pokémon Trading Card Game|*]]


[[de:Sammelkartenspiel]]
[[de:Sammelkartenspiel]]
[[es:Juego de Cartas Coleccionables Pokémon]]
[[fr:Jeu de Cartes à Collectionner Pokémon]]
[[it:Gioco di Carte Collezionabili Pokémon]]
[[ja:ポケモンカードゲーム]]
[[ja:ポケモンカードゲーム]]
[[zh:宝可梦集换式卡牌游戏]]

Latest revision as of 12:35, 14 September 2024

This article is about the Trading Card Game itself. For the Game Boy Color game, see Pokémon Trading Card Game (video game).
International logo

The Pokémon Trading Card Game (Japanese: ポケモンカードゲーム, Pokémon Card Game), often abbreviated as Pokémon TCG or just PTCG (Japanese: ポケカ Pokéca), is a tabletop game developed by Creatures, Inc. that involves collecting, trading and playing with Pokémon-themed playing cards. It has its own set of rules but uses many motifs and ideas derived from the video games. There are Pokémon cards for every species of Pokémon, as well as Trainer cards featuring characters, items and other themes of the franchise (each with a different use) and Energy cards to power attacks. The artwork for the cards is often created specifically for the TCG by numerous artists, though occasionally pre-existing art made for the core series is used.

The Pokémon TCG is a popular and steady aspect of the Pokémon franchise and is played and enjoyed by many fans. As of March 31, 2024, over 64.8 billion Pokémon Trading Card Game cards have been produced worldwide in 15 languages and sold in 93 countries and regions.[1] The game is part of the Play! Pokémon organized play along with the video game series and is also used in the Pokémon Trading Card Game Live.

History

Original back of Japanese cards

The Pokémon Trading Card Game was originally published in Japan in October 1996 by Media Factory. While other series of collectible Pokémon cards existed in the past (such as the Pocket Monsters Carddass Trading Cards released in September 1996), this was the first card game based on the Pokémon series. The first Pokémon TCG sets took inspiration from the then released Pokémon Red, Green, and Blue video games and initially featured illustrations by Ken Sugimori, Mitsuhiro Arita and Keiji Kinebuchi. Soon new expansions began to release with many new artists contributing artwork. Three years later in 1999, Pokémon TCG was introduced in North America by Wizards of the Coast with the Base Set, and worldwide soon after. In 2003, Wizards of the Coast's license was transferred to The Pokémon Company International.

With the release of Pokémon Gold and Silver video games, the Neo Series, the second series of expansions, brought several new Pokémon into play. The Metal and Darkness types of Pokémon cards were also introduced, along with Light Pokémon and Dark Pokémon. These were eventually discontinued to prevent confusion with the Darkness type, but returned briefly with the release of the Neo Destiny expansion. The e-Card Series used Game Boy Advance add-on e-Reader to display Pokédex data about the Pokémon, play a minigame, play various tunes in a Melody Box, or activate a special attack for that Pokémon. The EX Series was released next, the first series produced by The Pokémon Company International instead of Wizards of the Coast, which introduced the stronger Pokémon-ex into the game. The Diamond & Pearl Series brought Pokémon LV.X, which were stronger, "Leveled-up" versions of final evolutions. Pokémon LV.X essentially replaced Pokémon-ex and continued until the Platinum: Arceus expansion. The HeartGold & SoulSilver Series featured two more types of card, Pokémon LEGEND, two-part cards with one Pokémon on each card, and Pokémon Prime, Pokémon with powerful and/or tactical attacks. With the release of the Black & White expansion, Poké-Powers (Poké-POWERs and Poké-BODYs) were combined into one mechanic and renamed Abilities. Pokémon-ex returned as Pokémon-EX in the Black & White Series starting with the Next Destinies expansion. The Dragon Pokémon type was introduced in the Dragon Vault expansion of the Black & White Series. M Pokémon-EX were introduced in the XY expansion and introduce the Mega Evolution mechanic featured in the Pokémon X and Y video games to the TCG. The XY Series also introduced the Fairy type Pokémon. Pokémon-GX was introduced in the Sun & Moon Series.

With the release of the EX Series worldwide, Pokémon TCG was published by Pokémon USA and distributed by Nintendo of America, instead of Wizards of the Coast.[2] In 2006, Nintendo of America transferred distribution responsibilities to Pokémon USA.[3] In 2000, The Pokémon Company replaced Media Factory in publishing the cards in Japan starting with the Awakening Legends expansion. Media Factory continued to distribute the cards until the DP era.[citation needed]

Two Game Boy Color video games based on the card game were created: Pokémon Trading Card Game was released in 1998 and worldwide in 2000, and its sequel, Pokémon Trading Card Game 2: The Invasion of Team GR!, was released three years later. Pokémon Card Game: How to Play DS was released in Japan in 2011 and taught players how to play the Pokémon TCG. In 2011, the Pokémon Trading Card Game Online was introduced as a browser-based game but later became a downloadable game for PC, Mac, and iPad. Other media related to Pokémon TCG include several manga titles, such as the series How I Became a Pokémon Card.

How to play

050Diglett.png This section is incomplete.
Please feel free to edit this section to add missing information and complete it.
Reason: More detail, especially as part of game flow.
Back of an English language card
See the Appendix:Glossary for a definition of most the Pokémon Trading Card Game terms.
Also see the FAQ Video Series on Pokémon.com for a visual introduction to the card game.

The Pokémon Trading Card Game is a two player game for all ages. Each player builds a Deck of sixty (60) cards using a combination of various "Pokémon cards" (the main type of cards used to battle), "Trainer cards" (cards with special effects), and "Energy cards" (cards that are required to perform most "Attacks"). New cards and decks are constantly being released, and players may purchase "Booster packs" to integrate these cards into their own decks or purchase pre-made "Trainer kits" or "Theme Decks" that already have all the cards needed to play. The Pokémon Trading Card Game officially requires a deck of 60 cards for Standard or Expanded play, though shorter Matches can be held with "Half Decks" consisting of 30 cards instead. During a 60 card match, only four of any one card, excluding Basic Energy cards, are allowed in each deck. This is further limited to two of any one card in a Half Deck match. Many fans have also created their own game rules and playing methods and have websites devoted to providing alternative playing methods. These rules and methods are not allowed in Play! Pokémon competitions.

Setting Up to Play

To begin a match, players need a coin or a six-sided die (where the even-numbered sides represent "heads" and the odd-numbered sides represent "tails"). One player calls heads or tails, while the other player flips the coin or rolls the die. If the player calling the coin flip gets their choice (heads or tails), that player gets to choose which player goes first. If the player calling the coin flip does not get their choice, the player flipping the coin gets to choose which player goes first. The player who goes first is not allowed to attack or play any Supporter cards on that player's first turn. In best-of-three match play, after a game has been completed, the loser of that game decides who goes first in the next game instead of determining it by a coin flip. This decision is made at the same point during setup that the coin flip would take place.

After determining which player goes first, both players must shuffle their own decks and allow their opponent to make a deck cut; alternatively, the opponent may choose to shuffle the other player's deck and allow the deck owner to make a deck cut. Each player then places their deck faces-down in the play area or "field" in a north/south orientation, with the short sides of cards facing each player, and any card sleeve openings facing the opponent. The players then each take seven cards from the top of their respective decks. These cards go into their hand. Players then place at least one Basic Pokémon from their hand face down into play: one to the Active Spot and up to five onto the Bench. Next, each player sets aside six cards from the top of their deck face down as Prize cards. Finally, each player flips over their Active and Benched Pokémon and the game starts.

Mulligan

If a player does not have any Basic Pokémon in their hand while setting up to play, after their opponent sets aside the Prize cards, they must take a mulligan. For each mulligan a player takes, that player’s opponent may draw a card.

If both players had to take mulligans, the player that took fewer mulligans may draw a number of cards up to the difference in the numbers of mulligans. This means if the player took 1 mulligan and the opponent took 3, the player may draw up to 2 cards.

Turns

At the start of each player's turn, they must draw a card. Then, they may take any of the following actions in any order they like.

Attacking will end a player's turn regardless of how many other actions they have taken, but a player may choose to end their turn without attacking.

Finishing a match

To finish a match, players must take their six Prize cards by Knocking Out their opponent's Pokémon by using attacks to reduce the opponent's HP to zero. The player that does so wins the game.

One player may also run out of Pokémon in play, i.e. they have no Active Pokémon or Benched Pokémon. The player that runs out of Pokémon in play loses the game.

At the beginning of a turn, if a player must draw a card from an empty deck, that player loses the game. Winning or losing can also be achieved directly with the effect of certain cards.

Card types

Pokémon card

Trainer cards

Energy cards

Rarity

On the bottom right corner of most cards, there is a small logo that indicates its rarity. Below is a list of these rarities:

  • Common (Common)
  • Uncommon (Uncommon)
  • Rare (Rare)
  • Ultra-Rare Rare (Ultra-Rare Rare)
  • Double Rare (Double Rare)
  • Ultra Rare (Ultra Rare)
  • Illustration Rare (Illustration Rare)
  • Special Illustration Rare (Special illustration Rare)
  • Hyper Rare (Hyper Rare)
  • Shiny Rare (Shiny Rare)
  • Shiny Ultra Rare (Shiny Ultra Rare)
  • ACE SPEC Rare (ACE SPEC Rare)

No symbol usually denotes a card that is part of a promotional set or a Basic Energy card. In addition, some cards are rarer than the symbol alone indicates, including due to it being a Holographic version, Secret Rare or alternate art print.


International sets

Generation I

Original Series

Generation II

Neo Series

Legendary Collection Series

e-Card Series
Wizards of the Coast were the western distributors of the game between 1999 and 2003

Promotional series

Unreleased sets


Generation III

EX Series
The Pokémon Company International has since taken over the TCG from Wizards of the Coast.

Generation IV

Diamond & Pearl Series

Platinum Series

HeartGold & SoulSilver Series

Call of Legends Series


Generation V

Black & White Series

Generation VI

XY Series


Generation VII

Sun & Moon Series

Generation VIII

Sword & Shield Series


Generation IX

Scarlet & Violet Series


World Championships Decks

Trainer Kits

Promotional series

Promo Black Star Promos

POP Series — EX, Diamond & Pearl and Platinum Series

McDonald's Collection — since Black & White Series

Miscellaneous sets

Miscellaneous cards

Japanese sets

Exclusive sets

Original era

VS era

Web era

Generation I

Original era

Generation II

Neo era

e-Series

Generation III

ADV era

PCG era

Generation IV

DP era

DPt era

LEGEND era

Generation V

BW era
Back of the current Japanese language card, since 2002

Generation VI

XY era

XY BREAK era

Generation VII

SM era

Generation VIII

SWSH era


Generation IX

SV era


Promotional sets

Original era

e-Card era

ADV era

PCG era

DP era

DPt era

LEGEND era

BW era

XY era

SM era

S&S era

SV era

Miscellaneous

In other languages

Language Title
Chinese Cantonese 寶可夢集換式卡牌遊戲 Pokémon Jaahpwuhnsīk Kǎpáai Yóuxì (TCG)*
寶可夢集換式戰鬥遊戲卡 Pokémon Jaahpwuhnsīk Jindau Yàuhhei Kāat (TCG)*
Mandarin 寶可夢集換式卡牌遊戲 / 宝可梦集换式卡牌游戏 Pokémon Jíhuànshì Kǎpái Yóuxì (TCG)*
寶可夢集換式戰鬥遊戲卡 Pokémon Jíhuànshì Zhàndòu Yóuxì Kǎ (TCG)*
神奇寶貝集換式卡片遊戲 Shénqí Bǎobèi Jíhuànshì Kǎpiàn Yóuxì (TCG)*
The Netherlands Flag.png Dutch Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG)
Pokémon Ruilkaartspel
France Flag.png French Cartes à Jouer et à Collectionner Pokémon (JCC)
Jeu de Cartes à Collectionner Pokémon (JCC)
Germany Flag.png German Pokémon-Sammelkartenspiel (TCG)
Indonesia Flag.png Indonesian Pokémon Game Kartu Koleksi (TCG)
Italy Flag.png Italian Gioco di Carte Collezionabili Pokémon (GCC)
South Korea Flag.png Korean 포켓몬 카드 게임 Pokémon Card Game
포켓몬 트레이딩 카드 게임 Pokémon Trading Card Game
Poland Flag.png Polish Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG)
Portuguese Brazil Flag.png Brazil Pokémon Estampas Ilustradas (TCG)
Portugal Flag.png Portugal Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG)
Russia Flag.png Russian Покемон Коллекционная Карточная Игра (ККИ)
Spain Flag.png Spanish Juego de Cartas Coleccionables Pokémon (JCC)
Juego de Cartas Intercambiables Pokémon
Sweden Flag.png Swedish Pokémon Samlarkortspel (TCG)
Thailand Flag.png Thai โปเกมอน เทรดดิ้งการ์ดเกม Pokémon Trading Card Game
โปเกมอน การ์ดเกม Pokémon Card Game
Ukraine Flag.png Ukrainian Pokémon Колекційна Карточна Гра

See also

References

  1. ↑ Pokémon in Figures｜The Pokémon Company
  2. ↑ It's Wizards vs. Pokemon as ex-partners square off | Seattle Post-Intelligencer, archived October 17th, 2013
  3. ↑ Pokemon USA In Charge | ICv2

External links


Project TCG logo.png This article is part of Project TCG, a Bulbapedia project that aims to report on every aspect of the Pokémon Trading Card Game.
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