How the Game Is Played

In the Pokémon Trading Card Game, two players face off as Pokémon Trainers. They use their decks to battle with Pokémon. Each player starts with a 60-card deck. Players take turns drawing cards, playing Pokémon to the battlefield, and using attacks or abilities to knock out their opponent’s Pokémon.

Turn Structure

1. Draw a Card.
2. Attach an Energy Card to a Pokémon (optional).
3. Play Basic Pokémon, Evolutions, Trainer, or Item Cards.
4. Attack the Opponent’s Active Pokémon.
5. End Turn.

Types of Cards

There are three main types of cards in the Pokémon TCG:

1. Pokémon Cards

These represent Pokémon you can use to battle. Each Pokémon has HP (Health Points), attacks, and may evolve into stronger Pokémon.

• Basic Pokémon: Can be played directly onto the battlefield.
• Evolution Pokémon: Played on top of a Basic Pokémon to power it up.

2. Energy Cards

Energy is used to power your Pokémon’s attacks. Each attack requires a certain number/type of Energy cards to be attached to the Pokémon.

• Types: Grass, Fire, Water, Electric, etc. (corresponding to Pokémon types).

3. Trainer Cards

Support cards that help during the game. They come in three varieties:

• Item Cards: Provide one-time benefits.
• Supporter Cards: Strong effects but limited to one per turn.
• Stadium Cards: Provide ongoing effects that apply to both players until removed.

How Players Win

A player wins by achieving one of the following:

• Knocking Out 6 of the Opponent’s Pokémon to collect all 6 of their Prize Cards.
• Knocking Out All of the Opponent’s Pokémon in Play (when they have no Pokémon left to battle).
• The Opponent Cannot Draw a Card at the start of their turn because their deck is empty.

Final Thoughts