Pokémon Card Game: Rules & Explanation for Beginners
Pokémon Card Game: Rules & Explanation for Beginners
Everyone knows Pokémon of course from the cards, the games or the anime. But did you know that the Pokémon card game (also called Pokémon TCG ) is not only fun to collect, but also a really cool game to play?
Many people collect the cards, but do not know exactly how the game works. A shame, because it is a strategic, but easy to learn card game. In this blog I will explain step by step how the Pokémon card game works, how to build a deck as a beginner and what all the symbols on the cards mean.
How does the Pokémon card game work?
The goal of the Pokémon card game is simple: you and your opponent both play with a deck of 60 cards . You try to defeat your opponent's Pokémon and grab Prize Cards. Do you have all the prize cards? Then you win the game.
This is what a turn looks like:
- At the start of your turn, draw a card.
- Put a Basic Pokémon in your Active Position (if you can).
- Place Energy cards under your Pokémon to perform attacks.
- Evolve your Pokémon if you have the right evolution card.
- Play Trainer cards to influence the game in your favor.
- Execute an attack and see if you can defeat your opponent's Pokémon.
When your opponent's Pokémon is defeated, you may take one of your prize cards. The number depends on the type of Pokémon you defeat. For example, a V-card often yields two prize cards.
What I like about this game is that it is easy to learn, but still has enough depth for real strategists.
Deck Building for Beginners
As you know, you always play with exactly 60 cards . A good deck contains a mix of:
- Pokémon cards (usually between 15 and 20 pieces)
- Energy cards (15 to 20 pieces, depending on your Pokémon type)
- Trainer cards (25 to 30 pieces, such as Items, Supporters and Stadiums)
Helpful tips when you start:
- Build your deck around one or two types of Pokémon (for example, Water and Psychic).
- Make sure you have enough Basic Pokémon , otherwise you won't be able to start.
- Don't forget about Energies ! Without energy, your Pokémon can't attack.
- Trainer cards often give you the advantage of drawing extra cards, searching for cards, or laying down energies faster.
For beginners , pre-constructed decks are a great place to start. They are ready-made, so you can play right away and learn how a good deck is constructed.
My advice? Start with a standard deck like this and then start tweaking and experimenting to find out what suits your playing style.
What do the symbols on Pokémon cards mean?
If you look closely at a Pokémon card, you will see all kinds of symbols. Below I will explain what they mean:
● Energy symbols
These indicate what type of energy you need to perform an attack. Think Water , Fire , Grass , Lightning , etc.
● Rarity symbol
At the bottom left of the card you will find a circle, diamond or star. This indicates the rarity of the card:
- ● = Common
- ◆ = Uncommon
- ★ = Rare
Some cards have a shiny star or multiple stars, for example secret rares or ultra rares.
● Set symbol
Each card has a small symbol on it that shows which set the card comes from. For example, a lighthouse for Evolving Skies or the pokéball logo for the Base Set .
● Card number
For example, at the bottom right you see 45/189 . This means that it is the 45th card from a set of 189 cards.
These symbols not only help you during the game, but also when collecting. You can easily see which cards you are still missing and how rare they are.
My advice if you want to start with the Pokémon card game
Don't start too hard. First buy a starter deck and learn the basic rules by just playing a few games. You will notice that the game will make more sense. Then you can start to adjust your deck, collect better cards and come up with strategies yourself.
And the best part? You get double the fun: both playing and collecting. If you have any questions about good starter decks or deck tips, feel free to ask. I'm happy to help you on your way.
