Pokémon Trading Card Game

Pokémon Trading Card Game. Often abbreviated as Pokémon TCG, it is a collectible card game based on the Pokémon media franchise. First published in 1996 in Japan by Media Factory, the game was later introduced internationally in 1999 by Wizards of the Coast. Players assume the role of a Pokémon Trainer and use a deck of cards representing Pokémon, items, and supporters to battle opponents.

History

The game was created under the direction of Tsunekazu Ishihara, president of The Pokémon Company, with its initial Japanese release titled *Pokémon Card Game*. The international English-language version was produced by Wizards of the Coast, the publisher of Magic: The Gathering, beginning with the Base Set. In 2003, following the expiration of the licensing agreement, The Pokémon Company International took over all publishing duties outside Asia. Major milestones include the introduction of the *Pokémon-e* Trading Card Game, which featured compatibility with the Nintendo e-Reader and the Game Boy Advance video game Pokémon Trading Card Game (video game). The game's history is marked by the periodic release of new card sets, often tied to video game generations like Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire or Pokémon Sun and Moon, and special collections such as Pokémon GO themed expansions.

Gameplay

Two players each use a 60-card deck, with the objective of taking all of their Prize cards by defeating the opponent's Pokémon. Each player begins by placing one Basic Pokémon as their Active Pokémon and up to five more on the Bench. Gameplay proceeds through phases: drawing a card, attaching one Energy card, playing Trainer cards like Professor Oak or Ultra Ball, attacking with Pokémon, and retreating. Attacks require specific types and amounts of Energy and can inflict damage, apply Special Conditions like Poisoned, or have other effects. Key strategic elements involve managing resources, building efficient combinations like the Rainbow Energy and Double Colorless Energy combos, and anticipating an opponent's moves through cards such as N or Lysandre.

Card types and rarities

The primary card types include Pokémon cards, which are further categorized as Basic Pokémon, Stage 1, and Stage 2 Pokémon, as well as Pokémon-EX and Pokémon V. Energy cards provide the resources needed for attacks, while Trainer cards are subdivided into Item cards, Supporter cards, and Stadium cards. Rarities are denoted by symbols at the bottom of the card: a circle indicates Common, a diamond for Uncommon, and a star for Rare. Higher rarity versions include Holo rare cards, Full Art cards, and secret rares like the coveted Illustrator Pikachu. Special sets, such as Pokémon LEGEND cards and cards from the Southern Islands collection, also feature unique mechanics and artwork.

Organized play

Official tournaments are sanctioned by The Pokémon Company International through the Play! Pokémon program. The system includes local events at Premier Tournament stores, larger Regional Championship competitions, and prestigious international events like the Pokémon World Championships, which have been held in locations such as London and San Francisco. Players earn Championship Points to qualify for the World Championships, with divisions for Juniors, Seniors, and Masters. Notable champions include Jason Klaczynski and Tord Reklev. The Pokémon Trading Card Game Online also hosts digital competitions, and the game is frequently featured at major conventions like Gen Con and Comic-Con International.

Impact and legacy

The game has become a cornerstone of the global collectible card game market, fostering a massive secondary market for rare cards, with items like the First Edition Charizard selling for substantial sums at auctions by Heritage Auctions. It has inspired video games, including the Game Boy Color title Pokémon Trading Card Game (video game) and its sequel, Pokémon Card GB2: Here Comes Team GR!, as well as the digital client Pokémon Trading Card Game Live. The game's cultural footprint extends to television, with episodes of the anime like "The Lost Lapras" featuring card battles, and it has been referenced in other media such as The Big Bang Theory. Its enduring popularity is evidenced by continuous set releases, collaborations with franchises like Yu-Gi-Oh! for crossover cards, and its role in popularizing competitive gaming for younger audiences.

Category:Collectible card games Category:Pokémon Category:Games introduced in 1996