Pokemon TCG Beginner Guide: Understanding Pokemon Cards
Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) is a strategic 2-player card game where you battle as Pokémon Trainers, knocking out opponent Pokémon to win Prize Cards, aiming to claim all six first, or by depleting their deck. Players build 60-card decks with Pokémon, Energy, and Trainer cards, drawing hands, placing Basic Pokémon, and attacking with required Energy. Are you Ready to dive into the amazing world of Pokemon Trading Card Game? Whether you're a complete newbie or getting back into the game after years, this guide has everything you need to start your TCG journey in 2026.
What is Pokemon TCG Really About?
Pokemon TCG is so much more than just collecting pretty cards (though they absolutely are gorgeous). It's a strategic battle game where you step into the shoes of a Pokemon trainer, building teams of creatures to face off against other trainers. Think of it as a combination of chess and your favorite video game - you need strategy, but there's also that exciting element of chance that keeps every game fresh and unpredictable.
Understanding Pokemon Cards
Card Types You'll See:
Pokemon cards - Your battlers
Trainer cards - Special effects and support
Energy cards - Power source for attacks
Pokemon Card Anatomy:
HP - Health Points (damage Pokemon can take)
Type - Fire, Water, Grass, etc.
Attacks - What your Pokemon can do
Weakness - Takes double damage from this type
Resistance - Takes less damage from this type
Retreat Cost - Energy needed to switch out
The 11 Pokemon Types:
Fire - Strong attacks, high energy costs
Water - Consistent damage, good support
Grass - Healing and status effects
Electric - Fast attacks, energy acceleration
Psychic - Disruption and special effects
Fighting - High damage, simple strategies
Dark - Tricky effects, damage manipulation
Metal - Defensive abilities, energy efficiency
Fairy - Support effects, anti-Dragon
Dragon - Powerful but require multiple energy types
Colorless - Flexible, works with any energy
