Every card in the Pokémon TCG falls into one of three families. Learn these and you can read any card.
Pokémon
Pokémon do the fighting. Each has HP, a type, attacks, and sometimes an Ability.
- Basic Pokémon can be played straight from your hand.
- Stage 1 Pokémon evolve from a Basic; Stage 2 evolve from a Stage 1.
- Rule Box Pokémon (like Pokémon ex and V) are stronger but give up extra Prize cards when Knocked Out.
Look along the bottom of the card for Weakness, Resistance, and Retreat Cost.
Trainer cards
Trainers are your toolbox. There are four kinds:
| Kind | How many per turn | Example use |
|---|---|---|
| Item | As many as you want | Search for Pokémon, heal, switch |
| Supporter | One | Draw cards, disrupt your opponent |
| Stadium | One | Changes the rules for both players while in play |
| Pokémon Tool | Attach to a Pokémon (one each) | Boost HP, damage, or abilities |
Energy
Energy powers attacks. You can attach one Energy per turn from your hand.
- Basic Energy comes in nine types: Grass, Fire, Water, Lightning, Psychic, Fighting, Darkness, Metal, and Fairy (older cards). You can play any number of them.
- Special Energy has extra effects and counts toward the 4-copy limit.
A colorless symbol (★) in an attack cost means any type of Energy works.