Formats
Find the format that fits you
Same game, different card pools and deck rules. Here's how they compare.
Learn to Play
Brand new? Start here: rules, card types, and your very first games.
Explore Learn to Play →Standard
The official rotating format used at most tournaments and in Pokémon TCG Live ranked play.
Explore Standard →Expanded
A deeper card pool reaching back to the Black & White series, with powerful combos.
Explore Expanded →Gym Leader Challenge
Singleton, one Pokémon type, and no Rule Box Pokémon. A beloved community format.
Explore Gym Leader Challenge →Casual / Other
Theme decks, prereleases, kitchen-table games, and fun alternative formats.
Explore Casual / Other →Quick comparison
| Format | Card pool | Copies per card | Notable restrictions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | Recent regulation marks | Up to 4 | 1 ACE SPEC, 1 Radiant Pokémon |
| Expanded | Black & White onward | Up to 4 | Ban list, 1 ACE SPEC |
| Gym Leader Challenge | Expanded pool | 1 (singleton) | One Pokémon type, no Rule Box, no ACE SPEC |
| Prerelease / Limited | Packs you open | Any | 40-card decks, 4 Prize cards |
Basic Energy is unlimited in every format.