How to Play the Pokémon Trading Card Game: A Complete Beginner’s Guide

Stew @ PokéPortal
Sep 9
3 min read

Are you new to the Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG)? Or maybe you’re returning after a break and want to refresh your skills? This guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from the rules of Pokémon TCG to building your first deck—so you can jump into battles with confidence.

What Is the Pokémon Trading Card Game?

The Pokémon Trading Card Game is a competitive strategy game where two players act as Pokémon Trainers. Using decks of 60 cards, players summon Pokémon, power them up with Energy, and battle until one Trainer emerges victorious.

You win a Pokémon TCG match by:

Knocking Out all your opponent’s Pokémon
Collecting all six of your Prize Cards
Or leaving your opponent with no cards to draw

This simple but strategic gameplay is why Pokémon TCG remains one of the most popular trading card games in the world.

Pokémon TCG Deck Building for Beginners

Learning how to build a Pokémon deck is the first step to success. A standard deck contains:

Pokémon cards – Your attackers and defenders.
Energy cards – Provide the power your Pokémon need to use attacks.
Trainer cards – Offer special effects, items, and support.

Tips for building your first deck:

Stick to one or two Pokémon types so you don’t spread your Energy too thin.
Include evolution lines (e.g., Charmander → Charmeleon → Charizard) for stronger plays.
Balance your deck with around 20 Pokémon, 20 Trainer cards, and 20 Energy (adjust as you learn).

Trading with friends or picking up pre-built decks is a great way to start without worrying about perfect ratios.

How to Set Up a Pokémon TCG Match

Before the first attack is made, here’s how to set up a game of Pokémon TCG:

Flip a coin to decide who goes first.
Shuffle your deck and draw seven cards.
Place one Basic Pokémon face down in your Active Spot.
Put up to five Basic Pokémon on your Bench.
Set aside six Prize Cards face down.
Flip over all Pokémon and begin the battle!

Pokémon TCG Rules: What You Do On Your Turn

Every turn in Pokémon TCG follows this flow:

Draw a card – Start by drawing one card from your deck.
Take actions – You can:
- Play Basic Pokémon onto your Bench
- Evolve Pokémon already in play
- Attach one Energy card to a Pokémon
- Play Trainer cards (Items, Supporters, Stadiums, Tools)
- Retreat your Active Pokémon by paying its cost
- Use Pokémon Abilities
Attack – If your Pokémon has the required Energy, it can attack your opponent’s Active Pokémon.

If the attack deals enough damage to Knock Out a Pokémon, you take one of your Prize Cards. Collect all six Prize Cards to win!

Special Rules and Strategies

Weakness and Resistance: Some Pokémon take more or less damage depending on their type.
Retreating: You can switch your Active Pokémon by discarding Energy equal to its retreat cost.
Abilities: Certain Pokémon have Abilities that give you extra advantages beyond attacks.

These mechanics add depth and strategy, making every game unique.

Best Ways to Learn the Pokémon TCG

Not sure where to start? Here are the easiest ways to learn:

Pokémon TCG Live (Digital App): Free to download, includes tutorials, and lets you practice online.
Pokémon TCG Battle Academy: A beginner-friendly box set with decks, playmats, and guides.
My First Battle Kits: Simplified decks for younger Trainers or absolute beginners.

Why Play the Pokémon Trading Card Game?

The Pokémon TCG is more than just a game—it’s a mix of strategy, collection, and community. Whether you’re battling friends, competing at events, or simply collecting your favorite Pokémon cards, the TCG offers something for every Trainer.

By learning the rules, building decks, and practicing your strategy, you’ll be one step closer to becoming a true Pokémon Master.

Final Thoughts

Starting your Pokémon Trading Card Game journey is simple, fun, and rewarding. With a deck in hand and a little practice, you’ll quickly understand why millions of Trainers around the world love battling it out in the TCG.

So grab your cards, challenge a friend, and discover the thrill of Pokémon battles in a whole new way!