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Introduction to Pokemon TCG
Because of the huge popularity this Japanese CCG was receiving, it was decided that America needed it's own translation of this game. To this end, Gamefreak and WoTC (Wizards of the Coast), the creators of M:TG, struck a deal wich allowed WoTC to reprint the Japanese cards into multiple languages, including American, French, and German. Similar to in Japan, Pokemon in America also became a fast hit, and has stayed around far longer than most CCGs, going well into it's third year, and still going strong.  Like Magic, Pokemon uses a deck of 60 cards, four cards maximum of any 1 card. However, unlike Magic, 60 is also the limit. You must have exactly 60 cards in your deck. Players use a wide variety of Pokemon cards, energy cards, and trainer cards in an effort to defeat all of the opponent's Pokemon. The first person to defeat 6 of the opponent's Pokemon, or all (whichever comes first), is declared the winner. An alternative win method is when your opponent can no longer draw a card (like in Magic). Because of certain trainer cards which allow you to draw many cards at once, this is a real possibility, and happens quite often. Pokemon TCG is similar to Pokemon the gameboy game in that you don't immediately start out with an evolved Pokemon. You start with a Basic Pokemon (such as Pikachu), and later on in the match you can evolve it to Raichu. Also, you are only given one attack from one Pokemon per round, again similar to the gameboy title. Also, unlike Magic:TCG, you cannot DO anything during your opponents turn on your own. This includes using the Pokemon you currently have out in play, or playing cards in your hand. Sometimes cards which your opponent's play allow you to do things, but you yourself cannot initiate anything. Online Play
Pokegym Forums - Originally hosted on the Dojo servers, now they are endorsed by Wizards of the Coast themselves. This is arguably the best source of information and deck construction on the net pertaining to the TCG itself. Some of the best players on the net come here to talk and play. Wizards of the Coast - The official site for Pokemon. Here you will find all the latest news, as well as promo contests, tournament rankings, card lists and spoilers, and informative articles about upcoming events. Bulbagarden - A site for Pokemon enthusiasts. Although created for any Pokemon fan, there is also an area for the Pokemon TCG. Pojo - At one time it was one of the biggest sites for Pokemon information on the net. Although the information for the TCG was not quite up to par compared to Pokegym (from my opinion, it was rather basic), it was nevertheless a good source of information, especially on upcoming release dates, promos, and news. All images are the property of Wizards of the Coast© 1999-2000 |
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Pokemon
The Card Game was created by the Japan-based company Media Factory, mainly
due to the popularity Pokemon was receiving from it's Gameboy origins.
This Japanese card game played very similar to Magic: The Gathering, but
on a more basic level. Due to the relatively easy gameplay, and the collectibility
of the cards, Pokemon TCG fast became one of the most popular CCGs of all
time. Magic: The Gathering is the only CCG Pokemon has not surpassed.
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