Tips and Tricks for Playing with Pokémon Cards

Whether you’ve been a fan of Pokémon since the show and card game came out, or one of the many video games sucked you in, the game remains popular to this day. The best way to master the game is to master deck control: in other words, make it easier to get the right cards when you need them. Here’s how to start playing with Pokémon cards—or level up your skills:

  • Think structure: If you put too much stock in Pokémon and energy cards, your deck won’t be able to stand up to multiple draw cards. Generally, you should shoot for starting with 15 Pokémon, 33 Trainers and 12 Energy cards. As you test the deck, you can adjust these numbers.
  • Pick one or two types: In the video games, you’ll probably want to collect as many Pokémon as possible, in order to counter anything you run into. In the card games, however, you can’t. Focus on one or two energy types—colorless energy is often a good choice.
  • Get some utility Pokémon: Most of your Pokémon aren’t going to be your main attacker, which is why you need utility Pokémon. Pay attention to their abilities: that’s the key to controlling your deck and winning.
  • Pick your main attacker: Next, you need a good main attacker. The two qualities that define a main attacker are the ability to set up quickly (that is, start attacking as soon as possible) and to do a lot of damage.
  • Get the right trainer cards: There are three types of trainer cards: supporter, stadium and items. Look for cards that allow you to draw. Use eight to 10 supporters, 17 item cards and three stadium cards that work well with your Pokémon’s move set and type.
  • Use the current sets: Pokémon cards have changed a great deal since they first hit the scene. If you’re using 20- to 30-year-old cards, your HP and other important stats will be a lot lower—plus, you’ll have a harder time getting anyone to play, let alone qualifying to compete in tournaments.
  • Find the cards you don’t have yet: “Gotta catch ‘em all” isn’t just a solid marketing strategy—it’s fun, too. To make the most of the new sets, look for descriptions of each card online. Figure out what you need and either buy them directly online, or buy packs and hope they contain what you want.
  • Play with other decks: One great way to learn how well-chosen card decks work is to play with someone else’s deck. The more you practice, the more you’ll learn.
  • Test your deck repeatedly: Finally, be sure to test your own deck repeatedly. Play with others, or build secondary decks and see how yours stack up.

Now that you know how to play Pokémon, be sure to stop by The Book Broker for more Pokémon card sets, video games and a wide variety of accessories. Call us for more information, or just come see us today—we look forward to welcoming you!