Players MUST play with a legal Pokémon deck. Aside from the fact that the deck MUST contain EXACTLY 60 cards, there are other restrictions and limitations, particularly having to do with the cards that can go in the deck.

Decks may be preconstructed decks (ready-for-play 60-card deck of cards) or customized decks consisting of a variety of cards put together to form a 60-card deck. In any case, players are responsible for making sure that their decks follow the legal guidelines.


2. Randomizers

Pokémon coins or dice (When rolling dice, even numbers = heads, and odd numbers = tails).  Dice used as randomizers need to be 6-sided dice (the normal square ones) that are transparent/translucent in color with rounded corners.


3. Damage Counters

Counters placed on Pokémon help keep track of the damage dealt to the Pokémon. You may use dice as damage counters, but they must look different from the dice used as randomizers.  They should be easily to tell apart.


4. Markers

Markers are used to keep track of special conditions (burn, poison, etc.) on the Pokémon.

NOTE:  Preconstructed Theme Decks (about $13) come complete and ready to play.  They include cards, and all the other necessary items (randomizer, damage counters, markers + a rule book). 

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What We Recommend

Young and new players should start with a Preconstructed Deck (also known as a Theme Deck). A Theme Deck comes with a 60-card deck and everything else you need to start playing. It also comes with a couple of good reference materials!


A Pokémon Preconstructed/Theme Deck (about $13 at stores like Wal-mart or card shops) comes with:

• 60 Pokémon Card Deck (includes a holographic card)
• 1 Metallic Coin (randomizer)
• Damage Counters and Markers
• Rulebook/Cardlist (This rulebook is a great resource and great reference!)
• Playmat (Great for reinforcing proper game set-up.  Also has great player tips and reminders on it!)

Additional tips:

If buying for multiple children, buy different sets (there are lots of sets to choose from). Access to different sets and cards expands a child's exposure to the game. Similarly, if mom or dad are learning to play the game too, try to get a different deck also.

Children learn better and quicker when they practice at home! Having your very own deck allows you to play at home and become familiar with your cards. However, many of our events feature the complimentary use of "loaner" decks for those who don't have their own decks. Feel free to check with us about the use of these loaner decks.



Note:

If you are planning on buying a theme deck or two, make sure that they are from the newer sets.