Game Rules FAQ
Common questions about how to play the Pokemon TCG, from basic rules to specific interactions.
How do you play the Pokemon Trading Card Game?↓
Each player uses a 60-card deck. You draw 7 cards, place a Basic Pokemon as your Active, set aside 6 Prize cards, and take turns drawing, playing cards, attaching Energy, and attacking. Knock out opponents' Pokemon to take Prizes. The first player to take all 6 Prizes wins.
How many cards are in a Pokemon TCG deck?↓
Every deck must contain exactly 60 cards. You can have up to 4 copies of any card with the same name, except Basic Energy which has no limit.
What are Prize cards in the Pokemon TCG?↓
At the start of the game, each player sets aside 6 cards face-down as Prizes. When you knock out an opponent's Pokemon, you take 1 Prize (2 for Pokemon ex/V, 3 for VMAX). Taking all 6 Prizes is the primary way to win.
What happens when you deck out in Pokemon TCG?↓
If your deck is empty and you cannot draw a card at the start of your turn, you lose the game immediately. This is called 'decking out.' Some strategies intentionally try to force the opponent to deck out.
Can you have more than 4 copies of a card in a Pokemon deck?↓
No. You can include a maximum of 4 copies of any card with the same name. The only exception is Basic Energy cards, which have no limit. This rule applies to all formats.