History of the Pokemon TCG

The Pokemon Trading Card Game was created by Media Factory in Japan and first released in October 1996, just months after the original Pokemon Red and Green video games launched. The game was designed by Tsunekazu Ishihara and illustrated by artists like Ken Sugimori and Mitsuhiro Arita, whose iconic Base Set Charizard remains one of the most recognized trading cards in the world.

Wizards of the Coast, already known for Magic: The Gathering, licensed the English-language rights and released the Base Set in January 1999. The launch was a phenomenon — packs sold out everywhere, and playground trading became a cultural staple. Jungle, Fossil, and Team Rocket expansions followed quickly, establishing the game as a global powerhouse.

In 2003, The Pokemon Company took over production from Wizards of the Coast, beginning the EX era. This period introduced Pokemon-ex (lowercase), which gave up two Prize cards when knocked out — a mechanic that balanced their superior stats and attacks. The Ruby & Sapphire through EX Power Keepers sets defined this era.

The Diamond & Pearl era (2007-2011) introduced Pokemon LV.X, which leveled up existing Pokemon for stronger attacks. This was followed by the HeartGold & SoulSilver and Black & White eras, which brought Pokemon-EX (uppercase) and the powerful full-art card style that collectors love.

The XY era (2013-2016) featured Mega Evolution, while Sun & Moon (2017-2019) introduced Pokemon-GX with powerful GX attacks that could only be used once per game. The Sword & Shield era (2020-2023) brought Pokemon V, VMAX, and VSTAR, and coincided with the massive 2020-2021 collecting boom that sent card prices soaring.

The current Scarlet & Violet era (2023-present) introduced Pokemon ex (lowercase again) and the Terastal mechanic. It features stunning Illustration Rare and Special Art Rare cards that have become the most sought-after pulls in modern sets. The game continues to grow in both competitive play and collector interest.