How To Play Pokémon TCG
This Page will help you learn the very basics of what you need to play the game! For the most up to date information see Play! Pokémon website!
You can also learn more about the game and play online with your friends on the Pokémon TCG Live website!
01
60 Cards per Deck
To play Pokémon you will need a deck containing 60 cards. These cards will have to be in the STANDARD format to play at this store for our Tournaments. Casual games may allow for the EXPANDED format but for simplicities sake we will only be mentioning STANDARD format here. To make sure your cards are in standard format check the letters listed on the bottom left hand side of the card. As of 1/10/2026 the letters should be G,H,I. As of writing this tutorial standard format is set to change April 2026. Check the PLAY! Pokémon Website for the most up to date ruleset.
02
Sleeve your deck!
For tournaments your cards must be sleeved. The sleeves must be opaque (not see through). This allows for easier shuffling and preventing cheating like marking cards. A lot of players use brands like Dragon Sheild. There are plenty of brands available though.
03
Learn to Play!
Outside of playing online with Pokémon TCG Live, the Pokémon Company has a great page dedicated to learning! You Can Click HERE to see! Follow along to learn! Or feel free to stop by the store! Our staff and regular customers are all happy to help.
04
Find an opponent
Next is finding where to play! We host casual events every Sunday! Entry is typically $5 with winners getting store credit. Or Play with friends! You can also come in the shop and play at anytime during store hours.
