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How to play the Pokémon TCG: the basics

A friendly first look at a Pokémon TCG game: your deck, your turn, energy, attacks and how to win. Rules change, so check the official rulebook.

Updated November 5, 2026 · 4 min

This is a short, friendly overview for new players. It is not the full rulebook. Rules are updated by the game's publisher from time to time, so the official rulebook always has the last word.

What you need

Two players, and one deck each. A standard deck has 60 cards: creature cards you play, energy cards that power them, and trainer cards that help you. A few coins or markers help you keep track of damage.

Getting ready

  1. Shuffle your deck and draw 7 cards.
  2. Put one basic creature face down as your Active, the one in front. You may add more on your Bench.
  3. Set aside 6 cards face down. These are your Prize cards.
  4. Flip a coin to see who goes first, then reveal and begin.

Your turn, step by step

  1. Draw a card.
  2. Do things in any order: put basic creatures on your Bench, attach one energy card to one of your creatures, play trainer cards, evolve a creature, or retreat your Active.
  3. Attack. Your Active needs enough energy of the right kind for the attack you choose.
  4. Your turn ends and your friend goes.

Energy, evolving and weakness

Energy cards are the fuel for attacks. You can attach one per turn. Some creatures evolve into a stronger form when you play the next stage on top of them. Many creatures have a weakness, which means they take extra damage from a certain type.

How you win

You win by doing any of these:

  • Taking your last Prize card, which you earn each time you knock out an opponent's creature.
  • Knocking out the last creature your opponent has in play.
  • Your opponent cannot draw a card at the start of their turn.

Tips for your first games

  • Play with a friend or family member who is also learning. Everyone is new once.
  • Start with a ready-made deck before building your own.
  • Say what you are doing out loud. It helps you both follow along.
  • Good games end with a handshake, win or lose.

Interactive lessons are coming to DeckMaster Academy, free for everyone. Until then, these guides are here to help.

DeckMaster is not affiliated with, endorsed or sponsored by Nintendo, The Pokémon Company, Creatures or GAME FREAK.