Tag Archives: pokemon tcg

Every card from Paldean Fates so far (Minus the Shinies)

November 19, 2023 josechurape Leave a comment

Paldean Fates releases on January 26. This mini set will introduce a few shiny versions you’re going to want in your collection, but it’s also introducing some brand-new cards you are going to want to look at. I’ve collected what we have so far, and their translations. It’s going to be a long one. As of writing this, you can preorder the Pokémon Center Paldean Fates ETB ($59.99) and the Paldean Fates booster bundle ($26.94) from the Pokémon Center.

If you enjoy these updates, make sure you like, comment, follow, and share this with your friends. Be sure to check out my other posts if you want to see the shinies and products releasing with Paldean Fates.

Pineco

[G][G] Rollout: 30 damage.

Forretress ex

Ability: Exploding Energy
Once during your turn, you may search your deck for up to 5 Basic [G] Energy cards and attach them to your Pokémon in any way you like. Then, shuffle your deck. If you searched your deck in this way, this Pokémon is Knocked Out.

[G][G] Guard Press: 120 damage. During your opponent’s next turn, this Pokémon takes 30 less damage from attacks (after applying Weakness and Resistance).

Maractus

[C] Double Draw: Draw 2 cards.

[C][C][C] Pin Missile: 30x damage. Flip 4 coins. This attack does 30 damage for each heads.

Toedscool

[G] Furious Kicks: 10x damage. Flip 3 coins. This attack does 10 damage for each heads.

Toedscruel ex

Ability: Protective Mycelium
Prevent all effects of attacks used by your opponent’s Pokémon done to all of your Pokémon that have Energy attached. (Existing effects are not removed. Damage is not an effect.)

[G][G] Colony Rush: 80+ damage. This attack does 40 more damage for each of your Benched Pokémon that has any [G] Energy attached.

Espathra ex

Ability: Dazzling Gaze
As long as this Pokémon is in the Active Spot, attacks used by your opponent’s Active Pokémon cost [C] more.

[P] Psy Ball: 30+ damage. This attack does 30 more damage for each Energy attached to both Active Pokémon.

Venusaur ex

Ability: Tranquil Flower
Once during your turn, if this Pokémon is in the Active Spot, you may heal 60 damage from 1 of your Pokémon.

[G][G][C] Dangerous Toxwhip: 150 damage. Your opponent’s Active Pokémon is now Confused and Poisoned.

Charmeleon

Ability: Flare Veil
Prevent all effects of attacks used by your opponent’s Pokémon done to this Pokémon. (Damage is not an effect.)

[R][R] Combustion: 50 damage.

Charizard ex

[R] Brave Wing: 60+ damage. If this Pokémon has any damage counters on it, this attack does 100 more damage.

[R][R][R][R] Explosive Vortex: 330 damage. Discard 3 Energy from this Pokémon.

Magmar

[R] Collect: Draw a card.

[R][C] Steady Firebreathing: 40 damage.

Magmortar

[R] Flare: 40 damage.

[R][R][C] Volcanic Heat: 170 damage. During your next turn, this Pokémon can’t attack.

Numel

[R] Singe: Your opponent’s Active Pokémon is now Burned.

[R][R][C] Heat Blast: 60 damage.

Camerupt

[R] Super Singe: Your opponent’s Active Pokémon is now Burned.

[R][R][C] Pyroclastic Cannon: 120+ damage. You may discard a [R] Energy from this Pokémon. If you do, this attack does 120 more damage.

Heat Rotom

[R][R] Heat Tackle: 100 damage. This Pokémon also does 40 damage to itself.

Charcadet

[R][R][C] Heat Blast: 60 damage.

Armarouge

Ability: Fire Off
As often as you like during your turn, you may move a [R] Energy from 1 of your Benched Pokémon to your Active Pokémon.

[R][R][C] Flame Cannon: 90 damage. Your opponent’s Active Pokémon is now Burned.

Blastoise ex

Ability: Solid Shell
This Pokémon takes 30 less damage from attacks (after applying Weakness and Resistance).

[W][W] Twin Cannons: 140x damage. Discard up to 2 Basic [W] Energy cards from your hand. This attack does 140 damage for each card you discarded in this way.

Lapras

[C] Into the Deep: Put up to 3 Basic Energy cards from your discard pile into your hand.

[W][C] Freeze-Dry: 50 damage. Flip a coin. If heads, your opponent’s Active Pokémon is now Paralyzed.

Frigibax

[W] Collect: Draw a card.

[W][C] Beat: 20 damage.

Chinchou

[C] Illuminate: Look at the top card of your deck. You may put it back on top of your deck or put it at the bottom of your deck.

[L][C] Tiny Charge: 20 damage.

Lanturn

[C][C] Lightning Ball: 50 damage.

[L][L][C] Aqua Spark: 80+ damage. If this Pokémon has any [W] Energy attached, this attack does 120 more damage.

Kilowattrel

[C] United Thunder: This attack does 10 damage to 1 of your opponent’s Benched Pokémon for each Pokémon in your discard pile that has the United Wings attack. (Don’t apply Weakness and Resistance for Benched Pokémon.)

[L][C][C] Speed Wing: 90 damage.

Exeggcute

[P] Hypnosis: Your opponent’s Active Pokémon is now Asleep.

[P][C] Rolling Tackle: 30 damage.

Exeggutor

[P][C] Hypnoblast: 30 damage. Your opponent’s Active Pokémon is now Asleep.

[P][P][C] Psychic Loop: 160 damage. Put 2 Energy attached to this Pokémon into your hand.

Natu

[P] Triple Strike: 10x damage. Flip 3 coins. This attack does 10 damage for each heads.

Xatu

Ability: Clairvoyant Sense
Once during your turn, you may attach a Basic [P] Energy card from your hand to 1 of your Benched Pokémon. If you attached Energy to a Pokémon in this way, draw 2 cards.

[P][C][C] Super Psy Bolt: 80 damage.

Chimecho

[C][C] Sleep Inducer: Switch in 1 of your opponent’s Benched Pokémon to the Active Spot. The new Active Pokémon is now Asleep.

[P][C][C] Psyshot: 70 damage.

Latias

Ability: Mist Float
If this Pokémon has any [P] Energy attached, it has no Retreat Cost.

[P][P][C] Psychic Sphere: 100 damage.

Mime Jr.

[.] Make-Believe Copycat: Your opponent chooses 1 of their Pokémon’s attacks. Use that attack as this attack.

Woobat

[P] Reckless Charge: 30 damage. This Pokémon also does 10 damage to itself.

Swoobat

[P] Attract Wave: 30 damage. Your opponent’s Active Pokémon is now Confused. Put 6 damage counters instead of 3 on that Pokémon for this Special Condition.

Cottonee

[P] Fickle Attack: 30 damage. Flip a coin. If tails, this attack does nothing.

Whimsicott

[P] Fairy Wind: 50 damage.

Dedenne

[P] Minor Errand-Running: Search your deck for up to 2 Basic Energy cards, reveal them, and put them into your hand. Then, shuffle your deck.

[P][C] Spin Turn: 50 damage. Switch this Pokémon with 1 of your Benched Pokémon.

Flittle

[P][C] Psy Bolt: 20 damage. Flip a coin. If heads, your opponent’s Active Pokémon is now Paralyzed.

Gimmighoul

[C] Coffer Conceal: Flip a coin. If heads, during your opponent’s next turn, prevent all damage from and effects of attacks done to this Pokémon.

[C] Ram: 10 damage.

Phanpy

[C][C] Strength: 30 damage.

[F][F][C] Rolling Tackle: 60 damage.

Donphan

[C][C] Cragalanche: 30 damage. Discard the top 2 cards of your opponent’s deck.

[F][F][C] Powerful Spin: 160 damage. During your next turn, this Pokémon can’t attack.

Clobbopus

[F] Feint: 20 damage. This attack’s damage isn’t affected by Resistance.

Grapploct

[F] Gradual Descent: 30 damage. At the end of your opponent’s next turn, the Defending Pokémon will be Knocked Out.

[F][F][C] Mach Cross: 120 damage.

Great Tusk ex

Ability: Quaking Destruction
If this Pokémon is in the Active Spot at the end of your turn, discard the top 5 cards of your deck.

[F][C][C][C] Great Bash: 260 damage. This attack’s damage isn’t affected by any effects on your opponent’s Active Pokémon.

Gastly

[C] Allure: Draw a card.

[D][C] Will-O-Wisp: 20 damage

Haunter

[D][C] Dark Slumber: 40 damage. Your opponent’s Active Pokémon is now Asleep.

Gengar

Ability: Night Gate
Once during your turn, you may switch your Active Pokémon with 1 of your Benched Pokémon.

[D][C] Nightmare: 100 damage. Your opponent’s Active Pokémon is now Asleep.

Scraggy

[C] Low Kick: 10 damage.

[D][D][C] Headstrike: 50 damage.

Scrafty

[C] Hit: 30 damage. If the Defending Pokémon is a Basic Pokémon, it can’t attack during your opponent’s next turn.

[D][D][C] Headbang: 130 damage.

Varoom

[C] Rev Up: Put up to 2 Basic Energy cards from your discard pile into your hand.

[M][C] Headbutt: 20 damage.

Iron Treads ex

[M][M][C] Clad Rolling: 150 damage. You may discard a Future Booster Energy Capsule attached to this Pokémon. If you do, during your opponent’s next turn, this Pokémon takes 150 less damage from attacks (after applying Weakness and Resistance).

Gholdengo

[C] Bountiful Riches: Attach any number of Basic [M] from your hand to your Pokémon in any way you like.

[M][C][C] Gorgeous Surf: 80x damage. Flip a coin for each [M] Energy attached to this Pokémon. This attack does 80 damage for each heads.

Cyclizar

[G][D][C] Rapid Drive: 100 damage. Flip a coin. If heads, during your opponent’s next turn, prevent all damage from and effects of attacks done to this Pokémon.

Shroodle

[C] Scratch: 10 damage.

[C][C] Poison Fang: 20 damage. Your opponent’s Active Pokémon is now Poisoned.

Grafaiai ex

[C] Numbing Saliva: 30 damage. Flip a coin. If heads, your opponent’s Active Pokémon is now Paralyzed.

[C][C][C] Poison Toss: 180 damage. Your opponent’s Active Pokémon is now Poisoned. During your next turn, this Pokémon can’t use Poison Toss.

Cyclizar

[C] Wham Bam Dash: Flip a coin until you get tails. For each heads, draw a card.

[C][C][C] Power Tackle: 120 damage. During your next turn, this Pokémon can’t attack.

Clive

Your opponent reveals their hand. Draw 2 cards for each Supporter card you find there.

Nemona

Draw 3 cards.

Moonlit Hill

Once during each player’s turn, that play may discard a Basic [P] Energy from their hand in order to heal 30 damage from each of their Pokémon.

Nemona’s Backpack

Put up to 2 Nemona from your discard pile into your hand.

Students in Paldea

Search your deck for a Pokémon that doesn’t have a Rule Box, reveal it, and put it into your hand. For each other Students in Paldea in your discard pile, you may search your deck for another Pokémon that doesn’t have a Rule Box. Then, shuffle your deck. (Pokémon ex, Pokémon V, etc. have Rule Boxes.)

Students in Paldea

Technical Machine: Crisis Shot

The Pokémon this card is attached to can use the attack on this card. (You still need the necessary Energy to use this attack.) If this card is attached to 1 of your Pokémon, discard it at the end of your turn.

[C][C][C] Crisis Shot: 280 damage. You can use this attack only if your opponent has exactly 1 Prize card remaining.

Board Games and TCGs, gaming news, Pokemon TCG

Pokémon’s Paradox Rift is out now, and it’s a banger!

November 3, 2023 josechurape Leave a comment

Paradox Rift releases today! It has a lot of cool cards that will not only shift the meta but that you’ll want in your collection. I see a few full art cards I will be chasing, like that sweet Laudred.

If it isn’t obvious, Paradox Rift is also live on PTCGL. Players get access to the Roaring Moon ex and Gholdengo ex decks, which are very solid starts at the moment. I know Roaring Moon has been taking over the ladder, but at least it’s not Charizard ex. It’s going to be an awkward couple of days as the meta settles, but I am here for it. At least I start grinding the mission pass.

However you enjoy the game, this feels like a very fun set to open. If the drop rates are anything like what I’ve seen on PTCGL, I love it a lot more than 151. Make sure you always support your LGS when buying any Pokemon product, but you can always pick up Paradox Rift, or any of the other sets on TCG Player through my affiliate links.

If you enjoy these updates, please leave me a like, comment, follow, and share this with your friends!

Board Games and TCGs, Pokemon TCG

PTCG Live is getting a new battle pass and two starter decks with the release of Paradox Rift!

October 27, 2023 josechurape Leave a comment

Paradox Rift hits the shelves on November 3rd, and PTCGL players get it a day earlier on the 2nd. For collectors, Paradox Rift has some beautiful alt-art cards you are going to want to chase. For those of you who play PTCG Live, it means a new battle pass, two new decks, and a new meta. I know lots of people bag on PTCGL because it still feels like a beta, but I enjoy it because it’s the only way I can afford to play Pokémon. Either way, I am excited!

If you enjoy these updates, make sure you like, comment, subscribe, and share this with your friends. If you need any product, Pokémon or otherwise, make sure you grab it over at TCG Player through my affiliate link!

Roarding Moon ex Starter Deck

Pokémon: 14
2 Roaring Moon ex PAR 124
2 Alolan Raticate PGO 042
2 Alolan Rattata PGO 041
2 Bibarel BRS 121
2 Bidoof CRZ 111
2 Brute Bonnet PAR 123
1 Radiant Greninja ASR 046
1 Morpeko PAR 121

Trainers: 34
3 Professor Sada’s Vitality PAR 170
2 Boss’s Orders (Ghetsis) PAL 1722 Iono PAL 185
2 Professor’s Research (Professor Sada) SVI 189
3 Path to the Peak CRE 148
1 Collapsed Stadium BRS 137
4 Dark Patch ASR 139
4 Nest Ball SVI 181
4 Ultra Ball SVI 196
3 Earthen Vessel PAR 163
1 Escape Rope BST 125
1 Pal Pad SVI 182
1 Super Rod PAL 188
1 Switch SVI 194
2 Ancient Booster Energy Capsule PAR 159

Energy: 12
10 Basic Darkness Energy SVE 007
2 Reversal Energy PAL 192

Gholdengo ex Starter Deck

Pokémon: 18
2 Gholdengo ex PAR 139
2 Gimmighoul PAR 087
2 Gardevoir CRE 061
1 Gallade ASR 062
1 Gallade CRE 081
3 Kirlia SIT 068
1 Ralts SIT 067
2 Ralts ASR 060
1 Manaphy BRS 041
1 Radiant Greninja ASR 046
1 Mew CEL 011
1 Indeedee SVI 153

Trainers: 31
3 Iono PAL 185
2 Boss’s Orders (Ghetsis) PAL 172
2 Klara CRE 145
2 Professor’s Research (Professor Turo) SVI 190
2 Artazon PAL 171
4 Battle VIP Pass FST 225
4 Level Ball BST 129
4 Energy Retrieval SVI 171
3 Ultra Ball SVI 196
2 Capturing Aroma SIT 153
1 Pal Pad SVI 182
1 Rescue Carrier EVS 154
1 Switch SVI 194

Energy: 11
5 Basic Metal Energy SVE 008
6 Basic Psychic Energy SVE 005

Battle Pass

Make sure you start saving up your crystals for the Premium Battle Pass because this one is going to want to complete this. I think PTCGL has the best battle pass of all card games I’ve tried because it’s easy to buy into, and easy to complete without spending any money.

By Tier 14 you should have access to:

By tier 16 you should have access to:

And by Tier 50:

And if you still need product

Try getting it from TCG Player!

Iron Valient Elite Trainer Box ($39.99)

Roaring Moon Elite Trainer Box ($39.99)

Both Elite Trainer Box ($76.99)

6 Pack Bundle ($24.99)

Booster Box ($113.99)

Board Games and TCGs, Pokemon TCG

How the Sacramento regionals shifted the Pokemon TCG meta: The top 5 Archetypes

October 20, 2023 josechurape Leave a comment

While we are still seeing a few familiar faces in the meta, the Sacramento regionals saw a couple of new archetypes shacking up the meta. I’ve collected the top deck list for each archetype. I’ll leave links for those who want to build them. These will be affiliate links, but I’ve been using TCG Player since before I became an affiliate because it is a great place for singles and sealed products. If you enjoy these updates, make sure you like, comment, subscribe, and share this with your friends!

1. Lugia VSTAR

Lugia VSTAR is one of those decks that always gets brought up as a strong contender for competitive play, but that hasn’t seen success until Sacramento. Congratulations to Alexander Flatos for piloting this deck to first place! This is one of those decks I’ve been meaning to try, but haven’t gotten around to.

Pokémon (19)
4 Archeops SIT 147
3 Lugia V SIT 138
3 Lugia VSTAR SIT 139
3 Snorlax LOR 143
2 Lumineon V BRS 40
1 Drapion V LOR 118
1 Mew ex MEW 151
1 Luxray PAL 71
1 Wyrdeer V ASR 134

Trainer (26)
4 Professor’s Research SVI 189
3 Iono PAL 185
3 Boss’s Orders PAL 172
1 Professor Burnet PR-SW 167
4 Ultra Ball SVI 196
4 Capturing Aroma SIT 153
3 Nest Ball SVI 181
2 Mesagoza SVI 178
2 Collapsed Stadium BRS 137

Energy (15)
4 Double Turbo Energy BRS 151
4 Jet Energy PAL 190
3 Gift Energy LOR 171
2 Therapeutic Energy PAL 193
1 V Guard Energy SIT 169
1 Reversal Energy PAL 192

2. Arceus

2nd place went to an interesting Arceus deck with a splash of Gyarados VMAX that I am sure many are going to want to try. Congratulations to Niccolo Abate for piloting this very neat deck and placing 2nd at regionals.

Pokémon (15)
4 Arceus V BRS 122
3 Arceus VSTAR BRS 123
2 Bidoof CRZ 111
2 Bibarel BRS 121
1 Slaking V PGO 58
1 Gyarados V EVS 28
1 Gyarados VMAX EVS 29
1 Radiant Greninja ASR 46

Trainer (31)
3 Judge SVI 176
2 Iono PAL 185
2 Melony CRE 146
2 Boss’s Orders PAL 172
1 Serena SIT 164
1 Cheren’s Care BRS 134
4 Ultra Ball SVI 196
4 Nest Ball SVI 181
1 Hisuian Heavy Ball ASR 146
1 Switch SVI 194
1 Escape Rope BST 125
1 Lost Vacuum CRZ 135
1 Pal Pad SVI 182
1 Choice Belt PAL 176
1 Defiance Band SVI 169
1 Vengeful Punch OBF 197
4 Path to the Peak CRE 148

Energy (14)
8 Water Energy 3
3 Double Turbo Energy BRS 151
2 V Guard Energy SIT 169
1 Jet Energy PAL 190

3. Lost Box

Lost Box continues to see consistent success in the meta. Congratulations to Sawyer Melban for making it to 3rd place!

Pokémon (12)
4 Comfey LOR 79
2 Sableye LOR 70
1 Cramorant LOR 50
1 Radiant Greninja ASR 46
1 Kyogre CEL 3
1 Dragonite V PR-SW 154
1 Manaphy BRS 41
1 Raikou V BRS 48

Trainer (37)
4 Colress’s Experiment LOR 155
1 Roxanne ASR 150
4 Battle VIP Pass FST 225
4 Mirage Gate LOR 163
4 Switch Cart ASR 154
4 Escape Rope BST 125
4 Super Rod PAL 188
3 Nest Ball SVI 181
2 Lost Vacuum CRZ 135
1 Hisuian Heavy Ball ASR 146
1 Echoing Horn CRE 136
1 Energy Recycler BST 124
2 Forest Seal Stone SIT 156
1 PokéStop PGO 68
1 Artazon PAL 171

Energy (11)
5 Water Energy 3
3 Lightning Energy 4
3 Psychic Energy 5

4. Gardevoir EX

5th place went to what is still my favorite deck in the meta, Gardevoir EX. Congradulation to Ryan Harris for piloting the deck to a top spot!

Pokémon (18)
4 Ralts ASR 60
3 Kirlia SIT 68
1 Kirlia CRE 60
2 Gardevoir ex SVI 86
2 Gardevoir CRE 61
1 Zacian V CEL 16
1 Mew ex MEW 151
1 Cresselia LOR 74
1 Mew CEL 11
1 Radiant Greninja ASR 46
1 Manaphy BRS 41
1 Spiritomb PAL 89

Trainer (30)
4 Iono PAL 185
2 Boss’s Orders PAL 172
2 Worker SIT 167
4 Battle VIP Pass FST 225
4 Level Ball BST 129
4 Ultra Ball SVI 196
4 Fog Crystal CRE 140
2 Rare Candy SVI 191
2 Super Rod PAL 188
2 Collapsed Stadium BRS 137

Energy (12)
10 Psychic Energy 5
2 Reversal Energy PAL 192

5. Miraidon

Maraidon continues to perform well in the shifting meta. This is a solid deck for those of you who want to get started. Congratulations to Cory Laffiton on his 11th-place win.

Pokémon (14)
3 Miraidon ex SVI 81
2 Mareep EVS 54
2 Flaaffy EVS 55
2 Raikou V BRS 48
2 Raichu V BRS 45
1 Squawkabilly ex PAL 169
1 Flying Pikachu V CEL 6
1 Zapdos PGO 29

Trainer (32)
4 Professor’s Research SVI 189
3 Boss’s Orders PAL 172
1 Arven OBF 186
2 Judge SVI 176
2 Iono PAL 185
4 Electric Generator SVI 170
3 Ultra Ball SVI 196
2 Switch Cart ASR 154
2 Nest Ball SVI 181
2 Bravery Charm PAL 173
1 Forest Seal Stone SIT 156
3 Path to the Peak CRE 148
2 Escape Rope BST 125
1 Collapsed Stadium BRS 137

Energy (14)
14 Lightning Energy 4

Board Games and TCGs, Pokemon TCG

The new round of Pokémon’s Paradox Rift full art spoilers has some of the most beautiful cards you’re going to want to chase

October 18, 2023 josechurape Leave a comment

We just got some more spoilers for the upcoming Paradox Rift set, and it is hard not to be excited. Especially when you see the alt art cards. This round of spoilers is full of cards you are going to want in your binder. Hopefully, the pull rates are better than 151. Paradox Rift releases on November 3rd. I’ll leave links below on where you can preorder if your LGS isn’t an option. Please use my affiliate links where possible. If you enjoy these updates, make sure you like, comment, subscribe, and share this with your friends.

Where to Buy

If you’d like to preorder any Paradox Rift product, always check with your LGS, but I’ve collected a few options in case that isn’t an option. Use my TCG Player affiliate links when possible. Everything is in stock as of making this post, but I’ll do my best to keep them updated. And remember, with how much Pokémon overprints, it is never a good idea to pay scalper prices, especially on preorders.

The Pokémon My First Battle Kits are a delightful way to teach kids how to play the TCG

October 17, 2023 josechurape Leave a comment

I got the Pokémon My First Battle kit because I have a young nephew who collects Pokémon, and I thought it would be fun to teach him how to play. I haven’t had the chance to play with him yet, but since I bought both kits, I decided to try it with my wife. She doesn’t know anything about Pokémon and has never played a TCG.

The first thing you should know before getting this kit is that it is meant to teach young kids. It’s not going to have any value other than getting someone started with the Pokémon TCG. It is a very stripped-down version of the game that focuses on teaching the absolute fundamentals of the game. There are no abilities or supporters, and the rules and phases have been simplified to reduce randomness. I only say this because I already see scalpers selling it for twice what it’s worth.

The set comes with two 17-card-themed mini decks. The cards aren’t standard legal and have the My First Battle logo printed on the back. It comes with two laminated playmats specifically designed for its simplified format. You also get 1 large metallic coin to flip, a sheet of damage counters, six prize cards, and a rulebook to get you started.

The rulebook is clear and easy to follow. I like that it has clear examples with detailed pictures. The playmats feel sturdy and have the actions a player can take per turn printed on them. The setup is incredibly easy. The kit focuses on teaching players the basic phases of the games such as drawing, attacking, evolving, and using item cards. Both players start with a basic Pokémon in the active spot and an energy attached. The rest of the deck is shuffled, and you play the game like normal till one player wins three prize tokens.

Other significant changes include:

Players start with a three-card hand
You can only bench three Pokémon at a time
You don’t lose energy when your active Pokémon is knocked out
You can’t deck out

My only suggestion for people getting this kit is to grab dice to use as damage counters and coin flips. I have never liked counters, and coin flips make things messy. If you are only getting this for your kids to play with, then the counters should suffice. Just note that it will be messy.

If you have kids you want to get into the hobby, this is a great product. If you are trying to teach someone older, there are better options. The kits are at a great price point, and have everything you need to get started. I like that the cards aren’t standard legal, and the mats are sturdy because these cards will most definitely get beat up. My cards came a bit warped, but they weren’t meant to be graded anyway.

I loved this as a tool to teach my wife how to play the game. She has never played a TCG, and only reluctantly agreed to play if the game was easy. With how complicated and luck-based Pokémon can get, I was relieved to have a simplified and streamlined version to get her started. I only needed to explain the rules to her once before she started going through the phases on her own. She had fun and beat me all the times we played. It’ll probably take more convincing to get her to something harder, but I’ll take what I can get.

The kits are $9.99 and come in two flavors: Pikachu v. Bulbasaur or Squirtle v. Charmander. I got them at GameNerdz as a set, but you can pick them up at Best Buy or GameStop while supplies last. I wouldn’t pay more than MSRP for these since you aren’t even getting real cards. With how much Pokémon overprints, I would wait for the restock.

If you enjoy these reviews, make sure you like, comment, follow, and share this with your friends!

Board Games and TCGs

The top 5 performing archetypes in the Pokémon TCG after the inclusion of 151

October 10, 2023 josechurape Leave a comment

With the release of Pokémon 151, players have been curious about how it has shifted the meta. There have been a lot of cool ideas floating around on the internet, but the Peoria regionals was the first opportunity players got to test them out in an official capacity. It seems the only real effect 151 had on the meta was to edit the existing archetypes. I’ve collected a few of the top-performing decks. If you enjoy these updates, don’t forget to like comment, subscribe, and share this with your friends.

1. Lost Box

Congratulations to Raymond Long for his first-place win. I just started playing a variation of this, and I regret not playing it sooner. You get some solid early-game pressure with Cramorant, you have some sweet board snipes with Sableye, Radiant Greninja, and Kyogre. If you want to get into this game, this is a solid deck to pick up. Here is a copy of the deck list that won it all.

Pokémon (12)
4 Comfey LOR 79
2 Sableye LOR 70
1 Cramorant LOR 50
1 Radiant Greninja ASR 46
1 Kyogre CEL 3
1 Manaphy BRS 41
1 Zamazenta CRZ 97
1 Pidgeot V LOR 137

Trainer (37)
4 Colress’s Experiment LOR 155
1 Roxanne ASR 150
4 Mirage Gate LOR 163
4 Battle VIP Pass FST 225
4 Nest Ball SVI 181
4 Switch Cart ASR 154
3 Escape Rope BST 125
3 Super Rod PAL 188
2 Energy Recycler BST 124
1 Lost Vacuum CRZ 135
1 Hisuian Heavy Ball ASR 146
1 Echoing Horn CRE 136
2 Forest Seal Stone SIT 156
1 PokéStop PGO 68
1 Beach Court SVI 167
1 Artazon PAL 171

Energy (11)
4 Water Energy 3
4 Metal Energy 8
3 Psychic Energy 5

2. Mew VMax

I have a real soft spot for Mew VMax because it was the first competitive deck I ever built. This is a quick and strong deck that is easy to pick up. Even with how popular Charizard Ex is, the Mew Vmax continues to prove how strong a contender it is. Congratulations to Rowan Stavenow for taking it all the way to third place! Here is copy of his deck list.

Pokémon (12)
4 Mew V CRZ 60
3 Mew VMAX FST 114
4 Genesect V FST 185
1 Luxray V ASR 50

Trainer (44)
3 Judge SVI 176
2 Boss’s Orders PAL 172
1 Iono PAL 185
1 Penny SVI 183
4 Power Tablet FST 236
4 Battle VIP Pass FST 225
4 Ultra Ball SVI 196
4 Cram-o-matic FST 229
4 Lost Vacuum CRZ 135
2 Feather Ball ASR 141
2 Escape Rope BST 125
2 Grabber MEW 162
1 Nest Ball SVI 181
1 Hisuian Heavy Ball ASR 146
1 Pal Pad SVI 182
3 Forest Seal Stone SIT 156
1 Choice Belt PAL 176
1 Box of Disaster LOR 154
3 Path to the Peak CRE 148

Energy (4)
4 Double Turbo Energy BRS 151

3. Miraidon ex

Maraidon has been growing in popularity since Worlds, and it is a deck that has seen consistent success in the competitive scene. I haven’t had a chance to play it yet, but it seems like a fun deck with a lot of solid tools at its disposal. This is JW Kriewall’s list. The deck won 4th place at Peoria.

Pokémon (15)
3 Miraidon ex SVI 81
2 Mareep EVS 54
2 Flaaffy EVS 55
2 Raikou V BRS 48
2 Raichu V BRS 45
1 Squawkabilly ex PAL 169
1 Flying Pikachu V CEL 6
1 Zapdos PGO 29
1 Mew ex MEW 151

Trainer (31)
4 Professor’s Research SVI 189
3 Boss’s Orders PAL 172
2 Arven OBF 186
2 Judge SVI 176
1 Iono PAL 185
4 Electric Generator SVI 170
3 Ultra Ball SVI 196
2 Switch Cart ASR 154
2 Nest Ball SVI 181
2 Bravery Charm PAL 173
1 Forest Seal Stone SIT 156
3 Path to the Peak CRE 148
2 Beach Court SVI 167

Energy (14)
14 Lightning Energy 4

4. Zard Box

I’ve actually been playing a bunch of Lost Box Charizard on the PTCGL ladder, and I love it. It’s not as fun as Gardavoir, but it is a solid ladder-climbing deck. People will probably hate you because that’s all that seems to live on the ladder lately, but it’s undeniably strong and easy to pick up. This is Terrence Miller’s list, who got 6th at regionals.

Pokémon (15)
4 Comfey LOR 79
2 Sableye LOR 70
1 Cramorant LOR 50
1 Radiant Charizard CRZ 20
1 Ditto MEW 132
1 Manaphy BRS 41
1 Articuno PGO 24
1 Hawlucha SVI 118
1 Spiritomb PAL 89

Trainer (40)
4 Colress’s Experiment LOR 155
2 Klara CRE 145
1 Boss’s Orders PAL 172
1 Raihan CRZ 140
1 Roxanne ASR 150
4 Battle VIP Pass FST 225
4 Nest Ball SVI 181
4 Switch Cart ASR 154
4 Escape Rope BST 125
3 Fog Crystal CRE 140
2 Pokégear 3.0 SVI 186
2 Switch SVI 194
2 Lost Vacuum CRZ 135
1 Hisuian Heavy Ball ASR 146
1 Super Rod PAL 188
1 Echoing Horn CRE 136
3 Beach Court SVI 167

Energy (5)
3 Psychic Energy 5
2 Fire Energy 2

5. Gardevior ex

Gardavior is my favorite deck because it is so much fun to play. The only reason I don’t still play Gardavoir is because I am forcing myself to play my other decks. Gardavior continues to show that it is a solid and consistent deck in the competitive scene. This is Brent Tonisson, he took 7th place at regionals.

Energy (12)
10 Psychic Energy 5
2 Reversal Energy PAL 192

Board Games and TCGs

Pokémon Paradox Rift product and where to preorder

October 5, 2023 josechurape Leave a comment

Pokémon Paradox Rift releases on November 11, and it is bringing in some cool cards and mechanics that are sure to shake up the meta. Always support your LGS, but I’ve collected links in case that isn’t possible. Please use my affiliate links where possible. And remember, never pay the scalpers!

If you enjoy these updates, don’t forget to like, comment, follow, share this with your friends.

Random Paradox Rift Elite Trainer Box

This set will have two elite trainer boxes: Roaring Moon and Iron Valiant. There will also be two promos for these kits: Screaming Tail and Iron Bundle. I don’t know how these will be distributed. I’m assuming each promo is exclusive to one box to incentivize people to purchase both, but we will have to see. The only other difference is what art you want on the box, coin, sleeves, and dice. If you don’t care about which box you get, then you should place your preorder at Best Buy or Game Stop.

Roaring Moon ETB ($39)

Now if you care about what ETB you get, you’re going to have to hit up your LGS, or trusted retailer. I am going to be a little shameless and plug TCG Player because I am an affiliate. I’ve bought a lot of products through them in the past and have never had an issue. I’ve found ETBs as cheap as $39 from trusted, high-rated sellers, but use your own discretion. If you are looking for a Roaring Moon ETB, grab it using my affiliate link!

Iron Valiant ETB ($39)

If you are looking for the Iron Valiant ETB, grab it over at TCG Player through my affiliate link.

Roaring Moon & Iron Valiant Bundle ($78)

Now if you want both, you can save a little cash on a bundle. TCG Player has a few sellers selling the ETB Bundle for a reasonable price, make sure you use my affiliate link.

6 Pack Bundle ($26.94)

Now if you just want packs and don’t care about the sleeves and other extras, the 6 pack isn’t a bad deal. You’re missing out on the promo, but that doesn’t matter if you are only wanting to crack packs. You can pick up the bundles at Best Buy, Game Stop, and the Pokémon Center. I have seen them as cheap as $23 on TCG Player. Use my affiliate link!

3 PK Blister Packs ($13.99)

These bundles are fine if you want the special promos included. You are paying a few cents extra for the promo which isn’t a huge deal. As far as I can tell, the blister packs are only exclusive to Best Buy for preorder, but that might change on release. You are getting a random bundle like the ETBs, but that isn’t as big of a deal in this case.

Build and Battle Stadium ($59.99)

Boxes include:

2 individual Build & Battle Boxes, each containing a ready-to-play 40-card deck
Each deck includes 1 of 4 foil promo cards
3 additional Scarlet & Violet—Paradox Rift booster packs, so you get 11 in all
121 Basic Energy cards
6 damage-counter dice
1 competition-legal coin-flip die
2 coin condition markers
A collector’s box to hold everything

Now these are arguably the worst deal unless you like the sealed draft, prerelease experience. This is a fun kit to buy if you and your buddies buy into a couple, and make a day of it. These kits release on November 17, and you can preorder them at Gamestop. I found them as cheap as $53 on TCG Player. Use my Affiliate Link!

Booster Box ($107)

Booster boxes are always the best deal if you just want to crack open boxes. I love buying booster boxes, but I just like to crack them for fun. I never intend to make any money buying these. If you are looking for a Paradox Rift Booster box, the best deals are over at TCG Player. Use my affiliate link!

Board Games and TCGs

Pokémon did it again, the art cards in Paradox Rift are simply breathtaking

October 5, 2023 josechurape Leave a comment

I am closing out Paradox Rift spoilers with all the secret rares. There are some pretty cards in this set that I am going to need in a binder. Paradox rift comes out on November 3rd, I’ll leave links below for those of you who want to preorder. Please use my affiliate links where possible.

Illustration Rares

Iron Moth

Plusle

Minun

Gimmighoul

Minior

Yveltal

Brute Bonnet

Aegislash

Cyclizar

Joltik

Ferrothorn

Groudon

Snorunt

Mantyke

Full Art Pokémon

Froslass ex

Garchomp ex

Tapu Koko ex

Hoopa ex

Gholdengo ex

Bombirdier ex

Full Art Supporters

Parasol Lady

Rika

Shauntal

Larry

Special Illustration Pokémon

Garchomp ex

Gholdengo ex

Tapu Koko ex

Special Illustration Supporters

Parasol Lady

Rika

Gold Cards

Garchomp ex

Beach Court

Reversal Energy

Where to Buy

Elite Trainer Boxes: Random ($49.99)

Best Buy

Gamestop

Elite Trainer Box: Roaring Moon ($39)

TCG Player (Affiliate)

Elite Trainer Box: Iron Valian ($39)

TCG Player (Affiliate)

Elite Trainer Box [set of 2] ($78)

TCG Player (Affiliate)

6 Pack Bundle ($26.94)

Blister Pack ($13.99)

Best Buy

Build and Battle Stadium ($59.99)

Game Stop

TCG Player ($53)

Board Games and TCGs

Pokémon Paradox Rift Spoilers: Trainers and Special Energy List, Translations, and where to Preorder

October 4, 2023 josechurape Leave a comment

I am going to finish the Paradox Rift spoilers with the trainer cards. There is also a special energy card I’ll be including because it doesn’t make sense to make a separate post for just one card. Paradox Rift releases on November 3rd. If you want to preorder any product, I’ll leave links at the bottom. Please use my affiliate links where possible. If you have been enjoying these updates, make sure you like, comment, follow, and share this with your friends.

Medical Energy

Medical Energy

As long as this card is attached to a Pokémon, it provides [C] Energy.

When you attach this card from your hand to 1 of your Pokémon, heal 30 damage from that Pokémon.

Ancient Booster Energy Capsule

Ancient Booster Energy Capsule

The Ancient Pokémon this card is attached to gets +60 HP, recovers from all Special Conditions, and can’t be affected by any Special Conditions.

Defiance Vest

Defiance Vest

If you have more Prize cards remaining than your opponent, the Pokémon this card is attached to takes 40 less damage from attacks from your opponent’s Pokémon (after applying Weakness and Resistance).

Earthen Vessel

Earthen Vessel

You can play this card only if you discard another card from your hand.

Search your deck for up to 2 Basic Energy cards, reveal them, and put them into your hand. Then, shuffle your deck.

Future Booster Energy Capsule

Future Booster Energy Capsule

The Future Pokémon this card is attached to has no Retreat Cost, and the attacks it uses do 20 more damage to your opponent’s Active Pokémon (before applying Weakness and Resistance).

Gorgeous Mantle

Future Booster Energy Capsule

If the Pokémon this card is attached to does not have a Rule Box, it gets +100 HP and when it is Knocked Out, your opponent takes 1 more Prize card for it. (Pokémon ex, Pokémon V have Rule Boxes.)

Larry

Larry

Flip a coin. If heads, search your deck for up to 2 Pokémon, reveal them, and put them into your hand. If tails, search your deck for a Basic Pokémon, reveal it, and put it into your hand. Then, shuffle your deck.

Mela

Mela

You can play this card only if any of your Pokémon were Knocked Out during your opponent’s last turn.

Attach a Basic [R] Energy card from your discard pile to 1 of your Pokémon. If you do, draw cards until you have 6 cards in your hand.

Parasol Lady

Parasol Lady

Shuffle your hand into your deck and draw 4 cards. If you go second and it’s your first turn, draw until you have 8 cards instead.

Professor Sada’s Mettle

Professor Sada’s Mettle

Choose up to 2 of your Ancient Pokémon. For each of those Pokémon, attach a Basic Energy card from your discard pile to that Pokémon. If you do, draw 3 cards.

Professor Turo’s Scenario

Professor Turo’s Scenario

Choose up to 2 of your Ancient Pokémon. For each of those Pokémon, attach a Basic Energy card from your discard pile to that Pokémon. If you do, draw 3 cards.

Rika

Rika

Look at the top 4 cards of your deck and put 2 of them into your hand. Shuffle the other cards and put them on the bottom of your deck.

Shauntal

Shauntal

Flip a coin. If heads, switch in 1 of your opponent’s Benched Pokémon to the Active Spot. If tails, switch your Active Pokémon with 1 of your Benched Pokémon.

Technical Machine: Blindside

Technical Machine: Blindside

[C][C][C] Blindside: This attack does 100 damage to 1 of your opponent’s Pokémon that has any damage counters on it. (Don’t apply Weakness and Resistance for Benched Pokémon.)

Technical Machine: Devolution

Technical Machine: Devolution

[C] Devolution: Devolve each of your opponent’s evolved Pokémon by putting the highest Stage Evolution card on it into your opponent’s hand.

Technical Machine: Evolution

Technical Machine: Evolution

[C] Evolution: Choose up to 2 of your Benched Pokémon. For each of those Pokémon, search your deck for a Pokémon that evolves from that Pokémon and put it on that Pokémon to evolve it. Then, shuffle your deck.

Technical Machine: Turbo Energize

Technical Machine: Turbo Energize

[C] Turbo Energize: Search your deck for up to 2 Basic Energy cards and attach them to your Benched Pokémon in any way you like. Then, shuffle your deck.