Pokémon Card Budget Start Guide | How to Start with 1000 yen, 3000 yen, or 5000 yen
"I want to start Pokémon cards, but I'm worried it might cost a lot..." Are you feeling anxious? In fact, Pokémon cards can be enjoyed as a hobby starting from a small amount of around 1,000 yen. In this article, we will thoroughly explain specific purchase lists and how to start based on three budgets: 1,000 yen, 3,000 yen, and 5,000 yen. Find the optimal start plan that fits your budget and enjoy the world of Pokémon cards starting today.
What is the Actual Budget Needed to Start Pokémon Cards?
The budget for starting Pokémon cards varies greatly depending on "how serious you want to get into it." Understanding the experiences you can gain at each budget level, from the minimum budget to a more fulfilling start, leads to a wise choice.
Here, we will detail three recommended budget ranges for beginners. By knowing what you can do with each budget and what limitations exist, you will be able to choose the best starting method for yourself.
Minimum Start Budget (Around 1,000 yen)
With a budget of around 1,000 yen, you can purchase one ex starter deck. Even with this budget, you can learn the basic rules of Pokémon cards and enjoy battles with friends. However, supplies (like sleeves and playmats) will be minimal, and there is little room for deck customization. This budget range is ideal for those who want to "just give it a try."
Recommended Start Budget (Around 3,000 yen)
A budget of around 3,000 yen is the most recommended range for beginners. You can get two ex starter decks or a complete set of the official Battle Academy and basic supplies. With this budget, you will have all the items needed for battles, and it is also possible to battle with a friend. This allows for a well-balanced start that can be enjoyed in the long term.
Full Start Budget (Around 5,000 yen)
With a budget of around 5,000 yen, you can start Pokémon cards in earnest. You will have the flexibility to purchase multiple expansion packs in addition to the starter set or buy powerful cards as singles. You can also enhance your supplies, significantly increasing the freedom of deck customization. This budget is suitable for those considering participating in events or competitive-level battles.
【Budget 1,000 yen】Starting Pokémon Cards with Minimal Investment
Even with a limited budget of 1,000 yen, you can fully experience the basic enjoyment of Pokémon cards. This plan is perfect for beginners who want to "try it out first," allowing for low-risk understanding of the rules and enjoyment of battles.
Purchase List for the 1,000 yen Plan
The items to gather for the 1,000 yen plan are as follows:
Recommended Pattern 1: Only ex Starter Deck
- ex Starter Deck (Pikachu ex, Mewtwo ex, etc.): Approximately 500-600 yen
- Use the remaining 400-500 yen to purchase sleeves (from 100 yen) or substitutes for damage counters as needed
Recommended Pattern 2: Utilizing Used Decks
- Used starter deck from a card shop: 300-500 yen
- Inexpensive sleeves: 100 yen
- Damage counters/markers: 100-200 yen
- 1-2 packs of expansion packs: with the remaining budget
The ex starter deck comes with a pre-constructed 60-card deck, damage counters, coins, a playmat, and a rulebook, allowing you to start playing right away with just this one item. If you have an additional budget, it is recommended to prioritize purchasing sleeves to protect your cards.
Things You Can Enjoy with This Plan
With the 1,000 yen plan, you can enjoy the following:
What You Can Do:
- Learn the basic rules of Pokémon cards
- Play against friends or family (if they also have a deck)
- Understand the deck's movements and strategies
- Enjoy battling with your favorite Pokémon
The biggest advantage of this plan is that you can start with low risk. You can decide whether to invest further after experiencing the fun of Pokémon cards. The ex starter deck has little room for modification, but it is structured well enough for beginners to learn the rules.
Next Steps for Advancement
Once you are able to enjoy the 1,000 yen plan, it is recommended to step up in the following order:
Priority 1: Additional Supplies (Budget +500 to 1,000 yen)
- Sleeves (for card protection)
- Playmat (a simple paper version is acceptable)
- Additional damage counters
Priority 2: Purchase Another Deck (Budget +500 to 1,000 yen)
- Buy another ex starter deck to enable two-player battles
- Expand your strategy with different types of Pokémon
Priority 3: Expansion Packs and Single Cards (Budget +1,000 yen and up)
- Expansion packs to strengthen your deck
- Single cards to purchase specific needed cards
By gradually increasing your budget, you can avoid unnecessary expenses while enjoying Pokémon cards more deeply according to your interests.
【Budget 3,000 yen】 Start Strong with Balance
A budget of 3,000 yen is the most balanced amount for beginners to enjoy Pokémon cards seriously. You can gather a complete set of decks and supplies, and start battling with friends right after purchase.
Purchase List for the 3,000 yen Plan
The main patterns you can assemble with the 3,000 yen plan are: 2 decks + supplies (sleeves, deck case, damage counters, playmat), Battle Academy + expansion packs, or 1 deck + many expansion packs. You can choose according to your purpose.
Reasons to Recommend This Plan
The 3,000 yen plan is most recommended for beginners because it provides everything needed for battles, creates an environment for two players to play, allows for long-term use while protecting cards, and opens up options for deck enhancement. You can start serious battles without additional purchases, and it offers excellent long-term cost performance.
Specific Combination Examples for 3,000 yen
For those focused on battles, about 3,000 yen can get you 2 ex starter decks + sleeves + deck case + damage counters + playmat. For those who also want to enjoy card collecting, about 3,000 yen can get you Battle Academy + 3 expansion packs + sleeves.
【Budget 5,000 yen】 A Comprehensive Plan for Serious Start
With a budget of 5,000 yen, you can start seriously with an eye on competitive-level battles. You can create an environment to enjoy the charm of Pokémon cards widely, including deck enhancement, ample supplies, and collection elements.
Purchase List for the 5,000 yen Plan
The main patterns of the 5,000 yen plan are the competitive deck enhancement type (starter deck + expansion pack + single cards + high-quality supplies), the multiple deck ownership type (3 starter decks + ample supplies), and the balanced enhancement type (battle academy + expansion pack + single cards). It can be customized according to your purpose.
What You Can Gain from This Plan
The main benefits of the 5,000 yen plan are the ability to purchase powerful generic cards with single cards, a high degree of freedom in deck customization, the ability to invest in high-quality supplies, and being well-prepared for event participation. It provides a solid start to take the first step towards competitive level.
Recommended Patterns for Using 5,000 Yen
There are three patterns: battle-focused type (starter deck + emphasis on single cards), collection-focused type (many expansion packs + binder), and enjoying with friends type (3 starter decks + ample supplies). Choose according to your purpose.
Budget Plan Comparison Table
Let's compare the three budget plans at a glance to find the best plan for you.
| Item | 1,000 yen plan | 3,000 yen plan | 5,000 yen plan |
|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Decks | 1 | 2-3 | 1-3 |
| Expansion Packs | 0-2 packs | 0-8 packs | 5-15 packs |
| Single Cards | None | None | Yes (1,000-2,000 yen worth) |
| Supply Richness | Minimum | Standard | Ample |
| Sleeves | None or 1 set | 1-2 sets | 2-3 sets |
| Playmat | None | Simple version | High quality |
| Deck Cases | None | 1-2 | 2-3 |
| Opponent Availability | Needs an opponent | 2 people available | Multiple people possible |
| Room for Deck Enhancement | Almost none | A little | A lot |
| Event Participation | Difficult | Possible | Fully prepared |
| Recommended For | Those who want to try | Those who prioritize balance | Those who want to start seriously |
| Long-term Cost Performance | △ | ◯ | ◎ |
As can be seen from this table, as the budget increases, the freedom of deck enhancement and the richness of supplies also increase. For beginners, the 3,000 yen plan is the most balanced and offers excellent long-term cost performance.
Tips for Enjoying Pokémon Cards on a Budget
Even with a limited budget, you can enjoy Pokémon cards sufficiently with some ingenuity. Here, we introduce practical techniques to maximize enjoyment while keeping costs down.
Make the Most of Starter Sets
Starter decks are highly complete, so it is recommended to play with them as they are without forcing modifications. By understanding how the deck works before enhancing it, you can avoid unnecessary purchases. If you buy multiple copies of the same starter deck, you can not only battle with friends but also secure multiple copies of the necessary cards.
Utilize Substitutes
The official supplies are of high quality, but beginners can manage well with substitutes. Damage counters can be replaced with glass beads or marbles from a 100 yen shop. Playmats can be substituted with thick clear files or A3 paper. Sleeves can also be inexpensive ones from a 100 yen shop at first. By using alternatives, you can significantly reduce costs.
How to Enjoy for Free
There are ways to enjoy Pokémon cards without purchasing them, depending on your creativity. By using rental decks from stores, you can experience them sufficiently before buying. At Pokémon Centers and card shops, staff will teach you the rules during trial events. With the official app "Pokémon Card Game Pocket (PokePoke)," you can enjoy the digital version for free with basic play.
Recommended Purchase Locations by Budget
The prices and selection of Pokémon cards vary greatly depending on where you buy them. By choosing the optimal purchase location according to your budget, you can gather more items for the same amount of money.
Purchase Locations for the 1,000 Yen Plan
If your budget is limited, you can easily purchase at convenience stores. Drugstores and supermarkets may sell them for less than the retail price. At card shops, you can obtain starter decks for around 300 to 500 yen if you buy used items.
Purchase Locations for the 3,000 Yen and 5,000 Yen Plans
If you have a bit more budget, online shopping (Amazon, Rakuten) is recommended. You can sometimes buy at a 10-20% discount with point returns or sales. At Pokémon Centers, you can reliably obtain official products at retail price. Electronics retailers have high point return rates, effectively providing discounts. Card shops are ideal for purchasing single cards and are convenient for deck strengthening.
Price Comparison and Cautions
The actual selling price of ex starter decks varies from 500 to 600 yen depending on the store. When buying expansion packs in sets of 10, the price per pack can be around 150 yen. Popular products may be sold for 2-3 times the retail price for resale purposes, so always check if the price is reasonable. It is important to catch sale information through Twitter or app notifications and compare prices at multiple stores.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
We will resolve frequently asked questions regarding the budget for Pokémon cards in a Q&A format.
Can I start with less than 1,000 yen?
It is possible, but there are limitations. You can either purchase a used starter deck (300-500 yen) or borrow a deck from a friend. By utilizing free trial events or the official app "PokePoke," you can experience it without spending money.
When should I consider increasing my budget?
The timing to increase your budget is when you want to strengthen your deck, when you start considering participating in events, or when you become interested in collecting. It is recommended to play sufficiently with a starter deck before purchasing expansion packs or single cards as needed.
Which plan offers the best cost performance?
The most cost-effective plan varies depending on your goals. For those who want to start as a trial, the 1,000 yen plan is suitable; for beginners who want to enjoy it seriously, the 3,000 yen plan is ideal; and for those interested in participating in events or competitive play, the 5,000 yen plan is best. Generally, the 3,000 yen plan is the most balanced and offers high long-term satisfaction.
Summary: Start Pokémon Cards According to Your Budget
Pokémon cards are a hobby that can be started with a small amount of 1,000 yen. By choosing from three starting plans according to your budget, you can find the best way to begin for yourself.
The 1,000 yen plan is ideal for those who want to try it out with minimal investment, the 3,000 yen plan is suitable for beginners who prioritize balance, and the 5,000 yen plan is perfect for those who want to engage seriously. No matter which plan you choose, you can enjoy it while keeping costs down through creative use of substitutes, purchasing second-hand items, and participating in free events.
Let's enjoy the world of Pokémon cards starting today, tailored to your budget and goals. For more detailed information, please see the Pokémon Card Complete Guide | How to Start, Rules, Deck Building.
