Pokémon Card Event Participation Guide | How to Join Tournaments and Gym Battles with Confidence for Beginners
The enjoyment of the Pokémon Trading Card Game is not limited to battles with family and friends. By participating in gym battles and official tournaments held at card shops nationwide, you can interact with many more players, greatly expanding the scope of your battles. However, many may feel anxious, wondering, "Is it okay if it's my first time?" "What should I bring?" "Are the rules strict?"
This article thoroughly explains how to participate in Pokémon card events for beginners. It covers all the necessary information for event participation, from the registration process for the Players Club, recommended gym battles for beginners, how to join official tournaments, to the manners and rules you should know. Start with casual gym battles and gradually step up to official tournaments.
Table of Contents
- What are Pokémon Card Events? Understanding the Types
- Register for the Players Club [Required]
- Recommended for Beginners! How to Participate in Gym Battles
- Challenge the Official Tournament (City League)
- Manners and Rules to Know for Event Participation
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Conclusion: Expand the Fun of Battles Through Event Participation
What are Pokémon Card Events? Understanding the Types
Pokémon card events can be broadly divided into two types: casual store events and serious official tournaments. For beginners, it is recommended to start with casual events and gradually challenge official tournaments.
Since the participation conditions and atmosphere differ depending on the type of event, it is important to choose an event that matches your level and purpose. Here, we introduce the main types of events.
Gym Battle (Store Event)
Gym Battles are store events held at card shops and game shops across the country. They are the most casual and beginner-friendly format of events, allowing players to enjoy battles freely with each other.
Participation fees range from free to a few hundred yen, and many do not require pre-registration, making it easy to join. The atmosphere is focused on enjoying the battles without worrying about winning or losing, and staff members or veteran players may teach the rules. By participating, players can earn player points, and there may be prizes such as deck cases or promotional cards. This event is perfect for those who want to "first get a feel for the event atmosphere" or "meet local players."
Official Tournaments (City League, Champions League)
Official tournaments are highly competitive events organized by the Pokémon Trading Card Game official. The main ones are the regional-level "City League" and the nationwide "Champions League."
The City League is an official tournament held regularly in each region, with participation fees ranging from 500 to 1,000 yen. Standard regulations (rules that restrict usable cards) apply, and submission of a deck list is required. Prizes and championship points are awarded to top finishers, and collecting these points grants entry to larger tournaments.
The Champions League is a large-scale official tournament held in major cities across the country, with many professional players participating. Participation may require championship points, allowing for high-level matches. This is recommended for those who want to "seriously engage in competition" or "battle against top players nationwide."
Other Events
In addition to the above, various types of events are held. The "Pre-release Tournament" held before the release of a new set allows players to battle using cards before they are officially released. At new set release celebration events, special promotional cards may be given out.
Additionally, there are social gatherings independently held by card shops and fan deck battles based on specific themes, focusing more on interaction than on winning or losing. There are also regularly held junior events with age restrictions and beginner-only events, so be sure to look for an event that suits you.
Register for the Player's Club [Required]
To participate in official events, registration for the Pokémon Trading Card Game Player's Club is mandatory. Registration is free and can be easily done online. Registration is also recommended for Gym Battles, as it is necessary for managing participation points and receiving prizes.
By registering for the Player's Club, you can access various services such as searching for event information nationwide, recording participation history, and managing earned points. If you are considering participating in events, make sure to complete your registration first.
What is the Player's Club?
The Pokémon Trading Card Game Player's Club is a free membership service for players operated by the official organization. It is required for participation in all official tournaments, and when you participate, player points (PP) are automatically recorded.
When you register for the Players Club, a unique "Player ID" will be issued. This ID is used for identity verification during tournament participation and is required for event check-in and prize collection. The points you earn are accumulated, and when you reach a certain number of points, you can exchange them for exclusive merchandise. Additionally, you can search for event information nationwide from the official website, allowing you to check the location, date, and participation conditions in advance.
Registration Steps (Step by Step)
Registration for the Players Club is done through the official Pokémon Card Game website. If you have a computer or smartphone, it can be completed in about 5 minutes.
First, access the official Pokémon Card Game website (pokemon-card.com) and select "New Registration" from the "Players Club" menu at the top of the page. After reviewing and agreeing to the terms, you will enter the required information. Once you have completed the input, a confirmation email will be sent to the registered email address, so click the link in the email to complete your registration.
After completing the registration, when you log in to your My Page, your dedicated Player ID will be displayed. Since this ID is necessary for event participation, it is recommended to save it as a screenshot on your smartphone or write it down.
Required Information
The information required for registration includes four items: email address, password (set by yourself), date of birth, and nickname (player name). The email address will be used as your login ID and will receive event information and campaign updates.
The nickname will be the player name used in tournaments, so choose a name that is acceptable for others to see. It does not have to be your real name, and you can register with any nickname you like. If you are a minor, parental consent may be required, so please check the terms carefully.
What to Do After Registration
After completing your registration, first check your profile settings. Log in to your My Page and verify that your Player ID is displayed correctly and that there are no errors in your nickname.
It is convenient to save your Player ID as a screenshot on your smartphone or use the QR code display feature. To ensure smooth check-in during event participation, keep your ID readily accessible. Also, try out the event search function on the official website to find events happening at nearby stores.
Benefits of the Players Club
The biggest benefit of registering for the Players Club is the ability to participate in official events nationwide. Without registration, you cannot participate in official tournaments, and points will not be recorded in Gym Battles.
Every time you participate in an event, player points are automatically recorded, and you can exchange accumulated points for exclusive merchandise. Additionally, all your match records and participation history are recorded, allowing you to feel your growth. Furthermore, you will receive the latest information and campaign updates from the official source via email, enabling you to catch new set information and special event details as soon as possible. Since all of this is available for free, there is no downside to registering if you enjoy Pokémon cards.
Recommended for Beginners! How to Participate in Gym Battles
Once you have registered for the Players Club, try participating in a Gym Battle first. Gym Battles are the most beginner-friendly event format and are appealing because they are easy to join. Here, we will explain in detail how to find Gym Battles and what to expect on the day of the event.
You may be wondering, "Is it really okay for complete beginners?" but gym battles are attended by players of a wide range of levels, and there is a welcoming atmosphere for beginners. I recommend participating at least once to experience the vibe of the event.
Finding Stores That Hold Gym Battles
The most reliable way to find stores that hold gym battles is through the "Event Search" feature on the official Pokémon Card Game website. You can search by region and date, and check the schedule and participation requirements for each store.
In addition to the official site, you can find nearby card shops by searching for "Pokémon Card Shop" on Google Maps. Many stores also share detailed event information on their websites and social media (X, Instagram), so be sure to check in advance.
Additionally, directly calling the card shop to inquire is also effective. You can confirm the date and time of the event, participation fees, capacity, and whether beginners can participate. If you ask, "Is it okay for me to join since it's my first time?" the staff will usually provide you with helpful information. Local, independently-owned card shops often have a more beginner-friendly atmosphere compared to large chain stores.
How to Apply for Participation
The application method for gym battles varies by store. Some stores require advance reservations, while others only accept same-day registrations, so be sure to check in advance.
If advance reservations are required, you can apply through the store's website, social media, or by phone. Popular stores may reach capacity and not allow participation, so it's safer to make a reservation a few days before the event date. For stores that accept same-day registrations, go to the store 15 to 30 minutes before the event starts and inform the staff of your intention to participate at the reception.
Participation fees typically range from free to about 500 yen, which you pay at the reception. If you mention that it's your first time participating, the staff will often explain the rules and flow of the event. Since you will need to present your player ID, make sure you can display your My Page on your smartphone.
Checklist of Items to Bring on the Day
Make sure to check the basic items you need to bring when participating in a gym battle. Forgetting something can hinder your matches, so it's recommended to review your checklist the day before.
Essential items include a 60-card deck, player ID (which can be displayed on a smartphone), damage counters, and poison/burn markers. Refer to the Pokémon Card Deck Building Method to prepare your deck properly in advance. Damage counters and markers are essential; forgetting them may prevent you from participating in matches.
Convenient items to have include a playmat, sleeves, writing utensils, and drinks. A playmat protects the cards and facilitates smooth gameplay. Sleeves are important to prevent card damage, so make sure to use them, especially for your most valuable cards. Writing utensils are used for confirming deck contents with your opponent and for filling out the deck list (required for official tournaments). Since events can last a long time, bringing a drink is also a good idea for peace of mind.
Flow of the Gym Battle Day
Knowing the flow of the gym battle day will help you participate smoothly. Even if it's your first time, review the basic flow to avoid panicking.
Arrive at the store 15 minutes before the start time, present your player ID at the reception, and register for participation. If there is a participation fee, it will be paid here. Once all participants are gathered, the staff will explain the rules for the day and the matching method.
Match pairing is generally done using the Swiss draw method (where players with the same win-loss record compete against each other). Once the opponent for the first round is announced, move to the designated seat and start the match. Be sure to greet each other before the match, shuffle each other's decks, and proceed according to the match flow.
After the match, report the results to the reception. Once all matches are completed, prizes may be distributed based on performance. Player points are automatically recorded in your account, so you can check them later on your My Page. Finally, say your goodbyes and leave the store.
Challenge the Official Tournament (City League)
Once you are accustomed to gym battles, consider participating in an official tournament next. The City League is an official tournament at the regional level, which is highly competitive but open to beginners as well.
Official tournaments have stricter rules than gym battles, requiring an understanding of regulations and etiquette. However, it is recommended for players who want to test their skills in a more serious competitive environment.
What is the City League?
The City League is a type of official tournament held regularly in each region. The participation fee is around 500 to 1,000 yen, and the standard regulation applies.
The biggest feature of the City League is that you can earn Championship Points (CP). Top finishers are awarded CP based on their ranking, and by collecting these points, you can gain entry to larger tournaments (Champions League and World Championships). Prizes may include tournament-exclusive promotional cards, deck cases, sleeves, and more.
Participants range widely in skill level, from beginners to experienced players. The atmosphere is more serious than gym battles, but if you adhere to etiquette during matches, even beginners can enjoy themselves. It is recommended for those who want to "experience the atmosphere of a serious tournament" or "test the strength of their deck."
Participation Requirements and Regulations
To participate in the City League, registration with the Players Club is mandatory. You will need your player ID when applying, so make sure to register in advance.
The most important aspect is compliance with the standard regulation. The cards that can be used are restricted by the "regulation mark," and older cards cannot be used. When building your deck, you must ensure that all cards are currently allowed under the regulation.
Additionally, submitting a deck list is mandatory. A deck list is a document that lists all 60 cards you will use, which must be submitted on the day of the tournament. If there are mistakes in the deck list, you may be disqualified, so create it carefully. You need to accurately write the card names, quantities, and regulation marks.
What is the Standard Regulation?
The standard regulation is a rule that restricts the cards that can be used in official tournaments. Whether a card can be used is determined by the "regulation mark" (a single letter) printed on the lower left of each card.
For example, as of 2024, cards marked with "F", "G", and "H" will be available (this may change depending on the timing). Regulations are updated regularly, and older marked cards will become unusable. Be sure to check the official site for the latest regulation information.
To build a deck that complies with the Standard Regulation, it is best to use the latest expansion packs or starter decks. If you want to use past cards, be sure to check the regulation marks. After understanding the Basics of Deck Building, create a deck that adheres to the regulations.
How to Apply and Important Points
To apply for the City League, go to the "Event Search" on the official Pokémon Card Game website. Once you find the tournament you want to participate in, click the application button on the details page and fill in the necessary information to apply.
The City League is very popular, and when the capacity is reached, a lottery may be held. There are often application periods set, so it is recommended to apply early. The lottery results will be notified by email a few days before the tournament.
If you are selected, be sure to confirm your participation. If you cannot participate for unavoidable reasons, it is good manners to cancel as early as possible. Unannounced cancellations can inconvenience other participants, so please avoid them at all costs. On the day of the event, bring your deck list, player ID, participation fee, and all items necessary for the matches. Arrive at the venue 15 to 30 minutes before the start time and complete your registration with plenty of time to spare.
Manners and Rules to Know When Participating in Events
In Pokémon card events, adherence to manners and rules is emphasized more than winning or losing. Official tournaments are particularly strict, and violations of manners or rules may result in penalties.
Even beginners should understand the basic manners and rules to ensure a pleasant match. By following good manners, you will gain the trust of not only your opponent but also the surrounding players and event staff.
Basic Match Manners
The basics of match manners are respect and consideration for your opponent. Always greet with "Thank you for your cooperation" at the start and "Thank you" at the end of the match. This is the most fundamental manner.
Handle the cards carefully, and always get permission before touching your opponent's cards. When playing your own cards, present them clearly so that your opponent can see, and verbally explain the effects. It is important to proceed at a pace that your opponent can understand, rather than speaking too quickly.
Time management is also an important manner. Taking too long to think can be considered a delay, so aim for smooth play. However, it is also important to take the necessary time to think calmly when needed, rather than rushing and making mistakes. The use of smartphones during matches is generally prohibited (unless permitted by a judge). Take necessary notes with paper and writing tools.
How to Call a Judge
A judge is an official staff member who conducts the tournament and makes rulings on the rules. If the rules are unclear or if a problem arises during the match, do not hesitate to call a judge.
The timing to call a judge is when there is a disagreement with your opponent regarding the interpretation of the rules, when a misplay occurs, or when the effects of a card are complex and difficult to judge. It is important to confirm with a judge if you have any doubts, rather than interpreting it on your own by thinking, "I can judge this myself, so it's fine."
Calling a judge is simple; just raise your hand and say, "Judge, please." When the judge arrives, explain the situation concisely. Always comply with the judge's ruling, and avoid protesting during the match even if you are dissatisfied with the ruling. Calling a judge is not something to be embarrassed about; rather, it helps maintain a fair match when done appropriately.
Things You Should Not Do
Understand the actions that should absolutely be avoided when participating in an event. These are considered violations of etiquette or cheating and can result in penalties or disqualification.
Cheating includes actions such as card switching, discrepancies with the deck list, and intentional misplays. These are strictly punished and can lead to account suspension or a ban from tournaments in some cases. Delaying actions are also prohibited, and intentionally slowing down play to aim for a time-out can result in warnings or disqualification.
Marked cards are cards that have scratches or dirt that can be identified from the back. This is considered cheating, so be careful to keep the cards in your deck in the same condition at all times. Even if you are using sleeves, specific cards may be pointed out as having dirty sleeves.
Additionally, using a smartphone during a match (to look up card effects, view strategy information, etc.) is generally prohibited. For necessary information, confirm with a judge. Getting emotional and hurling insults at your opponent, handling cards roughly, or displaying a bad attitude after losing can also be considered violations of etiquette and may lead to warnings. To maintain a fun and fair match environment, these actions should be absolutely avoided.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are some common questions from beginners considering participating in events. Let's resolve any anxieties or doubts before participating so you can approach the event with confidence.
If you have questions beyond what is presented here, it is recommended to directly inquire with the store or event staff. They should be happy to assist you.
Questions About Participation
Q: Can beginners participate?
A: Yes, gym battles are very welcoming to beginners. As long as you understand the rules, it is fine even if you have little experience. If you are anxious, it is often helpful to inform the staff at registration that it is your first time participating, and they will usually provide support. Beginners can also participate in official tournaments (City League), but it is recommended to fully understand the regulations and etiquette before participating.
Q: Can children participate alone?
A: It varies by store. Many stores require a guardian to accompany children under elementary school age. For middle school students and above, some stores allow participation alone. Be sure to check with the store in advance.
Q: How much is the participation fee?
A: Gym battles typically range from free to about 500 yen, while official tournaments (City League) generally cost between 500 and 1,000 yen. The participation fee includes prize costs and operational expenses.
Questions About Decks
Q: Can I participate with any deck?
A: In Gym Battles, you can generally participate with any deck. However, you must adhere to the 60-card deck rule. For official tournaments, a deck that complies with the Standard Regulation is required, and it must consist only of cards with valid regulation marks.
Q: Is it okay to use a starter deck?
A: Yes, you can participate with a starter deck. Especially in Gym Battles, it's perfectly fine to join with a starter deck. However, in official tournaments, using a competitive deck increases your chances of winning, so it's recommended to add cards to strengthen your deck. You can refer to the recommended decks for beginners.
Other Questions
Q: Is it okay just to observe?
A: Many stores welcome observers. Starting with observation is a good way to get a feel for the event's atmosphere. However, some stores may not allow observation, so be sure to check in advance.
Q: Can I leave partway through?
A: If there are unavoidable circumstances, you can leave partway through, but as a matter of etiquette, it's necessary to inform the staff in advance. Leaving without notice can inconvenience your opponent and the organizers, so try to participate until the end if possible.
Q: Is it okay to participate alone?
A: Yes, many people participate alone. You may even make new friends through the event, so there's no need to fear attending alone. The natural interactions that arise through battles are one of the charms of Pokémon card events.
Summary: Expand the Fun of Battles by Participating in Events
Pokémon card events have a different charm compared to battles at home. You can learn new strategies through battles with various players, expand your deck-building ideas, and most importantly, interact with others who share the same hobby.
It's natural to feel nervous about participating for the first time, but if you follow the steps outlined in this article, you should be able to debut at the event smoothly. First, register for the Players Club and try participating in a Gym Battle held at a nearby store. Gym Battles are beginner-friendly and have an atmosphere where you can enjoy battles casually.
Once you get used to Gym Battles, try challenging the City League, which is an official tournament. Not only can you test your skills in a more serious environment, but you can also earn Championship Points and aim for even larger tournaments. As long as you follow the etiquette and rules and remember to respect your opponent, you can enjoy any event.
Now, let's take the first step. Participating in events will greatly expand your Pokémon card life. If you want to review the basics of battles, you can also refer to the Complete Guide to Pokémon Cards.
