How to Build an Effective Pokemon Deck
Since 1998, kids around the world, and even some adults, have become hooked on playing Pokemon. Different Pokemon creatures, represented by cards in a deck, are pitted against each other in combat. Different Pokemon have different strengths and weakness, so to win, you need to build a deck with the right mix of cards.
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Instructions
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1
Learn the cards. Pokemon decks include not only creatures but energy cards to give them power, evolution cards to boost their power and trainer, spectator and stadium cards.
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Decide on the strategy you want to follow. If you want a few big, powerful Pokemon, you'll need build a Pokemon deck with lots of evolution cards, and trainers that can help you use those cards. Alternatively, you might want a more diverse selection of Pokemon that can adapt to whatever your opponent throws at you.
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Buy the cards to build your Pokemon deck. You'll probably begin with a starter deck, then add more cards until you can put together a 60-card deck-the standard for play-that fits your strategy.
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Start playing. Regular play will tell you if you need to adjust your deck, refine your strategy or try a whole different approach.
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Tips & Warnings
The selection of energy cards is just as important as Pokemon. If you focus on Pokemon who use one type of energy, you lose variety; if you use a variety, you might wind up with the wrong kind of energy for the Pokemon you've put into action.
Most decks need 20-25 energy cards to be effective.
If you or your kids decide to step up to tournament play, know that tournaments may restrict or ban certain cards or preselect the decks players use. That eliminates the advantage of players with rare cards and puts more emphasis on skill.
If you're serious about Pokemon, at some point you may want to buy rare cards for your deck from another player, rather than buying sets and hoping you get lucky. Use the various collector's guides on the market to decide if the price is fair (though if you really want the card, you may be willing to go above market value, of course).
