The Pokémon trading card game (TCG) has evolved significantly since its inception in 1996, with a vast array of sets released over the years. Keeping track of what's currently in print can be a challenge for both casual players and seasoned collectors. Let's delve into the world of Pokémon TCG and explore the sets that are currently available for you to enjoy or add to your collection.
Before we begin, it's important to note that the Pokémon Company International separates their sets into two categories: Standard legal sets and Expanded legal sets. Standard is the format used for most tournaments, while Expanded includes cards from all sets that have not rotated out of the Standard format. In this article, we will focus on the current Standard legal sets.
Standard Legal Sets
The Standard format in the Pokémon TCG currently consists of sets released within the last two years. This ensures that the game remains balanced and engaging for players.
As of now, the following sets are Standard legal:
Sword & Shield - Base Set
Released in February 2020, the Sword & Shield base set introduced the new Sword & Shield era, marking the start of the seventh generation of Pokémon. This set features cards from the Galar region, as well as a wealth of new mechanics like Bodycards, Tag Team cards, and Full Art cards.
Some highlights include the introduction of VMAX Pokémon, which are more powerful than their V counterparts and have a MAX Energy requirement. Examples of VMAX Pokémon include Pikachu VMAX, Eevee VMAX, and Snorlax VMAX.
Sword & Shield - Dark November 2020
Released in November 2020, this expanded set focuses on the dark-type Pokémon and features over 180 cards. It introduces new Dark VMAX Pokémon like Dragapult VMAX and Coalossal VMAX, as well as Trainer and Energy cards to bolster Dark-type strategies.
This set also includes alternate Full Art versions of popular cards like Japasper and Remoraid, providing collectors with exciting new chase cards to pursue.
Sword & Shield - Vivid Voltage
Released in October 2020, Vivid Voltage is the lightning-themed expansion following Dark November. It features over 185 cards, including new Lightning VMAX Pokémon like Raichu VMAX and Star VMAX, and new Trainer and Energy cards to support Lightning-type decks.
Vivid Voltage also introduces the Lightning V theme deck, which focuses on Lightning-type Pokémon and the new Exciting Excursio Squad homage to the classic ‘56 Team Rocket’s R venait from EDTA deck.
Recently Rotated Sets
While the sets mentioned above are currently Standard legal, it's worth briefly discussing two sets that have recently rotated out and are only playable in the Expanded format:
Sword & Shield - Chill RX
Released in March 2021, Chill RX is the final expansion in the Sword & Shield era. It features over 70 cards, including new Psychic and Colorless Pokémon VMAX like Mewtwo VMAX and Lucario VMAX. Additionally, it introduces new Trainer and Energy cards to strengthen Psychic and Colorless strategies.
This set also includes support for the Reshiram & Zekrom GX theme deck, allowing players to build competitive decks around these powerful Legendary Pokémon.
Sword & Shield - Battle Styles
Released in February 2021, Battle Styles is the first expansion in the Sword & Shield era to feature the Amazing anthropomorphic Trainer Pokémon, stopping the previous Team Flora & Team Galactic themed expansions. The set includes over 170 cards and introduces new Trainer and Energy cards to support Fairy, Dragon, and Colorless Pokémon.
Battle Styles also features the introduction of Rapid Strike and Single Strike mech mechanics, which allow players to build decks centered around theme and style rather than specific Pokémon types. This set has significantly shaped the current competitive metagame and is still a popular choice for players due to its powerful cards and strategies.
In the ever-evolving world of Pokémon TCG, staying up-to-date with the latest sets is essential for both competitive players and collectors alike. By familiarizing themselves with the current Standard legal sets and understanding the recent rotations, players can make informed decisions about which cards and decks to invest in, ensuring they remain at the forefront of the game.