Guide
Pokémon cards for beginners: what to buy first
Start with a ready to play deck or a two player starter set, learn the rules with it, then add an Elite Trainer Box or a few singles once you know what you enjoy. Skip expensive chase products until you know whether you love collecting, playing or both.
Start with a ready to play deck or a two player starter set, learn the rules with it, then add an Elite Trainer Box or a few singles once you know what you enjoy. Skip expensive chase products until you know whether you love collecting, playing or both.
Step 1: a deck you can play today
Battle decks and starter sets come ready to play and are the cheapest way to learn the game. See starter decks.
Step 2: protect your cards
A pack of standard sleeves and a deck box keeps your deck in good shape.
Step 3: open some packs
An Elite Trainer Box is a fun next step, with packs plus play accessories.
Step 4: improve your deck with singles
When you want a specific card, buy it as a single. It is cheaper than hunting for it in packs.
Read our full new trainer guide.