If you grew up in the '90s, you remember the absolute craze of the original Pokémon Base Set. Trading, battling, and hunting for that elusive Charizard were all part of the experience. Now, fast forward 25+ years, and the Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) has evolved into a juggernaut with new mechanics, fresh generations, and highly coveted chase cards. If you’re looking to jump back in, here’s everything you need to know to get up to speed for your next visit to Classics TCG & Collectibles.

Trading card grading is a process where collectible cards are evaluated, authenticated, and assigned a grade based on their condition. This service is essential for collectors and investors, as graded cards are often worth significantly more than their ungraded counterparts. But how does grading work, and which companies dominate the industry? Let's break it down.