Pokémon Crash Course for 90's Kids
Learning the New Mechanics, Generations, and Chase Cards of Modern Pokémon for Classics TCG & Collectibles
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.
A Nostalgic Look Back: The Base Set Era
Released in 1999 by Wizards of the Coast, the original Pokémon Base Set introduced us to the 151 classic Pokémon, featuring simple yet iconic mechanics. Energy cards fueled attacks, Trainer cards offered strategic plays, and the holographic rares were the pinnacle of any collection. The "Big Three"—Charizard, Blastoise, and Venusaur—became instant legends, and the thrill of pulling a holo from a pack was unmatched.
However, the game has changed significantly since then, with The Pokémon Company taking over in 2003 and introducing new generations, mechanics, and rarities that make the modern game more complex but also more exciting.
Charizard was the apex of Pokemon collecting in the 90’s and things have not changed in that sense
Evolution of the Pokémon TCG: A Chronological Breakdown
1999-2003: The Wizards of the Coast Era – Base Set, Jungle, Fossil, and Neo series define the early years.
2003-2011: The EX Era – The Pokémon Company International takes over, introducing EX cards for stronger gameplay.
2011-2016: The Black & White and XY Era – Full Art cards and Mega Evolution shake up collecting and battling.
2016-2019: The Sun & Moon Era – GX cards debut, along with Tag Team cards featuring two Pokémon together.
2019-Present: The Sword & Shield and Scarlet & Violet Eras – V, VMAX, VSTAR, and Terra cards redefine the game with dynamic mechanics.
Modern Mechanics: What Are V, EX, and Terra Cards?
V & VMAX Cards: Introduced in Sword & Shield, these powerful cards function like the old EXs but with evolved forms called VMAX, boasting massive HP and powerful moves.
EX Cards (Rebooted in Scarlet & Violet): Unlike older EX cards, these have abilities that encourage strategic deck-building and come with high-risk, high-reward mechanics.
Terastal (Terra) Cards: The newest addition from Scarlet & Violet, featuring crystal-like aesthetics and allowing Pokémon to change typing during battle.
Trainer Cards: Supporters vs. Items & Tools
Supporters: One per turn, offering powerful effects like card draw or Pokémon retrieval.
Item Cards: Can be played as many times as you like per turn, helping with healing, energy acceleration, or switching Pokémon.
Tool Cards: Previously categorized as Items, Tools are now their own subcategory and attach to Pokémon for added effects.
Understanding Modern Rarity Tiers
Collecting modern Pokémon cards means navigating a whole new world of rarities. Here’s a breakdown:
Reverse Holo: A common or uncommon card with a shiny background.
Ultra Rare: Cards like V, EX, or VMAX that feature dynamic artwork and stronger abilities.
Full Art: Cards with extended artwork covering the whole card.
Secret Rare: Cards numbered beyond the set list, often gold, rainbow, or alternate art versions.
Illustration Rares & Special Illustration Rares: Artistic full-card designs that highlight Pokémon in unique scenes.
The Hype Behind Prismatic Evolutions & Pokémon 151
Two of the most anticipated sets in recent Pokémon TCG history are Prismatic Evolutions and Pokémon 151. These sets captured the hearts of collectors and players alike due to their nostalgic themes and new chase mechanics.
Pokémon 151: A celebration of the original 151 Pokémon, bringing them back with modern designs and mechanics.
Prismatic Evolutions: Features never-before-seen alternate evolution lines, making classic Pokémon feel fresh again.
God Packs & Master Ball Collection Cards: Inspired by Japan’s booster pack format, God Packs guarantee every card in the pack is a rare, while Master Ball Collection Cards introduce a new premium rarity that drives excitement and demand.
Market Influence: Logan Paul, Scalpers, and Resellers
The Pokémon TCG market has seen massive price spikes due to influencer hype and questionable market manipulation:
Logan Paul Effect: His viral $150,000 Base Set Charizard purchase triggered a wave of nostalgia-fueled demand.
Scalpers & Resellers: Mass buying and flipping of sealed products created artificial scarcity, making it tough for casual collectors to get their hands on new sets.
The Modern Market: Despite these challenges, Pokémon has adapted by increasing print runs and introducing exclusive sets that cater to both collectors and players.
Ready to Jump Back In?
Whether you’re here for nostalgia or looking to start fresh, the modern Pokémon TCG has something for everyone. Swing by Classics TCG & Collectibles at 527 Eglinton Ave West to trade, play, or hunt for your next big pull. Who knows? Maybe you’ll get lucky and crack a God Pack!
Stay tuned for more updates on upcoming events and restocks—Gotta Catch 'Em All!
