First Expansion of the POKÉMON Trading Card Game: Sword & Shield Series OUT NOW #PokemonTCG

Today marks a new era for the Pokémon Trading Card Game with the release of the first expansion in the Sword & Shield Series (AD) and the first day I have actually had any clue how to play the game!

madmumof7 with Pikachu at #PokemonTCG


My older children first started playing the trading card game almost two decades ago and their siblings have followed their lead. As a result we have many, many Pokemon cards in our home.

We won't mention the many, many cards dating from the '90's onwards which I *may* have thrown away while tidying bedrooms, vacuuming under the sofa or clearing out the car. I have almost certainly chucked out cards which would now be highly prized.

Anyway, thanks to a patient instructor and my equally patient 20-year-old son Lucas I finally managed to play and entire game and won! Although some frequent hints from both of my tutors had a lot to do with that.

Pokemon TCG Sword. And Sheild expansion

It was a lot of fun and whether you are new to the trading card game or an old hand, this new release is exciting stuff.

POkemon Trading Card Game Sword & Sheild

Taking its inspiration from the Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield video games, this expansion introduces a brand-new mechanic to the Pokémon TCG: Pokémon VMAX. 

Pokémon VMAX evolve from Pokémon V and feature Dynamax or Gigantamax Pokémon, with players able to collect cards like Snorlax VMAX and Lapras VMAX—both in their Gigantamax forms.

The Pokémon TCG: Sword & Shield expansion features:

  • Over 50 Pokémon from the Galar region
  • 17 Pokémon V and 12 full-art Pokémon V, including Zacian V and Zamazenta V
  • Four Pokémon VMAX, including Snorlax VMAX and Lapras VMAX 
  • More than 30 Trainer cards, including three full-art Supporter cards
  • A new Special Energy card

In addition, Trainers in the UK have the opportunity to obtain two promo cards: Galarian Obstagoon and oversize Snorlax V. From February 7 and while stocks last, spend £10 or more on Pokémon TCG products in WHSmith high street stores to receive Galarian Obstagoon; or purchase any Pokémon TCG product in GAME stores to receive oversize Snorlax V.
In Eire, Trainers can receive a Galarian Obstagoon promo card when they spend 10€ on Pokémon TCG products in Eason stores from February 7 and while stocks last. 

Pokemon Swod and Sheild cards #PokemonTCG

For more information on the Sword & Shield Series, please visit pokemon.com/uk/pokemon-tcg/