<![CDATA[pokeshack - All Forums]]>
http://pokeshack.createmybb2.com/
Mon, 15 Mar 2010 05:46:57 -0500MyBB<![CDATA[WoS's Art Thread Come check it out!]]>
http://pokeshack.createmybb2.com/showthread.php?tid=109
Tue, 07 Jul 2009 23:31:56 -0500http://pokeshack.createmybb2.com/showthread.php?tid=109
NEW!!!
Scared Yet?
Lightning
You can use any of these if you want, just let me know first 'k! =D]]>
NEW!!!
Scared Yet?
Lightning
You can use any of these if you want, just let me know first 'k! =D]]><![CDATA[Who will come? Who will See? And who will Conquer?]]>
http://pokeshack.createmybb2.com/showthread.php?tid=108
Tue, 07 Jul 2009 23:28:26 -0500http://pokeshack.createmybb2.com/showthread.php?tid=108
Corny title aside, what deck do you think will win Worlds of '09? I'm betting on LuxApe, 'cuz LuxApe... Pwns... Other decks that will be common there will most likely be Dialga G, Palkia G, Legoes, Gengar, Machamp, GeChamp.
Post your opinions! ;D]]>
Corny title aside, what deck do you think will win Worlds of '09? I'm betting on LuxApe, 'cuz LuxApe... Pwns... Other decks that will be common there will most likely be Dialga G, Palkia G, Legoes, Gengar, Machamp, GeChamp.
Post your opinions! ;D]]><![CDATA[Pokemon "Supreme Victors" Release Date Announced]]>
http://pokeshack.createmybb2.com/showthread.php?tid=107
Tue, 07 Jul 2009 23:11:50 -0500http://pokeshack.createmybb2.com/showthread.php?tid=107
Collect Dragon Type Pokémon including Charizard and Rayquaza
Discover new Pokémon LV.X including Charizard, Garchomp, and Blaziken
More Pokémon SP including Frontier Brain’s Pokémon and Champion’s Pokémon
Pokémon TCG: Platinum—Supreme Victors is coming soon.
The release date has been announced August, 19, 2009. Are there any strategies you plan on using once they're released? Do you think this will be a good set? Do you just want to flat out, talk about this new set? Well, do so here! =D
New Set Countdown:
17 Days!!!]]>
Collect Dragon Type Pokémon including Charizard and Rayquaza
Discover new Pokémon LV.X including Charizard, Garchomp, and Blaziken
More Pokémon SP including Frontier Brain’s Pokémon and Champion’s Pokémon
Pokémon TCG: Platinum—Supreme Victors is coming soon.
The release date has been announced August, 19, 2009. Are there any strategies you plan on using once they're released? Do you think this will be a good set? Do you just want to flat out, talk about this new set? Well, do so here! =D
-Moving Damage? Yes please!
-100 HP on an SP X isn't TOO bad
Cons:
-Since he uses a Power he's Gengar bait
-Bad Weakness
-2 Retreat Cost
-Hard to get out
I saw this part of the forum was sort of dying so let's bring it back! =D Sorry if you wanted it to die, if you do just lock this thread please. =]]]>
Isn't he purty? ^.^
I rate this guy an 7/10 because,
Pros:
-Moving Damage? Yes please!
-100 HP on an SP X isn't TOO bad
Cons:
-Since he uses a Power he's Gengar bait
-Bad Weakness
-2 Retreat Cost
-Hard to get out
I saw this part of the forum was sort of dying so let's bring it back! =D Sorry if you wanted it to die, if you do just lock this thread please. =]]]><![CDATA[Good night, and good bye!]]>
http://pokeshack.createmybb2.com/showthread.php?tid=105
Tue, 07 Jul 2009 19:15:34 -0500http://pokeshack.createmybb2.com/showthread.php?tid=105
Anyways I'm just here with a new combo, Darkrai G, with Frosslass GL. These two work together pretty well with each other in the fact that Darkrai G puts 10 damage on each of your opponents pokemon that are asleep. While many Pokemon can put the sleep condition on a Pokemon I prefer Frosslass GL for its ability to pester your opponent at the same time. Whenever I use Frosslass GL's attack which requires a single colorless energy, my opponent must swich his active pokemon with one on his bench. Even better, you get to choose. After your opponent switches to whoever you chose, the new active pokemon is now asleep. Now I know if they get heads on the coin flip this strategy won't do much, but if you play this strategy correctly and switch into something like, say, Claydol? Your opponent will struggle to get him back on the bench, out of harm. Another Poke' to mention is Darkrai Majestic Dawn who, with a coin flip. Will put your opponents Pokemon to sleep. But better yet, you then get to attack with Frosslass GL's Wake-Up Slap for 50 (They then wake up though.). Now this may not be the best combo out there, but I see some potential. And if you still don't find it very powerful remember Skuntank G. Who can poison your opponent, which will allow Frosslass GL to do 50 a turn T1 or T2.
That's all I can think of now, but I think it's all right for now! ;D]]>
Anyways I'm just here with a new combo, Darkrai G, with Frosslass GL. These two work together pretty well with each other in the fact that Darkrai G puts 10 damage on each of your opponents pokemon that are asleep. While many Pokemon can put the sleep condition on a Pokemon I prefer Frosslass GL for its ability to pester your opponent at the same time. Whenever I use Frosslass GL's attack which requires a single colorless energy, my opponent must swich his active pokemon with one on his bench. Even better, you get to choose. After your opponent switches to whoever you chose, the new active pokemon is now asleep. Now I know if they get heads on the coin flip this strategy won't do much, but if you play this strategy correctly and switch into something like, say, Claydol? Your opponent will struggle to get him back on the bench, out of harm. Another Poke' to mention is Darkrai Majestic Dawn who, with a coin flip. Will put your opponents Pokemon to sleep. But better yet, you then get to attack with Frosslass GL's Wake-Up Slap for 50 (They then wake up though.). Now this may not be the best combo out there, but I see some potential. And if you still don't find it very powerful remember Skuntank G. Who can poison your opponent, which will allow Frosslass GL to do 50 a turn T1 or T2.
That's all I can think of now, but I think it's all right for now! ;D]]><![CDATA[Electro's Trading Depot]]>
http://pokeshack.createmybb2.com/showthread.php?tid=104
Tue, 07 Jul 2009 18:55:07 -0500http://pokeshack.createmybb2.com/showthread.php?tid=104
RULES
1. I ONLY SELL, I ONLY TRADE SOMETHING FROM MY WANTS!!!
2. Paypal Only
3. No Scamming
4. Lowest Refs, send first. If we are tied then we work something out.
5. I only accept AMERICAN or Japanese cards, but you have to tell me if it is Japanese
6. I am send in sleeves and toploaders.
7. I don't buy
8. Make offers, and enjoy your time at the Trading Depot!
---------------------------------------------------------------------
WANTS:
Major wants are in RED
Collection Wants:
ANY Raichu
ANY Pikachu
ANY Pichu
Deck Needs
Pikachu
Raichu
Raichu Lv. X
Seedot
Nuzleaf
Random Wants
JAPANESE CARDS!! I will take any! (I don't value high though)
Electivire
Elekid
Electivire Lv. X
HAVES
Smoochum
Bulbasaur
Corsola
Electabuzz
Spinda
Venonat (RH) On hold
Furret
Miltank
Cloyster
~~~ENERGY~~~
Electric Energy x11
Wants:
VERY BIG WANTS: (Extreme wants in RED)
Vibrava
Flygon
Flygon Lv. X
Salamence
Raichu
Raichu Lv. X
Honchkrow Lv. X
Snorlax Lv. X
Sky Forme Shaymin
Plusle
Minun
BIG WANTS:
Elekid
Electivire
Almost any Trainers, Supporters, and Coliseums (Especially from Rising Rivals)
^ SPECIFICS: Poke Blowers, Poke Healers, etc.
Make offers, I will most likely accept :)]]>
RULES
1. I ONLY SELL, I ONLY TRADE SOMETHING FROM MY WANTS!!!
2. Paypal Only
3. No Scamming
4. Lowest Refs, send first. If we are tied then we work something out.
5. I only accept AMERICAN or Japanese cards, but you have to tell me if it is Japanese
6. I am send in sleeves and toploaders.
7. I don't buy
8. Make offers, and enjoy your time at the Trading Depot!
---------------------------------------------------------------------
WANTS:
Major wants are in RED
Collection Wants:
ANY Raichu
ANY Pikachu
ANY Pichu
Deck Needs
Pikachu
Raichu
Raichu Lv. X
Seedot
Nuzleaf
Random Wants
JAPANESE CARDS!! I will take any! (I don't value high though)
Electivire
Elekid
Electivire Lv. X
HAVES
Smoochum
Bulbasaur
Corsola
Electabuzz
Spinda
Venonat (RH) On hold
Furret
Miltank
Cloyster
~~~ENERGY~~~
Electric Energy x11
Wants:
VERY BIG WANTS: (Extreme wants in RED)
Vibrava
Flygon
Flygon Lv. X
Salamence
Raichu
Raichu Lv. X
Honchkrow Lv. X
Snorlax Lv. X
Sky Forme Shaymin
Plusle
Minun
BIG WANTS:
Elekid
Electivire
Almost any Trainers, Supporters, and Coliseums (Especially from Rising Rivals)
^ SPECIFICS: Poke Blowers, Poke Healers, etc.
Make offers, I will most likely accept :)]]><![CDATA[ElectroManiac]]>
http://pokeshack.createmybb2.com/showthread.php?tid=103
Tue, 07 Jul 2009 18:24:10 -0500http://pokeshack.createmybb2.com/showthread.php?tid=103
USA]]>
USA]]><![CDATA[Shaymin and Giratina's Forms]]>
http://pokeshack.createmybb2.com/showthread.php?tid=102
Sat, 29 Nov 2008 21:21:27 -0600http://pokeshack.createmybb2.com/showthread.php?tid=102
SHAYMIN SKY FORM
GIRATINA PURE FORM
DISCUSS!]]>
SHAYMIN SKY FORM
GIRATINA PURE FORM
DISCUSS!]]><![CDATA[...]]>
http://pokeshack.createmybb2.com/showthread.php?tid=100
Sat, 18 Oct 2008 21:26:00 -0500http://pokeshack.createmybb2.com/showthread.php?tid=100
grade:?
birth day:?]]>
grade:?
birth day:?]]><![CDATA[..]]>
http://pokeshack.createmybb2.com/showthread.php?tid=99
Sat, 18 Oct 2008 21:23:27 -0500http://pokeshack.createmybb2.com/showthread.php?tid=99
grade:?
birth day:?]]>
grade:?
birth day:?]]><![CDATA[.]]>
http://pokeshack.createmybb2.com/showthread.php?tid=98
Sat, 18 Oct 2008 21:23:07 -0500http://pokeshack.createmybb2.com/showthread.php?tid=98
grade:?
birth day:?]]>
grade:?
birth day:?]]><![CDATA[lulu5248]]>
http://pokeshack.createmybb2.com/showthread.php?tid=97
Sat, 18 Oct 2008 21:18:00 -0500http://pokeshack.createmybb2.com/showthread.php?tid=97
age:11
Grade:6th
birth day:?]]>
age:11
Grade:6th
birth day:?]]><![CDATA[monkeygirl]]>
http://pokeshack.createmybb2.com/showthread.php?tid=96
Sat, 18 Oct 2008 21:16:24 -0500http://pokeshack.createmybb2.com/showthread.php?tid=96
age:?
Grade:?
Birth day:?]]>
age:?
Grade:?
Birth day:?]]><![CDATA[Rinnie-Chan]]>
http://pokeshack.createmybb2.com/showthread.php?tid=95
Sat, 18 Oct 2008 21:14:39 -0500http://pokeshack.createmybb2.com/showthread.php?tid=95
age:14
Grade:9th
Birth day:12/25/93]]>
age:14
Grade:9th
Birth day:12/25/93]]><![CDATA[spider pig]]>
http://pokeshack.createmybb2.com/showthread.php?tid=94
Sat, 18 Oct 2008 21:13:07 -0500http://pokeshack.createmybb2.com/showthread.php?tid=94
age:?
Grade:?
birth day:?]]>
age:?
Grade:?
birth day:?]]><![CDATA[dark fire]]>
http://pokeshack.createmybb2.com/showthread.php?tid=93
Sat, 18 Oct 2008 21:11:35 -0500http://pokeshack.createmybb2.com/showthread.php?tid=93
age 12
Grade:7th
birth day 5/28/97]]>
age 12
Grade:7th
birth day 5/28/97]]><![CDATA[Pokemon TCG Rules]]>
http://pokeshack.createmybb2.com/showthread.php?tid=92
Sat, 18 Oct 2008 17:14:13 -0500http://pokeshack.createmybb2.com/showthread.php?tid=92
Rules effective: 9/01/2008
Introduction
These rules are to be used in conjunction with the most recent Pokémon Trading Card Game rules. This
document only covers those rules which pertain to the administration of a Pokémon TCG tournament.
Additional documentation about tournament organization, card rulings, penalty assessment, and Swiss
pairings organization can be found at http://www.go-
pokemon.com/op/tournaments/rulesandresources.html.
Table of Contents
1. The Spirit of the Game
2. Membership and Eligibility
2.1. Membership Definition
2.2. Member Eligibility
2.3. POP ID Numbers
2.3.1. POP ID Merging
2.4. New Players
2.5. Suspended Members
3. Wagering
4. Publishing Event Information
5. Event Responsibilities
5.1. Player Responsibilities
5.2. Spectator Responsibilities
5.3. Judge Responsibilities
5.3.1. Lengthy Rulings
5.4. Head Judge Responsibilities
5.4.1. Appeals to the Head Judge
5.5. Tournament Organizer Responsibilities
6. Tardiness
7. Shuffling
8. Pre-game Time Limit
9. Mid-game Time Limit
10. Note Taking
11. Electronic Devices
12. Match Outcome
12.1. Conceding a Match
12.2. Random Determination
12.3. Bribery
13. Withdrawing from a Tournament
13.1. Reporting a Withdrawal
13.1.1. Withdrawing after the Final Swiss Round
13.2. Withdrawing from a Limited Format Event
14. Materials Allowed
14.1. Cards
14.1.1. Card Interpretations
14.1.2. Cards in Play
14.1.3. Deck Checks
14.1.4. Hand Elevation
14.1.5. Reprinted Cards
14.1.6. Unreleased Cards
14.1.7. Fake Cards
14.1.8. Foreign Cards
14.1.9. Japanese Pokémon TCG Cards
14.1.10. Autographed Cards
14.1.11. Alternate-Backed Cards
14.1.12. Cards Listed as Not Legal
14.1.13. Card Definitions
14.1.14. Proxies
14.2. Card Sleeves
14.3. Turned Cards
14.4. Tokens and Counters
14.5. Randomizers
14.6. Other Materials
15. Penalties
15.1. Cheating
15.2. Unsporting Conduct
15.3. Timely Play
15.4. Marked Cards
16. New Pokémon TCG Releases
17. Ratings and Rankings
18. Tournament Structure
18.1. Age Divisions
18.2. Definition of a Match
18.3. Deck Registration
18.4. Reporting Match Results
18.5. Match Time Limits
18.6. Determining Who Goes First in Best-of-Three Match Play
18.7. Match Time Expiration
18.7.1. Resolution of Match When Time is Called
18.7.2. Determining the Outcome of an Unfinished Match
19. Document Updates
1. The Spirit of the Game
As a game of skill, the Pokémon TCG is enjoyed for its complex strategies, entertaining characters, and
atmosphere of friendly competition. While the objective of a Pokémon TCG tournament is to determine
the skill level of each player involved, our ultimate goal is to ensure that every participant has fun. It is
this attitude that Pokémon Organized Play wishes to emphasize during Pokémon TCG events.
Regardless of the size of the prizes on the line, adherence to the Spirit of the Game helps to ensure that
all participants, including players, spectators, and event staff at a Pokémon TCG event, have an
enjoyable experience. This spirit should guide the conduct of players as well as the tournament judges as
they interpret and enforce the rules.
The Spirit of the Game is composed of the following tenets:
• Fun: The Pokémon TCG is a game, and games are meant to be fun for all parties
involved. When a game ceases to be fun, players find other things to do.
• Fairness: Games cease to be fun when players break the rules to achieve victory. A
player should prefer to lose a game than to win by cheating.
• Honesty: Players of any game should strive to act honestly while playing that game. If a
player inadvertently breaks a rule during a game and becomes aware of the error before
his or her opponent or a judge, that player should make the opponent and the judge aware
of the misplay.
• Respect: Players, spectators, and staff should be treated with the same respect that
players would expect for themselves. Distracting an opponent or a judge to gain
advantage shows disrespect to everyone involved in a Pokémon TCG event.
• Sportsmanship: Winning or losing with grace is vital to the enjoyment of a game. The
desire to continue playing a game can be soured by players that berate their opponents
after winning or losing a match. Likewise, a player who plays the clock, rather than the
game, shows poor sportsmanship and should be discouraged from doing so whenever
possible.
• Learning: Players should strive to help each other increase their Pokémon TCG play
skills. It is not a player’s responsibility to make his or her opponent’s plays for that
opponent. However, discussing strategies, offering deck tips, or constructively critiquing
game play decisions after the match has been completed helps both participants to
become better players.
2. Membership and Eligibility
2.1. Membership Definition
A Pokémon Organized Play Member is defined as a person who is any of the following: Player,
Tournament Organizer, League Owner, League Leader or Professor, or any additional member
designation that may be added by POP in the future.
2.2. Member Eligibility
By participating in a POP-sanctioned event, all POP members agree to abide by the tournament
rules outlined in this document.
Anyone is allowed to participate in sanctioned Pokémon Organized Play tournaments except for
the following:
• Tournament Organizer or judge of the event
• Current employees and family members of Pokémon USA, Inc.
• Employees of Nintendo, GAME FREAK Inc., or Creatures Inc.
• Employees of companies that are responsible for Pokémon Organized Play in the
operation or coordination of Organized Play in their countries
• Former employees of any of the above companies within 60 days of their final date of
employment
• Any player who has been suspended from participating in Pokémon Organized Play
events by Pokémon Organized Play
• Players without invitations to play in special invite-only events, such as the Pokémon
TCG World Championships
2.3. POP ID Numbers
All players who participate in Pokémon Organized Play events must have a POP ID number.
Players who have played in previous events are instructed to bring their POP IDs with them to all
events. It is permissible for a Tournament Organizer to maintain a list of players from previous
events and their POP IDs, provided that access to such information is restricted to the
Tournament Organizer.
2.3.1. POP ID Merging
Players who play under multiple POP IDs are in violation of POP rules. As POP
discovers duplicate accounts, POP will merge these accounts, preserving and combining
all match results into the player’s rating.
Members who wish to inform POP of duplicate accounts should email
organizedplay@go-pokemon.com with the key details for each account.
POP members found to have deliberately created duplicate accounts or provided false
information in their account may be subject to suspension.
2.4. New Players
Players without POP IDs should be given a POP ID card by the Tournament Organizer when
they register for their first event. They should fill out the card, keep the portion with their POP
ID on it, and return the remainder of the card to the Tournament Organizer.
It is important that all new POP ID cards that are filled out are uploaded to the Pokémon
Organized Play website and returned to POP as soon as possible, so that players can be assured
that their sign-up information was properly processed. In addition, Tournament Organizers who
do not promptly return their POP ID cards may not be able to order additional cards from POP.
2.5. Suspended Members
POP may from time to time issue suspension to POP members for failure to comply with POP
rules and/or procedures. POP reserves the right to suspend any member at its discretion.
3. Wagering
Wagering or gambling on the results of a game, portion of a game, match, or number of matches by
anyone, including players, event staff, and spectators, is strictly prohibited. Anyone attempting to wager
on a POP event should be removed from the tournament site, and the incident should be reported to
POP.
4. Publishing Event Information
Tournament Organizers, judges, players, and spectators are free to publish deck lists, details of play,
and/or the results of an event, subject to local, state, and national laws.
Pokémon Organized Play reserves the right to publish event information including but not limited to the
items listed above, transcripts, audio and/or video recordings or other recounts, player penalties, awards,
or any other resultant information from the event.
5. Event Responsibilities
All attendants at Pokémon Organized Play events are expected to be respectful of and courteous to each
other. This includes handling disputes calmly, following directions issued by event staff, abstaining from
the use of profanity, and avoiding the discussion of inflammatory or offensive topics. Attire that is
suggestive or contains rude or inappropriate messages is not to be worn at a Pokémon Organized Play
event.
5.1. Player Responsibilities
While attending a POP event, players are expected to abide by the tenets outlined in Section 1 of
this document. Players must know their POP ID, if they have one.
Players must have everything needed to play in an event, including a legal randomizer, damage
counters, and Special Condition markers. It is a player’s responsibility to ensure that his or her
deck is meets the construction requirements at all times during an event.
5.2. Spectator Responsibilities
Spectators may watch a match but may not interfere with a match in any way. The only way a
spectator is to interact with an event is through contacting a judge to inquire into the legality of a
specific play. Comments and questions regarding games in progress should be made an
appropriate distance from the match to prevent players in the active game from gaining an
advantage of outside information.
Players who are still participating in a tournament may not watch other games still in progress, as
this provides an unfair advantage to those players during later matches.
Any disruption on the part of a spectator not participating in an event will result in penalties for
the player or players that the spectator is responsible for. Should it become necessary to remove
a spectator from an event, players that the spectator is responsible for will be disqualified from
the event as well.
5.3. Judge Responsibilities
Judges are expected to administer impartial rulings and assist the Tournament Organizer and
Head Judge in running a quality event. Whenever possible, judges should avoid ruling on games
where their own family members are involved, as this creates a perception of impropriety. Judges
are expected to encourage good sporting behavior at all times.
POP supports the rulings of its judges, where those rulings were made impartially and are in the
best interests of the Spirit of the Game.
Lengthy Rulings
5.3.1.
In the event of a ruling that takes more than one minute, the judge may extend the match
time accordingly. The extra time allotted must be clearly communicated to both players and
recorded immediately by the judge.
5.4. Head Judge Responsibilities
The Head Judge serves as the final arbiter of all rulings and rules interpretations for a particular
tournament. The Head Judge is chosen by the Tournament Organizer prior to the event and is
ultimately responsible for making sure that all participants abide by the rules set forth in this
document. The Head Judge is also responsible for reporting all penalties higher than a Caution to
POP.
5.4.1. Appeals to the Head Judge
A player may appeal any ruling made by a judge to the Head Judge of the event. Should a
player appeal a ruling, the Head Judge must hear from all parties involved, including both
players and the judge that issued the original ruling, before making a final ruling. The
Head Judge is the final authority on all card rulings and tournament rules interpretations
for that event.
5.5. Tournament Organizer Responsibilities
The Tournament Organizer is the backbone of a tournament. He or she is responsible for all of
the details of the event, such as securing the location, advertising, selecting the tournament
format, establishing the structure of the event, reporting the results of the event, and much more.
The Tournament Organizer is required to notify players of the following information:
• Tournament type (Swiss, Swiss plus Single Elimination, etc.)
• Tournament format (Modified or Unlimited)
• Number of rounds
• Number of minutes per round
• Top cut, if applicable
• Tournament staff (Head Judge, judges, score keepers, etc.)
• Any breaks during the event
This information should be conveyed at an appropriate time. The tournament format and type
should be announced far enough in advance of the event that players can prepare for the event
before arriving. The number of rounds, minutes per round, top cut, tournament staff, and breaks
should be announced prior to the start of the first round.
6. Tardiness
Players are expected to be present for the start of an event and each of its component rounds and
matches. Players arriving more than 10 minutes late for any round should receive a match loss for that
round. Players who are still not present by the end of that round should be dropped from the event.
7. Shuffling
Each player’s deck is expected to be fully randomized at the start of each game and during the game as
card effects require. In order to achieve randomness, players are allowed to riffle, pile, or otherwise
shuffle their decks until they are satisfied that the deck is random. Randomization must be done in the
presence of the player’s opponent. Care should be taken to assure that the cards in the deck are not
harmed or revealed during the shuffle.
After the shuffle, the deck must be offered to the player’s opponent to be cut once. Cutting the deck
consists of creating two separate stacks of cards by removing a portion of the top of the deck, and then
placing it under the remaining portion. Players should take care to not reveal any of their opponent’s
cards while cutting. Cutting into more than two stacks is considered a shuffle.
Instead of cutting, the opponent may choose to shuffle the deck. This shuffle should be brief, and when
it concludes, the deck’s owner is allowed to cut the deck once as described above. Players should take
care when shuffling an opponent’s deck, as the cards in that deck are not the shuffling player’s property.
At this point, the deck should be sufficiently randomized to both players’ satisfaction.
If either player still does not feel that either deck is sufficiently randomized, or if a player wishes to not
offer his or her deck to an opponent for randomization, a judge must be called over to shuffle the deck(s)
in question. No player is allowed to shuffle or cut after the judge’s shuffle.
8. Pre-game Time Limit
Prior to each game, players have two minutes to shuffle their decks and present them to their opponents
for further shuffling or cutting. This two-minute limit includes resolving mulligans. The round should
not begin until this two-minute period has expired.
9. Mid-game Time Limit
Any mid-game effects, such as deck search effects and shuffling, are to take place in a reasonable
amount of time. If a judge feels that a player’s searching or shuffling time is unwarranted, that player
will be subject to the Game Tempo section of the POP Penalty Guidelines. A judge may issue a time
extension on a match where a player is playing slowly. The extra time allotted must be clearly
communicated to both players and recorded immediately by the judge.
10. Note Taking
Players are allowed to take notes during a game in respect to actions that have happened during the
game. Notes should be restricted to changes in the game state. Players must be timely with their note-
taking and may not use devices that may send or receive messages as a note-taking device. Notes taken
during a match may not be given to other players during the course of the tournament. Notes taken
during a match may be reviewed by either player at any time during the match.
11. Electronic Devices
Electronic devices, such as cell phones, MP3 players, or text-messaging devices, are not to be used
during a match. In some special instances, an electronic device may be allowed by the Tournament
Organizer.
12. Match Outcome
Match outcomes should always be the result of game play, except in the case of concession or penalty.
Match outcomes determined by random means or by means of bribery harm the Spirit of the Game and
are not tolerated by POP.
12.1. Conceding a Match
Players may concede a match to their opponents if they wish, and judges should allow players
the opportunity to offer a concession if time is called on an incomplete match, but before tie
breakers are determined. After tiebreakers are determined and a winner is decided, the result of
the match may not be changed by concession.
If a player wishes to concede a match to his or her opponent, a judge or score runner must be
called immediately and notified of the concession so that the result can be recorded
appropriately.
12.2. Random Determination
Players may never determine the outcome of a match through a random means (flipping a coin,
rolling dice, etc).
12.3. Bribery
Any form of compensation offered with the intention of altering the outcome of a match or
persuading a player to concede at any point before or during the match is considered a bribe.
Pokémon Organized Play believes that the outcome of every match in a tournament should be
decided without any outside influences.
Bribery and collusion are further covered in the POP Penalty Guidelines.
13. Withdrawing from a Tournament
Players are allowed to drop from an event before it has concluded.
13.1. Reporting a Withdrawal
Players should personally inform the event’s Head Judge, Tournament Organizer, or scorekeeper
(if any) that they are dropping from the event. Tournament Organizers and scorekeepers should
not accept drop reports from other players before double-checking with the withdrawing player
in question. Players who choose to drop from a tournament must do so before pairings are posted
for a new round. Players who choose to drop after pairings are posted but before playing their
match that round will be given a match loss for that round and then dropped from the
tournament.
13.1.1. Withdrawing after the Final Swiss Round
Players may choose to drop from an event after the final Swiss round of a Swiss plus
Single-Elimination event rather than participate in the Single Elimination. If a player
would like to drop during the final round of Swiss, he or she must do so before the final
standings for that round are posted. Players who do not drop prior to this point will be
paired in the Single Elimination portion of the event and will be subject to the tardiness
rules, outlined in Section 6 should they not show up for their match.
13.2. Withdrawing from a Limited-Format Event
Players are expected to play through the first round of a Limited-Format event before dropping
from the event. Players may be asked to return the product for the event and have their entry fee
refunded if they are unable to remain in the event for the minimum duration.
14. Materials Allowed
The following is a list of acceptable materials to be present during a Pokémon TCG tournament match.
Items other than these may be removed if they prove to be disruptive or hazardous.
14.1. Cards
Players may only use cards in their decks that are legal for the event format. During Limited
events, players may only include cards given to them by the Tournament Organizer for the event.
14.1.1. Card Interpretations
The Head Judge is the final authority on card interpretations and tournament rulings.
Rulings on foreign-language cards are made using the English-language translations.
14.1.2. Cards in Play
Cards in play should be managed in such a way that they are organized and neat and easy
for opponents and judges to interpret. The following are some guidelines for card
organization:
• Keep all Energy cards aligned in the same direction under the Pokémon in play,
and make sure each card is visible at all times.
• Make sure Benched Pokémon are separated far enough apart from each other and
from Active Pokémon that it’s clear which Pokémon have cards attached to them.
• Put Supporter cards next to the Active Pokémon when played and discard them
after the Attack step of that turn.
• Put Pokémon Tool cards next to Pokémon that they are being played on and
discard them as directed by the card text.
• Put Stadium cards between each players’ Active Pokémon so that the card is
visible to all players.
• Arrange damage counters primarily over the picture of a card so as not to obstruct
the view of the card text.
14.1.3. Deck Checks
At all Premier Events, deck checks must be performed. For all events, including Premier
Events, POP recommends that deck checks be performed over at least 10 percent of
decks over the course of the event.
Whether checking a deck at the beginning of the event, or between rounds, players should
be required to put the cards in their deck in the same order as the cards on the deck list to
expedite the process. During the deck check, the tournament staff should look for the
following:
• Legibility: If the deck list is difficult to read, the player may be asked to fill out a
new deck list. Special attention to should be paid to the legibility of the player’s
POP ID and date of birth. Obscure abbreviations for cards should be clarified on
the deck list.
• Sleeves: Players’ sleeves should be free of consistent markings. Sleeves with a
significant number of markings, or consistent markings should be replaced
immediately. If this is found to be an issue after the start of the event it may
warrant further investigation.
• Total Number of Cards: The number of cards in a player’s deck should be
appropriate for the event format. The deck checker should count the total number
of cards in the deck before checking the actual contents of the deck to ensure that
the deck contains the proper number of cards.
• Deck Contents: The deck checker should verify that the contents of the player’s
deck matches the cards on the deck list. The card title should match the card
listed, and the set abbreviation and collector number of each of the Pokémon
should be listed.
• Card References: If a player is using foreign cards, or reprinted cards which
have had significant text changes, the deck checker should require the player to
present their reference cards or the Card-Dex entries where applicable.
14.1.4. Hand Elevation
To avoid the perception of impropriety, players should keep both hands above the level
of the playing surface at all times. A player’s cards should never go below the level of the
playing surface during a match.
Reprinted Cards
14.1.5.
From time to time, cards printed in previous sets are reprinted in a new set. In most cases,
the mechanics of the card remain unchanged, though the wording may be slightly altered
for clarification. However, in a few rare cases, the game play text of a card is
significantly modified. In these cases, a player may only use an older version of that card
if they provide a Card-Dex with the wording for the most recent printing of the card, OR
the player has a copy of the card with the most recent wording, outside of his or her deck,
for reference.
Please see the Tournament Rules and Resources page for a list of cards that have been
reprinted and are legal for play in the Modified Format.
Unreleased Cards
14.1.6.
From time to time players will acquire cards from a new set prior to its regular release
date, usually via a Prerelease or the Japanese equivalent of the set. These cards may not
be used in sanctioned tournaments until the regular release date of the set, as outlined in
Section 16, with one exception. Cards that are already tournament legal which have been
reprinted in an unreleased set, or the Japanese equivalent, may be used as long they are
easily identifiable as a reprinted card. This is typically only an issue when a reprinted
card receives new art, though other factors may create a similar issue. These cards should
always be played with the most recent wording of the tournament legal version of the
card.
Players who are unsure as to whether an unreleased card meets the exception above
should check with the Head Judge prior to the start of the event.
14.1.7. Fake Cards
Only genuine Pokémon TCG cards may be used in Pokémon Organized Play events. Any
fake, reproduced, or counterfeited cards must be removed from all players’ decks before
the start of the event. Those that are not will be subject to confiscation by the Tournament
Organizer.
14.1.8. Foreign Cards
Players may use non-local language cards in their decks, provided they meet the
following requirements:
• All of the cards in the player’s deck have been released, in English, in the United
States and are legal for use according to the event’s format restrictions
• The player has an English or local-language version of the card, outside of his or
her deck, for reference, OR the player has a copy of the official Pokémon TCG
Card-Dex containing the card’s text, which can be downloaded at from the
Tournament Rules and Resources page. Card scans are not an acceptable method
of translation.
If a judge determines that a player is using non-local language cards and/or misprinted
cards to gain an advantage, that player will be subject to the Cheating section of the POP
Penalty Guidelines.
Japanese Pokémon TCG Cards
14.1.9.
The Japanese Pokémon TCG card back is significantly different than the backs of
Pokémon TCG cards released elsewhere in the world. Players may use Japanese cards in
their decks, provided the player’s deck is made up entirely of cards that have the same
card back OR the deck is sleeved in a manner that the card backs are not visible.
14.1.10. Autographed Cards
Autographed cards may be used under the condition that the autograph does not obscure
any game text on the card. In the event that game text is obscured, the player may use the
card as long as he or she has a non-autographed version of the card outside of his or her
deck for reference, or the page of the Pokémon TCG Card-Dex with that card’s text.
Cards with a significant portion of their information obscured may be disallowed at the
Head Judge’s discretion.
Players who intentionally deface their cards with inappropriate images or sayings are
subject to the Unsporting Conduct section of the POP Penalty Guidelines.
14.1.11. Alternate-Backed Cards
Only cards with the Pokémon TCG back or the Japanese Pokémon TCG back may be
used in POP-Sanctioned tournaments. Cards printed with any other back may not be used
in a POP-Sanctioned tournament, even if sleeved with opaque card sleeves.
14.1.12. Cards Listed as Not Legal
Some cards appear with “NOT TOURNAMENT LEGAL” on the card. These cards are
not legal in POP-Sanctioned tournaments.
14.1.13. Card Definitions
A card is defined by the English translation of the name of the card.
14.1.14. Proxies
Player-made proxies are considered to be fake cards and should be treated as such in all
ways. Players should ensure that the cards in their decks are in good condition before
attending an event so as not to create a marked card situation. See section 15.4 for further
information on marked cards.
If a card becomes damaged during an event in such a way that results in the card
becoming marked, a judge is allowed to create a proxy of that card to act as the damaged
card in all ways for the remainder of the event. The damaged card must be retained to use
as a reference when the proxy card is played. Alternately, if the player has another copy
of that card is available for use the player can simply replace the damaged card with an
undamaged copy.
In some cases a card is damaged due to a production error. Players should do their best to
avoid playing with these cards, though sometimes that is not possible. If the judge feels
that this creates a marked card situation, the judge may create a proxy card to act as the
damaged card in all ways for the remainder of the event. The damaged card must be
retained to use as a reference when the proxy card is played.
14.2. Card Sleeves
Card sleeves are allowed to be used at Pokémon Organized Play events, provided that they meet
the following requirements:
• All of the sleeves on a deck must be the same color, condition, size, and texture.
• The fronts of the sleeves are clear, clean, and free of designs, holograms, and emblems
that may obscure card information.
• The sleeves completely cover the entire card, leaving no portion sticking out of the open
end.
• The sleeves are not reflective enough to be used to clearly determine the faces of cards
that remain in the deck. A reasonable degree of glossy finish on a sleeve is acceptable,
but sleeves that create a mirror-like surface, where the card above it is clearly
distinguishable, are not permitted.
• Each card sleeve contains only one card.
• The use of sleeves with any form of pattern or artwork on the back of the sleeve is strictly
prohibited at all Premier Events, unless the sleeve is an official Pokémon sleeve, where
the color along all four edges of the sleeve is identical.
• The Head Judge of a non-Premier Event has the final say over whether or not art-backed
sleeves may be used at that event. Inappropriate sleeve images (as determined by the
Head Judge) are strictly prohibited.
The Head Judge has the final say regarding whether a player’s card sleeves may be used in an
event.
Players should keep in mind that card sleeves are not a requirement at Pokémon Organized Play
tournaments or events. Should a judge inform a player that their sleeves may not be used at an
event, the player has the option of replacing the sleeves with more suitable sleeves, or playing
without sleeves.
14.3. Turned Cards
If a card must be turned as a part of game rules to indicate a specific effect, that card must be
turned so that it is either 90 or 180 degrees, whichever is more appropriate according to the rules.
14.4. Tokens and Counters
Players are required to provide their own counters to mark damage to Pokémon in play and
counters to represent Special Conditions and other game effects. A judge may disallow the use of
markers that cause confusion with regard to the state of the game or that are offensive in some
manner.
14.5. Randomizers
• Any coin released with any Pokémon TCG product from EX Ruby & Sapphire on should
be considered fair and impartial.
• When flipped, a coin should flip at least three times in the air before landing on the table.
• Coins must land flat on the table. If the coin is cocked (approximately 15 degrees or
more), it must be flipped again.
• Coin flips that land outside the playing area (off of the table or in another game’s playing
area) are considered invalid and must be flipped again.
• Once players have agreed on the result of a coin flip, it cannot be redone.
• Randomizers other than coins may be used with the Head Judge’s permission. The Head
Judge must dictate which result will be considered heads, and which will be considered
tails.
14.6. Other Materials
• Players are always allowed to have Pokémon TCG rulebooks or copies of the Pokémon
TCG Card-Dex on hand for reference.
• Players may always request that any unnecessary materials be removed from the play
area if they should become distracting or otherwise obstructive to the play of the game.
• Food and drinks are not permitted in the play area. An organizer may allow food and/or
drinks in the tournament area, but at no time should food or drinks be kept on the play
surface.
15. Penalties
Should an issue arise at a POP event, players and spectators will be subject to the Pokémon Organized
Play Penalty Guidelines. All penalties above Caution level must be reported to POP for further review.
Penalties issued to spectators may be assigned to the player or players that they are responsible for, if
severe enough. The Head Judge has the final say on all penalties issued at an event.
15.1. Cheating
Cheating includes, but is not limited to, drawing extra cards, altering the contents of a deck after
an event begins, manipulating the outcome of a legitimate coin flip, altering Card-Dex entries to
misrepresent foreign cards, and misrepresenting game state.
15.2. Unsporting Conduct
Behaving in an unsporting manner is disruptive to POP events. Unsporting conduct includes, but
is not limited to, use of profanity, insulting other players, failure to comply with event staff
instructions, and acting in a confrontational manner toward spectators, event staff, or opponents.
15.3. Timely Play
Players are expected to take their turns in a timely manner, regardless of the complexity of the
play situation. Playing too slowly or stalling for time is unacceptable. Slow Play and Stalling
includes, but is not limited to, excessive shuffling, continually reviewing the cards in each
player’s discard pile, and overly long deck searches.
The opposite of Slow Play is Rushing, which is a tactic often employed to break an opponent’s
concentration. Rushing is just as unacceptable as Slow Play.
15.4. Marked Cards
Players are responsible for ensuring that their cards and/or card sleeves are not marked in any
way. A card is considered marked if it bears something that makes it possible to identify the card
without seeing its face, including scratches, tears, discoloration, bends, and so forth.
If a player’s cards are sleeved, the sleeves are considered to be part of the cards, so the cards
must be examined while in the sleeves to determine if there is a marked card situation.
Cards with different backs or a different cut from the other cards in a deck are not considered
marked as long as the entire deck is placed in non-marked, completely opaque-backed card
sleeves.
The Head Judge is the final authority in determining whether a card or sleeve in a player’s deck
is considered marked.
16. New Pokémon TCG Releases
Expansion sets are expected to be released on a regular schedule, averaging four new sets per calendar
year. Cards from these new releases are made legal for tournament play the day that the set is released
for regular retail sale in a rating zone, and not before, with the standard exception of Prerelease events.
17. Ratings and Rankings
Pokémon USA, Inc., uses ELO-based ratings and rankings for its players. More information can be
found in the Ratings and Rankings Explanation document and the K-Value Explanation document found
on the http://www.go-pokemon.com/op/ website.
All matches played as part of a Premier Event will affect the participant’s Premier Rating, and thus his
or her ranking, provided that the events are reported correctly and completely. Premier Events that do
not follow the structure set forth by POP may lose their Premier status, and players participating in those
events would then lose any rating points earned at that event.
Pokémon Organized Play divides countries into four rating zones. These rating zones typically
encompass a single continent or region. Currently supported rating zones are North America, South
America, Asia Pacific, and Europe.
Players are responsible for checking their event history for accuracy. If there is an issue with a player’s
event history, that player should notify the Tournament Organizer of the event. The Tournament
Organizer is responsible for working with Pokémon Organized Play to resolve the issue.
18. Tournament Structure
Pokémon Organized Play tournaments are administered using either a Single-Elimination system or the
Swiss-Pairing method. Depending on the size of the event, a tournament may be administered as an
Age-Modified Swiss event. At the discretion of the Tournament Organizer, and at more highly
competitive events, Single-Elimination rounds may follow the completion of Swiss rounds.
18.1. Age Divisions
Pokémon Organized Play separates players into three age divisions; Junior, Senior and Masters.
The age division that a player participates in is set at the beginning of the tournament season,
based on their year of birth, and does not change over the course of that season. This allows
players to compete against the same pool of opponents over the course of the season.
The age divisions are as follows:
• Junior Division: Born in 1998 or later
• Senior Division: Born in 1994, 1995, 1996, or 1997
• Masters Division: Born in 1993 or earlier
18.2. Definition of a Match
A match is defined as a game or series of games played against a single opponent as part of a
tournament. The group of matches being played at any one time during a tournament is referred
to as a round.
Most matches consist of a single game, but some may be played as best-of-three games. If best-
of-three games are going to be present at any point of an event, the Tournament Organizer
should state when they will occur at the outset of the tournament. It is recommended that Swiss
or Age-Modified Swiss rounds be played as single-game matches.
18.3. Deck Registration
Before the first round of a tournament, deck registration may occur. This process involves each
player listing the exact contents of his or her deck (and unused cards, in the case of Limited
events). To make deck registration easier on the event staff, players should sort their decks to
match their deck lists prior to registration. These deck lists can later be used by Tournament
Organizers and judges to verify that a deck has not been altered since the outset of a tournament.
Players are not allowed to change their decks at any time during a tournament.
18.4. Reporting Match Results
It is the responsibility of the winner of each match to report its result to the Tournament
Organizer or scorekeeper (if present) of the event. At the beginning of the event, the Tournament
Organizer should inform players as to whom they will report their scores.
18.5. Match Time Limits
Single-game matches should be a minimum of 40 minutes for Constructed events, or 20 minutes
for Limited events.
Best-of-three matches should have a minimum time limit of 45 minutes, with no maximum time
limit. The specific time limit for each round’s matches should be announced by the Tournament
Organizer at the outset of the event.
18.6. Determining Who Goes First in Best-of-Three Match Play
In best-of-three match play, after a game has been completed, the loser of that game decides who
goes first in the next game, instead of a coin flip. This decision is made at the same point during
set-up that the coin flip would take place.
18.7. Match Time Expiration
If a match has not ended by the expiration of the round time limit, a winner must be found
without delaying the event for an unreasonable time.
18.7.1. Resolution of Match When Time is Called
If time is called during a player’s turn he or she completes the current turn. In-between
turn effects do not resolve, as there is no new turn starting at this time.
If time is called between turns, all in-between turn effects resolve but a new turn is not
started at this time.
18.7.2. Determining the Outcome of an Unfinished Match
Use the following criteria, in order, to determine the outcome of a game that is unfinished
when time is called. After one of the criteria has been met, none of the others are applied.
1. If one player was late to the match or was away from the match, without a
judge’s permission, for any period of time during the round, that player loses
the match. The judge must have been made aware of this absence in advance
of the end of the match. If both players meet this criterion, ignore this
tiebreaker.
2. If neither player was late nor away from the match for any period of time, the
judge determines the winner based on the number of Prize cards that each
player has remaining. The player with the fewest Prize cards remaining wins
the match.
3. If both players have the same number of Prize cards remaining the current
game continues, starting with any in-between turn effects that take place after
the last completed turn, if necessary, until a Prize card is drawn. The player
drawing the next Prize card is considered the winner of the match and the
match ends.
In best-of-three matches (generally only used in higher-level events), use the following
series of criteria to determine the outcome:
1. If one player was late to the match or was away from the match without a
judge’s permission for any period of time during the round, that player loses
the match. The judge must have been made aware of this absence in advance
of the end of the match. If both players meet this criterion, ignore this
tiebreaker.
2. If neither player was late nor away from the match for any period of time, the
judge determines the winner of the current game in the following manner:
a. If time is called during game 1, the player with the fewest Prize cards
remaining wins the game. If the players are tied on Prize cards, the
game continues until a Prize card is drawn. The player drawing the
next Prize card is considered the winner of that match.
b. If time is called during game 2:
1. If at least four Prize cards have been taken by one player, the
player with the fewest Prize cards remaining wins the game.
If the players are tied on Prize cards, the game continues until
a Prize card is drawn. The player drawing the next Prize card
is considered the winner of that game.
• If this results in one player having won more games in
the match than the other, the player who has won the
majority of the games wins the match.
• If this results in both players having won the same
number of games in the match, proceed to the final
tiebreaker.
2. If fewer than four Prize cards have been taken by one player,
the game is considered incomplete, and the winner of game 1
wins the match.
c. If time is called during game 3, the player with the fewest Prize cards
remaining wins the game. If the players are tied on Prize cards, the
game continues until a Prize card is drawn. The player drawing the
next Prize card is considered the winner of that match.
3. If the result of the previous tiebreaker is that both players have won the same
number of games, a new game is started. Each player places only one Prize
card instead of four, in the case of a Limited event, or instead of six, in the
case of a Constructed event. The first player to draw his or her Prize card wins
the match.
19. Document Updates
Pokémon Organized Play reserves the right to alter these rules, as well as the right to interpret, modify,
clarify, or otherwise issue official changes to these rules, with or without prior notice.
Document updates will be made available at http://www.go-pokemon.com/op/.
this article was made by the people at go-pokemon.com]]>
Rules effective: 9/01/2008
Introduction
These rules are to be used in conjunction with the most recent Pokémon Trading Card Game rules. This
document only covers those rules which pertain to the administration of a Pokémon TCG tournament.
Additional documentation about tournament organization, card rulings, penalty assessment, and Swiss
pairings organization can be found at http://www.go-
pokemon.com/op/tournaments/rulesandresources.html.
Table of Contents
1. The Spirit of the Game
2. Membership and Eligibility
2.1. Membership Definition
2.2. Member Eligibility
2.3. POP ID Numbers
2.3.1. POP ID Merging
2.4. New Players
2.5. Suspended Members
3. Wagering
4. Publishing Event Information
5. Event Responsibilities
5.1. Player Responsibilities
5.2. Spectator Responsibilities
5.3. Judge Responsibilities
5.3.1. Lengthy Rulings
5.4. Head Judge Responsibilities
5.4.1. Appeals to the Head Judge
5.5. Tournament Organizer Responsibilities
6. Tardiness
7. Shuffling
8. Pre-game Time Limit
9. Mid-game Time Limit
10. Note Taking
11. Electronic Devices
12. Match Outcome
12.1. Conceding a Match
12.2. Random Determination
12.3. Bribery
13. Withdrawing from a Tournament
13.1. Reporting a Withdrawal
13.1.1. Withdrawing after the Final Swiss Round
13.2. Withdrawing from a Limited Format Event
14. Materials Allowed
14.1. Cards
14.1.1. Card Interpretations
14.1.2. Cards in Play
14.1.3. Deck Checks
14.1.4. Hand Elevation
14.1.5. Reprinted Cards
14.1.6. Unreleased Cards
14.1.7. Fake Cards
14.1.8. Foreign Cards
14.1.9. Japanese Pokémon TCG Cards
14.1.10. Autographed Cards
14.1.11. Alternate-Backed Cards
14.1.12. Cards Listed as Not Legal
14.1.13. Card Definitions
14.1.14. Proxies
14.2. Card Sleeves
14.3. Turned Cards
14.4. Tokens and Counters
14.5. Randomizers
14.6. Other Materials
15. Penalties
15.1. Cheating
15.2. Unsporting Conduct
15.3. Timely Play
15.4. Marked Cards
16. New Pokémon TCG Releases
17. Ratings and Rankings
18. Tournament Structure
18.1. Age Divisions
18.2. Definition of a Match
18.3. Deck Registration
18.4. Reporting Match Results
18.5. Match Time Limits
18.6. Determining Who Goes First in Best-of-Three Match Play
18.7. Match Time Expiration
18.7.1. Resolution of Match When Time is Called
18.7.2. Determining the Outcome of an Unfinished Match
19. Document Updates
1. The Spirit of the Game
As a game of skill, the Pokémon TCG is enjoyed for its complex strategies, entertaining characters, and
atmosphere of friendly competition. While the objective of a Pokémon TCG tournament is to determine
the skill level of each player involved, our ultimate goal is to ensure that every participant has fun. It is
this attitude that Pokémon Organized Play wishes to emphasize during Pokémon TCG events.
Regardless of the size of the prizes on the line, adherence to the Spirit of the Game helps to ensure that
all participants, including players, spectators, and event staff at a Pokémon TCG event, have an
enjoyable experience. This spirit should guide the conduct of players as well as the tournament judges as
they interpret and enforce the rules.
The Spirit of the Game is composed of the following tenets:
• Fun: The Pokémon TCG is a game, and games are meant to be fun for all parties
involved. When a game ceases to be fun, players find other things to do.
• Fairness: Games cease to be fun when players break the rules to achieve victory. A
player should prefer to lose a game than to win by cheating.
• Honesty: Players of any game should strive to act honestly while playing that game. If a
player inadvertently breaks a rule during a game and becomes aware of the error before
his or her opponent or a judge, that player should make the opponent and the judge aware
of the misplay.
• Respect: Players, spectators, and staff should be treated with the same respect that
players would expect for themselves. Distracting an opponent or a judge to gain
advantage shows disrespect to everyone involved in a Pokémon TCG event.
• Sportsmanship: Winning or losing with grace is vital to the enjoyment of a game. The
desire to continue playing a game can be soured by players that berate their opponents
after winning or losing a match. Likewise, a player who plays the clock, rather than the
game, shows poor sportsmanship and should be discouraged from doing so whenever
possible.
• Learning: Players should strive to help each other increase their Pokémon TCG play
skills. It is not a player’s responsibility to make his or her opponent’s plays for that
opponent. However, discussing strategies, offering deck tips, or constructively critiquing
game play decisions after the match has been completed helps both participants to
become better players.
2. Membership and Eligibility
2.1. Membership Definition
A Pokémon Organized Play Member is defined as a person who is any of the following: Player,
Tournament Organizer, League Owner, League Leader or Professor, or any additional member
designation that may be added by POP in the future.
2.2. Member Eligibility
By participating in a POP-sanctioned event, all POP members agree to abide by the tournament
rules outlined in this document.
Anyone is allowed to participate in sanctioned Pokémon Organized Play tournaments except for
the following:
• Tournament Organizer or judge of the event
• Current employees and family members of Pokémon USA, Inc.
• Employees of Nintendo, GAME FREAK Inc., or Creatures Inc.
• Employees of companies that are responsible for Pokémon Organized Play in the
operation or coordination of Organized Play in their countries
• Former employees of any of the above companies within 60 days of their final date of
employment
• Any player who has been suspended from participating in Pokémon Organized Play
events by Pokémon Organized Play
• Players without invitations to play in special invite-only events, such as the Pokémon
TCG World Championships
2.3. POP ID Numbers
All players who participate in Pokémon Organized Play events must have a POP ID number.
Players who have played in previous events are instructed to bring their POP IDs with them to all
events. It is permissible for a Tournament Organizer to maintain a list of players from previous
events and their POP IDs, provided that access to such information is restricted to the
Tournament Organizer.
2.3.1. POP ID Merging
Players who play under multiple POP IDs are in violation of POP rules. As POP
discovers duplicate accounts, POP will merge these accounts, preserving and combining
all match results into the player’s rating.
Members who wish to inform POP of duplicate accounts should email
organizedplay@go-pokemon.com with the key details for each account.
POP members found to have deliberately created duplicate accounts or provided false
information in their account may be subject to suspension.
2.4. New Players
Players without POP IDs should be given a POP ID card by the Tournament Organizer when
they register for their first event. They should fill out the card, keep the portion with their POP
ID on it, and return the remainder of the card to the Tournament Organizer.
It is important that all new POP ID cards that are filled out are uploaded to the Pokémon
Organized Play website and returned to POP as soon as possible, so that players can be assured
that their sign-up information was properly processed. In addition, Tournament Organizers who
do not promptly return their POP ID cards may not be able to order additional cards from POP.
2.5. Suspended Members
POP may from time to time issue suspension to POP members for failure to comply with POP
rules and/or procedures. POP reserves the right to suspend any member at its discretion.
3. Wagering
Wagering or gambling on the results of a game, portion of a game, match, or number of matches by
anyone, including players, event staff, and spectators, is strictly prohibited. Anyone attempting to wager
on a POP event should be removed from the tournament site, and the incident should be reported to
POP.
4. Publishing Event Information
Tournament Organizers, judges, players, and spectators are free to publish deck lists, details of play,
and/or the results of an event, subject to local, state, and national laws.
Pokémon Organized Play reserves the right to publish event information including but not limited to the
items listed above, transcripts, audio and/or video recordings or other recounts, player penalties, awards,
or any other resultant information from the event.
5. Event Responsibilities
All attendants at Pokémon Organized Play events are expected to be respectful of and courteous to each
other. This includes handling disputes calmly, following directions issued by event staff, abstaining from
the use of profanity, and avoiding the discussion of inflammatory or offensive topics. Attire that is
suggestive or contains rude or inappropriate messages is not to be worn at a Pokémon Organized Play
event.
5.1. Player Responsibilities
While attending a POP event, players are expected to abide by the tenets outlined in Section 1 of
this document. Players must know their POP ID, if they have one.
Players must have everything needed to play in an event, including a legal randomizer, damage
counters, and Special Condition markers. It is a player’s responsibility to ensure that his or her
deck is meets the construction requirements at all times during an event.
5.2. Spectator Responsibilities
Spectators may watch a match but may not interfere with a match in any way. The only way a
spectator is to interact with an event is through contacting a judge to inquire into the legality of a
specific play. Comments and questions regarding games in progress should be made an
appropriate distance from the match to prevent players in the active game from gaining an
advantage of outside information.
Players who are still participating in a tournament may not watch other games still in progress, as
this provides an unfair advantage to those players during later matches.
Any disruption on the part of a spectator not participating in an event will result in penalties for
the player or players that the spectator is responsible for. Should it become necessary to remove
a spectator from an event, players that the spectator is responsible for will be disqualified from
the event as well.
5.3. Judge Responsibilities
Judges are expected to administer impartial rulings and assist the Tournament Organizer and
Head Judge in running a quality event. Whenever possible, judges should avoid ruling on games
where their own family members are involved, as this creates a perception of impropriety. Judges
are expected to encourage good sporting behavior at all times.
POP supports the rulings of its judges, where those rulings were made impartially and are in the
best interests of the Spirit of the Game.
Lengthy Rulings
5.3.1.
In the event of a ruling that takes more than one minute, the judge may extend the match
time accordingly. The extra time allotted must be clearly communicated to both players and
recorded immediately by the judge.
5.4. Head Judge Responsibilities
The Head Judge serves as the final arbiter of all rulings and rules interpretations for a particular
tournament. The Head Judge is chosen by the Tournament Organizer prior to the event and is
ultimately responsible for making sure that all participants abide by the rules set forth in this
document. The Head Judge is also responsible for reporting all penalties higher than a Caution to
POP.
5.4.1. Appeals to the Head Judge
A player may appeal any ruling made by a judge to the Head Judge of the event. Should a
player appeal a ruling, the Head Judge must hear from all parties involved, including both
players and the judge that issued the original ruling, before making a final ruling. The
Head Judge is the final authority on all card rulings and tournament rules interpretations
for that event.
5.5. Tournament Organizer Responsibilities
The Tournament Organizer is the backbone of a tournament. He or she is responsible for all of
the details of the event, such as securing the location, advertising, selecting the tournament
format, establishing the structure of the event, reporting the results of the event, and much more.
The Tournament Organizer is required to notify players of the following information:
• Tournament type (Swiss, Swiss plus Single Elimination, etc.)
• Tournament format (Modified or Unlimited)
• Number of rounds
• Number of minutes per round
• Top cut, if applicable
• Tournament staff (Head Judge, judges, score keepers, etc.)
• Any breaks during the event
This information should be conveyed at an appropriate time. The tournament format and type
should be announced far enough in advance of the event that players can prepare for the event
before arriving. The number of rounds, minutes per round, top cut, tournament staff, and breaks
should be announced prior to the start of the first round.
6. Tardiness
Players are expected to be present for the start of an event and each of its component rounds and
matches. Players arriving more than 10 minutes late for any round should receive a match loss for that
round. Players who are still not present by the end of that round should be dropped from the event.
7. Shuffling
Each player’s deck is expected to be fully randomized at the start of each game and during the game as
card effects require. In order to achieve randomness, players are allowed to riffle, pile, or otherwise
shuffle their decks until they are satisfied that the deck is random. Randomization must be done in the
presence of the player’s opponent. Care should be taken to assure that the cards in the deck are not
harmed or revealed during the shuffle.
After the shuffle, the deck must be offered to the player’s opponent to be cut once. Cutting the deck
consists of creating two separate stacks of cards by removing a portion of the top of the deck, and then
placing it under the remaining portion. Players should take care to not reveal any of their opponent’s
cards while cutting. Cutting into more than two stacks is considered a shuffle.
Instead of cutting, the opponent may choose to shuffle the deck. This shuffle should be brief, and when
it concludes, the deck’s owner is allowed to cut the deck once as described above. Players should take
care when shuffling an opponent’s deck, as the cards in that deck are not the shuffling player’s property.
At this point, the deck should be sufficiently randomized to both players’ satisfaction.
If either player still does not feel that either deck is sufficiently randomized, or if a player wishes to not
offer his or her deck to an opponent for randomization, a judge must be called over to shuffle the deck(s)
in question. No player is allowed to shuffle or cut after the judge’s shuffle.
8. Pre-game Time Limit
Prior to each game, players have two minutes to shuffle their decks and present them to their opponents
for further shuffling or cutting. This two-minute limit includes resolving mulligans. The round should
not begin until this two-minute period has expired.
9. Mid-game Time Limit
Any mid-game effects, such as deck search effects and shuffling, are to take place in a reasonable
amount of time. If a judge feels that a player’s searching or shuffling time is unwarranted, that player
will be subject to the Game Tempo section of the POP Penalty Guidelines. A judge may issue a time
extension on a match where a player is playing slowly. The extra time allotted must be clearly
communicated to both players and recorded immediately by the judge.
10. Note Taking
Players are allowed to take notes during a game in respect to actions that have happened during the
game. Notes should be restricted to changes in the game state. Players must be timely with their note-
taking and may not use devices that may send or receive messages as a note-taking device. Notes taken
during a match may not be given to other players during the course of the tournament. Notes taken
during a match may be reviewed by either player at any time during the match.
11. Electronic Devices
Electronic devices, such as cell phones, MP3 players, or text-messaging devices, are not to be used
during a match. In some special instances, an electronic device may be allowed by the Tournament
Organizer.
12. Match Outcome
Match outcomes should always be the result of game play, except in the case of concession or penalty.
Match outcomes determined by random means or by means of bribery harm the Spirit of the Game and
are not tolerated by POP.
12.1. Conceding a Match
Players may concede a match to their opponents if they wish, and judges should allow players
the opportunity to offer a concession if time is called on an incomplete match, but before tie
breakers are determined. After tiebreakers are determined and a winner is decided, the result of
the match may not be changed by concession.
If a player wishes to concede a match to his or her opponent, a judge or score runner must be
called immediately and notified of the concession so that the result can be recorded
appropriately.
12.2. Random Determination
Players may never determine the outcome of a match through a random means (flipping a coin,
rolling dice, etc).
12.3. Bribery
Any form of compensation offered with the intention of altering the outcome of a match or
persuading a player to concede at any point before or during the match is considered a bribe.
Pokémon Organized Play believes that the outcome of every match in a tournament should be
decided without any outside influences.
Bribery and collusion are further covered in the POP Penalty Guidelines.
13. Withdrawing from a Tournament
Players are allowed to drop from an event before it has concluded.
13.1. Reporting a Withdrawal
Players should personally inform the event’s Head Judge, Tournament Organizer, or scorekeeper
(if any) that they are dropping from the event. Tournament Organizers and scorekeepers should
not accept drop reports from other players before double-checking with the withdrawing player
in question. Players who choose to drop from a tournament must do so before pairings are posted
for a new round. Players who choose to drop after pairings are posted but before playing their
match that round will be given a match loss for that round and then dropped from the
tournament.
13.1.1. Withdrawing after the Final Swiss Round
Players may choose to drop from an event after the final Swiss round of a Swiss plus
Single-Elimination event rather than participate in the Single Elimination. If a player
would like to drop during the final round of Swiss, he or she must do so before the final
standings for that round are posted. Players who do not drop prior to this point will be
paired in the Single Elimination portion of the event and will be subject to the tardiness
rules, outlined in Section 6 should they not show up for their match.
13.2. Withdrawing from a Limited-Format Event
Players are expected to play through the first round of a Limited-Format event before dropping
from the event. Players may be asked to return the product for the event and have their entry fee
refunded if they are unable to remain in the event for the minimum duration.
14. Materials Allowed
The following is a list of acceptable materials to be present during a Pokémon TCG tournament match.
Items other than these may be removed if they prove to be disruptive or hazardous.
14.1. Cards
Players may only use cards in their decks that are legal for the event format. During Limited
events, players may only include cards given to them by the Tournament Organizer for the event.
14.1.1. Card Interpretations
The Head Judge is the final authority on card interpretations and tournament rulings.
Rulings on foreign-language cards are made using the English-language translations.
14.1.2. Cards in Play
Cards in play should be managed in such a way that they are organized and neat and easy
for opponents and judges to interpret. The following are some guidelines for card
organization:
• Keep all Energy cards aligned in the same direction under the Pokémon in play,
and make sure each card is visible at all times.
• Make sure Benched Pokémon are separated far enough apart from each other and
from Active Pokémon that it’s clear which Pokémon have cards attached to them.
• Put Supporter cards next to the Active Pokémon when played and discard them
after the Attack step of that turn.
• Put Pokémon Tool cards next to Pokémon that they are being played on and
discard them as directed by the card text.
• Put Stadium cards between each players’ Active Pokémon so that the card is
visible to all players.
• Arrange damage counters primarily over the picture of a card so as not to obstruct
the view of the card text.
14.1.3. Deck Checks
At all Premier Events, deck checks must be performed. For all events, including Premier
Events, POP recommends that deck checks be performed over at least 10 percent of
decks over the course of the event.
Whether checking a deck at the beginning of the event, or between rounds, players should
be required to put the cards in their deck in the same order as the cards on the deck list to
expedite the process. During the deck check, the tournament staff should look for the
following:
• Legibility: If the deck list is difficult to read, the player may be asked to fill out a
new deck list. Special attention to should be paid to the legibility of the player’s
POP ID and date of birth. Obscure abbreviations for cards should be clarified on
the deck list.
• Sleeves: Players’ sleeves should be free of consistent markings. Sleeves with a
significant number of markings, or consistent markings should be replaced
immediately. If this is found to be an issue after the start of the event it may
warrant further investigation.
• Total Number of Cards: The number of cards in a player’s deck should be
appropriate for the event format. The deck checker should count the total number
of cards in the deck before checking the actual contents of the deck to ensure that
the deck contains the proper number of cards.
• Deck Contents: The deck checker should verify that the contents of the player’s
deck matches the cards on the deck list. The card title should match the card
listed, and the set abbreviation and collector number of each of the Pokémon
should be listed.
• Card References: If a player is using foreign cards, or reprinted cards which
have had significant text changes, the deck checker should require the player to
present their reference cards or the Card-Dex entries where applicable.
14.1.4. Hand Elevation
To avoid the perception of impropriety, players should keep both hands above the level
of the playing surface at all times. A player’s cards should never go below the level of the
playing surface during a match.
Reprinted Cards
14.1.5.
From time to time, cards printed in previous sets are reprinted in a new set. In most cases,
the mechanics of the card remain unchanged, though the wording may be slightly altered
for clarification. However, in a few rare cases, the game play text of a card is
significantly modified. In these cases, a player may only use an older version of that card
if they provide a Card-Dex with the wording for the most recent printing of the card, OR
the player has a copy of the card with the most recent wording, outside of his or her deck,
for reference.
Please see the Tournament Rules and Resources page for a list of cards that have been
reprinted and are legal for play in the Modified Format.
Unreleased Cards
14.1.6.
From time to time players will acquire cards from a new set prior to its regular release
date, usually via a Prerelease or the Japanese equivalent of the set. These cards may not
be used in sanctioned tournaments until the regular release date of the set, as outlined in
Section 16, with one exception. Cards that are already tournament legal which have been
reprinted in an unreleased set, or the Japanese equivalent, may be used as long they are
easily identifiable as a reprinted card. This is typically only an issue when a reprinted
card receives new art, though other factors may create a similar issue. These cards should
always be played with the most recent wording of the tournament legal version of the
card.
Players who are unsure as to whether an unreleased card meets the exception above
should check with the Head Judge prior to the start of the event.
14.1.7. Fake Cards
Only genuine Pokémon TCG cards may be used in Pokémon Organized Play events. Any
fake, reproduced, or counterfeited cards must be removed from all players’ decks before
the start of the event. Those that are not will be subject to confiscation by the Tournament
Organizer.
14.1.8. Foreign Cards
Players may use non-local language cards in their decks, provided they meet the
following requirements:
• All of the cards in the player’s deck have been released, in English, in the United
States and are legal for use according to the event’s format restrictions
• The player has an English or local-language version of the card, outside of his or
her deck, for reference, OR the player has a copy of the official Pokémon TCG
Card-Dex containing the card’s text, which can be downloaded at from the
Tournament Rules and Resources page. Card scans are not an acceptable method
of translation.
If a judge determines that a player is using non-local language cards and/or misprinted
cards to gain an advantage, that player will be subject to the Cheating section of the POP
Penalty Guidelines.
Japanese Pokémon TCG Cards
14.1.9.
The Japanese Pokémon TCG card back is significantly different than the backs of
Pokémon TCG cards released elsewhere in the world. Players may use Japanese cards in
their decks, provided the player’s deck is made up entirely of cards that have the same
card back OR the deck is sleeved in a manner that the card backs are not visible.
14.1.10. Autographed Cards
Autographed cards may be used under the condition that the autograph does not obscure
any game text on the card. In the event that game text is obscured, the player may use the
card as long as he or she has a non-autographed version of the card outside of his or her
deck for reference, or the page of the Pokémon TCG Card-Dex with that card’s text.
Cards with a significant portion of their information obscured may be disallowed at the
Head Judge’s discretion.
Players who intentionally deface their cards with inappropriate images or sayings are
subject to the Unsporting Conduct section of the POP Penalty Guidelines.
14.1.11. Alternate-Backed Cards
Only cards with the Pokémon TCG back or the Japanese Pokémon TCG back may be
used in POP-Sanctioned tournaments. Cards printed with any other back may not be used
in a POP-Sanctioned tournament, even if sleeved with opaque card sleeves.
14.1.12. Cards Listed as Not Legal
Some cards appear with “NOT TOURNAMENT LEGAL” on the card. These cards are
not legal in POP-Sanctioned tournaments.
14.1.13. Card Definitions
A card is defined by the English translation of the name of the card.
14.1.14. Proxies
Player-made proxies are considered to be fake cards and should be treated as such in all
ways. Players should ensure that the cards in their decks are in good condition before
attending an event so as not to create a marked card situation. See section 15.4 for further
information on marked cards.
If a card becomes damaged during an event in such a way that results in the card
becoming marked, a judge is allowed to create a proxy of that card to act as the damaged
card in all ways for the remainder of the event. The damaged card must be retained to use
as a reference when the proxy card is played. Alternately, if the player has another copy
of that card is available for use the player can simply replace the damaged card with an
undamaged copy.
In some cases a card is damaged due to a production error. Players should do their best to
avoid playing with these cards, though sometimes that is not possible. If the judge feels
that this creates a marked card situation, the judge may create a proxy card to act as the
damaged card in all ways for the remainder of the event. The damaged card must be
retained to use as a reference when the proxy card is played.
14.2. Card Sleeves
Card sleeves are allowed to be used at Pokémon Organized Play events, provided that they meet
the following requirements:
• All of the sleeves on a deck must be the same color, condition, size, and texture.
• The fronts of the sleeves are clear, clean, and free of designs, holograms, and emblems
that may obscure card information.
• The sleeves completely cover the entire card, leaving no portion sticking out of the open
end.
• The sleeves are not reflective enough to be used to clearly determine the faces of cards
that remain in the deck. A reasonable degree of glossy finish on a sleeve is acceptable,
but sleeves that create a mirror-like surface, where the card above it is clearly
distinguishable, are not permitted.
• Each card sleeve contains only one card.
• The use of sleeves with any form of pattern or artwork on the back of the sleeve is strictly
prohibited at all Premier Events, unless the sleeve is an official Pokémon sleeve, where
the color along all four edges of the sleeve is identical.
• The Head Judge of a non-Premier Event has the final say over whether or not art-backed
sleeves may be used at that event. Inappropriate sleeve images (as determined by the
Head Judge) are strictly prohibited.
The Head Judge has the final say regarding whether a player’s card sleeves may be used in an
event.
Players should keep in mind that card sleeves are not a requirement at Pokémon Organized Play
tournaments or events. Should a judge inform a player that their sleeves may not be used at an
event, the player has the option of replacing the sleeves with more suitable sleeves, or playing
without sleeves.
14.3. Turned Cards
If a card must be turned as a part of game rules to indicate a specific effect, that card must be
turned so that it is either 90 or 180 degrees, whichever is more appropriate according to the rules.
14.4. Tokens and Counters
Players are required to provide their own counters to mark damage to Pokémon in play and
counters to represent Special Conditions and other game effects. A judge may disallow the use of
markers that cause confusion with regard to the state of the game or that are offensive in some
manner.
14.5. Randomizers
• Any coin released with any Pokémon TCG product from EX Ruby & Sapphire on should
be considered fair and impartial.
• When flipped, a coin should flip at least three times in the air before landing on the table.
• Coins must land flat on the table. If the coin is cocked (approximately 15 degrees or
more), it must be flipped again.
• Coin flips that land outside the playing area (off of the table or in another game’s playing
area) are considered invalid and must be flipped again.
• Once players have agreed on the result of a coin flip, it cannot be redone.
• Randomizers other than coins may be used with the Head Judge’s permission. The Head
Judge must dictate which result will be considered heads, and which will be considered
tails.
14.6. Other Materials
• Players are always allowed to have Pokémon TCG rulebooks or copies of the Pokémon
TCG Card-Dex on hand for reference.
• Players may always request that any unnecessary materials be removed from the play
area if they should become distracting or otherwise obstructive to the play of the game.
• Food and drinks are not permitted in the play area. An organizer may allow food and/or
drinks in the tournament area, but at no time should food or drinks be kept on the play
surface.
15. Penalties
Should an issue arise at a POP event, players and spectators will be subject to the Pokémon Organized
Play Penalty Guidelines. All penalties above Caution level must be reported to POP for further review.
Penalties issued to spectators may be assigned to the player or players that they are responsible for, if
severe enough. The Head Judge has the final say on all penalties issued at an event.
15.1. Cheating
Cheating includes, but is not limited to, drawing extra cards, altering the contents of a deck after
an event begins, manipulating the outcome of a legitimate coin flip, altering Card-Dex entries to
misrepresent foreign cards, and misrepresenting game state.
15.2. Unsporting Conduct
Behaving in an unsporting manner is disruptive to POP events. Unsporting conduct includes, but
is not limited to, use of profanity, insulting other players, failure to comply with event staff
instructions, and acting in a confrontational manner toward spectators, event staff, or opponents.
15.3. Timely Play
Players are expected to take their turns in a timely manner, regardless of the complexity of the
play situation. Playing too slowly or stalling for time is unacceptable. Slow Play and Stalling
includes, but is not limited to, excessive shuffling, continually reviewing the cards in each
player’s discard pile, and overly long deck searches.
The opposite of Slow Play is Rushing, which is a tactic often employed to break an opponent’s
concentration. Rushing is just as unacceptable as Slow Play.
15.4. Marked Cards
Players are responsible for ensuring that their cards and/or card sleeves are not marked in any
way. A card is considered marked if it bears something that makes it possible to identify the card
without seeing its face, including scratches, tears, discoloration, bends, and so forth.
If a player’s cards are sleeved, the sleeves are considered to be part of the cards, so the cards
must be examined while in the sleeves to determine if there is a marked card situation.
Cards with different backs or a different cut from the other cards in a deck are not considered
marked as long as the entire deck is placed in non-marked, completely opaque-backed card
sleeves.
The Head Judge is the final authority in determining whether a card or sleeve in a player’s deck
is considered marked.
16. New Pokémon TCG Releases
Expansion sets are expected to be released on a regular schedule, averaging four new sets per calendar
year. Cards from these new releases are made legal for tournament play the day that the set is released
for regular retail sale in a rating zone, and not before, with the standard exception of Prerelease events.
17. Ratings and Rankings
Pokémon USA, Inc., uses ELO-based ratings and rankings for its players. More information can be
found in the Ratings and Rankings Explanation document and the K-Value Explanation document found
on the http://www.go-pokemon.com/op/ website.
All matches played as part of a Premier Event will affect the participant’s Premier Rating, and thus his
or her ranking, provided that the events are reported correctly and completely. Premier Events that do
not follow the structure set forth by POP may lose their Premier status, and players participating in those
events would then lose any rating points earned at that event.
Pokémon Organized Play divides countries into four rating zones. These rating zones typically
encompass a single continent or region. Currently supported rating zones are North America, South
America, Asia Pacific, and Europe.
Players are responsible for checking their event history for accuracy. If there is an issue with a player’s
event history, that player should notify the Tournament Organizer of the event. The Tournament
Organizer is responsible for working with Pokémon Organized Play to resolve the issue.
18. Tournament Structure
Pokémon Organized Play tournaments are administered using either a Single-Elimination system or the
Swiss-Pairing method. Depending on the size of the event, a tournament may be administered as an
Age-Modified Swiss event. At the discretion of the Tournament Organizer, and at more highly
competitive events, Single-Elimination rounds may follow the completion of Swiss rounds.
18.1. Age Divisions
Pokémon Organized Play separates players into three age divisions; Junior, Senior and Masters.
The age division that a player participates in is set at the beginning of the tournament season,
based on their year of birth, and does not change over the course of that season. This allows
players to compete against the same pool of opponents over the course of the season.
The age divisions are as follows:
• Junior Division: Born in 1998 or later
• Senior Division: Born in 1994, 1995, 1996, or 1997
• Masters Division: Born in 1993 or earlier
18.2. Definition of a Match
A match is defined as a game or series of games played against a single opponent as part of a
tournament. The group of matches being played at any one time during a tournament is referred
to as a round.
Most matches consist of a single game, but some may be played as best-of-three games. If best-
of-three games are going to be present at any point of an event, the Tournament Organizer
should state when they will occur at the outset of the tournament. It is recommended that Swiss
or Age-Modified Swiss rounds be played as single-game matches.
18.3. Deck Registration
Before the first round of a tournament, deck registration may occur. This process involves each
player listing the exact contents of his or her deck (and unused cards, in the case of Limited
events). To make deck registration easier on the event staff, players should sort their decks to
match their deck lists prior to registration. These deck lists can later be used by Tournament
Organizers and judges to verify that a deck has not been altered since the outset of a tournament.
Players are not allowed to change their decks at any time during a tournament.
18.4. Reporting Match Results
It is the responsibility of the winner of each match to report its result to the Tournament
Organizer or scorekeeper (if present) of the event. At the beginning of the event, the Tournament
Organizer should inform players as to whom they will report their scores.
18.5. Match Time Limits
Single-game matches should be a minimum of 40 minutes for Constructed events, or 20 minutes
for Limited events.
Best-of-three matches should have a minimum time limit of 45 minutes, with no maximum time
limit. The specific time limit for each round’s matches should be announced by the Tournament
Organizer at the outset of the event.
18.6. Determining Who Goes First in Best-of-Three Match Play
In best-of-three match play, after a game has been completed, the loser of that game decides who
goes first in the next game, instead of a coin flip. This decision is made at the same point during
set-up that the coin flip would take place.
18.7. Match Time Expiration
If a match has not ended by the expiration of the round time limit, a winner must be found
without delaying the event for an unreasonable time.
18.7.1. Resolution of Match When Time is Called
If time is called during a player’s turn he or she completes the current turn. In-between
turn effects do not resolve, as there is no new turn starting at this time.
If time is called between turns, all in-between turn effects resolve but a new turn is not
started at this time.
18.7.2. Determining the Outcome of an Unfinished Match
Use the following criteria, in order, to determine the outcome of a game that is unfinished
when time is called. After one of the criteria has been met, none of the others are applied.
1. If one player was late to the match or was away from the match, without a
judge’s permission, for any period of time during the round, that player loses
the match. The judge must have been made aware of this absence in advance
of the end of the match. If both players meet this criterion, ignore this
tiebreaker.
2. If neither player was late nor away from the match for any period of time, the
judge determines the winner based on the number of Prize cards that each
player has remaining. The player with the fewest Prize cards remaining wins
the match.
3. If both players have the same number of Prize cards remaining the current
game continues, starting with any in-between turn effects that take place after
the last completed turn, if necessary, until a Prize card is drawn. The player
drawing the next Prize card is considered the winner of the match and the
match ends.
In best-of-three matches (generally only used in higher-level events), use the following
series of criteria to determine the outcome:
1. If one player was late to the match or was away from the match without a
judge’s permission for any period of time during the round, that player loses
the match. The judge must have been made aware of this absence in advance
of the end of the match. If both players meet this criterion, ignore this
tiebreaker.
2. If neither player was late nor away from the match for any period of time, the
judge determines the winner of the current game in the following manner:
a. If time is called during game 1, the player with the fewest Prize cards
remaining wins the game. If the players are tied on Prize cards, the
game continues until a Prize card is drawn. The player drawing the
next Prize card is considered the winner of that match.
b. If time is called during game 2:
1. If at least four Prize cards have been taken by one player, the
player with the fewest Prize cards remaining wins the game.
If the players are tied on Prize cards, the game continues until
a Prize card is drawn. The player drawing the next Prize card
is considered the winner of that game.
• If this results in one player having won more games in
the match than the other, the player who has won the
majority of the games wins the match.
• If this results in both players having won the same
number of games in the match, proceed to the final
tiebreaker.
2. If fewer than four Prize cards have been taken by one player,
the game is considered incomplete, and the winner of game 1
wins the match.
c. If time is called during game 3, the player with the fewest Prize cards
remaining wins the game. If the players are tied on Prize cards, the
game continues until a Prize card is drawn. The player drawing the
next Prize card is considered the winner of that match.
3. If the result of the previous tiebreaker is that both players have won the same
number of games, a new game is started. Each player places only one Prize
card instead of four, in the case of a Limited event, or instead of six, in the
case of a Constructed event. The first player to draw his or her Prize card wins
the match.
19. Document Updates
Pokémon Organized Play reserves the right to alter these rules, as well as the right to interpret, modify,
clarify, or otherwise issue official changes to these rules, with or without prior notice.
Document updates will be made available at http://www.go-pokemon.com/op/.
this article was made by the people at go-pokemon.com]]><![CDATA[Muddy68's shop Need business and workers!]]>
http://pokeshack.createmybb2.com/showthread.php?tid=88
Wed, 15 Oct 2008 17:07:37 -0500http://pokeshack.createmybb2.com/showthread.php?tid=88
Current Employees:
Muddy68: avatars and banners
If you want something:
Username:
What you want (banner, avatar):
What is on it:
Border and other colors:
What it says:
Rating(when done):
You must give credit to the artist that made it.
Thanks and here is one of my holiday works!
]]>
Current Employees:
Muddy68: avatars and banners
If you want something:
Username:
What you want (banner, avatar):
What is on it:
Border and other colors:
What it says:
Rating(when done):
You must give credit to the artist that made it.
Thanks and here is one of my holiday works!
]]><![CDATA[Muddy68]]>
http://pokeshack.createmybb2.com/showthread.php?tid=87
Wed, 15 Oct 2008 16:09:25 -0500http://pokeshack.createmybb2.com/showthread.php?tid=87
Muddy68
United States of America is where I live!]]>
Muddy68
United States of America is where I live!]]><![CDATA[My new thread Incoming new LvX and secret rares Easy wants!!!]]>
http://pokeshack.createmybb2.com/showthread.php?tid=86
Wed, 15 Oct 2008 16:08:34 -0500http://pokeshack.createmybb2.com/showthread.php?tid=86
Rules
1. I ship only in US and Canada
2. Once addresses have been exchanged, the deal is final, or else I leave you a negitive ref. This only happens if you cancel the trade!
3. If you do not ask about the condition of a card, I assume that you do not care.
4. I'll sell as long as you spend over $10! You must ask about buying for me to give you prices!
Grab Bag
20 uncommon and common cards (10 of each) for 2.25 including shipping. One RH or rare!
Give me prices and I'll see if I like them
Ask about any common or uncommon not listed!
Cards that I cannot trade
Empoleon Lv. X
Groudon
Luxray
Regigigas (#15)
Deoxys Normal
Deoxys Attack
Deoxys Speed
Deoxys Defense
1 Bronzor MD (RH
EX's
Salamence ex (ex deoxys and power keepers) (ex Deoxys pending)
Jirachi ex
Kyorge ex CG
Deoxys (Normal Form)
Rayquaza ex (ex dragon)
Kabutops ex (ex sandstorm)
Dragonite ex (ex dragon)
Rocket's Hitmonchan ex
Rocket's Scyther ex
Crawndaunt ex
Wants
Lv X's
Any * Pokemon
Shadowless cards
Old and rare cards
POP 8 cards
Shaymin LvX (sky and land)
Shaymin Galactic's Conquest
x2 Torterra Entry pack
Stormfront cards (when they come out)
Uxie LvX
Mesprit LvX
Lots of new trainers, supporters, and others that fit in this catorgery!
I will CYL
By the way, I know that many people do not like Yugioh anymore, but if any one does I've got tons of rares that I'm willing to trade for rare Pokemon cards.]]>
Rules
1. I ship only in US and Canada
2. Once addresses have been exchanged, the deal is final, or else I leave you a negitive ref. This only happens if you cancel the trade!
3. If you do not ask about the condition of a card, I assume that you do not care.
4. I'll sell as long as you spend over $10! You must ask about buying for me to give you prices!
Grab Bag
20 uncommon and common cards (10 of each) for 2.25 including shipping. One RH or rare!
Give me prices and I'll see if I like them
Ask about any common or uncommon not listed!
Cards that I cannot trade
Empoleon Lv. X
Groudon
Luxray
Regigigas (#15)
Deoxys Normal
Deoxys Attack
Deoxys Speed
Deoxys Defense
1 Bronzor MD (RH
EX's
Salamence ex (ex deoxys and power keepers) (ex Deoxys pending)
Jirachi ex
Kyorge ex CG
Deoxys (Normal Form)
Rayquaza ex (ex dragon)
Kabutops ex (ex sandstorm)
Dragonite ex (ex dragon)
Rocket's Hitmonchan ex
Rocket's Scyther ex
Crawndaunt ex
Wants
Lv X's
Any * Pokemon
Shadowless cards
Old and rare cards
POP 8 cards
Shaymin LvX (sky and land)
Shaymin Galactic's Conquest
x2 Torterra Entry pack
Stormfront cards (when they come out)
Uxie LvX
Mesprit LvX
Lots of new trainers, supporters, and others that fit in this catorgery!
I will CYL
By the way, I know that many people do not like Yugioh anymore, but if any one does I've got tons of rares that I'm willing to trade for rare Pokemon cards.]]>MySQL error: 0