Got such thing in Singapore ah: Competing in the Pokemon trading card game

"Got Such Thing In Singapore Ah" is a series that explores cool hobbies and interest groups that you might not know exist in Singapore.

You've probably heard about people rediscovering their love for Pokemon cards during the pandemic or flipping classic cards for big bucks, but did you know that there is an avid group of players in Singapore who compete very seriously in Pokemon Trading Card Game (TCG) competitions?

I am one of them!

I have been playing the game competitively since 2015 and won the Singapore Pokemon TCG Battle Festival Asia 2021.

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In the this card game, players battle using a deck of 60 cards containing powerful Pokemon. Like the Trainers in the anime and video game, you build your deck using your choice of these powerful creatures. They all play differently, so you need to strategise and outwit your opponent to win!

Just under two years ago, I wrote about not being able to fly to London for the Pokemon TCG World Championships as it was postponed due to the pandemic. Thankfully, this major global competition is back on the calendar and I will be booking my tickets for August 2022.

And you can join me in London too! The qualifiers for this year's Singapore Championships are happening very soon, with the winner getting a fully paid trip to London for "Worlds 2022" (the top four players qualify too, but need to pay for their own flight). Registration deets are here.

Read on if you're interested to know more about the game.

What's the damage to get into Pokemon TCG?

Pokemon cards are usually sold in booster packs at $6 to $7 per pack, or roughly $170 to $180 for a box of 36 packs, depending on where you buy them. But if you are planning to play competitively, I recommend you purchase individual cards (we call them "singles").

Local game stores (listed below) stock competitive singles for players who want to get into the game. Alternatively, you can buy cards from other players and collectors.

Isn't Pokemon for kids?

You'd be surprised to know that the competitive player base in Singapore comprises those in their 20s to early 30s. So don't shy! Just play!

What is the best part of Pokemon TCG?

I have made a lot of new friends not only in Singapore, but also in Malaysia, Philippines, Thailand, and all around the world - all thanks to our shared love of Pokemon TCG. Even with the travel restrictions, I've continued to play games with them using a webcam!

What are some of the challenges playing Pokemon TCG?

Some cards are on the pricier side because they are either playable or collectible, but there are budget options that can be just as competitive.

However, the biggest challenge to the game was undoubtedly the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic. All real-life competitive play was shut down. During that time, there were online tournaments using the Pokemon TCG Online Client and competitions using webcams. Now that that IRL championships are back, I can't wait to compete against old buddies and meet new faces once more.

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What are some misconceptions about Pokemon TCG? 

That the game has to do with Pokemon Go. To this day, it is the first thing that comes to mind when people think of "Pokemon". My family is still shocked that my brother and I used to travel around the world just to play a card game.

How and where to enjoy Pokemon TCG?

There are a number of card shops hosting regular tournaments every week. You can #SupportLocal and check out these stores:

•  Goodness Gracious Games; 1 Marne Road The Citron, #01-36, 208380
•  Sanctuary Gaming, #04-09 Orchard Gateway 238858
•  Agora Hobby; Kitchener Complex Block 809 #06-154, 200809

Alternatively, drop a message to The Southern Islands, a Singapore-based Pokemon TCG Facebook Page. They will be happy to help you learn how to play. Perhaps you could become the next Singapore Pokemon Champion - if you can get past me first!

ALSO READ: Uniqlo will launch its second ‘Pokemon Meets Artists UT’ collection on March 18

This article was first published in Wonderwall.sg.