Pokémon Card Game: V, VMAX, & VSTAR Card Rules Explained

Cards in the have gone through numerous changes over the years, introducing (and reintroducing) formats ranging from Pokémon EX to Pokémon V, and more besides. Much like the series’ ongoing development of new Pokémon ex cards, several variations of Pokémon V exist, all with their own quirks and rules. While many Pokémon V are no longer legal in official tournaments due to rotation, it is still well worth understanding the mechanics behind these cards and how their incredible power can affect a game.

Pokémon V cards were introduced to the as part of the series of expansion sets. There are three major Pokémon V variants in total when counting the original, which was later joined by VMAX and VSTAR cards. A small number of V-UNION Pokémon cards also exist, although these exist solely as promotional cards. Due to a combination of their strength and relative rarity, it should also be noted that many Pokémon V actually number among the most valuable era cards.

Introduced in the set, Pokémon V are similar to other variants like Pokémon ex, in that they follow a group of rules that break the normal conventions. All Pokémon V are considered Basic Pokémon, even if the Pokémon V is technically a 2nd or 3rd evolution. For example, Charizard V doesn't need a Charmander and Charmeleon to be played first. Additionally, as is common with more powerful variant Pokémon cards, knocking out a Pokémon V allows a player to collect two Prize cards as opposed to the usual one.

Pokémon V cards possess much higher HP than an average card and usually have powerful attacks and abilities to match. The two-prize knockout reward, also known as the V rule, acts as a counterbalance to this power, compensating opponents for the additional effort that goes into defeating one of these cards. Also like Pokémon ex or other variant cards in the TCG, Pokémon V cards have a different appearance than standard cards. In addition to having a holofoil element, they resemble full art cards, with the depicted