Base

Base Set is the original and most iconic Pokémon TCG expansion, the foundation upon which the entire game was built and the beginning of a global phenomenon. Released in 1996 in Japan and 1999 internationally, it introduced players to the world of Pokémon battles through instantly recognizable cards such as Charizard, Blastoise, and Venusaur. Every card embodies the simplicity, balance, and charm of the game’s origins, featuring clean layouts, vibrant illustrations, and the core mechanics that would define the series—Energy, Trainer, and Evolution cards. Base Set captures the essence of adventure and discovery, evoking the feeling of a Trainer’s first journey through the Kanto region. Its gameplay was approachable yet strategic, setting the stage for decades of competitive play and collecting. With its timeless design, cultural impact, and enduring nostalgia, Base Set stands as the cornerstone of Pokémon TCG history, symbolizing the beginning of an era of imagination, friendship, and the endless thrill of catching them all.