The Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) is a best-selling collectible and competitive trading card game. In the competitive Pokémon TCG, each player constructs a deck of 60 cards and uses it to battle against other players in fast-paced, strategy-oriented play. Since the debut of the Pokémon TCG in 1996, more than 20 billion cards have been shipped to 73 countries around the world.

Play! Pokémon provides opportunities for Pokémon TCG and video game players to enjoy their favourite games together—from casual Pokémon League gatherings to competitive events that make up the Pokémon Trading Card Game and Video Game Championship Series. The Championship Series culminates each year in the Pokémon World Championships, where players from more than 30 countries battle for the title of Pokémon World Champion in three different age divisions. The 2013 Pokémon World Championships will take place this August in Vancouver, B.C.

New to Play! Pokémon? Check out a Pokémon League in your area! Pokémon Leagues are strong communities of Pokémon TCG and video game players around the world, and groups can be found in cities and towns in many countries, including Australia, Brazil, Canada, France, Italy, Germany, Mexico, the United Kingdom, the United States, and others. Pokémon Leagues are a great way to play casually and trade with others! During 2012, nearly 40,000 people participated in over 1,100 Pokémon League locations across the globe. For more information about Play! Pokémon and finding a Pokémon League in your area, please visit pokemon.co.uk/play.