Understanding Pokémon TCG Energy Types: A Guide to Powering Your Deck

Energy cards are essential in Pokémon TCG, as they power your Pokémon’s moves and enable you to execute strategies effectively. There are two main categories of Energy cards: Basic Energy and Special Energy.

Basic Energy

Basic Energy cards are the foundation of most decks and match specific Pokémon types. They are unlimited in number and essential for activating attacks.

Fire Energy:

Powers Fire-type Pokémon, known for high-damage attacks.

Water Energy:

Powers Water-type Pokémon, often with healing and control effects.

Grass Energy:

Supports Grass-type Pokémon, which often focus on healing and special conditions.

Electric Energy:

Used by Electric-type Pokémon, known for paralyzing effects and quick attacks.

Psychic Energy:

Boosts Psychic Pokémon, often featuring damage counters and mental manipulation strategies.

Fighting Energy:

Powers Fighting-type Pokémon, great for aggressive, high-damage moves.

Darkness Energy:

Powers Dark-type Pokémon, which often feature stealthy and disruptive tactics.

Metal Energy:

Supports Metal-type Pokémon, known for defensive abilities and resistance.

Fairy Energy (Retired):

Previously used by Fairy Pokémon, focusing on charm and status effects.

Dragon Pokémon:

Do not have a dedicated Energy type and often require multiple types to attack.

Colorless Energy:

Any type of Energy can fulfill Colorless Energy requirements, adding flexibility.

Special Energy

Special Energy cards provide unique effects in addition to powering attacks. These are limited to 4 per deck and can be game-changers when used strategically.

Double Colorless Energy:
Provides two Colorless Energy, enabling quick setups.
Aurora Energy:
Acts as any type of Energy but requires discarding a card to attach.
Twin Energy:
Provides two Colorless Energy but only for non-V and non-GX Pokémon.
Capture Energy:
Provides one Colorless Energy and allows you to search for a Basic Pokémon to put on your bench.
Rainbow Energy:
Counts as any type of Energy but deals 10 damage to the Pokémon it’s attached to.
Rapid Strike Energy:
Provides two Energy of any type for Rapid Strike Pokémon.
Single Strike Energy:
Adds extra damage for Single Strike Pokémon when attacking.

Energy Management Tips

Match Your Deck Types:
Include enough Basic Energy to power your Pokémon’s attacks efficiently.
Use Special Energy Wisely:
Add versatility with Special Energy but don’t rely on them exclusively.
Energy Retrieval:
Use Trainer cards like Energy Retrieval or Training Court to recycle discarded Energy.