The Pokémon TCG: Scarlet & Violet – 151 expansion is a special set that celebrates all 151 original Pokémon from the Kanto region, updated with modern gameplay mechanics from the Scarlet & Violet series.
Released in September 2023, this set brings the beloved first-generation Pokémon into the current TCG meta with beautifully reimagined artwork and a full Pokédex order layout. It features a range of card rarities, including Pokémon ex, illustration rares, and special gold-etched cards, making it both a nostalgic and competitive collection for longtime fans and new players alike.
Competitive Pokémon TCG
The competitive Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) has a well-established format and a large, passionate player base competing in tournaments worldwide. The main competitive format is the Standard format, where cards rotate out based on regulation marks – letters found on the bottom-left corner of cards since 2020. This rotation keeps the meta fresh and balanced by periodically removing older cards and introducing new ones.
Unlike games of pure chance, such as the Lucky Lotteries Super Jackpot, the Pokémon TCG demands strategic deck building, an understanding of multiple paths to victory, and adaptability to counter opponents’ strategies. Success is not just about luck but skill, planning, and quick thinking during matches.
What’s so special about Pokémon 151?
“Pokémon 151” refers to the original set of 151 Pokémon introduced in the first-generation Pokémon games – Red, Blue, and Green – which laid the foundation for the entire franchise. This group includes iconic and culturally significant Pokémon like Pikachu, Charizard, Mewtwo, and Mew, who have become timeless symbols of the Pokémon cards games.
The Pokémon 151 set is unique because it exclusively features these original Kanto Pokémon, without including any from later generations. This makes it a celebration of the franchise’s roots, appealing to collectors and competitive players who appreciate the nostalgia and history behind these classic creatures.
What does 151 mean in Pokémon cards?
The term “151” specifically refers to the Pokémon Card 151 set released during the Scarlet & Violet era of the TCG. This set stands out because it includes every original Pokémon from the first-generation Kanto region, arranged in exact Pokédex order, from Bulbasaur (#001) through to Mew (#151). This strict Pokédex sequence is unusual compared to modern sets, which typically organise cards by type or other themes.
This thoughtful arrangement makes collecting the set a unique experience, allowing fans to relive the journey through the original Pokémon roster in a way that feels authentic and complete.
Pokémon Types and Moves
The Pokémon TCG features eleven Energy types that correspond to the elemental types of Pokémon. These types determine the Energy cards required to power attacks, as well as each Pokémon’s weaknesses and resistances during battles. The types are Colorless, Grass, Fire, Water, Lightning, Fighting, Psychic, Darkness, Metal, Dragon, and Fairy. Each Pokémon card is associated with one of these types, clearly shown on the card, which dictates the Energy cards needed to use its attacks.
Pokémon cards have one or more attacks requiring specific amounts and types of Energy cards. The attack’s damage value indicates how much damage it deals to the opponent’s Active Pokémon. Additionally, attacks can have special effects, such as inflicting Special Conditions like Asleep, Burned, Confused, Paralyzed, or Poisoned. Some attacks allow players to draw extra cards or disrupt the opponent’s board state. Others can deal damage to Benched Pokémon or have strategic effects that can turn the tide of a match.
Mastering Powerful Pokémon
Mastering powerful Pokémon in the Pokémon TCG involves more than just having strong cards. It requires strategic deck building, understanding type synergies, and leveraging card combos and abilities effectively. Competitive players focus on building decks with complementary types, utilising strong abilities, and applying early pressure on opponents.
Key tactics include accelerating Energy attachments to get your main attackers ready quickly, protecting your key Pokémon with Trainer cards, and disrupting your opponent’s plans through well-timed plays. Consistent success comes from adapting your strategy to counter different decks and knowing when to switch gears mid-game.
Are they restocking Pokémon 151?
Yes, Pokémon 151 products are being restocked throughout 2025, though availability can be limited and somewhat sporadic. Recent restocks include booster bundles and specific collections such as the Zapdos ex Collection from the 151 [MEW] set. For example, around May 24, 2025, these products were restocked at retailers like GameStop (in-store only) and the Pokémon Center Online.
Booster Packs
Booster packs are sealed packs of Pokémon TCG cards, typically containing 10 cards each. They are the primary way players and collectors acquire new cards to build decks or expand their collections. Each booster pack contains a mix of common, uncommon, rare, and sometimes ultra-rare or special cards, offering excitement and variety with every pack opened. Opening booster packs is a key part of the Pokémon TCG experience, combining the thrill of chance with the strategy of building a powerful deck.
Did they stop printing Pokémon 151?
No, printing of Pokémon 151 has not stopped. Since its launch in September 2023, the set continues to be restocked and expanded through 2025. New products such as the Blooming Waters Premium Collection, released in February 2025, and other exclusive bundles keep adding fresh cards and promos to the 151 lineup. This ongoing support ensures that both collectors and competitive players can continue to enjoy and build around this iconic set.
Elite Trainer Box and Team Building
An Elite Trainer Box (ETB) is a popular Pokémon TCG product designed to help players build and organise their decks and collections while providing useful gameplay accessories. Typically, an ETB contains booster packs from a specific expansion, a promo card, Energy cards, a player’s guide, card sleeves, dice, and condition markers. These boxes are ideal for players wanting to get started with a new set or expand their existing decks, offering a convenient bundle of essentials that support team building and competitive play.
International Competition
The Pokémon TCG scene in 2025 has seen exciting international competition. The North America International Championships (NAIC), held June 13–15 in New Orleans, featured intense battles with decks built around powerful Pokémon like Dragapult ex and Charizard ex.
Looking ahead, the Pokémon World Championships 2025 will take place August 15–17 at the Anaheim Convention Center in California. This invite-only event is the pinnacle of competitive play, featuring the world’s best players who qualify through regional and international tournaments. Invitations are awarded based on performance in the Championship Series, including Master Ball League standings and regional qualifiers.
These events showcase the highest level of skill and strategy in the Pokémon TCG, inspiring players worldwide to refine their decks and gameplay.
