The Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) is a major face of the Pokémon franchise that has developed a dedicated following worldwide. In Japan, where the phenomenon began, people of all ages continue to avidly play the game. Various stores around the country sell Pokémon cards with the most in-demand being valued in the millions of yen ($8,000US+)!

The cards are not only collectibles but also play a significant role in competitive gaming. Here are the top 10 most popular Pokémon TGC characters used in TGC play in Japan, taking into account card value, utility in gameplay, and overall demand.

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KABIGON (SNORLAX)

10. Snorlax, whose name is Kabigon in Japan, cards are cherished for their depiction of the Pokémon’s lovable and relaxed nature, as well as their formidable health points in the game. Special editions and holographic Snorlax cards are particularly valued for both play and collection.

RESHIRAM AND ZEKROM

9. These dragon-type legendary Pokémon from the Unova region are celebrated for their powerful elemental attacks and synergistic potential in the game. Cards featuring Reshiram and Zekrom are often used in high-powered decks, maintaining their popularity in the competitive circuit.

GENGAR

8. Gengar, with its ghostly abilities and distinct design, is a fan favorite. Its ability to manipulate trick plays and its presence in various powerful card forms make it a top pick in the competitive scene.

ARCEUS

7. As the mythical Pokémon that is said to have created the Pokémon universe, Arceus cards are inherently valuable. Cards featuring Arceus are sought after for their rarity and powerful game attributes, making them highly desirable among collectors and players.

SIRNIGHT (GARDEVOIR)

6. With its psychic abilities and elegant appearance, Gardevoir, known as Sirnight in Japan, is a staple in many competitive decks. Its popularity is enhanced by its effectiveness in battle, particularly through its various evolved forms that are represented on different cards.

UMBREON

5. Umbreon, called Bracky (or Blacky) in Japan, is one of the Eevee evolutions and has a significant following due to its aesthetic appeal and strategic versatility in the game. Dark-type Pokémon like Umbreon are popular for their resilience and powerful attacks, with Umbreon’s cards being favored for their balance of beauty and gameplay utility.

RAYQUAZA

4. Known for its striking design and effectiveness in play, Rayquaza is a favorite among competitive players. Its cards often feature in high-tier decks due to their strong offensive capabilities, making Rayquaza a popular and respected figure in the Japanese Pokémon TCG community.

MEWTWO

3. Mewtwo cards are highly favored due to the character’s legendary status and psychic powers, which translate into powerful game mechanics. Special editions and Mewtwo cards featuring unique moves or holographic designs are especially valuable.

PIKACHU

2. As the mascot of the Pokémon series, Pikachu cards are perpetually popular. Special editions are particularly prized, like those illustrated by famous artists or featuring Pikachu in various costumes. The popularity of Pikachu cards in Japan is buoyed by both their collectability and their frequent use in promotional events.

CHARIZARD

1. Charizard’s cards are universally adored and highly sought after. In Japan, Charizard is synonymous with value, often featuring in limited edition releases and high-rarity variants. The card’s powerful in-game abilities and iconic fiery dragon appearance make it a top choice among players and collectors.

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The popularity of the Pokémon trading card game in Japan is influenced by a combination of the Pokémon’s visual appeal, the strategic value of the cards in gameplay, and the rarity and special features of the cards themselves. These factors make the trading card game not just a game of strategy but also a beloved collector’s market, where the most popular Pokémon continue to be both admired and played.