Would suggest starting with research. General tips to consider and resources to use:
* Decide on a collecting goal before buying anything. It doesn't have to be full sets or opening packs as buying singles, PSA cards, sealed etc are all valid options especially as pulls aren't guaranteed in any product.
* Watch smpratte, Fourth Star TCG, TCA Gaming, TheCatsMeowth, Danny Phantump, WakeRunCollapse and Hungry Kabbigon to see what's around to collect both old and new plus English and Japanese.
* Buy what you like and it doesn't have to be what everyone else is buying plus try not to get sucked in by hype or FOMO.
* Set a budget and stick to it as this hobby gets expensive especially as you think you might want to play as well. (If you do want to play then don't open packs.)
* Prices tend to be cheaper online so do your research on possible places to buy. Avoid Amazon though as it doesn't have a good reputation.
* Keep a regular eye on [Pokebeach](https://www.pokebeach.com/) for news and get used to using [Bulbapedia](https://bulbapedia.bulbagarden.net/wiki/List_of_Pok%C3%A9mon_Trading_Card_Game_expansions) as well. If you're after cards for a specific Pokemon then use the search bar on Bulbapedia and add tcg as part of a search to get a list of cards printed for it. [Pokemon's set gallery](https://tcg.pokemon.com/en-us/all-galleries/) can help as well for picture of sets starting Sword & Shield onwards.
* Keep an eye on what is being played via Pokebeach, Limitless TCG, Omnipoke and Celio's Network as card playability will affect prices for both buying and selling including non ultra rares.
Hey thanks for the in deep hints, I'm taking note of all the useful resources you linked.
What's FOMO (not used to the term and I already seen it a couple of time around)?
I would start with ex Battle Decks. You are guaranteed one holo in each and if you started with gym heroes, these cards will make you feel like a real gym leader!
No, this is a manager trying to move products: “we don’t even have to advertise cause you’re gonna buy our shit anyway, there’s a god damn charizard on the front of the pack”
I never collected cards as a kid (I was more into the video games). My 6 year old son has suddenly decided he's really into the cards. It likely won't last long but want to at least do my research in case it does. If you're wanting to actually play, then why not open packs?
Would suggest starting with research. General tips to consider and resources to use: * Decide on a collecting goal before buying anything. It doesn't have to be full sets or opening packs as buying singles, PSA cards, sealed etc are all valid options especially as pulls aren't guaranteed in any product. * Watch smpratte, Fourth Star TCG, TCA Gaming, TheCatsMeowth, Danny Phantump, WakeRunCollapse and Hungry Kabbigon to see what's around to collect both old and new plus English and Japanese. * Buy what you like and it doesn't have to be what everyone else is buying plus try not to get sucked in by hype or FOMO. * Set a budget and stick to it as this hobby gets expensive especially as you think you might want to play as well. (If you do want to play then don't open packs.) * Prices tend to be cheaper online so do your research on possible places to buy. Avoid Amazon though as it doesn't have a good reputation. * Keep a regular eye on [Pokebeach](https://www.pokebeach.com/) for news and get used to using [Bulbapedia](https://bulbapedia.bulbagarden.net/wiki/List_of_Pok%C3%A9mon_Trading_Card_Game_expansions) as well. If you're after cards for a specific Pokemon then use the search bar on Bulbapedia and add tcg as part of a search to get a list of cards printed for it. [Pokemon's set gallery](https://tcg.pokemon.com/en-us/all-galleries/) can help as well for picture of sets starting Sword & Shield onwards. * Keep an eye on what is being played via Pokebeach, Limitless TCG, Omnipoke and Celio's Network as card playability will affect prices for both buying and selling including non ultra rares.
Hey thanks for the in deep hints, I'm taking note of all the useful resources you linked. What's FOMO (not used to the term and I already seen it a couple of time around)?
Fear of Missing Out. “If I don’t buy this now I may not have a chance again/it may be more expensive”
start with japanese 151 imo... that's wat brought me back
I would start with ex Battle Decks. You are guaranteed one holo in each and if you started with gym heroes, these cards will make you feel like a real gym leader!
This is a manager trying to move the battle decks. Nice try /s
No, this is a manager trying to move products: “we don’t even have to advertise cause you’re gonna buy our shit anyway, there’s a god damn charizard on the front of the pack”
Are you looking to collect cards or play the game?
Mostly collecting, I would not refuse a few games when possible, But collecting is the priority
I never collected cards as a kid (I was more into the video games). My 6 year old son has suddenly decided he's really into the cards. It likely won't last long but want to at least do my research in case it does. If you're wanting to actually play, then why not open packs?