Evolution/TCG/Stages of Evolution/Basic Pokémon

A Basic Pokémon is the most basic of Pokémon cards, as can be deduced from its name. Commonly basic Pokémon will have low HP, a common rarity, and low damage and TCG Energy card (Energy) costs. These cards can be placed directly into play without another Pokémon card needing to be in play first. Pokémon that evolve from a Pokémon released in a later generation, such as or, always are basic Pokémon, despite being the second Pokémon in their own evolutionary lines. Baby Pokémon, TCG Shining Pokémon, TCG Pokémon ☆ (Pokémon), TCG Pokémon SP, and TCG Pokémon-EX are always Basic, and the latter four cannot evolve.