Pokémon Card Game: V & VMAX Card Rules Explained (2024)

Special cards in the Pokémon Trading Card Game have gone through numerous changes over the years, ranging from EX and GX to V-Union four-card sets. V and VMAX cards were introduced to the Pokémon TCG alongside Pokémon Sword and Shield. The VMAX cards are meant to mimic Dynamax and Gigantamax mechanics that appear in the Galar region.

This special battle style allows a player to super-size their Pokémon when battling over a Power Spot in the Sword and Shield games. Power Spots aren't needed in the Pokémon TCG, however. Instead, players only need to pull a V and VMAX card to take advantage of a giant Pokémon's powerful abilities during a battle.

Related: Pokémon TCG Cards From 2022 That Are Worth The Most Money

Pokémon V Cards & Rules

The V-style PokémonTCG cards are similar to previous variants like EX from Pokémon X and Y cards. All V Pokémon are considered "Basic" and can be played without evolution, even if the Pokémon is a 2nd or 3rd evolution. For example, Charizard V doesn't need a Charmander and Charmeleon to be played first.

Pokémon V cards possess higher HP than an average Pokémon card and usually have powerful move sets and abilities. If a V card is knocked out, the opponent will take 2 prize cards instead of one. Like EX, GX, or other variant cards in the TCG, V cards have a different appearance than standard Pokémon cards. The art can be full-body or just a portion of the Pokémon, and the cards have a holofoil element in their designs.

VMAX Pokémon Cards & Rules

Unlike Pokémon V cards, the VMAX Pokémon TCG cards work as an evolution. To VMAX, players must place that card on top of a V card. For example, in order to play a Toxtricity VMAX, a player must first place a Toxtricity V card on their bench or as their active Pokémon, and then evolve that Toxtricity V into a Toxtricity VMAX.

Related: Pokémon TCG Trick Or Trade Cards Worth The Most Money

Like Pokémon V cards, VMAX Pokémon get another boost in HP and can deal devastating damage to an opponent. However, playing these cards can be a risky move. When knocked out, a player's opponent will take 3 Prize cards, which can be devastating and offer the opponent a solid lead, if not instantly winning the match.

While VMAX cards are usually rarer and worth more than Pokémon V cards, both are necessary for playing the Pokémon TCG. However, collectors may only be interested in VMAX, since these cards are harder to obtain and thus more valuable. Additionally, Ultra Rare variants of V and VMAX cards exist in most Sword and Shield TCG expansions and are worth even more money. These typically feature different and full artwork from the standard V and VMAX cards, but they're incredibly rare.

To obtain V or VMAX Pokémon Cards, players will want to purchase packs or sets from the Pokémon Sword and ShieldTCG collection. VMAX and V Pokémon cards can be found inside boosters, as part of pre-built decks, or as promo cards in special box sets for the Pokémon TCG. There are currently numerous Pokémon species available in the Pokémon series to select from, giving players a range of different types to battle with.

More: Best Pokémon TCG Cards To Buy In 2022 For Future Investment