So, you’ve decided to take the plunge. You’re moving beyond picking up a few Pokémon card packs at the supermarket and are eyeing up the big prize: a full, factory-sealed booster box. It’s a rite of passage for any serious collector or player, a treasure chest brimming with collecting potential. But as you stand on the precipice of this exciting purchase, a crucial question pops into your head: just how many packs are you actually getting in that box?
If you’ve ever asked this, you’re not alone. The answer feels like it should be simple, but as with many things in the Pokémon world, there are a few little quirks to know. Let’s break it down and get you ready to rip new packs with confidence.
The Magic Number: 36
For the vast majority of modern Pokémon TCG booster boxes, the magic number is 36. From main expansion sets like Scarlet & Violet to Sword & Shield, when you buy a standard booster box, you can expect to find 36 individual booster packs waiting inside.
Why 36? It’s a number that has become the industry standard over the years. It provides a satisfyingly hefty stack of packs to open, offering a good chance at pulling many of the cards in the set, including some of the more elusive rare and ultra-rare finds. For players, a box often provides a fantastic variety of Pokémon and Trainer cards, including some of the various types of Pokémon card available in a given set.
It’s often enough to start building several competitive decks, though you’ll need a good grasp of what the symbols on Pokémon cards mean to assemble a winning strategy. For collectors, it’s the most cost-effective way to chase after a complete set.
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Start Tracking Now — It’s FreeThe Exception to the Rule: Special Sets and Japanese Boxes
Now, just when you think you have it all figured out, Pokémon loves to throw a curveball. Not every box labelled “booster box” will contain 36 packs. It’s important to keep an eye out for a few key differences:
Japanese Booster Boxes
If you’re importing cards from Japan, you’ll notice their booster boxes are a bit different. A standard Japanese booster box typically contains 30 packs. Furthermore, their special “high-class” sets often come in smaller boxes of 10 packs. So, if you’re buying Japanese cards, always double-check the product description!
“Special” or “Holiday” Sets
Every year, The Pokémon Company releases special sets that are a little different from the main series. Think of sets like Crown Zenith, Pokémon GO, or the recent 151 expansion. These sets do not have traditional 36-pack booster boxes. Instead, their booster packs are exclusively found within other products like Elite Trainer Boxes (ETBs), tins, and collection boxes. So, if you see a booster box for a special set, be wary—it’s likely not an official product.
Elite Trainer Boxes (ETBs)
While not technically a “booster box,” the Elite Trainer Box is another popular sealed product. It’s worth noting that these usually contain a much smaller number of packs, typically 8 to 10, alongside other goodies like card sleeves, dice, and energy cards. It’s a great package, but don’t mistake it for a full booster box.
So, What’s the Verdict?
To put it simply, if you are buying a standard, English-language Pokémon TCG booster box from a main expansion set, you can confidently expect to find 36 booster packs inside. It’s the go-to for the full pack-opening experience.
Just remember to keep the exceptions in mind. Pay attention to whether the set is a “special” holiday release and always check the product details, especially if you’re venturing into the exciting world of Japanese cards. Now, armed with this knowledge, you’re ready to choose the right box and begin the thrilling hunt for your favourite Pokémon!
