A weekly event for trading card games has been underway beneath an arts and crafts store in Sydney, where battles rage between players. Chloe Appleby, a 30-year-old museum curator, faces off against her colleague Dai, as fans of the popular franchise Pokémon compete in their favorite game. The event is part of a wider phenomenon that has seen Pokémon cards boom during the pandemic and reach record prices due to high demand.
The surge in popularity has led to an increase in public awareness of the game, with community groups like Girl Power TCG emerging to make minority genders feel safe and comfortable in casual settings. Top players, such as Natalie Millar, a 24-year-old Brisbane-based public servant, attribute their success to teamwork and support from their communities.
Despite concerns over theft and break-ins targeting local game stores, the industry remains committed to creating inclusive spaces where fans can enjoy their passion without fear of judgment or intimidation. Authorities have arrested four men in connection with the burglaries, but the case is ongoing.
As players strategize on how to set up decks and combat shifts in the metagame, it becomes clear that community is essential to success in Pokémon trading card games. By working together and supporting one another, players can achieve their goals and enjoy the competitive spirit of the game.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/games/2025/mar/15/its-like-a-mens-shed-inside-the-pokemon-trading-card-communities-rocked-by-a-string-of-brazen-thefts