ORDER OF OPERATIONS
ORDER OF OPERATIONS
At the competitive level, the Pokémon TCG frequently presents situations where multiple effects trigger at the same time, or where the order of resolution changes the outcome. Understanding the official order of operations is essential for making correct rulings — and for avoiding arguments with your opponent.
Damage Calculation Order
When a Pokémon attacks, damage can be modified by several things at once. The official resolution order is:
- Base damage — The number printed on the attack.
- Add modifiers — Effects from Tool cards, Abilities, or the attack text itself (e.g., "+20 if this Pokémon has a Tool attached").
- Multiply for Weakness — If the Defending Pokémon is Weak to the attacker's type, damage is multiplied by 2.
- Subtract for Resistance — If the Defending Pokémon resists the attacker's type, subtract 30 (usually).
🧪 Scenario: The Damage Puzzle
Your active Pokémon's attack does 50 base damage. You have a Tool card attached that adds +20. Your opponent's active Pokémon has Weakness (×2) to your type, but also has an Ability granting Resistance of −30.
Simultaneous Effects
When multiple effects need to resolve at the same time (e.g., both players' Abilities trigger between turns), the Active Player always resolves their effects first. This applies to:
- Between-turn effects (Poison, Burn checks)
- Abilities that trigger "when you play this Pokémon"
- Abilities that trigger "once during your turn"
🎯 Call a Judge
In tournament play, if you and your opponent disagree on how effects resolve, always call a judge. Never try to settle a ruling dispute between yourselves — that's what judges are there for. Requesting a judge is never rude; it's professional.
Test Your Knowledge
Complete the official Academy Exam for ORDER OF OPERATIONS to earn Doubloons and secure your operational badge.