Kalos Starter Set

Pokémon TCG: Kalos Starter Set ushers in the XY Series with a burst of fresh excitement, released on November 8, 2013 as the very first expansion of the XY Era. Centered around the three Kalos region partner Pokémon—Chespin, Fennekin, and Froakie—the Kalos Starter Set comprises three distinct Theme Decks (each available in standard and Deluxe editions) designed to guide new trainers into Unova’s successor region. Every deck comes complete with a rulebook, damage and status counters, a custom coin, and a colorful deckbox featuring its signature Pokémon, making it easy to jump straight into your first battles.

Each Kalos Starter Set deck includes a built‑in code card for the Pokémon Trading Card Game Online, unlocking the full deck digitally and ensuring seamless play between physical and virtual arenas. The Deluxe versions take it a step further by bundling in a booster pack from the concluding Black & White Series, allowing trainers to expand their card pool and bridge the gap between eras. Playing mats, “How to Play” DVDs, and comprehensive manuals round out the set, delivering everything you need—right out of the box.

In Japan, the Beginning Set debuted in two gender‑targeted variants: the standard Beginning Set and the “for Girls” edition, each featuring subtle design tweaks and a handful of exclusive cards while sharing a unified numbering system. Both releases showcased three half‑decks for Chespin, Fennekin, and Froakie, but the Girls Set leaned into softer pastel packaging and “cuter” iconography—a nod to broader audience appeal. Collectors will note that file names and online references tag this set as “XY0”, distinguishing it as the prologue to the “XY1” onward expansions.

Beyond its rich contents, the Kalos Starter Set introduced a pivotal gameplay rule: Pokémon of the player going first cannot attack on the first turn, a change that reshaped early‑game strategy across the TCG. Deluxe metal cases, themed card sleeves, sticker sheets, and even mini‑notebooks accompany the DX editions—turning each package into a keepsake as well as a toolkit. Whether you’re a newcomer charting your first deck or a veteran reliving the dawn of a new era, the Kalos Starter Set remains a standout launch that set the tone for years of exciting XY gameplay.