The Trainer's Journal
The TCG Smiths Blog
Set breakdowns, market talk, collecting guides and news from the shop — written by collectors, for collectors.

Alt Arts, Special Illustrations & Full Arts: Modern Rarity Explained
Pokémon alt art cards explained — from the first alternate arts to today’s Special Illustration Rares, and why artwork now drives the market. Get the map.

Pokémon’s 30th Anniversary: Everything Collectors Need to Know
The Pokémon 30th anniversary is here — what’s been announced, lessons from the 25th, and what collectors should buy versus watch. Keep your head.

Master Ball Pokémon Cards: The Rarest Modern Chase Explained
What makes a Master Ball Pokémon card so rare? The sets that have them, the real odds, the most valuable examples and whether to chase or buy singles.

How to Start Collecting Pokémon Cards: A No-Nonsense Beginner’s Guide
Learn how to start collecting Pokémon cards without wasting money: first purchases, rarities explained, supplies under £30 and market basics. Start right.

God Packs Explained: Pokémon’s Rarest Pack Pulls
What is a god pack in Pokémon? We explain how these all-hit packs work, which sets have them, the real odds and how to spot faked god pack videos.

Collecting Eeveelution Cards: The Most Beloved Chase in Pokémon
Eeveelution cards are the most beloved chase in the Pokémon TCG. We cover the iconic cards by era, Prismatic Evolutions and budget ways in. Start here.

The 10 Best Pokémon TCG Sets to Collect in 2026
The best Pokémon TCG sets to collect in 2026, ranked 10 to 1 — plus the best set for beginners, for investors and for pure artwork. See our picks.

Upcoming Pokémon TCG Sets: The 2026 Release Calendar
Every upcoming Pokémon TCG set on the 2026 calendar: confirmed releases, what Japanese sets reveal, and when to pre-order. Stay ahead of every drop.

The 10 Rarest Pokémon Cards Ever (And What They’re Worth in 2026)
The rarest Pokémon cards ever made, from trophy Pikachus to the Pikachu Illustrator — how many exist, what they’re worth in 2026 and why. Take a look.