Pokémon is a worldwide phenomenon that has taken the world by storm, with millions of fans across the globe. One of the most significant aspects of the franchise is the trading card game, which has been around since 1996 in Japan and 1999 in other parts of the world. Pokémon cards are available in many languages, including Japanese and English. With so many card languages, it's only normal for differences to exist between each one. In this article, we will explore the differences between Japanese and English Pokémon cards.
Differences in Card Design
Back of the Card
Probably the most obvious difference between Japanese and English Pokémon cards is the design. Japanese cards have a different backing since their switch from the old Pocket Monster design while English cards have always sported the same iconic Blue back.
Border Color
Aside from a completely different backing, Japanese cards have a silver border, something that the English version has only recently added with the release of Scarlet & Violet. This change is highly welcomed by collectors and players as the silver color tends to look better with most cards than the yellow border.
Paper Quality
This one is only really noticeable when holding the cards or stacking them, but the paper quality is different in both — English cards are thicker and don't allow any light to pass through (except in WOTC vintage sets). Japanese cards use thinner paper.
Holofoil
Japanese cards are also known for their special holofoil effects, which make the cards shine in the light differently. These effects are more prevalent in Japanese cards, and some collectors prefer them over English cards for this reason. Additionally, Japanese cards tend to have a glossy finish, which makes them feel more high-quality than English cards. Promo cards are especially prone to getting special Holofoil patterns.
Differences in Products
Booster Packs & Booster Boxes
One of the most significant distinctions between Japanese and English Pokémon cards is observed with the booster packs and booster boxes. For Japanese cards, booster packs contain only 5 cards and a booster box has 30 packs, while English booster packs contain 10 cards and booster boxes have 36 packs. The design of the box is also different — Japanese booster boxes feature the entire set art on the front while English booster boxes lack appeal in that area.
This makes for a very different opening experience. On one hand, fans say that the English products give you more for your money, while collectors often find that Japanese products will contain less ''doubles'' and produce less waste of low-end cards. Japanese special sets do also feature 10 cards.
Pull rates
Talking about the contrast between products, pull rates are a key aspect to discuss. As the franchise progressed, chase cards and top hits became harder to pull and the most sought-after cards such as the Umbreon Vmax from Evolving Skies / Eevee Heroes are quite elusive. However, Japanese booster boxes guarantee at least 1 Secret Rare card — something that is welcomed among collectors as you know you are at least getting something decent for your cash, while English Pokémon Booster boxes DO NOT guarantee anything.
Special Japanese sets such as Vstar Universe guarantee at least 1 hit, and until the release of Scarlet & Violet, this was not the case for English Pokémon Cards.
Print runs and availability
For those looking to pickup their favorite card from a Japanese set, it may be more difficult than it seems, as print runs are usually smaller than that of English sets, and availability tends to get harder with time. English cards are also more widely available across the world than Japanese cards.
Japanese cards are primarily sold in Japan and can be challenging to obtain outside of the country. This means that collectors and players may need to rely on importing cards or purchasing them through online marketplaces, which can be more expensive and time-consuming.
English cards, on the other hand, are widely available in many countries, including the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. They can be purchased at most toy stores, hobby shops, and online retailers. This makes them much more accessible and affordable for collectors and players alike
Pokémon Singles
Finding specific cards can also be quite a challenge with Japanese cards as they are less available and also less common. This means that locating singles on platforms like Ebay at your local games stores is going to be more of a challenge. Completing English sets is much easier for this reason, as card shops and online card shops will carry more of that in inventory.
Exclusive Products
Japan is #1 when it comes to producing sought-after exclusive products for Pokémon cards. Collectors of sealed items, promo cards and special movie releases tend to seek those harder to find cards that we don't see every day. This includes for example the popular Munch Scream Pokémon card lineor the Precious Collector Box.
Pricing
The availability of Japanese and English Pokémon cards also has an impact on pricing. Japanese cards are generally more expensive than English cards, especially when it comes to rare or exclusive cards. This is because Japanese cards are rarer and more challenging to obtain, especially for collectors outside of Japan.
English cards are generally more affordable, even when it comes to rare or exclusive cards. This is because they are more widely available, and collectors and players do not need to rely on importing or purchasing through third-party sellers.
Which one is better?
So, which is better, Japanese or English Pokémon cards? The answer depends on what you are looking for. If you are a collector who values rarity and exclusivity, then Japanese cards may be the better choice for you. They have more intricate designs, exclusive artworks, and are generally more expensive, making them a desirable addition to any collection.
