POK >Sets >Base Set (Shadowless)

The Base Set (Shadowless) from the Pokémon Trading Card Game is one of the earliest and most iconic print runs released in 1999, capturing the excitement of the original Pokémon Red and Blue video games by featuring the first 151 Pokémon in card form. This version is distinguished by the absence of a drop shadow to the right of the artwork frame, lighter card coloration, and slightly different font and layout details compared to the later Unlimited print. The set’s lore centers on Pokémon Trainers assembling teams of creatures like Charizard, Blastoise, and Venusaur to battle using elemental types such as Fire, Water, Grass, and Psychic, reflecting the journey to become a Pokémon Master. Mechanically, it introduced core gameplay elements that still define the TCG today: players use Energy cards to power attacks, evolve Basic Pokémon into Stage 1 and Stage 2 forms, and strategically deploy Trainer cards to heal, draw, or disrupt opponents, all with the objective of knocking out opposing Pokémon and claiming Prize cards to win the game.