How many V Star cards are allowed in a deck?
As an avid Pokémon TCG player and content creator, one of the most common questions I see is around the rules for VSTAR cards – specifically the limit per deck. So let‘s dive into the details!
The Official TCG Rulebook States A 1 VSTAR Limit
According to Section 3.4 of the 2023 Pokémon TCG tournament rules, only 1 VSTAR Pokémon is allowed in each 60-card deck. This limit of 1 is to balance out the sheer strength these cards can bring to a battle.
VSTARs Evolved From Vs With A Powerful Once-Per-Game Ability
Introduced in early 2022 with the Brilliant Stars set, VSTAR cards evolve from basic V Pokémon. They have higher HP than standard Vs but less than VMAXs usually. The key trait is their VSTAR Power – a tactical nuke of an ability or attack that can only be used one time each game.
To track this, the VSTAR card is flipped over once its Power is activated. This puts strict limitations on a very strong effect!
VSTAR Power Changes The Game When Used At The Right Moment
Even though you only get one shot, these Powers can swing the momentum entirely when played strategically. For example, Arceus VSTAR can shut down all your opponent‘s Abilities. And Dialga VSTAR can take 6 prize cards at once!
The trick is timing it well and building your strategy around optimizing that singular VSTAR turn.
VSTAR Usage Rates Show Their Competitive Impact
VSTARs may be limited to 1 per deck, but they have made a definite competitive impact in 2022. According to data site LimitlessTCG, some of the top meta decks leverage these new cards:
| Arceus VSTAR | 16% usage rate |
| Whimsicott VSTAR | 12% usage rate |
| Lugia VSTAR | 9% usage rate |
So while niche, the top VSTAR Pokémon are making tournament appearances in winning strategies when used properly.
I Predict VSTARs Will Become More Prominent Over Time
As a gaming specialist, I expect VSTAR importance and usage rates to grow steadily over the next few years. Pokemon TCG is releasing new VSTARs with that competitive edge more frequently through late 2023 and 2024. Once we have a wider roster, more players will integrate them into counters and combos.
It may be awhile before they reach the ubiquity of GXs and VMAXs. But get ready for every deck to be built around excelling at that single VSTAR turn before long! The demand seems inevitable based on collector hype over the unique playstyle.
So in summary – while the limit is 1 VSTAR per deck, savvy players are finding ways to leverage them for championships. We can expect that trend to continue based on the card distribution roadmap!
Let me know in the comments which VSTAR combo you think will dominate next season!
