189. New 2026 TCG Rule Changes + Black & White Set Hype!

Welcome to Episode 189 of Special Conditions, the Pokémon TCG podcast where competing and collecting collide! 🎴

In this episode, Justin and Lane from Good Morning Johto break down the 2026 Pokémon TCG rule changes, including the controversial shift from “+3 turns” to “+1 turn” and what that means for tournament timing and gameplay. We also dive deep into the upcoming Black & White mega set — covering the incredible reprint cards, massive 800+ card set list, and the return of horizontal line holos!

🛍️ Lane gives a behind-the-scenes look at prepping for Collect-A-Con Cleveland, revealing what it takes to vend at a major convention, pricing strategies, and what they're bringing to sell — including $100k in sealed Pokémon product!

🎉 Plus:

• Sideboards in Pokémon TCG? A dream or the future?

• TGA grading reveal with a surprise 10!

• Is NAIC better in Columbus?

• What Union Arena, One Piece, and Magic: The Gathering can teach us about tournament structure.

🎧 Whether you're a collector, competitive player, or vendor, there’s something for everyone this week!

📌 Chapters

00:00 – Intro & Johto Heatwave

02:30 – Lane’s Store Life & Event Planning

03:00 – 2026 TCG Rule Changes Overview

06:00 – Swiss Rounds & Top Cut Changes

09:00 – Tournament Timing & +1 Turn Reaction

13:00 – Comparing with Magic & Other TCGs

17:00 – Slow Play, Judges, and Strategy

20:00 – Best of 3 vs. Best of 1

24:00 – Sideboarding in Pokémon?

28:00 – TGA Grading Reveal & Partnership 31:00 – Thank You to Patrons

32:00 – Black & White Mega Set Breakdown

37:00 – Reverse Holos, Pull Rates & Predictions

41:00 – Gen 5 Nostalgia & Market Potential

45:00 – Collect-A-Con Cleveland Prep

52:00 – Pricing Challenges & Market Strategy

56:00 – Con Rules, Setup Woes & Rants

57:50 – Final Thoughts & Shoutouts

Use code FULLHEAL at https://tgacards.com/ for 10% off your order!

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Intro Music

Trapped In A Pokéball

Dj CUTMAN and Belthesar

GameChops - Ultraball

http://gamechops.com/ultraball/