Pokemon Cards: What is Sun and Moon Energy?

by Eric Mills

Energy is a core component of Pokémon: The Card Game (TCG). It allows players to initiate a move via points the player spends to take action. Any player worth their salt has a reliable and diverse stable of energy cards ready to use, depending on the scenario.

The Pokemon Sun and Moon expansion for TCG continues the tradition of energy cards with some notable exceptions. Like the previous series, Pokemon Sun & Moon toys come with the notion of opposites – in this series’ case, the sun and the moon.

But are there differences in energy this time around? Let’s break down what’s new in this Pokemon: TCG expansion, including Sun and Moon energy cards.

What’s New in Alola?

Pokemon Sun & Moon brings with it both new rules and new faces.

It is the first TCG series that features Generation VII Pokémon. And with Gen VII comes the inclusion of Alolan forms of many beloved Gen I Pokemon. Not every Gen I Pokemon has a new Alolan form. But fan-favorites like Meowth, Marowak, and Exeggutor have new looks (and types) to completely change up the ARG.

Another new mechanic is Pokemon-GX, which expands the Pokemon-EX update from the prior series. Pokemon-GX cards carry immense power and even provide players the opportunity to take two prize cards upon a knockout. More than anything, players will notice a power difference when dipping into Sun & Moon.

How Has Energy Changed in Sun & Moon?

To put it simply, Pokemon TCG: Sun & Moon employs the same energy system players know and love. Energy is split into different elemental categories, including:

  • Colorless
  • Darkness
  • Dragon
  • Grass
  • Fairy
  • Fighting
  • Fire
  • Lightning
  • Metal
  • Psychic
  • Water

Each Pokemon Sun & Moon card is associated with one of the above energy types. One notable change in the Sun & Moon expansion is that an energy card will now come in every pack. So, if you are looking for Sun and Moon energy cards, your adventure just got a little easier!

Pokeball toy

“No Energy” Cards

One element of energy for Pokemon Sun & Moon cards is there are certain cards that require no energy for an attack. However, this is not new to TCG: Sun & Moon. And it doesn’t negate the use of energy cards in the ARG. So keep a handy stock of the relevant energy cards for your needs.

New Energy Cards

The Triple Acceleration Energy card came out in the Sun & Moon: Unbroken Bonds era. It was a favorite for players who favored single-prize Pokemon that hit for three colorless energy points. It’s niche, but a solid example of how The Pokemon Company likes to add new strategies for players.

Reprints

Some cards came back into circulation with the launch of Sun & Moon that had previously gone out of circulation. And this includes some special energy cards, including:

  • Recycle Energy
  • Double Colorless Energy

Pokemon Sun and Moon energy strategies greatly benefitted from this versatility. For players who want to revive an old strategy, these old cards’ comeback struck just the right chord.

Which Set is Better: Moon Energy vs. Sun Energy?

All in all, which set version you choose comes down to personal preference. Each of the energies listed above is present in each set. The same goes for the chances of GX cards, rare foils, and more. Sun or Moon energy cards will work the same way.

There are some differences in which Pokemon are available in each set, but these don’t wildly change the game. And players won’t be at an inherent disadvantage whether they play Sun or Moon cards.

So choose either the celestial body you prefer. Or go with the set that has the potential to pull your favorites. And keep on hunting for that Tapu Lele GX. You can’t go wrong either way.

Add the Best Sun and Moon Energy Cards to Your Deck

Energy may not be changing in Sun & Moon, but your quest to find the very best cards should stay strong. There are some real heavy hitters that have been released with this expansion!

Lightning Card Collection can help you find the best cards to level the competition. Our repackaging process means you are sure to get the best variety. This includes everything from our assorted collections to our ultra-rare bundles. Catch 'em all today!

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