This interview is with Underground writer Jason Chen. Enjoy!
What’s your favorite thing about the Pokemon TCG?
Definitely the thrill of winning at tournaments, and hanging out with my friends. Opening 2+ boxes of packs isn’t too bad either – I don’t know why but they are so addictive!
Your least favorite thing?
The fact that people feel like they need to hide their hobby from other people lest they get labeled as a nerd. It’s a fun game with cute animals, who wouldn’t like that!
What is your most memorable match?
Hmm… there are so many! In terms of drama, Top 4 Gym Challenge vs. Pooka 2005 or Top 64 Nationals 2010 vs. Harrison were both intense, sudden death games which required some skill and a lot of luck on my part to pull out. I wrote about them elsewhere on the site, check it out if you have time.
What do you consider to be your greatest achievement?
My greatest achievement would have to be all the friends that I’ve made playing the game – and the fact that most of them still recognized me after a five year break! Despite how much I bash other players (either jokingly or not), I am really proud to have met so many cool people.
What is your favorite Pokemon TCG site?
SixPrizes.com, obviously!
Do you play the video games or watch the anime?
I used to play the video games – but that was a long time ago!
Did you have a mentor or someone who taught you Pokemon or did you learn on your own?
I haven’t had a mentor per se. I learned the game mostly by myself, and developed my own style along the way. But I’ve gotten a lot better thanks to playing with my friends Adam Capriola, Pablo Meza, and Jeremy Marron for so long. Back in the day we really pushed each other and came up with a lot of great stuff.
What modified format was your favorite to play in?
E-on definitely, I love the Skyridge set and Nintendo really helped out the game a lot during that time. It was a lot of fun with some great and beautifully drawn cards. I felt that there was a lot of balance in the game as well, as no one really knew what the best deck was.
What is your favorite deck to play?
I really like the lock decks I’ve made, such as Cradily Lock (from Sandstorm) and Chenlock.
What do you like to do when you’re not playing Pokemon?
Schoolwork, reading, hanging out with friends, and watching TV shows.
In 2 years, do you plan to still be playing the Pokemon TCG?
Yes – but I’m not committing to anything!
