How to Prep for Pokemon Regional Championship in Sacramento, CA 2023
The Pokemon Regional Championships is coming to Sacramento, CA, and we have all the details!
The rise in popularity for playing Pokemon TCG competitively has been astounding, and with the 2024 season kicking off already, it doesn’t look like that momentum is likely to slow down. In fact, competition is growing only more fierce, with a new and higher 600 CP threshold for players to earn the coveted 2024 World’s invite.
While many regionals have been announced, it seems that a ton of competitive Pokemon players happen to live in California already. So that combined with the fact that many players are now traveling great distances to attend Regionals means that the Regional Championship in Sacramento is likely to be an exciting one!
Who Should Read this Guide?
First of all, this isn’t really a guide to what to play at the regionals. The best resource to help you figure that question out would be our list of best Pokemon decks in the Pokemon TCG Standard format, which we update frequently
Instead, we’re going to give you an inside view of what’s going on at the Regionals in Sacramento, important dates and times, background information on Pokemon Regionals in case this is your first time, as well as what to expect from Sacramento if you haven’t been before, and things to do nearby.
When is the 2023 Pokemon Regional Championship in Sacramento Happening?
The Pokemon Regional Championship is coming to Sacramento the weekend of October 13-15.
Where is the Event Being Held?
Trainers will be gathering at the SAFE Credit Union Convention Center in Sacramento during the event to try their best to become the very best. The Convention Center is pretty much in the very heart of Sacramento, and it’s a nice location in pretty slow paced and friendly city.
What is There to Do Nearby the Convention Center?
While most of your time will likely be spent at the event, it can still be a bit nerve racking to visit a new place. And you don’t want nerves ruining your chances of winning. So why not add a little extra time into your trip to take a look at your local area and get to know it?
There are several great options very near where the Pokemon Regionals is being held. These include:
Sacramento Midtown
Midtown is probably the trendiest neighborhood we’ve been to in all of Sacramento, and it has an incredible collection of restaurants, bars, and coffee shops. If you’re looking for a nice place to have a good meal with friends, or unwind before the big game, look no further than Midtown.
Old Town
Without a doubt, Old Town Sacramento is our favorite spot in the entire city. It’s an incredibly authentic feeling old west town with not only great eating spots, but also access to the best Railroad Museum in the country. If you are traveling with kids or family, Old Town is likely one of your best bets to enjoy when you aren’t battling Pokemon.
When Should You Get to the Convention Center?
You don’t have to show up until the Saturday of the event. While you can go on Friday, it’s entirely optional. A few benefits include getting some last minute practice in, and picking up your swag early. Last Regional I went to they were having a tournament before the main event. This could be a great way to work out some nerves and get some much needed practice in.
What Time Does the Tournament Start?
The tournament begins at 8:30am on Saturday the 14th, meaning you will want to get there by 8am at the latest to make sure you have no issue getting in and ready to play.
How Do I Register for the Event?
In order to take part in the Championship, you’ll need a player ID, and to register via RK9.
Can Anyone Go to Regional Championships?
Right now, there aren’t any qualifications to attend a Regional. That being said, you aren’t going to want to attend if you are a fresh beginner. Players at these events bring their A-game and expect the same out of you. So get a few local events under your belt so you know what to expect at this higher level of play.
What Should I Bring to Regionals?
This one is fairly easy as what you’ll need to play Pokemon TCG at a regionals is pretty standard. In order to play comfortably you will need:
A standard legal Pokemon deck.
Card sleeves to keep your cards in good condition.
A play mat to put your cards on.
A tournament legal dice for coin flips.
Damage counters.
A non-wifi connected watch to keep track of matches.
Water and snacks (if the convention allows it).
And that’s about it! You’re now ready to enjoy the Pokemon Regional Championships in Sacramento! Don’t forget to have fun while getting your training on!
