Why can’t I use a Game Card from a different region?
Refer to the video game section of the Play! Pokémon rules and resources page for full information. Some events limit what region-specific hardware is usable due to tournament operation requirements.
How can I tell if my Pokémon are legal for tournament play?
Staff use special software to ensure that a competitor’s team is legal for competition. This software only scans the Pokémon and items being used for the competition. It verifies that all information falls within the parameters of what is possible to achieve through normal game play.
This software is not available to the general public. The only way to ensure that your team is legal for competition is to only use Pokémon and items that you received through normal game play.
How will you verify that my Pokémon have not been modified by an external device?
We are not able to discuss the extent of verification that will be used during Pokémon Video Game Championship Series events. Additionally, we cannot provide you with any information about checking your own Pokémon by yourself. As a competitor, you are advised to only use Pokémon that you raised yourself and items that you received through normal game play.