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.
How does auto leveling affect my Pokémon?
During the tournament, all Pokémon are set to Lv. 50 during battle. Their stats are adjusted accordingly. All other aspects of the Pokémon remain the same, including moves known and Evolution.
For example, during a battle, a Lv. 100 Hydreigon that learned Outrage at Lv. 79 would be reduced to Lv. 50 and its stats would be adjusted to what they would be at Lv. 50. Though this would put Hydreigon below the level at which it evolved from Zweilous (as well as below the level at which it learned Outrage), it would remain a Hydreigon that knows Outrage. After the battle, Hydreigon would be returned to Lv. 100 and its stats would return to normal.