Entertainment Swindon

The Pokemon League Swindon was established in the middle of 2014 by Swindonian Sam Tree, as a way of local fans of Pokemon could meet up. The first meet was at the Shield and Dagger pub, before piggybacking on the back of SWAT gamers meet-up on Tuesday nights before teaming up with the Incredible Comic Shop in the Brunel Shopping Centre in 2016 where the league has been meeting ever since.

Speaking to Sam about how the colab between the league and the Incredible Comic Shop, he said: “It just felt the natural team-up, not only is it just a fantastic place to meet and play, as well as being a place for our members to purchase products from their amazing selection of cards and accessories who are always there to help and always so very friendly”.

The group caters for basically all ages, anyone is welcome. Though the group does suggest anyone under 12years old comes along with a parent of guardian. And for those who have never played and wanting to get involved, the group are always ready to teach new players, trade and offer advice. The group currently has members ageing from 10years old to 60years old.

Within the group, they have players from all over the UK who join in on larger League Cup events, even players from Europe on their journey to the World Championships.

It’s great to see such a diverse range of people playing and
bonding over a shared interest.

Anyone can just turn up and play – as long as they have a “legal” deck;
one that’s in current rotation. The group host a range of events from League Challenges and Cups, which players like to participate in to win points for the world championships, to friendly tournaments and Pre-release events. These are particularly popular as everyone is on level footing – each player gets a build and battle box and they make a dec to play with there and then – it’s really luck of the draw and everyone has a great time.

The group is also supported by Pokemon, by running an official league. Sam said: “We get special booster packs which we hand out at tournaments as well as special promo cards and champion playmats (in our League Cups) which we distribute to our members.

“Some of these cards can’t be obtained anywhere else so supporting your local league by attending makes sure they’re readily available.

Brunel Knights also offers more opportunities to meet-up with other like
minded players. It’s hosted by The Incredible Comic Shop and The
Warhammer shop in town on the first Wednesday of every month in the
foodcourt of the Brunel Centre. It’s a real casual affair and players
can also check out other gaming setups like Warhammer, Boardgames,
Dungeons and Dragons and other trading cards.

For anyone interested in the Pokemon Trading Card game, get along and meet like-minded players, the group is always happy to welcome new members into their ranks.