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Last Updated On: February 19th, 2024
- Pokémon Level: Beginner, Intermediate
- Best for: Players
When playing Pokémon matches, there are a wide variety of accessories and customizable options to choose from. You can alternate between different deck boxes and card sleeves, pick up custom dice with unique color themes, or even use printable Pokémon damage counters (the focus of this post).
Match condition markers can be entirely customized as well. There are standard-issue versions that come from The Pokémon Company, of course, but there are several other interesting options as well.
Here, we’ll start by discussing what damage counters are, before jumping into an Only Greats exclusive: the team has created a set of custom damage counters and condition markers — inspired by crystals and Tera types — and they’re completely free to use!
Table of Contents
What are Pokémon Damage Counters?
You may have come across damage counters before, as they’re used in Pokémon matches to indicate how much damage has been taken by a Pokémon. Damage is dealt by attacking Pokémon or special cards like Stadiums or Trainer cards.
Condition markers are similar but not the same. Condition markers indicate when a Pokémon has been struck with a special condition. In the Pokémon TCG, this can include paralysis, sleep, confusion, burns, or poison.
There’s a standard-issue set of markers and counters which is usually included with Pokémon TCG boxes or tins. They look like this:
But if you prefer something different, you’ve got options. These damage counters are a brilliant example of high-quality, community-sourced pieces. You can also buy themed dice sets that function similar to damage counters.
Of course, it’s completely possible to make your own damage counters. For this, you’ll need access to a printer and a high-quality design, or you could even draw and cut out your own set. It’s one of the most cost effective ways to go.
If you like the idea of saving money by printing your own set, you’re in luck as we’ve got our very own printable Pokémon damage counters. Keep reading for download links and tips on how to use these freebies!
Printable Pokémon Damage Counters: Step-by-Step
In a few simple steps, let’s discuss how to download, print, and cut your very own damage counters to use during game play. They will work perfectly printed on standard paper, but thick stock paper, or even laminating the damage counters will help them last longer.
Download
Below, you’ll find downloadable versions of Only Great’s damage counters. You can pick either full color or black and white depending on your preference.
Full Color (Click to download high-res PDF version)
Black & White (Click to download high-res PDF version)
Two sets of the Only Greats damage counters in black and white.
Once you’ve picked between the full color or black and white design, link up to a printer and double check the orientation before printing them out.
I found the easiest way to print the counters is to paste them into an A4 document (or U.S. standard letter size) centered in portrait mode. You’ll find the high-res PDF versions in the download links above are setup similarly. This way, they’re the correct size and scale perfect for readability, but not too big either.
Note: if you’re running low on printer ink, it’s best to go with the black and white design.
Cut
Once you’ve printed the damage counters, you’ll need to cut them out. Small scissors will be easier to control when cutting out the rounded edges.
If you’re struggling to get a smooth edge on them, you could try turning them into angular polygons instead – they’ll still look like gems and it may be a little easier to cut.
Protect
After successfully cutting out the pieces, determine whether you want to protect your damage counters (optional). Ideally if you can laminate them, they’ll be resistant to spills or dirty surfaces, and much more durable when transported, too.
An alternative way to protect your counters is to cover them with a thick, see-through parcel tape (traditionally used to ship a package). To do this:
- Cut a square-shaped piece of tape big enough to lay the damage counter on it face down
- Cut another piece of tape of the same size and sandwich it on top
- Trim the edges so there is no tape overhang
The tape technique isn’t as reliable as lamination, but it’s a quick fix if you can’t access a laminator and you’re looking to keep your damage markers safe.
Play
Now you’re ready to test your new damage counters and condition markers in action! As you’ll notice, the set includes both numerical and text versions of damage counters; see what you find easiest to read and use during a match.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve followed the steps throughout this post, these printable condition markers and damage counters should comfortably get you through your next few matches. I hope you enjoy using them — the design inspiration came from gemstones and crystals, along with the Tera Pokémon designs.
Customization and self expression may not be everyone’s first thought when it comes to the Pokémon trading card game, but there are plenty of ways to show off your personal style within matches.
I’m personally a huge fan of trying to match my accessories to the deck theme. I have a Fighting and Psychic deck, and I’ve made sure my deck box features a purple, mysterious theme which ties into the Psychic vibe nicely. Pokémon is not an overly serious game, after all, so I like to have a little extra fun with it.
Keep an eye out for interesting accessories the next time you buy Pokémon cards. There are so many incredible options out there, both from official sources and community artists alike.