2013 Pokémon US National Championships take place next weekend

Pokémon Trading Card Game and video game players will vie for the 2013 Pokémon US National Championship title next week in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Taking place July 5–7, the 2013 Pokémon US National Championships will see participants from around the country with a Pokémon TCG deck or a Pokémon Black 2 and Pokémon White 2 team will be competing for top placement.

One video game competitor and one TCG competitor from each of three age divisions will be crowned US. National Champion, and will travel with other top players to represent the United States at the Pokémon World Championships this August in Vancouver, Canada.

“The Pokémon US National Championships is one of the largest and most prestigious Pokémon TCG and video game events in the world, and it provides a great opportunity for fans and players throughout the United States to come together and have fun playing the games they love,” said J.C. Smith, director of consumer marketing for The Pokémon Company International.

“The event has continued to grow over the last few years and is a great opportunity for attendees to form new friendships and reunite with old friends, and perhaps win a trip to Vancouver for Worlds.”

The top four TCG and video game finalists from each age group will earn an invitation and Travel Award to the 2013 Pokémon World Championships in addition to Championship Points, thousands of dollars in scholarship awards, a Pokémon National Championship trophy, and other Pokémon-themed merchandise.

The US National Championships is held using a Swiss tournament format, which guarantees players the opportunity to play in multiple rounds regardless of their win-loss record.

Those who wish to attend the open, fee-free event and bring along their DS or 3DS with a copy of Pokémon Black, Pokémon White, Pokémon Black 2, or Pokémon White 2 can participate in a special character distribution. They will receive Metagross - shown below - based on the one used by World Champion Ray Rizzo in the 2012 Pokémon World Championships.

Attendees can also take part in Pokémon League events, where they can earn special prizes.

The 2013 Pokémon TCG US National Championships will begin Friday, July 5, at 9.00 am., while the Pokémon Video Game US. National Championships will begin on Saturday, July 6, at 9.00 am.

Both events will take place at the Indiana Convention Center and will conclude Sunday, July 7.

You can find out more information through the official website.