Official PR - The Pokemon 2016 Video Game Championship Format Has Been Announced!

The format for the 2016 Video Game Championship season has been announced. As of January 1, 2016, players competing in Play! Pokémon video game competitions will need to follow these new rules and regulations when building their teams and during battle. This will be the official format for the 2016 Pokémon World Championships in San Francisco, CA.

Be prepared for competitions with our strategy preview of the restricted Pokémon allowed in battle for the first time since 2010! Get details on the best moves and strategies for playing with—and playing against—these tough Legendary Pokémon.

Here is the basic information that players need to know:

All battles will be Double Battles played in Pokémon Omega Ruby and Pokémon Alpha Sapphire.

Time limits for battles will vary by event. At major events (Regional Championships and above), battles will have a 15-minute time limit, 45-second move timer, and a 90-second Team Preview.

Pokémon brought in via Poké Transporter will not be permitted (the blue pentagon is required).

All discovered Pokémon will be allowed except the following Mythical Pokémon: Mew, Celebi, Jirachi, Deoxys, Phione, Manaphy, Darkrai, Shaymin, Arceus, Victini, Keldeo, Meloetta, Genesect, Diancie, and Hoopa.

Teams may have no more than two of the following Pokémon: Mewtwo, Lugia, Ho-Oh, Kyogre, Groudon, Rayquaza, Dialga, Palkia, Giratina, Reshiram, Zekrom, Kyurem, Xerneas, Yveltal, and Zygarde.

All items will be allowed except Soul Dew. Each Pokémon must hold a different item.

The complete rules will be posted shortly on the Play! Pokémon rules and regulations page. Competitors are expected to have read these rules prior to attending a Play! Pokémon competition.

And be sure to keep checking Pokemon.com for information on the 2016 Video Game Championship Series!