Pokémon Trading Card Game: Battle Academy cover

Pokémon Trading Card Game: Battle Academy

2020 · The Pokémon Company International

Solid · 100% positive · 1 verdict

The Big Book of Madness cover

The Big Book of Madness

2015 · Libellud

Mixed · 0% positive · 1 verdict

Pick Pokémon Trading Card Game: Battle Academy if you want…

  • Short-horizon optimization and clever combos
  • Each player gets a different toolkit
  • Shorter sessions (about 30 min vs 45)
  • The safer pick (100% positive vs 0%)

Pick The Big Book of Madness if you want…

  • Short-horizon optimization and clever combos
  • Two teams pulling against each other
  • A longer, meatier session (about 45 min)

Quick facts

Pokémon Trading Card Game: Battle AcademyThe Big Book of Madness
Players22–4
Play time30 min30–45 min
ComplexityMedium
Age6+10+
Year20202015

Common questions

Is The Big Book of Madness better than Pokémon Trading Card Game: Battle Academy?

Pokémon Trading Card Game: Battle Academy sits at 100% positive over 1 verdicts; The Big Book of Madness at 0% over 1. Pokémon Trading Card Game: Battle Academy rates higher with the community, but the right pick depends on your table and taste.

Which plays faster, Pokémon Trading Card Game: Battle Academy or The Big Book of Madness?

Pokémon Trading Card Game: Battle Academy runs up to about 30 minutes; The Big Book of Madness up to about 45. For a weeknight slot, Pokémon Trading Card Game: Battle Academy is the quicker table.