Nintendo has recently released an internal video that shows just how Pokémon cards are made. This is the first time that an inside look at this process has ever been shared with the public, providing a fascinating look at the craftsmanship and skill required to create such beloved collectibles.
Card Printing
The video starts by showing the process of cardboard printing. Each card is printed with four different layers, each containing its own unique color that will ultimately form the finished product. The printers have a special coating on them that helps ensure the colors layer properly, and also helps protect them from fading or smudging. Once all four layers are applied, it’s time for die-cutting – literally cutting each card into its unique shape. It’s incredible to watch how quickly and accurately this occurs on an industrial scale.
Next, an adhesive is applied to the back of each card before being cut into their edges to give them their familiar shape. Then it’s time for foil stamping – applying a thin sheet of foil to make certain parts of the design pop out visually. After this comes finishing touches like embossing and UV coating that help protect these cards and make them last even longer.
Other Collectibles
The video then continues by showing how other Pokémon-related collectibles are created – namely pins, figures, and play mats. The pins are die casted out of metal plates which have previously been soaked in a special solution to harden it up. For figures, they’re molded using a combination of different materials, with each figure having its own unique set of parameters depending on which character or creature it’s supposed to represent.
Finally, play mats are printed using digital press technology before being cut into shape and coated with a special material to ensure they withstand