Retreat Cost explained: switching your Active Pokémon
Once per turn you can retreat your Active Pokémon: discard Energy from it equal to its Retreat Cost, then swap it with a Pokémon on your Bench.
Retreat Costs in Standard
| Retreat Cost | Pokémon cards | Share |
|---|---|---|
| Free | 52 | 3% |
| 1 | 891 | 50% |
| 2 | 533 | 30% |
| 3 | 241 | 14% |
| 4 | 65 | 4% |
Why it matters
A free-retreat Pokémon is a great one to start in the Active Spot, because you can switch it out at no cost. Heavy Pokémon with a big Retreat Cost can get stuck — which is exactly what your opponent wants. See every free-retreat Pokémon.
Pully Play is an independent fan guide. It isn't run by The Pokémon Company. Format facts are checked against official announcements; always confirm card legality with the official rules before a tournament.