Tips For New Players

New to the system and feeling a bit overwhelmed by all the options in front of you? Or maybe you’re just worried about making bad choices on your first character? Either way, this page is for you!   The next few pages describe some of the common archetypes in the Pokémon world and how they may be constructed with PTU TRAINER CLASSES. Pick an archetype that interests you, or a character you would like to take inspiration from, then follow the advice on which Classes to start with and the options for developing from there. If that’s still not enough, here are some tips and advice to get you started with a very basic character.   First of all, start by picking an Introductory Class. These are Ace Trainer, Capture Specialist, Commander, Coordinator, Hobbyist, and Mentor. Ace Trainer, Commander, and Mentor in particular are very neutral to any sort of battling style or Pokémon team preference.   Then, pair that with either a Battling Style Class or a Specialist Team Class. The latter will do more to restrict what kinds of Pokémon you want to capture as the campaign goes on, but it will also make it much easier for you to make decisions about captures and your team. The former will give you a little more wiggle room in choosing Pokémon and will define your character’s playstyle.   For example, pairing an Ace Trainer, Mentor, or Commander with a Cheerleader, Enduring Soul, or Duelist makes for an easy starting build.   Don’t want to follow such a rigid template but still need help deciding what to do? Well, in general, for a new player, it is best to create a focused build that doesn’t try to do too many different things. The roles listed by each Class can help you here. Pick Classes with 1 or 2 roles listed rather than 3 or more, and try to match them up.   Broadly speaking, you can choose between supporting your Pokémon in battle, or being a direct combatant yourself. Trainer Combat Classes match best with each other, but you can make more passive Pokémon Support options like Mentor and Ace Trainer work too.   When you start gaining the bonuses that give you progression choices at Level 5, 10, 20, etc., you’ll want to remain focused here as well. Trainer Combat builds want to pick the Stat Points while others generally want the EDGES or General FEATURES.   Think ahead a little with your SKILL choices too. Have a Class you want to take further down the line? Start investing the bonus Edges you get early on towards the prerequisites for that Class so you don’t find yourself unable to take it when the time is right.
BUILDING TRAINER ARCHETYPES   As you think about how you want to build your character, you may turn to the Pokémon anime, manga, or other media for inspiration. The archetypes in Pokémon canon can be easily reproduced in Pokémon Tabletop United by mixing and matching classes. If you’re new to the system or simply stumped on how to build a certain archetype, read on for a list of archetypes and some introductory advice on building them!   Even if you know what you’re doing, this section can still help you come up with ideas to complete your Trainer’s build or put a new twist on your concept.
LIST OF TRAINER ARCHETYPES   The Spirited Battler 
The Caretaker 
The Tactician 
The Professor's Assistant 
The Specialist 
The Sportsman 
The Outdoorsman 
The Performer 
The Jack Of All Trades 
The Thug 
The Thief 
The Law Enforcement 
The Mad Scientist 
The Sleuth 
The Gentleman/Lady 
The Occultist 
The Psychic 
The Mystic