This year's Pokemon

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The Championships cover both the core video game and trading card game series, with only those who earned enough points at qualifying events throughout the year invited to play. Winners in both categories earn a share of over $500,000 in prizes.There's also a smaller prize pool for the world's best Pokken Tournament players, with qualifying competitors vying for a $20,000 prize pool on the Wii U version of the game.The Pokemon Company has also announced an event offering the last chance to qualify for the World Championships, the North American International Championships, which will be held from June 30-July 2.Taking place at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis, the event is an open tournament for all Pokemon TCG and video game players, and offers both its own prizes as well as points towards qualification.Last year's World Championships was the biggest ever and saw its winning players use some crazy strategies to win . Those in attendance were also able to get their hands on a bevy of rare Poke-merch - you can expect much the same of both this year. We'll have all the results for you here on IGN.

Joe Skrebels is IGN's UK News Editor, and his favourite Pokemon merch is the Garbador he made. His house stinks. Follow him on Twitter