Facebook
Reddit
Email
Explore everything you need to know about the Pokemon TCG Destined Rivals in this article.
A new Pokemon Trading Card Game set is on the horizon. Destined Rivals is the latest expansion, set to launch in late May 2025. This release stands out because it prominently features Team Rocket’s Pokemon alongside well-known Trainer’s Pokemon.
Destined Rivals will introduce Trainer’s Pokemon cards linked to some of the most iconic characters in the franchise. Expect to see Pokemon associated with Ethan, Cynthia, Misty, Marnie, and Steven Stone. The booster pack artwork will showcase Ethan, Cynthia, and Team Rocket members, while Giovanni and Mewtwo will appear on the Elite Trainer Box.
Additionally, the expansion will include cards featuring Misty and Psyduck, Ethan’s Typhlosion, ex variants of Steven and Metagross, Cynthia and Garchomp, Grimmsnarl and Marnie, Ethan and Ho-Oh, and Arwen and Mabosstiff.
A Strong Focus on Team Rocket
One of the biggest highlights of this set is the inclusion of over 80 Team Rocket-related cards. These cards open up new deck-building possibilities, especially for players who enjoy using villainous-themed strategies. The Elite Trainer Box will also feature a promotional card of Team Rocket’s Wobbuffet, referencing one of the most recognizable Pokemon from Jessie and James’s team.
Breakdown of Destined Rivals Cards
While the complete card list is still unknown, the set will contain:
- Over 240 cards
- Over 85 Trainer’s Pokemon, including over 45 Team Rocket’s Pokemon
- 17 Pokemon ex, including 10 Trainer’s Pokemon ex
- More than 20 Trainer cards
- More than 45 Pokemon and Trainer cards with special illustrations
- 83 new cards tagged as Team Rocket’s
- 23 illustration rare Pokemon
- 11 special illustration rare Pokemon
- 6 hyper-rare gold-etched cards
Release Date and Availability
The official release date for Destined Rivals is May 30, 2025. However, players will have a chance to experience the set early through pre-release events at local game stores two weeks before launch, running from May 17 to 25. The pre-release will feature special cards such as Team Rocket’s Tyranitar and Mimikyu, Misty’s Gyarados, and Ethan’s Typhlosion.
The set will be available in booster packs, Elite Trainer Boxes, and other collections. So far, no additional promotional card details have been revealed, which is unusual for a major expansion.
Destined Rivals and the Future of Pokemon TCG
This expansion might be the final standard set of the Scarlet & Violet era before the transition to the Mega Evolutions era, which is set to begin in August in Japan. While there are rumors of a Unova-themed special set arriving in the summer, Destined Rivals is likely the last major expansion before the shift.
Key Cards to Watch Out For
Because this set pulls from multiple Japanese expansions, some of its most anticipated cards are already known.
- Team Rocket’s Mewtwo ex – With 280 HP, this card has impressive durability, but it requires at least four Team Rocket’s Pokemon in play before it can attack. Its Deletion Sphere move deals 280 damage, making it a serious threat.
- Ethan’s Ho-Oh ex – A strong Fire-type Pokemon with an Energy acceleration ability that benefits Ethan’s other Pokemon.
- Cynthia’s Garchomp ex – Features an ability that allows drawing up to six cards when using its Screw Drive attack, providing a consistent way to maintain hand advantage.
- Misty’s Pokemon cards – Many of these include effects that discard cards to increase damage output.
- Dondozo ex – This card grows stronger as it takes damage, potentially dealing up to 300 damage in a single attack.
- Team Rocket’s Tyranitar and Mimikyu – Both will be part of the pre-release event lineup, giving players an early look at their gameplay impact.
Demand and Market Trends
Pokemon TCG products are in high demand, with many sets selling out quickly. The popularity of Team Rocket-themed cards, combined with the general scarcity of Pokemon TCG products, suggests that Destined Rivals will be one of the most sought-after expansions this year. Players and collectors alike should keep an eye on pre-orders and availability to avoid missing out.
Looking For More?
Thank you for reading the article. We provide the latest news and create guides for Pokemon GO. Also, watch Deltia play on Twitch or visit the YouTube channel!
