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The Pokémon Company has revealed the next English Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) set, Destined Rivals, scheduled for release on May 30. The set will focus on Team Rocket.
The next English Pokémon TCG set has been announced, following the recent reveal of the Japanese card set The Glory of Team Rocket. The Pokémon Company detailed that Scarlet & Violet—Destined Rivals will be a combination of the Japanese sets Heat Wave Arena and The Glory of Team Rocket. Destined Rivals is set to launch on May 30, 2025. The focus of this upcoming card set is Team Rocket, featuring Giovanni and Mewtwo. The set’s Elite Trainer Box (ETB) artwork was also revealed, showcasing Giovanni and Mewtwo in all their glory.
The Pokémon Company wrote a detailed description of the new Pokémon TCG Set, noting mechanic changes and which ex Pokémon will be highlighted. “Scarlet & Violet—Destined Rivals will see the return of the popular Trainer’s Pokémon mechanic, but with a twist, introducing the infamous Team Rocket — a villainous organization in the Pokémon world — into the mix. Players can choose their allegiance by joining forces with heroic duos like Ethan and Ho-Oh ex or Cynthia and Garchomp ex, or they can embrace mischievous adventure by teaming up with Team Rocket and their Pokémon, such as Mewtwo ex, under Giovanni’s command.”
Here is a breakdown of the new Pokémon TCG Set:
- 83 new cards tagged as Team Rocket’s
- 17 Pokémon ex, including 10 Trainer’s Pokémon ex
- 23 illustration rare Pokémon
- 11 special illustration rare Pokémon
- Six hyper rare gold-etched cards
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Pokémon TCG players will have the opportunity to use the Destined Rivals cards before launch by attending one of the many pre-release tournaments held as part of the Play! Pokémon program. These events will take place on May 17, 2025, at participating independent retailers. Be sure to check with local shops for details.
If the excitement over the new card set wasn’t enough, The Pokémon Company has also confirmed the release of a lineup of more than 20 new Team Rocket merchandise items alongside the launch of The Glory of Team Rocket. The lineup currently includes clothing, a shoulder bag, an attaché case and more. However, it is unclear whether these products will be available at Pokémon Center online stores outside of Japan. Stay tuned for updates on the latest Pokémon TCG set, Destined Rivals!
