Destined Rivals

Destined Rivals

The Pokémon Trading Card Game is gearing up for an exciting new expansion with the release of Scarlet & Violet: Destined Rivals on May 30, 2025. This set brings a fresh dynamic by combining iconic Trainer-owned Pokémon with the return of Team Rocket, offering both nostalgic appeal and strategic depth for collectors and players alike. Here are some cards to chase in this set starting off with super rares, illustration rares, and special art rares

Super Rares

The Super Rares not only appeal to collectors with their brilliant designs but also offer competitive utility in gameplay, often boasting strong attacks, abilities, or synergy with other meta cards. As both tributes to classic moments and tools for modern play, these Super Rares add depth and excitement to any trainer’s collection. Some of the best looking Super Rares in the set are Team Rocket's Mewtwo ex, Nidoking ex, Moltres ex, Cynthia's Garchomp ex, Ethan's Ho-oh ex, and Dondozo ex.

Giovanni behind Mewtwo smirking with mewtwo crosses his arms.Giovanni smirking behind Nidoking who is ready for a battle.Rocket crew member behind Moltres who is in midair looking down.Ethan behind Ho-oh who is flying and looking at you.Dondozo who is swimming and about to swallow you whole with a blue background.

 

Illustration Rares

Each Illustration Rare tells a story that deepens the bond between Trainer and Pokémon. From the vibrant colors, unique art styles, and full-card artwork, these cards elevate the collector experience while honoring the enduring theme of rivalry that runs through the Pokémon series. More than just collectibles, they serve as a visual celebration of competition, growth, and the relationships that define a Pokémon journey. Some of the best looking Illustration Rares are Misty's Psyduck and Lapras, Team Rocket's Meowth and Houndoom, Ethan's Typhlosion, and Blaziken.

Misty and Psyduck swimming in water having a good time.Team Rocket's Houndoom jumping over the Rocket crew member with fire coming from its mouth.Ethan with Typlosion looking fierce in their battle with Typlosion breathing fire.Blaziken jump kicking with fire around his legs.

Special Illustration Rares

Every Special Illustration Rare feels like a snapshot from a cinematic moment in the Pokémon universe. With textured foil, alternate art, and extremely limited pull rates, these cards are prized by both collectors and competitive players. They not only celebrate the fierce but respectful rivalries that shape every Pokémon journey, but also highlight the artistry and storytelling depth the TCG has embraced in recent years. Some of the coolest looking Special Illustration Rares in the set are Team Rocket’s Mewtwo ex, Moltres ex, Nidoking ex, and Giovanni, Cynthia’s Garchomp ex, and Ethan’s Ho-oh ex.

Giovani with mewtwo floating behind him looking ready to take over.Moltres flying behind a Team Rocket crew member high in the sky.Giovanni commanding Nidoking to smash the ground.Team Rocket's Giovani trying to give you a hand shake with his team members behind him with a blue and red background.

Destined Rivals offers a rich blend of nostalgia and new strategies, making it a highly anticipated expansion for both collectors and competitive players. Whether you're aiming to complete your collection or build a formidable deck, this set provides a plethora of exciting opportunities. There will be Booster boxes, packs, elite trainer boxes, booster bundles, blister packs, and build and battle boxes. What cards will you be chasing in Destined Rivals?

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