Pokemon Destined Rivals Release Dates and Product Reveal

The Pokémon Trading Card Game's upcoming expansion, Scarlet & Violet—Destined Rivals, is set to release on May 30, 2025. This highly anticipated set combines elements from the Japanese sets The Glory of Team Rocket and Heat Wave Arena, bringing together iconic characters and their Pokémon in a celebration of legendary rivalries.

Set Highlights

• Total Cards: Over 240, including secret rares.

• Trainer’s Pokémon: More than 85 cards featuring Trainer-owned Pokémon, with over 45 specifically aligned with Team Rocket.

• Pokémon ex: At least 17 Pokémon ex cards, including Trainer-partnered Pokémon like Giovanni’s Mewtwo ex, Cynthia’s Garchomp ex, Ethan’s Ho-Oh ex, and Arven’s Mabosstiff ex.

• Special Illustrations: Over 45 cards with special illustrations, comprising 23 Illustration Rares, 11 Special Illustration Rares, and 6 Hyper Rare gold-etched cards.

Notably, while the set focuses on Team Rocket, the iconic duo Jessie and James are absent. However, a Team Rocket’s Wobbuffet card serves as a nod to their legacy. 

Product Lineup

Destined Rivals will be available in various formats to cater to different preferences:

• Elite Trainer Box (ETB):

  • Includes 9 booster packs, a full-art foil promo card featuring Team Rocket’s Wobbuffet, 65 card sleeves, 45 Energy cards, dice, condition markers, and a player’s guide.

• Pokémon Center Elite Trainer Box:

  • Exclusive to Pokémon Center, this version contains 11 booster packs and two full-art foil promo cards featuring Team Rocket’s Wobbuffet—one with a Pokémon Center logo.

• Booster Box:

  • Contains 36 booster packs, ideal for collectors and competitive players.

• Booster Bundle:

  • A set of 6 booster packs for those looking to sample the expansion.

• 3-Pack Blister:

  • Includes 3 booster packs and a promo card.

• Build & Battle Box:

  • Features 4 booster packs and a 40-card ready-to-play deck, including a unique promo card.

Key Dates

• Prerelease Events: May 17–25, 2025, at participating retailers.

• Digital Release: Available on Pokémon TCG Live starting May 29, 2025.

• Official Release: May 30, 2025, across major retailers and online platforms.

Availability & Preorders

Due to high demand, preorders have sold out quickly at several major retailers, including Pokémon Center, EB Games, and Many other online retailers. Retailers like Kmart and Target are expected to have stock available on release day, but it's advisable to act swiftly to secure your desired products.

For a comprehensive look at the card list and to explore more about the Destined Rivals expansion, you can visit the official Pokémon website. Pokémon