Published: March 25, 2025
The Pokémon Company has officially announced the upcoming expansion for the Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG), titled “Scarlet & Violet—Destined Rivals.” This set is scheduled for release on May 30, 2025, and pre-orders are now open at various retailers.
Expansion Highlights
“Destined Rivals” reintroduces the popular Trainer’s Pokémon mechanic with a new twist, featuring the infamous Team Rocket. Players can choose to align with heroic duos like Ethan & Ho-Oh ex or Cynthia & Garchomp ex, or join the villainous side with Giovanni’s Mewtwo ex. The set includes:
- 83 new cards marked as Team Rocket’s
- 17 Pokémon ex, including 10 Trainer’s Pokémon ex
- 23 illustration rare Pokémon
- 11 special illustration rare Pokémon
- 6 hyper rare gold-etched cards
Pre-Order Details
Pre-orders for the “Destined Rivals” expansion began on March 24, 2025, and are expected to continue until early May. The Pokémon Center Elite Trainer Box and booster boxes are among the products available for pre-order. Notably, the initial pre-order release saw high demand, with queues exceeding 500,000 people. To secure products, it is advisable to place pre-orders promptly.
Product Pricing
- Elite Trainer Box: Priced at approximately $54.99 USD, this box includes nine booster packs, a promo card, and various game accessories.
- Booster Box: Containing 36 booster packs, the booster box is available for pre-order at around $164.99 USD.
- Booster Packs: Individual booster packs are typically priced at $4.99 USD each.
Prerelease Events
Prerelease tournaments are scheduled to take place from May 17 to May 25, 2025, at participating independent retailers. These events offer players an opportunity to experience the new set before its official release.
Where to Pre-Order
Several retailers are currently accepting pre-orders for the “Destined Rivals” expansion:
- The Hobby Bin: Offers pre-orders for the Pokémon Center Elite Trainer Box and booster boxes.
- OHKO Games: Provides pre-orders for booster boxes at $164.99 USD.
- Level1 TCG: Accepting pre-orders for various products, including booster boxes and Elite Trainer Boxes, with a 25% deposit required
- Green Gate Hobbies: Offers pre-orders for booster boxes with an option for a 50% down payment
- Skyfox Games: Provides pre-orders for booster boxes and Elite Trainer Boxes.
