The next big release for Pokémon TCG, *Destined Rivals*, is on the horizon, and I'm already setting aside space on my shelves while trying to convince myself I won't splurge on yet another Elite Trainer Box. This set is bringing back the thrill of Trainer's Pokémon, reintroducing the infamous Team Rocket for some villainous excitement, and showcasing some of the most stunning card art we've seen in a while. If you're into dazzling collectibles or simply love the rush of power that comes from a well-shuffled deck, *Destined Rivals* is definitely for you.
The Pokémon Center website has undergone some intriguing "maintenance" and is now open for preorders. If you miss out on that, keep your eyes peeled for listings at Amazon, Target, Best Buy, and other retailers. It's time to hit refresh like it's Black Friday for those coveted battle decks. Here's everything you need to know to secure your preorder this week:
Pokémon TCG: Destined Rivals US Preorders
Pokémon TCG: Destined Rivals Amazon Preorders
- See it at Amazon
Pokémon TCG: Destined Rivals Best Buy Preorders
- See it at Best Buy
Pokémon TCG: Destined Rivals Walmart Preorders
- See it at Walmart
Pokémon TCG: Destined Rivals Target Preorders
- See it at Target
Destined Rivals UK Preorders
- Pokémon TCG: Destined Rivals Amazon Preorders
- Pokémon TCG: Destined Rivals Argos Preorders
- Pokémon TCG: Destined Rivals Pokémon Center Preorders
- Pokémon TCG: Destined Rivals Magic Madhouse Preorders
When Does Destined Rivals Officially Launch?
The official launch date for *Destined Rivals* is set for May 30, 2025. That's when all the sealed products will begin shipping and appear on store shelves, provided there's any stock left. The Pokémon Company has been actively addressing ongoing supply issues. From May 17 to 25, select stores will host pre-release events with Build & Battle boxes and early access tournaments. Make sure to contact your local league store to get involved. And by "contact," I mean perhaps sweeten the deal with some snacks.
What Products Will Be Launching With This Set?
I'd love to tell myself I'll only buy one item and call it a day, but we all know that's a fantasy. Here's what you can expect when *Destined Rivals* hits the shelves:
- Booster Packs
- Booster Boxes (36 packs)
- Elite Trainer Box
- Pokémon Center Exclusive Elite Trainer Box
- Booster Bundle (6 packs)
- Triple-pack blisters
- Build & Battle Box
- Build & Battle Stadium
We're also likely to see special collection boxes featuring alternate art promos of characters like Cynthia, Misty, Ethan, or Marnie. You may not need them, but you'll definitely convince yourself otherwise.
Cards That Should Be In Destined Rivals
Here's the expected card list categorized by their Japanese set origins:
Heat Wave Arena
- Ethan’s Ho-Oh ex
- Cynthia’s Garchomp ex
- Cynthia’s Roserade
- Misty’s Psyduck, Staryu, Starmie, Magikarp, Gyarados, Lapras
- Ethan’s Cyndaquil, Quilava, Typhlosion
- Ethan’s Slugma, Magcargo
- Hydrapple line
- Yanmega ex
- Zeraora, Electivire ex, Rotom, Manectric
- Steven’s Metang (alt print)
- Arven’s Mabostiff ex
- Marnie’s Impidimp (alt print)
- Applin, Dipplin
- Ogerpon (Teal Mask, Hearthflame Mask, Wellspring Mask, Cornerstone Mask variants)
- Cynthia’s Milotic, Feebas
- Buizel, Floatzel, Dondozo ex
- Dwebble, Crustle
- Shaymin
- Ponyta, Rapidash
- Arven’s Toedscool, Toedscruel
- Arven’s Maschiff, Skwovet, Greedent
- Mudbray, Mudsdale
- Electabuzz
- Ethan’s Pinsir, Ethan’s Pichu
- Trainer Cards: Judge, Ethan’s Adventure, Cynthia’s Power Weight, Sacred Ash, MC’s Hype Up, Spikemuth Gym
The Glory of Team Rocket
- Team Rocket’s Mewtwo ex
- Team Rocket’s Spidops
- Team Rocket’s Meowth, Persian ex
- Team Rocket’s Porygon, Porygon2, Porygon-Z
- Team Rocket’s Tarountula
- Trainer Cards: Team Rocket’s Giovanni, Archer, Ariana, Receiver
- Special Energy: Team Rocket Energy
Steven’s Starter Deck
- Steven’s Metagross ex
- Steven’s Skarmory, Beldum, Metang
- Steven’s Carbink
- Steven’s Claydol, Baltoy
- Trainer Card: Granite Cave
Marnie’s Starter Deck
- Marnie’s Grimmsnarl ex
- Marnie’s Impidimp, Morgrem, Liepard, Scrafty
- Marnie’s Purrloin, Scraggy
- Trainer Cards: Energy Recycler (reprint), Spikemuth Gym
Destined Origins Cards I’ve Got My Eye On
I'm sure I'll end up with multiple binders filled with these cards, but a few have already caught my attention and made it onto my mental wishlist:
- Cynthia’s Garchomp ex: This card screams power. With its ability to deal significant damage, draw cards, and exude that champion's confidence, it's a must-have. I'm aiming for three.
- Ethan’s Ho-Oh ex: A perfect blend of utility and flair, this card accelerates Fire Energy and can heal your entire team while dishing out 160 damage. It's a game-changer, and I'm all in.
- Team Rocket’s Mewtwo ex: This card is all about drama. It won't attack unless you've crafted a full Rocket-themed deck, but when it does, it throws energy around like a hyper Gengar. Its extravagance is something I deeply respect.
- Misty’s Psyduck: A card that's both amusing and strategic, Psyduck can be discarded to the top of your deck for some quirky gameplay. It's delightful, and I'm here for it.
- Marnie’s Grimmsnarl ex: Embodying the essence of a villain, this Dark-type card thrives on energy acceleration and disruption. It's perfect for shaking up the competition, and I'm ready to bring back the 2020 vibes with this deck.
