The highly anticipated release of Pokémon TCG's Destined Rivals is on the horizon, and I'm already clearing shelf space and mentally preparing my budget, knowing full well I'll likely splurge on an Elite Trainer Box I don't technically need. This set is packed with excitement, bringing back Trainer's Pokémon, reintroducing the notorious Team Rocket, and showcasing some of the most stunning card art we've seen in recent times. Whether you're a collector of flashy cards or someone who thrives on the thrill of competitive play, Destined Rivals is set to captivate you.
The Pokémon Center website recently underwent some "mysterious" maintenance and has now opened preorders. If you miss out there, don't worry—listings should appear soon on Amazon, Target, Best Buy, and other major retailers. It's time to start refreshing those pages like it's Black Friday for battle decks. Here's your comprehensive guide to securing your preorder this week:
Pokémon TCG: Destined Rivals US Preorders
Pokémon TCG: Destined Rivals Amazon Preorders
1 See it at AmazonPokémon TCG: Destined Rivals Best Buy Preorders
3 See it at Best BuyPokémon TCG: Destined Rivals Walmart Preorders
2 See it at WalmartPokémon TCG: Destined Rivals Target Preorders
1 See it at TargetDestined 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?
Mark your calendars: Destined Rivals is set to officially launch on May 30, 2025. That's when all sealed products will be shipped and available on shelves, provided they're not sold out. The Pokémon Company has been addressing ongoing stock shortages, so fingers crossed for ample supply. From May 17 to 25, select stores will host pre-release events with Build & Battle boxes and early access tournaments. If you're keen on participating, reach out to your local league store now—perhaps with some snacks as a friendly gesture.
What Products Will Be Launching With This Set?
Let's be honest: we all plan to buy just one item and stick to our fitness goals, but we know better. Here's what you can expect to find when Destined Rivals hits the market:
- 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
There's also a high chance of seeing special collection boxes featuring alternate art promos, spotlighting characters like Cynthia, Misty, Ethan, or Marnie. You might not need them, but you'll definitely convince yourself otherwise.
Cards That Should Be In Destined Rivals
Here's a look at the full 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 already envisioning multiple binders filled with these cards, but a few have already claimed their spots on my mental wishlist:
- Cynthia's Garchomp ex: A powerhouse that not only delivers massive damage but also draws cards, embodying the essence of a champion. I'm aiming to get three of these.
- Ethan's Ho-Oh ex: The epitome of utility and flair, this card accelerates Fire Energy and heals your team while dealing significant damage. It's a must-have.
- Team Rocket's Mewtwo ex: Dramatic and demanding, this card only attacks within a full Rocket-themed deck, but its energy manipulation is thrilling and effective.
- Misty's Psyduck: A card that's as lovable as it is quirky, allowing you to shuffle it to the top of your deck for strategic plays. It's a fun addition to any collection.
- Marnie's Grimmsnarl ex: A perfect fit for a disruption deck, this card thrives on energy acceleration and brings a villainous edge to gameplay. I'm ready to relive the glory days of 2020 with this one.