The excitement is palpable as Pokémon TCG's next big release, Destined Rivals, approaches, and I'm already clearing shelf space while mentally preparing to splurge on an Elite Trainer Box that I definitely don't need. This set promises a thrilling return of Trainer's Pokémon, a fresh round of villainy from Team Rocket, and some of the most stunning card art we've seen in recent times. If you're passionate about dazzling collectibles or simply love the thrill of wielding cardboard power, this set is set to captivate you.
The Pokémon Center website has undergone some intriguing "maintenance" and has now opened preorders. Should those sell out (a surprising turn of events, I know), expect listings to pop up at Amazon, Target, Best Buy, and other major retailers any moment now. 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 of Destined Rivals is set for May 30, 2025. This is when all sealed products will be shipped and available on shelves, if any remain. The Pokémon Company has been actively addressing stock shortages. From May 17 to 25, select stores will host pre-release events with Build & Battle boxes and early access tournaments. If you're eager to participate, check with your local league store now—perhaps even bring some snacks to sweeten the deal.
What Products Will Be Launching With This Set?
We all tell ourselves we'll just buy one item and be content, or that we'll hit the gym three times a week. It's all part of the fun of self-deception.
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 with alternate art promos, featuring fan-favorites 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 the comprehensive expected card list, organized 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
While I might end up with several binders full of these cards, a few have already claimed a spot on my mental wishlist.
- Cynthia’s Garchomp ex is the epitome of power and strategy. With high damage output and the ability to draw cards, it exudes the confidence of a true Champion. I'm aiming to collect three of these.
- Ethan’s Ho-Oh ex combines utility with beauty. Its ability to accelerate Fire Energy and heal your team while dealing substantial damage is nothing short of remarkable. I'm completely enamored.
- Team Rocket’s Mewtwo ex brings high drama to the table. It demands a full Rocket-themed deck to unleash its power, tossing energy around with reckless abandon. It's over-the-top, and I'm here for it.
- Misty’s Psyduck is the card that will make you chuckle even as you lose. Its quirky ability to be discarded to the top of your deck is endearing. I adore it.
- Marnie’s Grimmsnarl ex embodies villainous flair with its aggressive Dark-type strategy. It thrives on energy acceleration and being just irritating enough to succeed. I'm planning to run it like it's still 2020.