The world of the Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) keeps its engine running as it receives a number of updates.
A New Expansion Set Heading for the West
Starting off, collectors and players rejoice. Thanks to our friends on the ever-reliable Pokébeach, we have news on the latest TCG expansion heading out for Western audiences. Entitled Scarlet & Violet: Destined Rivals, this expansion set is scheduled for release on May 30, 2025, with a prerelease interval taking place from May 17 to May 25.
That said, details on the expansion pack are still forthcoming but there is hope that Destined Rivals will be including cards from the multiple newly released sets over at the Japanese market. Hot Wind Arena (JP Release: March 14), Glory of the Rocket Gang (JP Release: April 18), and even the recently released ex-Starter Set Featuring Marnie's Morpeko & Grimmsnarl ex (JP Release: February 21) are just some of the latest to come to the TCG that fans in the western hemisphere are eager to add to their growing collection.
Prize Pack Six Ready for the Pokémon League
Speaking of collections, The Pokémon Company International (TPCi) has just announced the availability of the latest addition to the Play! Pokémon Prize Pack. Series Six will be available starting on February 14 at participating local retail stores conducting any Pokémon League events. The prize pack will contain six reprinted cards from a pool of 100, all of which are tournament-legal. Some examples of what you can find in the pack are Fezandipiti ex and Teragapos ex.
Art Imitates Life, Pikachu with a Grey Felt Hat
Over on the second-hand market, we can see another shift in price trends as the promotional card of Pikachu with a Grey Felt Hat suddenly started racing up the charts.
A special promotional item that was made in collaboration with the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam that celebrated its 50th Anniversary back in 2023, this card suffered from its fair share of scalper market manipulations last year. Now, it looks like history is repeating itself as the limitedly produced card is now reaching over $300 from its asking price of $90 back in 2024.
With the recent string of Pokémon merchandise thefts, the ludicrous uptick in the price of Umbreon cards, and even the recent investigation of forged Pokémon collector's items, the Pokémon TCG just can’t seem to catch a break.