Journey Together

The Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) continues to captivate fans in 2025, with the Scarlet & Violet—Journey Together set, released on March 28, 2025, standing out as a highlight of the Scarlet & Violet series. With over 673,000 monthly searches for “Pokémon cards,” this ninth main expansion introduces the return of Trainer’s Pokémon, emphasizing the bond between Trainers and their Pokémon through stunning artwork and innovative mechanics. Featuring over 180 cards, including powerful ex cards and special illustration rares, Journey Together appeals to collectors, players, and investors alike. This guide covers general information, chased cards, product selection, investment potential, and tips for engaging with this exciting set.

From N’s Zoroark ex to Lillie’s Clefairy ex, let’s explore why Journey Together is a must-have in 2025 and how to get started with authentic products from trusted retailers like Card Chill.

General Information on Journey Together

Scarlet & Violet—Journey Together is the ninth main expansion in the Scarlet & Violet series, released on March 28, 2025, with a Japanese counterpart, SV9 Battle Partners, released on January 24, 2025. The set contains 191 cards, including 28+ secret rares, and reintroduces Trainer’s Pokémon—a mechanic last seen prominently in the EX Team Magma vs Team Aqua set. These cards highlight unique Trainer-Pokémon partnerships, such as N’s Zoroark ex and Iono’s Bellibolt ex, emphasizing synergy and friendship in battle. Each Booster Pack includes 10 cards and 1 Basic Energy, offering a mix of Pokémon, Trainers, and special Energy cards.

Key features include:

  • Over 180 Cards: Featuring more than 40 Trainer-Pokémon partnerships and 15+ Pokémon ex.
  • New Mechanics: Trainer-specific abilities and attacks, like N’s Zoroark ex’s Trade Ability.
  • Prerelease Events: Held from March 15, 2025, allowing early access to cards.
  • Theme: Celebrates the bond between Trainers and Pokémon, with artwork inspired by Pokémon Journeys: The Series.

The set’s focus on Trainer-Pokémon combos and vibrant artwork makes it a hit for both competitive play and collecting, with a size comparable to Stellar Crown.

Chased Cards in Journey Together

The Journey Together set is packed with high-value cards sought after for their artwork, rarity, and gameplay potential. Here are the top chased cards, based on market trends and collector demand:

1. Lillie’s Clefairy ex (Special Illustration Rare)

  • Details: A vibrant, full-art card featuring Lillie and Clefairy in a colorful, flower-filled scene, designed by Susumu Maeya.
  • Value: Estimated at $135 (PSA 10), making it the set’s top chase card.
  • Why Chased: Nostalgic Sun and Moon-era appeal, stunning artwork, and competitive use with Lillie’s Pearl, which reduces Prize cards when attached.
  • Tip: A prime target for grading due to high collector demand.

2. N’s Zoroark ex (Special Illustration Rare)

  • Details: Features N and Zoroark in a devious, manga-style design. Its Trade Ability (discard 1 card, draw 2) and ability to copy other N’s Pokémon attacks make it meta-relevant.
  • Value: Approximately $213 (PSA 10).
  • Why Chased: N’s popularity from Pokémon Black and White, combined with strategic versatility, drives demand.
  • Tip: Pair with N’s Reshiram or N’s Darmanitan for powerful deck combos.

3. Iono’s Bellibolt ex (Hyper Rare)

  • Details: Full-art hyper rare showcasing Iono and Bellibolt, with the Electric Streamer Ability allowing unlimited Lightning Energy attachments.
  • Value: Around $54 (PSA 10).
  • Why Chased: Competitive strength in Lightning decks and adorable artwork make it a collector’s favorite.
  • Tip: Synergizes with Iono’s Voltorb for high-damage attacks.

4. N’s Reshiram (Promo, Enhanced Booster Box)

  • Details: A rare promo card exclusive to Enhanced Booster Boxes, featuring a powerful revenge attack (20 damage per damage counter).
  • Value: High due to limited availability, estimated at $100–$200 (PSA 10).
  • Why Chased: Exclusive distribution and synergy with N’s Zoroark ex increase its appeal.
  • Tip: Seek Pokémon Center-exclusive boxes for this card.

5. Salamence ex (Special Illustration Rare)

  • Details: A pseudo-legendary with primal, dynamic artwork, offering high-damage attacks.
  • Value: $80–$150 (PSA 10).
  • Why Chased: Stunning design and competitive potential make it a standout.
  • Tip: Ideal for collectors and players building Dragon-type decks.

Other notable cards include Hop’s Zacian ex, Iono’s Kilowattrel (special illustration rare), and Wailord (illustration rare), valued for their unique art and gameplay utility.

Product Selection for Journey Together

Journey Together offers various products tailored to different goals, from collecting to competitive play. Here’s a breakdown of the best options:

1. Booster Box (36 Packs)

  • Best For: Collectors and investors chasing rares like Lillie’s Clefairy ex or N’s Reshiram promo.
  • Contents: 36 Booster Packs (10 cards each), with a chance at secret rares and the exclusive N’s Reshiram promo in Enhanced Booster Boxes.
  • Price: Approximately $265 retail, though market value may vary due to demand.
  • Tip: Hold sealed for long-term investment or open for chase cards.

2. Elite Trainer Box (ETB)

  • Best For: Beginners and collectors seeking a complete experience.
  • Contents: 9 Booster Packs, sleeves, dice, counters, a storage box, and exclusive promos (e.g., Pokémon Center-exclusive stamped cards).
  • Price: $50–$80, with Pokémon Center ETBs slightly higher.
  • Tip: Pokémon Center versions often include unique promos, increasing collectible value.

3. Booster Bundle

  • Best For: Budget-conscious collectors or kids starting out.
  • Contents: 6 Booster Packs, offering a cost-effective way to pull cards like Iono’s Bellibolt ex.
  • Price: $25–$35.
  • Tip: Great for casual collecting without breaking the bank.

4. Triple Blister Packs

  • Best For: Collectors seeking promos and smaller pack quantities.
  • Contents: 3 Booster Packs and a promo card (e.g., N’s Zorua or other exclusives).
  • Price: $15–$20.
  • Tip: Check for Pokémon Center or retailer-specific promos for added value.

5. Collector’s Chest or Special Collections

  • Best For: Kids and collectors wanting extras like stickers or coins.
  • Contents: Multiple Booster Packs, promos, and collectible items.
  • Price: $30–$50.
  • Tip: Limited-edition collections may appreciate faster due to scarcity.

Shop these products at Card Chill’s Pokémon Cards page, offering authentic singles and sealed products shipped from West London.

Investment Potential of Journey Together

Journey Together offers strong investment potential due to its unique Trainer-Pokémon mechanic, high-demand chase cards, and limited-edition products. Here’s why it’s a smart investment in 2025:

  • High-Value Chase Cards: Cards like Lillie’s Clefairy ex ($135 PSA 10) and N’s Zoroark ex ($213 PSA 10) are already commanding premium prices, with potential to rise as supply dwindles.
  • Sealed Product Appreciation: Booster Boxes and Pokémon Center ETBs historically double in value within 5–10 years, especially for sets with popular mechanics like Trainer’s Pokémon. For example, Journey Together Booster Boxes ($265 retail) could reach $400–$600 by 2030.
  • Limited Promos: The N’s Reshiram promo, exclusive to Enhanced Booster Boxes, is a rare collectible that could mirror the value trajectory of past box toppers.
  • Nostalgia and Demand: The return of Trainer’s Pokémon, unseen in main expansions since 2004, taps into nostalgia, boosting long-term collectibility.
  • Scalping Challenges: Like Surging Sparks, Journey Together faces scalping issues, which may limit initial availability and drive up secondary market prices.

Risks to Consider:

  • Market Volatility: Card prices can fluctuate based on pull rates and meta relevance.
  • Counterfeits: High-value cards like N’s Zoroark ex are targets for fakes—buy from trusted sources like Card Chill’s Pokémon hub.
  • Pull Rates: Some collectors note Journey Together has better pull rates than Prismatic Evolutions, but chasing specific rares can be costly.

Investment Tips:

  • Hold sealed Booster Boxes or ETBs for 5–10 years for maximum ROI.
  • Grade high-value cards (e.g., Lillie’s Clefairy ex) with PSA or Beckett to boost value.
  • Monitor TCGPlayer or eBay sold listings for price trends.
  • Focus on Pokémon Center exclusives for limited-edition appeal.

Tips for Engaging with Journey Together

  1. Collect Strategically: Prioritize special illustration rares and promos for collectibility and value.
  2. Build Competitive Decks: Use N’s Zoroark ex or Iono’s Bellibolt ex for meta-relevant strategies—test on Pokémon TCG Live.
  3. Join Local Leagues: Trade and play at events found via the Pokémon Event Locator.
  4. Protect Cards: Use sleeves, top loaders, and binders to maintain mint condition for grading or trading.
  5. Stay Informed: Follow Card Chill’s TCG Sets page for updates on Journey Together products and trends.

Where to Buy Journey Together Products

Purchase authentic Journey Together cards and sealed products from Card Chill. Their Pokémon Cards page offers singles, Booster Packs, and ETBs, shipped from West London, ensuring no counterfeits. Visit Card Chill’s TCG Sets page for detailed set information.

Journey Together FAQ

When was Journey Together released?

March 28, 2025, with prerelease events starting March 15, 2025.

What are the most valuable cards?

Lillie’s Clefairy ex ($135 PSA 10), N’s Zoroark ex ($213 PSA 10), and N’s Reshiram promo ($100–$200 PSA 10).

Is Journey Together a good investment?

Yes, due to high-demand chase cards, limited promos, and nostalgic appeal, especially for sealed products.

Conclusion

Scarlet & Violet—Journey Together is a standout Pokémon TCG set in 2025, blending nostalgic Trainer-Pokémon mechanics with stunning artwork and competitive potential. From chase cards like Lillie’s Clefairy ex to investment-worthy Booster Boxes, it’s a must-have for collectors and players. Start your Journey Together adventure with authentic products from Card Chill and join the Pokémon TCG community today!