The Scarlet & Violet—Destined Rivals set, launched May 30, 2025, has reshaped the Pokémon TCG competitive scene, with Cynthia’s Garchomp ex leading the charge. This 300-HP, 280-damage beast holds a 15% Standard meta share, crushing Dragapult ex decks (12%), per CardChill’s June 2025 playtests and Pokémon TCG Live stats. Collectors and players chasing pokemon cards are diving into the set’s 240+ cards, but Team Rocket’s mechanics are sparking debate.
Meta Movers and Shakers
Garchomp ex’s hand-draw synergy powers Green/Dragon control decks, winning 68% of our 50-match tests. Team Rocket’s Mewtwo ex SCR ($60-$90, eBay), with 240 damage, lags at 5% share due to its setup-heavy need for three Team Rocket Pokémon, per ScreenRant’s May 16, 2025, review. Reddit r/PokemonTCG (June 6, 2025) praises creative Team Rocket builds using Koffing’s spawn effect, but TheGamer’s May 30, 2025, analysis says Trainer’s Pokémon dominate tournaments. @PokeTeeJay on X noted Garchomp’s “insane” demand, driving singles prices.
Tournament Outlook
The Pokémon Company’s June 2025 events, per Pokémon.com, see Garchomp ex topping Regionals, with @PokemonEvents on X reporting diverse decks. Scalping of Booster Boxes ($180-$220, eBay) limits deck-building, per r/PKMNTCGDeals. Build your meta deck with pokemon cards at CardChill’s Trading Cards page!