Hey Pokémon trainers and collectors! Get ready to dive into an epic showdown with the Pokémon TCG Destined Rivals set, released on May 30, 2025! As the tenth and final main set in the Scarlet & Violet series, this expansion brings the iconic clash of heroic Trainers versus Team Rocket, packed with nostalgic vibes and powerful cards. At CardChill.com, we’re thrilled about the awesome Pokémon cards in this set, perfect for battling, collecting, or investing in sealed products. Let’s jump into this fun guide to explore the must-have cards in this incredible Pokémon TCG set and why they’re total game-changers!
Why the Destined Rivals Set Cards Are a Big Deal
The Destined Rivals set, with 244 cards (182 main set, 62 secret rares), combines Japan’s The Glory of Team Rocket, Heat Wave Arena, and Marnie and Steven decks into a nostalgic powerhouse. Featuring Team Rocket’s grand return after 21 years, alongside iconic Trainers like Cynthia and Ethan, this set includes 83 Team Rocket cards, 85 Trainer’s Pokémon, 17 Pokémon ex, and over 45 special illustration cards. Here’s why these cards are so exciting:
- Powerful Pokémon ex: The set boasts 17 Pokémon ex, like Team Rocket’s Mewtwo ex and Cynthia’s Garchomp ex, with high HP and devastating attacks, making them perfect for competitive decks and thrilling battles.
- Collector’s Gems: With 23 illustration rare Pokémon, 11 special illustration rare cards, and 6 hyper rare gold etched cards, the set’s stunning artwork, especially for Team Rocket and Trainer’s Pokémon, makes it a collector’s dream. These are must-haves for your Pokémon card collection!
- Nostalgic Clash: Showcasing Team Rocket’s villainy against heroic Trainers like Misty and Arven, this set blends classic Pokémon nostalgia with modern gameplay. It’s a perfect addition for fans exploring Pokémon TCG sets.
Top Cards to Watch For in the Destined Rivals Set
The Destined Rivals set is packed with cards that’ll dominate battles and collections. Here are the standout stars released on May 30, 2025:
- Team Rocket’s Mewtwo ex (231/182): This Psychic-type juggernaut with 280 HP and the Deletion Sphere attack (up to 280 damage with three other Team Rocket Pokémon in play) is a game-changer. Its special illustration rare, featuring Giovanni and Mewtwo, is a top chase card for collectors due to its iconic villainous artwork.
- Cynthia’s Garchomp ex (232/182): This Dragon-type ex card packs high HP and crushing attacks, making it a competitive powerhouse. Its full-art and special illustration rare versions, showcasing Cynthia with her signature Pokémon, are must-haves for collectors.
- Ethan’s Ho-Oh ex (230/182): A Fire-type legend with a dazzling gold hyper rare version, this card’s vibrant artwork and fiery moves make it a collector’s prize and a battle staple.
- Team Rocket’s Crobat ex: This Darkness-type ex card features a dynamic design with Crobat leading a flock of Zubat and Golbat. Its special illustration rare is a collector’s favorite for its moody, Team Rocket vibe.
- Ethan’s Adventure (SAR): This full-art Supporter card, depicting Ethan running through a Pokémon forest with Pichu, Cyndaquil, and Slugma, is a top chase card with stunning, lively artwork that collectors love.
- Giovanni’s Command: This full-art Supporter card, featuring Team Rocket’s boss, boosts Team Rocket-themed decks and is a collector’s gem for its nostalgic villainy and striking design.
More Cards and Products to Grab
Beyond these top cards, the Destined Rivals set offers plenty of ways to collect. Here’s what’s available:
- Other Key Cards: Look out for cards like Yanmega ex (003/182), Cynthia’s Roserade (008/182), Team Rocket’s Blipbug (015/182), and Arven’s Mabosstiff ex, each with illustration rare or special illustration rare variants. The set also includes 20+ Trainer cards and 45+ special illustration cards for tons of collectible variety.
- Sealed Products Packed with Cards: Grab the Destined Rivals Elite Trainer Box ($49.99, 9 packs + Team Rocket’s Tyranitar promo), Booster Bundles ($26.94, 6 packs), 3-Pack Blisters ($15.87, 3 packs + promo), or Build & Battle Boxes ($21.99, 4 packs + promo for prerelease events from May 17–25). Pokémon Center exclusives, like the stamped Tyranitar promo, are hot at CardChill’s sealed products!
- Promo Cards: Look for exclusives like Team Rocket’s Wobbuffet (Elite Trainer Box promo), Hippopotas, Hippowdon, TM Machine, and Rabsca ex (from earlier Gym promos). Stamped Pokémon Center versions add extra collectible value.
Why These Cards Are a Collector’s and Player’s Dream
The Destined Rivals set’s cards are sparking a frenzy for good reason:
- Nostalgic Power: With Team Rocket’s return after 21 years and iconic Trainers like Cynthia and Ethan, cards like Team Rocket’s Mewtwo ex and Ethan’s Ho-Oh ex are instant classics, perfect for sealed products investors.
- High-Value Chases: With 23 illustration rares, 11 special illustration rares, and 6 hyper rare gold cards, collectors are chasing gems like Team Rocket’s Mewtwo ex and Ethan’s Adventure for their stunning artwork and rarity.
- Battle-Ready: Pokémon ex like Cynthia’s Garchomp ex and Team Rocket’s Crobat ex, paired with Trainers like Giovanni’s Command, offer powerful strategies for competitive play. These are must-haves for players building decks at CardChill’s TCG sets.
Catch These Cards Now!
The Destined Rivals set is rocking the Pokémon TCG with its nostalgic Team Rocket vs. Trainers clash, powerful Pokémon ex, and gorgeous artwork. Released on May 30, 2025, it’s the perfect time to grab these cards for battling or collecting. Head to CardChill.com to shop Elite Trainer Boxes, Booster Bundles, and more before they sell out! Which Destined Rivals card are you chasing? Drop a comment below and let’s share the excitement!