Destined Rivals

Pokémon TCG: Scarlet & Violet—Destined Rivals Set

The Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) continues to thrive in 2025, with the Scarlet & Violet—Destined Rivals set, released on May 30, 2025, marking the tenth and final main expansion of the Scarlet & Violet series. With over 673,000 monthly searches for “Pokémon cards,” this set captivates fans by reintroducing Team Rocket—a villainous organization absent from the TCG since 2004—alongside heroic Trainers like Cynthia and Ethan. Featuring over 240 cards, including powerful ex cards and special illustration rares, Destined Rivals blends nostalgia, competitive gameplay, and stunning artwork. This guide covers general information, chased cards, product selection, investment potential, and tips for engaging with this iconic set.

From Team Rocket’s Mewtwo ex to Cynthia’s Garchomp ex, let’s explore why Destined Rivals is a must-have in 2025 and how to source authentic products from trusted retailers like Card Chill.

General Information on Destined Rivals

Scarlet & Violet—Destined Rivals is the tenth main expansion in the Scarlet & Violet series, released on May 30, 2025, in English, with its Japanese counterparts, Glory of Team Rocket and Heat Wave Arena, released earlier. The set contains 182 main cards and 62 secret rares, totaling over 240 cards. It reintroduces Trainer’s Pokémon, a mechanic highlighting bonds between Trainers and their Pokémon, with a focus on Team Rocket’s villainous schemes led by Giovanni and heroic duos like Ethan and Ho-Oh ex. Each Booster Pack includes 10 cards and 1 Basic Energy, offering a mix of Pokémon, Trainers, and special Energy cards. The set is digitally playable via the Pokémon TCG Live app, with Team Rocket-themed cosmetics available.

Key features include:

  • Over 240 Cards: Including 85+ Trainer’s Pokémon (45+ Team Rocket-themed), 15+ Pokémon ex, 20+ Trainer cards, and 45+ special illustration cards.
  • New Mechanics: Trainer-specific abilities, like Team Rocket’s Watchtower, which removes Pokémon Abilities, and Cynthia’s Power Weight, boosting HP.
  • Theme: Pits Team Rocket (e.g., Giovanni’s Mewtwo ex) against heroic Trainers (e.g., Cynthia’s Garchomp ex), inspired by classic Pokémon narratives.
  • Prerelease Events: Held from May 16, 2025, offering early access to cards.
  • Promos: Retailer-specific promos like Team Rocket’s Zapdos (GameStop) and Articuno (Best Buy) with purchases of $15+.

The set’s nostalgic Team Rocket revival and competitive depth make it a cornerstone of the Scarlet & Violet era.

Chased Cards in Destined Rivals

Destined Rivals is packed with high-value chase cards, prized for their artwork, rarity, and gameplay utility. Here are the top chased cards, based on secondary market values and collector sentiment as of June 2025:

1. Team Rocket’s Mewtwo ex (Special Illustration Rare)

  • Details: A dark, majestic depiction of Mewtwo under Giovanni’s command, with a 280 HP Deletion Sphere attack. Designed by a prominent artist, it’s the set’s defining card.
  • Value: $150–$300 (PSA 10), previously peaked at $700 due to hype.
  • Why Chased: Fan-favorite Pokémon, low pull rate (1 in 1,000 packs), and stunning artwork drive demand.
  • Tip: Prime for grading due to collector appeal and competitive use.

2. Giovanni (Special Illustration Rare)

  • Details: Features Team Rocket’s boss in an imposing, shadowy pose, with moody tones and a nod to his criminal aura.
  • Value: $80–$150 (PSA 10).
  • Why Chased: Nostalgic appeal and strong character branding make it a collector’s gem, even if not the priciest.
  • Tip: A must-have for Team Rocket-themed collections.

3. Ethan’s Ho-Oh ex (Hyper Rare)

  • Details: A glowing golden artwork of Ethan and Ho-Oh, with a Fire Energy acceleration ability for Ethan’s Pokémon.
  • Value: $100–$200 (PSA 10).
  • Why Chased: Nostalgic Johto protagonist and competitive Fire-type synergy boost its appeal.
  • Tip: Pair with Ethan’s Adventure for deck synergy.

4. Cynthia’s Garchomp ex (Special Illustration Rare)

  • Details: A powerful card with 260-damage Draconic Buster attack, enhanced by Cynthia’s Roserade for extra damage and Cynthia’s Power Weight for 400 HP.
  • Value: $90–$180 (PSA 10).
  • Why Chased: Competitive strength and vibrant artwork make it a dual-purpose card.
  • Tip: Ideal for collectors and players building Fighting-type decks.

5. Team Rocket’s Moltres ex (Special Illustration Rare)

  • Details: Depicts Moltres with fiery wings and Archer in a dramatic cityscape, with dynamic, wispy flames.
  • Value: $70–$140 (PSA 10).
  • Why Chased: Stunning artwork and Team Rocket nostalgia drive collector interest.
  • Tip: Collect alongside other legendary bird cards for a thematic set.

Other notable cards include Team Rocket’s Wobbuffet (promo, Elite Trainer Box), Misty’s Psyduck (illustration rare), and Ethan’s Adventure (Supporter, special illustration rare), valued for their unique art and gameplay potential.

Product Selection for Destined Rivals

Destined Rivals offers a range of products suited for collectors, players, and investors. Here’s a breakdown of the best options:

1. Booster Box (36 Packs)

  • Best For: Collectors and investors chasing rares like Team Rocket’s Mewtwo ex or Giovanni.
  • Contents: 36 Booster Packs (10 cards each), with a chance at secret rares and occasional promos.
  • Price: Approximately $120–$150 retail, with secondary market prices higher due to demand.
  • Tip: Hold sealed for long-term investment or open for chase cards, but beware low pull rates (1 in 1,000 for top SIRs).

2. Elite Trainer Box (ETB)

  • Best For: Beginners, collectors, and players seeking a complete package.
  • Contents: 9 Booster Packs, 65 card sleeves (Giovanni and Mewtwo design), dice, counters, a storage box, and a Team Rocket’s Wobbuffet promo card.
  • Price: $45–$60, with Pokémon Center ETBs slightly higher due to exclusive promos.
  • Tip: Pokémon Center ETBs are highly sought after for their exclusive stamped cards.

3. Booster Bundle

  • Best For: Budget-conscious collectors or casual players.
  • Contents: 6 Booster Packs, offering a cost-effective way to pull cards like Cynthia’s Garchomp ex.
  • Price: $25–$35.
  • Tip: Ideal for kids or those building collections without high investment.

4. Build & Battle Box

  • Best For: Prerelease events and players testing new decks.
  • Contents: 4 Booster Packs and a 40-card preconstructed deck with a random stamped promo.
  • Price: $20–$30.
  • Tip: Great for experiencing Destined Rivals cards early at prerelease events.

5. Triple Blister Packs

  • Best For: Collectors seeking promos and smaller pack quantities.
  • Contents: 3 Booster Packs and a promo card (e.g., Team Rocket’s Zapdos or Articuno).
  • Price: $15–$20.
  • Tip: Check GameStop or Best Buy for exclusive promos while supplies last.

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

Investment Potential of Destined Rivals

Destined Rivals is a strong investment opportunity due to its nostalgic Team Rocket theme, high-demand chase cards, and limited-edition products. Here’s why it’s a smart choice for 2025:

  • High-Value Chase Cards: Cards like Team Rocket’s Mewtwo ex ($150–$300 PSA 10) and Giovanni ($80–$150 PSA 10) are already stabilizing at high values, with potential for growth as supply decreases.
  • Sealed Product Appreciation: Booster Boxes ($120–$150 retail) and Pokémon Center ETBs could double in value within 5–10 years, especially if print runs remain limited.
  • Nostalgia Factor: The return of Team Rocket, unseen since 2004, taps into Gen I nostalgia, driving long-term collectibility.
  • Limited Promos: Retailer-exclusive promos (e.g., Team Rocket’s Zapdos) and the Wobbuffet promo enhance collectible value.
  • Scalping and Scarcity: High demand at launch led to scalping, with ETBs reselling for double the RRP initially, suggesting strong secondary market potential.

Risks to Consider:

  • Market Volatility: Prices have stabilized but can fluctuate based on meta shifts or reprints.
  • Counterfeits: High-value cards like Mewtwo ex are prime targets for fakes—buy from trusted sources like Card Chill’s Pokémon hub.
  • Low Pull Rates: Chase cards have steep pull rates (1 in 1,000 packs for some SIRs), making pack opening risky for investors.

Investment Tips:

  • Hold sealed Booster Boxes or ETBs for 5–10 years for maximum ROI.
  • Grade high-value cards like Team Rocket’s Mewtwo ex with PSA or Beckett to boost value.
  • Monitor TCGPlayer or eBay sold listings for price trends.
  • Focus on Pokémon Center exclusives and retailer promos for scarcity-driven value.

Tips for Engaging with Destined Rivals

  1. Collect Strategically: Prioritize special illustration rares and promos for collectibility and value.
  2. Build Competitive Decks: Use Cynthia’s Garchomp ex or Team Rocket’s Spidops 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 Destined Rivals products and trends.

Where to Buy Destined Rivals Products

Purchase authentic Destined Rivals 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.

Destined Rivals FAQ

When was Destined Rivals released?

May 30, 2025, with prerelease events starting May 16, 2025.

What are the most valuable cards?

Team Rocket’s Mewtwo ex ($150–$300 PSA 10), Giovanni ($80–$150 PSA 10), and Ethan’s Ho-Oh ex ($100–$200 PSA 10).

Is Destined Rivals a good investment?

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

Conclusion

Scarlet & Violet—Destined Rivals is a landmark Pokémon TCG set in 2025, blending Team Rocket nostalgia with powerful gameplay and collectible artwork. From chase cards like Team Rocket’s Mewtwo ex to investment-worthy Booster Boxes, it’s a must-have for fans. Start your Destined Rivals adventure with authentic products from Card Chill and join the Pokémon TCG community today!