The Pokémon TCG: Scarlet & Violet—Destined Rivals Pokémon Center Elite Trainer Box (ETB), launched on May 30, 2025, is a premium offering for collectors and players, available exclusively through the Pokémon Center. Priced at around £60 (SKU: 100-10653), this ETB stands out in the Scarlet & Violet series for its thematic focus on Team Rocket versus heroic Trainers, featuring iconic Pokémon like Mewtwo ex and Cynthia’s Garchomp ex. With 11 booster packs, exclusive promos, and high-quality accessories, it’s a compelling purchase for Pokémon TCG enthusiasts. Below is a detailed review of this sealed product, evaluating its contents, value, and appeal in the 2025 market.
Contents and Features
The Destined Rivals Pokémon Center ETB is packed with value, offering:
- 11 Booster Packs: Two more than standard ETBs, each containing 10 cards (including 1 Energy card), boosting the odds of pulling chase cards like Mewtwo ex (083/151, ~$50 raw) or Giovanni (Special Illustration Rare, ~$30). The set’s 83 Team Rocket-tagged cards and 17 Pokémon ex add collectible depth.
- Exclusive Promo Cards: Includes two full-art foil Team Rocket’s Wobbuffet cards—one with a Pokémon Center logo, a collector’s gem valued at $10-15 on secondary markets. These promos enhance the box’s exclusivity.
- Accessories: Features 65 card sleeves with Team Rocket and heroic Trainer designs, 45 Energy cards, a player’s guide, 6 damage-counter dice, 1 competition-legal coin-flip die, and 2 condition markers. The sturdy collector’s box with four dividers ensures organized storage.
- Digital Bonus: A code card for Pokémon TCG Live unlocks in-game content, appealing to digital players.
The box’s design, showcasing Mewtwo, Cynthia, and Ethan, is visually striking despite a slightly plain white top, making it a display-worthy piece for collectors.
Pros: Why It’s a Must-Have
- High Pull Potential: With 11 booster packs, the ETB offers more chances at high-value chases like Mewtwo ex or hyper-rare gold cards, driving 70% of the set’s market value. In 2025, Destined Rivals cards have risen 15-25%, per market trends, making pack openings rewarding.
- Exclusive Content: The Pokémon Center-exclusive Wobbuffet promo adds resale value, with PSA 10 grades fetching $20+. The themed sleeves and box art enhance collectibility, appealing to fans of Team Rocket’s narrative.
- Investment Upside: Sealed ETBs have appreciated 22% year-to-date, with Destined Rivals boxes projected to hit $80-100 by 2026 due to limited Pokémon Center stock. The set’s Trainer Pokémon ex mechanic boosts long-term demand.
- Versatility: Ideal for collectors, players, and investors, the ETB balances gameplay utility (Energy cards, dice) with aesthetic appeal, making it a versatile addition to any Pokémon cards collection.
Cons: Potential Drawbacks
- Price Volatility: While stable now, the broader Pokémon cards market saw 10-15% corrections in 2025, and heavy Destined Rivals printing could soften future gains compared to sets like Paldean Fates (332% ETB rise).
- Niche Appeal: The Team Rocket focus may not resonate as strongly as Charizard-driven sets, potentially limiting mass-market hype. Some collectors on forums criticize the set’s lack of a standout “mega-chase” card.
- Initial Cost: At £60, it’s pricier than standard ETBs (£50), and scalpers have pushed secondary market prices to £70-80, which may deter budget-conscious buyers in a 42% inflating singles market.
Value and Market Context
In 2025, the Destined Rivals ETB offers solid value, with its 11 packs (worth ~£44 retail) and promos justifying the £60 price. Compared to Evolving Skies ETBs ($300), it’s an affordable entry point with growth potential, especially given the set’s 23 illustration rares and six hyper-rare cards. Community buzz on platforms like X highlights its collectibility, with collectors praising the box art’s nostalgic nod to Giovanni. However, investors should note the risk of short-term dips if reprints occur, though long-term holds (2-5 years) look promising given the 27% sealed product uptick.
Final Verdict
The Pokémon TCG: Scarlet & Violet—Destined Rivals Pokémon Center Elite Trainer Box is a standout sealed product, blending rich contents, exclusive promos, and investment potential. Its 11 booster packs and Team Rocket flair make it a thrilling choice for rippers, while the collector’s box and sleeves appeal to display enthusiasts. Despite risks of market corrections and niche appeal, its affordability and projected 20-30% appreciation by 2026 make it a strong buy for Pokémon cards fans. Whether you’re chasing Mewtwo ex or building a sealed collection, this ETB is a worthy addition. Check availability at trusted retailers like Card Chill.