Leaked Details Suggest Pokémon’s 30th Anniversary TCG Set is Their Best Yet

The Pokémon Company has really raised the bar this time around. Recent leaks hinting at the upcoming Pokémon 30th anniversary set showcase a lineup of absolute gems. Even the 30 unique Pikachu featured in the collection are sure to grab attention.

This set, boasting over 130 cards, was always set to be a fan favorite, as it brings back many of the franchise’s most beloved cards. However, the buzz isn’t centered on a shiny new Base Set Charizard; it’s all about the fresh additions.

So far, the lineup includes special illustration cards for fan-favorites like Sylveon, Gengar, Jirachi, Lugia, Tyranitar, Uxie, Salamence, Delcatty, Sneasel, Scizor, Alolan Exeggutor, Moltres, Lapras, Articuno, all three versions of Meowth, Zapdos, Toxtricity, Morpeko, Drifloon, Zorua, Maushold, Lycanroc, Chandelure, and Eevee. Plus, we already know that classic characters like Pikachu, Charizard, Mew, and Mewtwo will also make an appearance. There’s even a Cresselia card that’s split into two parts.

Each Pikachu seems to be illustrated by a different artist, showcasing a variety of styles. We have a chubby Pikachu, a sleeping one, a surfing Pikachu, a winking Pikachu, one powering up, at least two indulging in snacks, and a whole bunch of Pikachu playing in the grass. Notable artists involved include Shinji Kanda, Okachee, and Atsuko Nishida.

It’s confirmed that the set is already in production, with cards like the Future Rare Mew and Mewtwo already surfacing. The images align with the typical design of booklets found in products like the Elite Trainer Box. A significant portion of the leaked cards was also featured in the set reveal trailer.

The artwork provides some intriguing hints as well. The three Meowth cards, for instance, exhibit a geometric layout typical of well-known Pokémon TCG artists like Okubo. This trio also reflects the set’s broader day and night theme, with each card depicting a different time of day.

The Pokémon revealed in this leak seem quite credible. They go beyond the usual favorites, including legendaries and starters, and even feature some less common choices. There are trainer cards included too. Marketplaces have already started listing some of these cards, and the general consensus is that this set is so appealing, it’s going to be hard to find.

“The set is going to be brutal,” one user commented in a post showcasing the leaks. “Either they print it into oblivion and tank the resale market for many reprinted cards, or they don’t, making it nearly impossible for regular collectors to get their hands on them.”

“After seeing the leaks over the last few days, I’m considering skipping it altogether or just opening it casually,” another user shared. “Prices are going to be way too high.”

If the trends at various TCG marketplaces are any indication, these fans are onto something. Prices typically soar before a set’s release, but even by those standards, the markups are staggering. As of now, a pre-order for a 30th anniversary ETB is going for around $239, while its suggested retail price is just $49.99, marking a whopping 378% increase over MSRP.

In summary, anyone looking to snag this set should start saving up now. The hype was already intense, but these leaks have sent excitement levels skyrocketing. Prices for products like the 30th anniversary ETB and UPC remain high, but they’re not outlandishly so.