The Pokémon TCG’s 30th anniversary set is so impressive, it’s likely to fly off the shelves.
This year marks the 30th anniversary of Pokémon, and what better way to celebrate than with a brand-new trading card set? Launching globally on September 16, this nostalgic collection introduces an exciting new rarity type featuring a unique tactile finish. Among the highlights are six special holofoil cards, including fan favorites like Mew and Mewtwo.
According to The Pokémon Company, “In 30th Celebration, fans can look forward to discovering an all-new card rarity, Futuristic rare, which will feature vibrant new visuals illustrated by the renowned Japanese artist YOSHIROTTEN. Each Futuristic rare card will depict Pokémon in striking artwork evocative of hope toward an unknown future.”
Of course, series mascot Pikachu makes his expected appearance, but this time he takes center stage. Every pack contains one of 30 possible Pikachu variants, each illustrated by a different artist. It seems we can never have too many Pikachu cards! The designs are genuinely impressive, and prolific TCG artist Tomokazu Komiya will debut his first standalone Pikachu card, which is sure to be a sought-after item for collectors. Personally, I’m on the hunt for the squished face Pika by OKACHEKE and the dreamy Pikachu from Atsuko Nishida.
The trailer for the set showcases many of the new cards, and I’m particularly drawn to the Eeveelutions lounging around, like Umbreon and Espeon. The upcoming set will feature Pokémon “during different moments throughout daytime and nighttime.” Artists featured in the trailer include 0313, Amelicart, Aspara, Yuu Nishida, Whisker, Iori Suzuki, and 5BanGraphics. Collectible Pokémon include Greninja, Lapras, Drifloon, Zorua, Ho-Oh, Xerneas, Kyogre, Lunala, Zekrom, Zacian, Slowpoke (in a well!), Unown, and Meowth, among others. Each booster pack will contain five foil cards and one foil Basic Energy.
Additionally, there’s a special version of the iconic base set Charizard, which will feature a sparkly gold finish along the edges.
“Fans can discover 30 classic Pokémon cards from across the game’s decades-long history that are making a return in 30th Celebration. Each of these classic cards will feature a stunning foil treatment,” the company adds.
While Pikachu may dominate the collection, Pokémon enthusiasts will likely be eager to snag any cards from this new set. In recent years, the market has seen a surge of resellers marking up new releases by two to five times the suggested retail price. With high demand for the 30th anniversary set, collectors should be prepared to battle bots or rise early to secure their packs.
Throughout the year, Pokémon’s 30th anniversary has been celebrated with various releases, including merchandise like plushies and a logo featuring all 1,000-plus Pokémon in the series’ compendium.