The Japanese-language set of the Pokémon Trading Card Game, titled The Glory of Team Rocket, was released on April 18. This gives us a first look at the cards that will be part of the Destined Rivals set launching in North America on May 30.
Contrary to some expectations, iconic Team Rocket characters Jessie and James from the anime are absent from this set. Instead, we find the admins from the Pokémon games: Archer and Ariana, who appeared in Pokémon Gold, Silver, and Crystal, as well as Petrel and Proton from Pokémon HeartGold and SoulSilver. Of course, Giovanni, the big boss, is also featured alongside some unnamed grunts.
Continuing the theme of recent expansions, these cards highlight Pokémon owned by the featured trainers, delivering impressive cards such as Team Rocket’s Mewtwo ex.
There are also several cards depicting the gang in more relaxed settings with their Pokémon, demonstrating that even villains have their serene moments. The Team Rocket’s Wobbuffet card, highlighted below, is expected to be the promo card in the Elite Trainer Box for Destined Rivals.
For those not keen on Team Rocket, there are also cards without the notorious members, including a stunning Blaziken.
Personally, I’m eager to find the Kangaskhan card that shows it being kind to a nearby Quagsire.
The Destined Rivals set merges two Japanese sets: The Glory of Team Rocket and Hot Wind Arena, the latter featuring trainers like Cynthia, Ethan, Misty, and Arven. Sadly, Pokémon cards are still hard to come by at their recommended retail price. To improve your odds of getting these cards from packs, it’s best to visit your local stores early on May 30. (Pro-tip in this tough Pokémon card market: consider buying singles from your local card shop!)
You can view the remaining illustration rares and ultra rares from The Glory of Team Rocket set below.
