Scheduled for release on May 30, 2025, Pokémon TCG's latest Scarlet & Violet expansion, Destined Rivals, promises to be one of the most significant card game releases in recent memory – and rightfully so.
After securing early access to this set, I can confidently state that Destined Rivals represents a phenomenal achievement. Opening these packs reminded me why I fell in love with Pokémon TCG in the first place.
The artwork showcases some of the most visually stunning illustrations in the franchise's history. The expansion features nostalgic Trainer Pokémon cards including Ethan from Pokémon Gold and Silver, delivering powerful waves of nostalgia while simultaneously pushing the game forward.
A Revolutionary Step Forward
Destined Rivals transcends mere nostalgia bait. This expansion introduces meaningful gameplay innovations through Trainer-specific Pokémon mechanics and significantly improved pull rates – clearly demonstrating that The Pokémon Company understands what both collectors and competitive players crave.
This feels particularly refreshing after months of product shortages and challenging pull rates (though Journey Together had begun steering things in the right direction).
I've already started strategizing multiple deck builds and identifying cards I want duplicates of – an excitement I haven't experienced with new sets in quite some time. If distribution challenges can be resolved alongside these gameplay improvements, this expansion could redefine player engagement.
Where to Purchase
The expansion will be available through various product formats:
- Booster Bundle
- Booster Box
- Elite Trainer Box
- Pokémon Center Exclusive Elite Trainer Box
- Half Booster Box
- Sleeved Booster Pack
- 3-Pack Blister (featuring Zebstrika)
- 3-Pack Blister (featuring Kangaskhan)
- Build & Battle Box
Hands-On Impressions
Through The Pokémon Company's generosity, I sampled multiple Destined Rivals products including:
- A Build & Battle Box
- A Booster Bundle
- An Elite Trainer Box
- A full Booster Box
Each product delivered satisfying openings – a marked improvement from recent sets where pulls often felt disappointing.
The Build & Battle Experience
The Build & Battle Box established high expectations immediately, containing:
- 4 Booster Packs
- A stamped promo card (Team Rocket's Tyranitar)
- A 40-card preconstructed deck
From just four packs, I pulled:
- 1 ex card
- 1 Illustration Rare
The included Trainer's Pokémon mechanics made deckbuilding surprisingly strategic and flavorful right out of the box.
Elite Trainer Box Contents
While my Elite Trainer Box didn't yield spectacular pulls, it included impressive components:
- 9 Booster Packs
- Card sleeves
- Damage counters
- A Rocket's Wobbuffet promo card
The striking red-and-black Team Rocket aesthetic exceeded expectations in person.
Booster Bundle Highlights
The Booster Bundle delivered:
- Several ex cards
- My personal favorite pull – Ethan's Typhlosion Illustration Rare
This product offers excellent value for collectors seeking thrilling pack openings without breaking the bank.
Booster Box Excellence
The Booster Box served as the grand finale:
- Multiple ex cards
- Gold card
- Special Illustration Rare
- Several Illustration Rares
This opening reminded me why booster boxes remain the ultimate Pokémon TCG experience.
Gameplay Innovations
Destined Rivals introduces several key improvements:
- Enhanced artwork quality across all rarity tiers
- Deeper implementation of Trainer's Pokémon mechanics
- Significantly improved pull rates
The expansion corrects many frustrations experienced with recent sets like Shrouded Fable and Prismatic Evolutions.
Standout Pulls
Among my 46-pack opening session:
- 8 ex cards
- 6 Illustration Rares
- 1 Special Illustration Rare
- 1 Gold card
Ethan's Ho-Oh ex (239/182)
This breathtaking Special Illustration Rare depicts Ethan soaring with Ho-Oh against a vibrant sunset backdrop.
Arven's Mabosstiff ex (235/182)
A versatile addition to midrange decks, this heartfelt artwork captures Pokémon's core emotional appeal.
Team Rocket's Crobat ex (217/182)
This damage-spreading menace presents exciting deckbuilding opportunities.
Ethan's Typhlosion (190/182)
My personal favorite pull, showcasing Typhlosion's explosive power through dynamic artwork.
Team Rocket's Houndoom (191/182)
This undervalued Dark-type finally receives the premium treatment it deserves.
Final Verdict
Pokémon TCG: Destined Rivals represents:
- A triumphant return to form
- A celebration of Pokémon's legacy
- A promising vision for the game's future
This expansion deserves:
- 5/5 stars for collectors
- 4.5/5 stars for competitive players
Available at major retailers including:
- Amazon
- Walmart
- Target
- Best Buy
Destined Rivals launches May 30, 2025 – mark your calendars for what promises to be Pokémon TCG's most exciting release in years.
