Pokémon TCG to Allegedly Release Unova-Themed Special Set This Summer
The Pokémon Trading Card Game is set to release a second "special set" in 2025, with a focus on Pokémon that first appeared in Pokémon Black & White. Earlier this month, the Pokémon TCG released Prismatic Evolutions, a special set with booster packs only available in boxed products. Although the early days of the set were marred by extreme shortages and price hikes, the PokémonTCG apparently is getting ready to release another special set later in the year.
The Pokémon TCG news site PokéBeach reports that another special set will be released in July, which should include cards from the "Black Bolt” and “White Flare” sets confirmed for a Japanese release in June. While the contents of the special sets are unknown, the set will allegedly be released with two separate Elite Trainer Boxes and booster bundles. Additionally, two separate tech sticker collections and special illustration rare boxes will also be released. The products will roll out starting on July 18th, followed by subsequent releases throughout August.
What We Know About Pokémon TCG's July Set
Sets Will Focus on Unova Pokémon, Plus Potentially Could Consist Of Two Mini-Sets
No set names were given for the new Pokémon TCG set, although releasing two of each product type suggests an interesting wrinkle. Traditionally, the PokémonTCG has rebundled multiple Japanese sets into a single international release. If the set comes in two booster bundles and other products, it could mean that there will be two separate mini-sets. This would be unprecedented in the US, although Pokémon TCG Pocket has a similar release tactic with separate card lists for each booster pack type.
Even if we're only getting one special set, the fact that we're getting a Unova-themed set will add fuel to the fire that Pokémon Black & White remakes are coming soon. It's rumored that we could get a "surprise" second set of Pokémon games this year, with Unova remakes a prime candidate for a second release. Since the Pokémon TCG typically releases content based on the video games, it would allow for a special promotion of these alleged Pokémon Black & White remakes while still preparing for the re-release of Mega Evolutions, which is likely to be added to the game in late 2025.
Our Take: Two Special Sets In A Year Are Too Many
A Second Special Set This Year Feels Like A Cash Grab
I have some major issues with the ways that special sets are released for the Pokémon TCG. The staggered releases encourage scalping and other bad behavior, and the lack of individual booster pack sales means that the cards are gatekept behind higher price points.
While special sets are unfortunately a tradition at this point, releasing two sets in a year feels like a brazen cash grab. While an Unova-themed special set makes sense within the greater strategy of the Pokémon TCG, it feels too close to the release of Prismatic Evolutions, which just came out and will still be pushing out product over the summer.
Source: PokéBeach
Pokemon Trading Card Game Pocket
- Released
- October 30, 2024
- Developer(s)
- DeNA, Creatures Inc.
- Publisher(s)
- The Pokemon Company
- Multiplayer
- Online Multiplayer
- Franchise
- Pokemon
Your comment has not been saved