ThePokémon Trading Card Gameis set to release a second “special set” in 2025, with a focus on Pokémon that first appeared inPokémon Black & White. Earlier this month, thePokémon TCGreleasedPrismatic Evolutions, a special set with booster packs only available in boxed products. Although the early days of the set weremarred by extreme shortagesand price hikes, thePokémonTCGapparently is getting ready to release another special set later in the year.
ThePokémon TCG news sitePokéBeachreports 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 newPokémon TCGset, although releasing two of each product type suggests an interesting wrinkle. Traditionally, thePokémonTCGhas 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,althoughPokémon TCG Pockethas a similar release tactic with separate card lists for each booster pack type.
Pokémon TCG - Prismatic Evolutions Review: Gorgeous Cards Offset By Horrendous Market Conditions
The newest Pokémon Trading Card Game set Prismatic Evolutions has gorgeous cards, but don’t pay a premium for the cards right now.
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 thatPokémon Black & Whiteremakesare 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 thePokémon TCGtypically releases content based on the video games, it would allow for a special promotion of these allegedPokémon Black & Whiteremakes while still preparing for the re-releaseof 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 havesome major issueswith the ways that special sets are released for thePokémon TCG. The staggered releases encourage scalping and other bad behavior, and thelack 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 thePokémon TCG, it feels too close to the release ofPrismatic Evolutions, which just came out and will still be pushing out product over the summer.
