Mark your calendars for May 30, 2025 – the Pokémon TCG's Scarlet & Violet: Destined Rivals expansion promises to be one of the most significant TCG releases in recent memory. And believe me, the hype is completely justified.
A Collector's Dream Come True
After securing exclusive early access to this set, I can confidently say Destined Rivals delivers an exceptional TCG experience. The card reveals hit me with waves of nostalgia, particularly with the return of Ethan (the protagonist from Pokémon Gold and Silver) and his Trainer Pokémon. The artwork quality represents a new benchmark for the series.
What makes Destined Rivals special isn't just nostalgia – it's a genuine step forward for gameplay. The enhanced Trainer Pokémon mechanics create fresh deckbuilding opportunities, while improved pull rates show The Pokémon Company truly understands what collectors and players want.
This feels like a turning point after recent sets struggled with stock issues and frustrating pull rates (though Journey Together started showing improvement). I'm already brainstorming multiple deck builds and hunting strategies – that's how compelling these cards are.
Product Breakdown
The Pokémon Company provided a complete Destined Rivals product range for review:
Build and Battle Box
The perfect entry point, containing four booster packs, a stamped promo card (I received Team Rocket's Tyranitar), and a 40-card starter deck. I pulled both an ex card and Illustration Rare from my packs – an encouraging sign of the set's improved distribution.
Elite Trainer Box
This Team Rocket-themed ETB is a visual stunner, containing nine booster packs along with standard accessories. While my pulls were average, the product's premium presentation makes it a collector's item regardless.
Booster Bundle
Six pure booster packs delivered some of my favorite pulls, including Ethan's Typhlosion Illustration Rare – a breathtaking card that perfectly captures trainer-Pokémon bonds.
Booster Box
The 36-pack box proved why booster openings remain special, yielding multiple ex cards, a Gold rare, a Special Illustration Rare, and several stunning alternate art cards.
Key Highlights
The artistic direction in Destined Rivals is phenomenal – even common cards have exceptional detailing that makes opening packs more engaging. The expanded Trainer Pokémon concept adds depth to both collecting and competitive play.
Pull rates showed significant improvement from recent sets. From 46 packs opened, I recorded:
- 8 ex cards
- 6 Illustration Rares
- 1 Special Illustration Rare
- 1 Gold rare
Top Pulls Spotlight
Ethan's Ho-Oh ex (239/182)
A breathtaking Special Illustration Rare showing Ethan and Ho-Oh in flight. The playable version offers strong fire energy acceleration and healing capabilities.
Arven's Mabosstiff ex (235/182)
This lovable companion Pokémon delivers solid mid-game pressure with its damage/healing mechanics.
Team Rocket's Crobat ex (217/182)
A strategic damage-spreader that enables devastating combos, especially with supporting cards from previous sets.
Ethan's Typhlosion (190/182)
My personal favorite - an Illustration Rare that masterfully depicts the bond between trainer and starter Pokémon.
Team Rocket's Houndoom (191/182)
A beautifully menacing dark-type that demonstrates the set's artistic excellence.
Final Verdict
Destined Rivals represents the Pokémon TCG at its finest - if you can find stock. It combines nostalgic appeal with innovative gameplay mechanics and some of the most stunning card art in recent memory. Whether you're a competitive player, casual collector, or simply enjoy the thrill of opening packs, this set delivers an experience worth chasing.
Just be prepared - after experiencing these cards, your wallet might need an intervention.
