The Japanese-language Pokémon Trading Card Game set The Glory of Team Rocket dropped on April 18, meaning we finally have a clear look at the cards that will be released in North America as part of the Destined Rivals set on May 30.
While some people expected to see Jessie and James, the iconic Team Rocket dunce duo from the anime, they are nowhere to be seen in this set. Rather, we see the admins from the Pokémon games: Archer and Ariana, who debuted in Pokémon Gold, Silver, and Crystal; and Petrel and Proton, who debuted in Pokémon HeartGold and SoulSilver. Of course, we also see the big boss man, Giovanni, alongside some nameless grunts.
Continuing from the last few expansions, these cards also focus on Pokémon owned by the featured trainers, meaning we’re getting sick cards like Team Rocket’s Mewtwo ex.
There’s also a lot of cards that just show the gang hanging out with their Pokémon. The gang might be evil, but even they have their peaceful moments, I guess. Notably, the Team Rocket’s Wobbuffet card shown below should be the promo card featured in the Elite Trainer Box for Destined Rivals.
There’s also a few cards that don’t explicitly feature Team Rocket baddies in them, if that’s more of your thing — including this gorgeous Blaziken.
Personally, I’ll be chasing this Kangaskhan card, where it’s showing kindness to a nearby Quagsire.
Destined Rivals combines two Japanese sets: The Glory of Team Rocket and Hot Wind Arena, the latter which focuses on trainers like Cynthia, Ethan, Misty, and Arven. Unfortunately, Pokémon cards are still not easy to get for MSRP, so you may have to visit your local stores early in the morning on May 30 if you want a chance to crack any of these cards from packs. (But pro-tip in this horrendous Pokémon card economy? You should just buy singles from your local card shop!)
You can see the rest of the illustration rares and ultra rares from The Glory of Team Rocket set below.
