Pokémon TCG Sees Trainer's Pokémon Return in 2025

The Pokémon Company International made several exciting announcements at the 2024 Pokémon World Championships, including the highly anticipated return of classic Pokémon TCG mechanics in 2025.

Nostalgia Strikes: Trainer's Pokémon and Team Rocket Cards Return to the TCG

Official Release Date Pending

The comeback of "Trainer's Pokémon" cards was a major highlight. The teaser trailer showcased beloved trainers like Lillie, Marnie, and N, alongside their signature Pokémon: Lillie's Clefairy ex, Marnie's Grimmsnarl ex, N's Zoroark ex, and N's Reshiram. These cards, a staple of the early TCG, featured unique artwork and abilities tied to specific trainers.

Further fueling excitement, the trailer hinted at the potential return of Team Rocket, featuring Mewtwo and the iconic Team Rocket symbol. This has sparked speculation about a dedicated Team Rocket set or the revival of Dark Pokémon, another popular early-game mechanic associated with Team Rocket's more aggressive Pokémon variants. Rumors of a Japanese retailer listing and a trademark filing ("The Glory of Team Rocket") by The Pokémon Company add weight to this possibility.

Paradise Dragona Set Debuts at World Championships

The World Championships also unveiled the first glimpse of the upcoming Paradise Dragona set. According to PokeBeach, initial cards revealed include Latias, Latios, Exeggcute, and Alolan Exeggutor ex. This Japanese Dragon-type focused subset is slated for a November 2024 English release as part of the Surging Sparks set.

Meanwhile, the current Kitikami chapter is concluding with the release of the Shrouded Fable expansion this month, boasting 99 cards (64 main cards and 35 secret rare cards), according to the official Pokémon TCG blog. The Pokémon TCG community eagerly awaits further details on the exciting new additions coming in 2025.