In the world of *Pokémon TCG* collecting, it's never been more challenging. With unprecedented demand and scalpers snapping up products, getting ahead of the competition is crucial. Here's your guide on how to pre-order *Pokémon TCG Scarlet & Violet – Destined Rivals*.
When Does Pokémon TCG Scarlet & Violet – Destined Rivals Release?
The eagerly awaited *Pokémon TCG* expansion, *Destined Rivals*, is slated to hit retail shelves worldwide on May 30, 2025. This set spotlights the iconic villains of the *Pokémon* universe, Team Rocket, with their leader Giovanni gracing the cover alongside his formidable Mewtwo. They'll face off against trainers like Ethan and Cynthia. Before you invest in this expansion, it's wise to know what treasures await. Here's a rundown of the cards you can expect in *Destined Rivals*:
- 83 new cards
- 17 Pokémon ex, including 10 Trainer's Pokémon ex
- 23 illustration rare Pokémon
- 11 special illustration rare Pokémon
- Six hyper rare gold-etched cards
How To Pre-Order Pokémon TCG Scarlet & Violet – Destined Rivals
While getting acquainted with new *Pokémon* expansions is straightforward, securing them can be a real challenge. The launch of *Prismatic Evolutions* was notoriously chaotic, with products flying off the shelves. As we approach the release of *Destined Rivals*, the situation isn't expected to improve much. However, there are strategies you can use to make pre-ordering smoother.
The Pokémon Center will open pre-orders for *Destined Rivals* at some point, though predicting when is nearly impossible. To stay ahead, enable notifications on accounts that keep you updated on *Pokémon TCG* releases and be ready to check out the moment pre-orders go live. Joining a community on platforms like Discord can also provide valuable insights from fellow collectors. Keep an eye on other retailers like Best Buy and GameStop, and consider visiting them in person to see if pre-orders will be available.
Local card shops are often your best bet for early access to *Pokémon* cards. Visit these shops or call them to ask about pre-order availability. Many card shops also maintain websites and Discord channels where they post updates about major releases like *Destined Rivals*. Familiarize yourself with their process to avoid long lines and the scramble for packs when the expansion launches in May.
And that's your roadmap to pre-ordering *Pokémon TCG Scarlet & Violet – Destined Rivals*. For more on the latest *Pokémon* expansions, check out all the cards in the *Pokemon TCG Pocket Shining Revelry* expansion.