Pokémon TCG Sees Trainer's Pokémon Return in 2025

The Pokémon Company International made a significant announcement at the 2024 Pokémon World Championships: the return of beloved mechanics from the original Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) in 2025.

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

Official Release Date Still Under Wraps

The announcement confirmed the comeback of "Trainer's Pokémon" cards, a staple of the early TCG. These cards featured Pokémon belonging to specific trainers, boasting unique abilities and artwork. The teaser showcased Lillie’s Clefairy ex, Marnie’s Grimmsnarl ex, N’s Zoroark ex, and N’s Reshiram.

Further fueling excitement, the teaser hinted at the return of Team Rocket, featuring Mewtwo alongside their iconic symbol. This sparked speculation about a dedicated Team Rocket card set or the potential revival of Dark Pokémon, another popular early mechanic associated with Team Rocket and their "edgier" Pokémon variants. Rumors of a Japanese retailer listing and a trademark filing ("The Glory of Team Rocket") by The Pokémon Company add weight to these expectations.

Paradise Dragona Set Debuts at World Championships

The 2024 World Championships also unveiled the first cards from the upcoming Paradise Dragona set. PokeBeach reported showcasing Latias, Latios, Exeggcute, and Alolan Exeggutor ex. This Japanese subset, focused on Dragon-type Pokémon, is slated for an English release as part of the Surging Sparks set in November 2024.

Meanwhile, the current TCG wave is nearing its end. The Kitikami chapter concludes with the release of Shrouded Fable this month, a 99-card expansion (64 main cards and 35 secret rares), as detailed on the official Pokémon TCG blog. The anticipation for the 2025 releases remains high.