The Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) is set to release its tenth main expansion in the Scarlet and Violet era, Destined Rivals, on May 30th.  This highly anticipated expansion introduces over 240 new cards, adding to the ever-expanding roster of collectible Pokémon.

A key feature of Destined Rivals is the prominent return of Team Rocket, the infamous villains from the Pokémon universe.  While not their first appearance in the TCG, this expansion puts Giovanni and his cohorts in the spotlight, offering a nostalgic trip for long-time fans and an exciting introduction for newer players.

The Destined Rivals expansion boasts a wide variety of cards, including the return of the Trainer's Pokémon mechanic. Over 85 cards feature this mechanic, with more than 45 showcasing Team Rocket's Pokémon.  Collectors can also look forward to over 15 Pokémon ex, 20 Trainer cards, and 45 Pokémon and Trainer cards with special illustrations.  Adding to the rarity are six hyper-rare gold-etched cards and 11 special rare illustrations.

While Team Rocket takes center stage, Destined Rivals also features other beloved characters and Pokémon. Misty and Psyduck, Ethan's Typhlosion, ex variants of Steven and Metagross, Cynthia and Garchomp, Grimmsnarl and Marnie, Ethan and Ho-Oh, and Arwen and Mabosstiff are just a few examples of the familiar faces making an appearance.

The expansion will be available in various formats, including Booster Boxes containing 36 packs and Elite Trainer Boxes featuring a promotional Team Rocket's Wobbuffet card, a nod to Jessie and James' iconic partner.  Pre-release events will run from May 17th to 25th, offering players an early chance to obtain cards like Team Rocket's Tyranitar and Mimikyu, Misty's Gyarados, and Ethan's Typhlosion, according to Poke Beach.

Looking ahead, another expansion is anticipated in July, potentially focusing on Pokémon from the Unova region, with rumors suggesting the absence of Trainer's Pokémon cards.  Further down the line, an expansion centered around Mega Evolutions is expected in August or September, potentially featuring Mega Lucario and Mega Gardevoir ex cards.

The Pokémon TCG continues to be a popular collectible and strategy card game.  Two players engage in strategic battles, aiming to knock out their opponent's Pokémon and claim prize cards.  The collectibility of the cards adds another layer to the game, with certain rare cards fetching substantial prices in the market.