Destined Rivalries is the tenth set in the Scarlet and Violet block of the Pokémon TCG, released on 30 May 2025. It puts Team Rocket back at the centre of the game, with over 240 cards and legendary trainer duos. This is the set that revived collector interest in character cards.
Pokémon TCG EV10 “Destined Rivals” Finally Revealed!
The new Pokémon TCG expansion EV10 – Destined Rivals will be released on May 30, 2025. This tenth expansion in the Scarlet & Violet series brings back Team Rocket and introduces new Trainer and Pokémon duos. This post highlights the key features of this expansion, its new elements, and associated products.
Description of the Destined Rivals Collection
Destined Rivals is based on a confrontation between two sides: Team Rocket, led by Giovanni, and several famous Trainers, accompanied by their Pokémon. The expansion draws inspiration from two Japanese sets (Heat Wave Arena and The Glory of Team Rocket) and revives the idea of a showdown between heroes and antagonists. This marks Team Rocket's first significant return to the Pokémon TCG since 2004.
Return of Team Rocket
The Team Rocket organization returns in this expansion with cards marked with the “R” symbol. Giovanni has an unprecedented Supporter card, and some Pokémon cards are explicitly under his control. Among them is Mewtwo-ex, used by Team Rocket, in direct reference to the world of video games and the first Pokémon movie.
Trainer and Pokémon Duos
In opposition to Team Rocket, the expansion introduces several Trainer-Pokémon duos. These cards combine a famous Trainer and an associated Pokémon, such as Cynthia & Garchomp-ex, Lance & Ho-Oh-ex, or Pepper & Arcanine-ex. This mechanic echoes the old Gym Heroes series, where Pokémon were named after their Trainer. These cards add a narrative touch to the collection and allow for the creation of thematic decks.
Pokémon Destined Rivals Collection:
- More than 240 collectible cards
- 15+ Pokémon-ex
- 85 Pokémon associated with Trainers
- 45 Pokémon affiliated with Team Rocket
- 20+ Trainer cards (Supporter, Item, Stadium)
- 45+ special illustration rare cards
Synergies can exist between Trainers and their Pokémon. For example, a Cynthia card could interact directly with Garchomp-ex. On the Team Rocket side, specific cards could strengthen Pokémon marked with the “R” symbol.
Available Products
- EV10 Display Box: 36 booster packs in a sealed box
- Elite Trainer Box: 9 booster packs, accessories, and a promo card
- Triple Packs: 3 booster packs + 1 exclusive promo card
- Single Booster Packs: sold individually or in blister packs
Each product allows you to explore the expansion at your own pace, whether to complete a collection or build a specific deck.
The next set in the same block, Black Bolt and White Flare, heads back to Unova and its legendaries Reshiram and Zekrom: the two collect well together.
Products related to Pokémon Destined Rivals
Several derivative products can accompany this expansion:
- Our 3D lamps, our light-up Poké Balls, and our crystal keychains
Pokémon EV10 – Destined Rivals offers content structured around a confrontation between Team Rocket and iconic Trainers. Players can choose their side, discover new game mechanics, and enrich their collection. The expansion is accessible to newcomers and seasoned Pokémon TCG players alike.
