After a two-decade hiatus, Team Rocket is blasting back into the Pokémon Trading Card Game with the Japanese release of The Glory of Team Rocket on April 18, 2025 . This expansion marks the first dedicated Team Rocket set since EX Team Rocket Returns in 2004, bringing a wave of nostalgia and excitement to collectors and players alike. 

A Brief History of Team Rocket in the TCG

Team Rocket made their TCG debut with the aptly named Team Rocket set in 2000, introducing the concept of “Dark Pokémon” to the game. This was followed by EX Team Rocket Returns in 2004, which expanded on the dark theme and added new mechanics. Since then, Team Rocket’s presence has been limited to occasional cameos, such as the “Boss’s Orders” Giovanni card in the Rebel Clash set and the “Here Comes Team Rocket!” reprint in the 2021 Celebrations set.  

What’s New in The Glory of Team Rocket?

This latest expansion shifts focus from “Dark Pokémon” to “Rocket’s Pokémon,” featuring cards like Rocket’s Mewtwo ex as the set’s headliner . Each card is adorned with the iconic red “R” symbol and showcases various Team Rocket members, including Giovanni and Proton, as Trainer icons. 

The set comprises 98 cards in its main collection, with additional Secret Rare cards pushing the total to around 130. Notable Secret Rares include Team Rocket’s Wobbuffet and Team Rocket’s Meowth. 

Luckily for us keen eyed web readers, lots of the SAR cards leaked ahead of the release so we were able to grab a peak at the menacing Giovanni’s Mewtwo & Moltres SAR cards.

When Two Sets Collide

The English adaptation of this set, titled Destined Rivals, slated for release on May 30, 2025. Destined Rivals will be a combination of Heat Wave/Hot Air Arena & The Glory of Team Rocket. Check out our previous blog post on Heat Wave/Hot Air Arena if you need a refresher on some of the cards in the set.

A Visual Treat for Fans

The Glory of Team Rocket doesn’t just bring back beloved characters; it also offers stunning artwork that captures the essence of the franchise’s most infamous villains. From dynamic illustrations of Rocket’s Pokémon to detailed depictions of Team Rocket operatives, this set is a visual feast for fans and collectors.

Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the world of Pokémon TCG, The Glory of Team Rocket offers a unique blend of nostalgia and fresh content. Don’t miss the chance to add this iconic set to your collection!