Key Points
- The 30th Celebration expansion launches globally on September 16, 2026.
- All cards in the set will be foil, with each pack containing five foil cards and one foil Basic Energy card.
- The set will include 30 different Pikachu cards illustrated by various artists.
- A new rarity, Futuristic Rare, will be introduced, with visuals by YOSHIROTTEN.
The Pokémon Trading Card Game is preparing to celebrate its 30th anniversary with a special expansion set. The Pokémon Company International has revealed the 30th Celebration set, scheduled for release on September 16, 2026. This release marks a significant milestone for the franchise, offering a nostalgic trip through its history while introducing fresh elements to the card game.
A Shiny Celebration
The most striking aspect of the 30th Celebration set is its commitment to all-foil cards. Each booster pack will contain five foil cards and one foil Basic Energy card, ensuring a premium feel for collectors. The set will include reprints of classic cards like Charizard, Mew, and Mewtwo ex cards, bringing back fan favorites from previous generations. A special version of the base set Charizard with a sparkly gold finish will also be included.
"The cards will depict Pokémon in artwork that evokes hope toward an unknown future." — The Pokémon Company
New Rarities and Artistic Flair
Adding to the excitement, the 30th Celebration set will introduce a new card rarity: Futuristic Rare. These cards will feature futuristic interpretations of Pokémon with visuals by artist YOSHIROTTEN. The set will also include 30 unique Pikachu cards, each designed by a different artist. The Japanese version, called Celebration Collection, will have six-card booster packs, with a Pikachu card in every pack.
Global Launch and Availability
The 30th Celebration set will launch worldwide simultaneously, marking a first for the franchise. The set will be available in multiple languages, making it accessible to a broad audience. While pre-order information is not yet available, the global launch indicates the company's commitment to reaching fans everywhere. The set is anticipated to include a total of 150 cards, with further reveals expected in the coming weeks. Target's Pokémon 30th Anniversary Collection could be an indicator of future collaborations.
Further Details
Every card in the set will be a holofoil. The English international version has a different set number, with the highest revealed card so far being the Mew Futuristic Rare, which is 158/128. This suggests that the English version will have 25 more cards in the base set. The set will also include reprints of iconic cards from the past, including Charizard from the base set and Pikachu & Zekrom Tag Team GX.