Pokemon Destined Rivals Combines Glory of Team Rocket and Heat Wave Arena

Pokemon Destined Rivals will officially release in May.

This English expansion, releasing on May 30, 2025, combines cards from two major Japanese sets: The Glory of Team Rocket and Heat Wave Arena. TCG fans are excited about the different hits, including Misty’s Gyarados, Rocket’s Mewtwo, and Ethan’s Ho-Oh.

Let’s breakdown what to expect from this set.

What Is Pokémon Destined Rivals?

Pokémon Destined Rivals is an upcoming expansion in the Scarlet & Violet series, including a mix of Trainer Pokémon and Team Rocket-themed cards.

Unlike Japan, where these themes were split into separate sets, the English release will combine them into one big expansion.

Japanese Sets That Inspired Destined Rivals

Heat Wave Arena (Releasing March 2025 in Japan).

• Features Pokémon tied to popular Trainers like Cynthia, Misty, Ethan, and Arven.
• Has Ethan’s Ho-Oh ex, Misty’s Gyarados, and Cynthia’s Garchomp ex.

The Glory of Team Rocket (Releasing April 2025 in Japan)

• Focuses on Team Rocket Pokémon, including Rocket’s Mewtwo ex.
• Brings back classic villain energy with Rocket-themed Supporter cards.

Top Hits in Pokémon Destined Rivals

Some of the most anticipated cards in Pokemon Destined Rivals include:

1. Rocket’s Mewtwo ex

• One of the most talked-about dark-themed Pokémon ex cards
• Could become the top hit from the set.

2. Cynthia’s Garchomp ex

• A competitive powerhouse that may impact the TCG meta.
• Cynthia’s name alone makes this card a favorite.

3. Ethan’s Ho-Oh ex

• A Fire-type legendary Pokémon tied to the Trainer Ethan.
• Strong healing abilities make it a strategic play option for tournaments.

4. Misty's Gyarados

• The Water-type evolved form of Magikarp with an aggressive attack style.
• Likely to increase demand due to nostalgia for 151 collectors.

These are just a few of the hits. The full set will feature over 160 cards, including rare Trainer cards, Special Illustration Rares, and potential secret rares.