The thrilling countdown to Pokémon’s 30th Anniversary is underway! Celebrate the significant connection between Trainers and their cherished first partners with the stunning illustration rare-style promo cards from the First Partner Illustration Collection.
Whether you’re a seasoned Kanto explorer or just stepping into the Pokémon universe, this new collection invites you to reminisce about your favorite adventures from the past three decades.
Check out all the details on Series 1 of the First Partner Illustration Collection, including its release date, preorder information, and what lies ahead for this set of cards.
Release Date and Preorder Information
The Pokémon TCG’s First Partner Illustration Collection – Series 1 will launch on March 20, 2026. You can expect to find it at your go-to retailers like Pokémon Center, TCGplayer, Target, and Best Buy in the US, as well as Pokémon Center UK, Smyths Toys, and Magic Madhouse across the UK.
While preorders haven’t yet started, they are anticipated to commence in early March at an MSRP of $14.99 / £14.99, according to a listing from Smyths UK.
Pokémon TCG: First Partner Illustration Collection – Series 1
Don’t Miss the Pokémon Day 2026 Collection
Make sure to grab the Pokémon Day 2026 Collection, now available! It includes the 30th Anniversary stamped Pikachu promo, making it the ideal companion to showcase alongside the First Partner sets!
What Comes in the Box?
The International version celebrates the bond between Trainers and their First Partner. Each collection contains 1 Promo Booster Pack, featuring three of nine illustration rare-style promo cards.
These cards boast lovely illustrations of iconic first partner Pokémon like Bulbasaur, Squirtle, and Charmander from Kanto, as well as Turtwig, Piplup, and Chimchar from Sinnoh, and Rowlet, Popplio, and Litten from Alola.
Expect two booster packs, likely from recent Scarlet & Violet expansions like Ascended Heroes or Perfect Order. And don’t forget the fun sticker sheet showcasing your favorite First Partner Pokémon!
Chase Cards to Look Out For
Each card in Series 1 features beautiful nostalgic artwork from popular artist Saboteri, known for works like Mega Froslass ex. Each card includes delightful hidden details like Gym Badges and Z-Crystals from their respective regions.
As these Special Illustration Rare (SIR) promos are exclusive to their boxes, this is a unique opportunity to own a piece of Pokémon’s 30th Anniversary history. It’s a must-have for collectors and fans alike!
What’s Next? Series 2 and 3?
As Series 1 hits the shelves, we can anticipate further volumes in Series 2 and 3. You can check the current release calendar for 2026 to see future launches.
With Series 1 dropping in March, it’s likely that Series 2 will follow the major expansion, Chaos Rising, in Summer 2026, covering Pokémon from Johto (Gen 2), Unova (Gen 5), and Galar (Gen 8).
Series 3 is expected to land in Fall 2026, wrapping up the collection with Pokémon from Hoenn (Gen 3), Kalos (Gen 6), and Paldea (Gen 9).
Upcoming Pokémon TCG Releases
Mark your calendars for the Pokémon Presents on February 27, where we’ll likely catch our first glimpse of the much-anticipated Chaos Rising expansion.
The next major release following that is Perfect Order, set to arrive on March 27, 2026. This set will feature many Pokémon showcased in the upcoming Legends: Z-A game.
Among the revealed cards, expect to see exciting Mega Pokémon like Mega Zygarde ex and Mega Clefable ex, plus some surprises like Meowth ex.
Currently, the only place to preorder Perfect Order is through TCGplayer and other resale platforms.
Sara Heritage contributes as a freelance writer for IGN.
