This week, Pokébeach revealed exciting news for Pokémon TCG fans in Japan, announcing the launch of three new starter decks that will introduce fresh Pokémon cards. For those eager to see these cards in future Pokémon TCG sets, you can find more details in their article here.
However, despite the buzz, I find it difficult to muster excitement without any visuals or rules associated with these new cards. The focal points of these decks feature ex cards for popular Pokémon like Eevee, Zoroark, and Meowscarada, with additional Illustration Rares expected for Zorua, Sprigatito, and likely Eevee.
These Pokémon have already featured ex cards in the Scarlet & Violet series, with Zoroark and Eevee getting their ex representations in 2025. Zorua, on the other hand, had two Illustration Rares in 2025 and one the year before. The vast number of special Eevee variations also adds to the discussion.
Given the astonishing count of 1,025 Pokémon currently in existence, it feels somewhat disappointing that only a select few receive multiple ex and IR cards while many remain underrepresented. Some Pokémon, such as Shedinja, Goodra, Regigigas, and Pinsir, have yet to see an ex card, and plenty have gone seven years or more without any sort of spotlight. Notably, did you know Totodile has never been featured in a full art card, apart from Pokémon Pocket? Scyther similarly persists as a glaring omission!
This phenomenon might stem from the sheer volume of Pokémon, which makes it challenging for The Pokémon Company to keep all fans satisfied. The cartoon franchise’s move to a limited roster in mainline games hints at favoritism, emphasizing only select Pokémon.
That said, it’s worth considering that there will be various new cards in these decks aside from the highlighted ones, which makes sense given that they want to market products around the most beloved characters.
The Pokémon Company also seems determined to continue introducing ex cards for newer Pokémon, albeit with less fanfare. Last year marked the debut of the ex card for Mamoswine, and just recently the first Gourgeist ex was announced for the upcoming Ninja Spinner set in Japan.
Furthermore, with new sets like Black Bolt/White Flare, there is an unprecedented number of Illustration Rares being introduced, ensuring that Pokémon from across entire regions don’t get overlooked.
The question remains: is Pokémon doing enough to highlight all its original creatures, or is it merely focusing on fan favorites? Share your opinions with us on the Wargamer Discord.
