Pokemon TCG: Scarlet & Violet Expansion Announced
The Pokemon Company has recently provided fans with more information about the upcoming Pokemon TCG: Scarlet & Violet expansion. This highly anticipated expansion is inspired by the recently released video games Pokemon Scarlet and Pokemon Violet. Set to be launched worldwide on March 31, 2023, Scarlet & Violet will mark the first expansion in the Scarlet & Violet Series, which was unveiled during the 2022 Pokemon World Championships.
Return of Pokemon ex
One exciting feature of the Scarlet & Violet expansion is the return of the Pokemon ex gameplay mechanic. Pokemon ex cards will be making a comeback in each stage of evolution, featuring high HP, powerful attacks, and unique Abilities. However, when a Pokemon ex is Knocked Out, the opposing player will receive not one, but two Prize cards.
Card Design Updates
The Pokemon Company International also announced various design improvements for Pokemon TCG cards, set to begin with the Scarlet & Violet expansion. To align with the cards released in Japan, the yellow borders on Pokemon TCG cards will be changed to gray, offering a more consistent Pokemon TCG experience worldwide. The alteration aims to enhance the visibility of the card artwork. Additionally, Trainer cards will now have subcategories such as Supporter, Item, and Stadium, visibly displayed in the top left corner for easier identification. Basic Energy cards will feature an additional Energy symbol on the bottom right corner, making it simpler for players to track their energy usage during gameplay. Moreover, expansion symbols will be replaced by expansion codes and language codes on all cards.
Changes in the Pokemon Trading Card Game: Scarlet & Violet Series
The Pokemon Trading Card Game has undergone several changes in the upcoming Scarlet & Violet Series to align with the release of Pokemon Scarlet and Pokemon Violet video games. Let’s explore the modifications:
Card Borders
Previously featuring yellow borders, Pokemon TCG cards will now have a silver border, matching the design used in Japan. This change not only respects the original intended border framing of the artwork but also creates a unified global look for Pokemon TCG cards.
Improved Visibility for Trainer Cards
The subcategory information for Trainer cards, such as Supporters and Stadiums, will now be moved from the top right to the top left of the card. This relocation ensures better visibility and ease of identification for players as they strategize during gameplay.
Changes to Energy Cards
In the Scarlet & Violet series, Energy cards will receive several modifications. The name of the Energy will be featured at the top of the card, accompanied by a new subtype tag. The Energy symbol, which was previously present on the Energy cards, will now appear on the bottom right corner. These alterations aim to provide players with clearer information regarding the type and amount of Energy attached to each Pokemon.
Inflation Impact on Prices
Due to global inflation affecting the cost of materials and production, there will be varying MSRP increases in select markets for Pokemon Trading Card Game products with the launch of the Scarlet & Violet series. For example, the price of a booster pack will increase from $3.99 to $4.49 USD. However, to maintain a positive Pokemon TCG experience and value for players, each pack of Pokemon cards will now guarantee three foil cards per booster, with all cards labeled as “Rare” or higher being foil. Certain products will also include additional items, such as the Elite Trainer Box, which will come with an extra booster pack and a full-art promo card.
Competitive Play and Standard Rotation
The Pokemon Company reassures fans that competitive play will continue to play a significant role in the Pokemon TCG during the Scarlet & Violet series. Future updates regarding the Standard rotation and competitive play will be announced, so stay tuned for more details on how it will affect the strategy and meta-game.
Conclusion
With the announcement of the Pokemon TCG: Scarlet & Violet expansion, Pokemon fans and TCG players have much to look forward to. The return of the Pokemon ex gameplay mechanic, along with the card design updates, is set to provide a fresh and exciting experience. As more details about the expansion and product lineups are revealed in the future, fans are encouraged to stay connected with Pokemon.com and @PokemonTCG on social media for the latest updates.
FAQs
1. Will the Scarlet & Violet expansion introduce new Pokemon?
Yes, the Scarlet & Violet expansion will feature new Pokemon inspired by the Pokemon Scarlet and Pokemon Violet video games. Players can expect to discover and collect these new Pokemon in the expansion.
2. How will the change in card borders impact the value of older Pokemon TCG cards?
The change in card borders for the Scarlet & Violet series does not directly affect the value of older Pokemon TCG cards. The value of older cards is determined by factors such as rarity, condition, and popularity among collectors.
3. Are there any other upcoming changes to the Pokemon TCG besides those mentioned for Scarlet & Violet?
While the focus of this article is on the changes introduced with the Scarlet & Violet series, the Pokemon Company continues to evolve and improve the Pokemon TCG. Players can expect future expansions, updates, and enhancements to further enhance their TCG experience.
4. Will the changes to energy cards affect gameplay strategies?
Yes, the changes to energy cards in the Scarlet & Violet series will impact gameplay strategies as they provide additional information regarding the type and amount of Energy attached to each Pokemon. This allows players to implement more precise energy management strategies and make more strategic decisions during battles.
5. How will the MSRP increase impact the affordability of Pokemon TCG products?
While the MSRP increase may affect the affordability of Pokemon TCG products, it is important to note that the change is due to global inflation impacting the cost of materials and production. The Pokemon Company aims to continue providing a positive Pokemon TCG experience and value by including additional foil cards and extra items in certain products, offering more value to players.