The Pokémon Trading Card Game continues to evolve, and exciting news emerged from the recent Champions League 2025 Osaka event in Japan. Livestreamed on the official Pokémon YouTube channel, the event unveiled details about the upcoming TCG set, Battle Partners, launching in Japan next month. This set marks the return of Trainer’s Pokémon, a card type absent from the game for several years, and offers a fresh take on iconic trainer-Pokémon pairings.
Battle Partners draws inspiration from popular trainers and their Pokémon companions across the Pokémon universe, featuring cards with small trainer images reminiscent of the classic Gym Heroes and Gym Challenge sets. Several prominent trainers are highlighted, including N from Pokémon Black and White. While N’s Zoroark ex, N’s Reshiram, and N’s Reshiram ex were previously revealed at the Pokémon World Championships, the Champions League event showcased additional cards like N’s Zorua, Darumaka, Darmanitan, and Sigilyph.
N's Pokemon from Battle Partners
Lillie from Pokémon Sun and Moon also takes center stage in Battle Partners. Along with the previously revealed Lillie’s Clefairy ex, the event showcased Lillie’s Comfey. Iono, the Electric-type Gym Leader from Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, joins the roster with cards like Iono’s Wattrel and Iono’s Kilowattrel. A card depicting Iono’s Gym in Levincia was also displayed. Notably, Iono’s Bellibolt ex receives a full art card, capturing a heartwarming moment between trainer and Pokémon.
Iono's Bellibolt ex full art card
The Battle Partners pack art features N, Lillie, Iono, and Hop from Pokémon Sword and Shield alongside the Legendary Pokémon Zacian. While the Japanese release is slated for January, the North American release date remains unconfirmed. Prismatic Evolutions is scheduled for next month in North America, and rumors suggest a March release for Battle Partners under the name Pokémon Scarlet and Violet: Journey Together. This timeline aligns with typical TCG release patterns. As we head into 2025, more information, including official English translations, is anticipated.
The return of Trainer’s Pokémon and the exciting new cards in Battle Partners promise a dynamic addition to the Pokémon TCG. With iconic trainer-Pokémon pairings and stunning artwork, this set is sure to captivate collectors and players alike. What are your thoughts on the latest reveals?
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