In 2026, Pokémon celebrates its 30th anniversary, marking three decades of adventures shared with trainers worldwide. To commemorate this milestone, Pokémon China will release the 30th Anniversary Celebration: First Partner Special Illustration Card Set Vol. 1 on March 20, 2026.
This release is intended as a nostalgic tribute to the very beginning of every journey: the moment trainers choose their first partner and set out into the world together.
Original Partner Special Illustration Cards
The set includes 9 brand-new holographic special illustration cards, with 1 random card per set. These illustrations feature the starter Pokémon from three iconic regions:
- Kanto: Bulbasaur, Charmander, Squirtle
- Sinnoh: Turtwig, Chimchar, Piplup
- Alola: Rowlet, Litten, Popplio
Each illustration is filled with subtle details from the original games, familiar locations, memorable story moments, and small visual cues that long-time players will immediately recognize.
When the three starters from the same region are placed side-by-side, they form one continuous panoramic image, rewarding collectors who complete a regional trio.
Collector's Set with an Emphasis on Presentation
Each set also includes a custom-made magnetic acrylic display frame, specially designed to showcase the First Partner illustration cards.
The frame can be mounted on metal surfaces and magnetically placed side-by-side, allowing collectors to display regional trios as one continuous scene.
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Bonus Booster Pack
To complete the set, each box also contains a "Brilliant Phantoms" booster pack (5 cards), giving collectors an additional chance to pull other cards alongside the commemorative illustration.
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