Pokémon 30th Anniversary TCG in 2026: Leaks, Trademarks, & Rumors You Can’t Ignore
The First Partner Illustration Collection – Series 2 is part of a three-wave Pokémon TCG release celebrating Pokémon’s 30th Anniversary in 2026. Following the debut of Series 1 earlier in the year, Series 2 continues the generational celebration by spotlighting additional starter Pokémon through exclusive Illustration Rare promo cards.
Pokémon TCG: First Partner Illustration Collection – Series 2 launches on June 19, 2026 as part of the Pokémon 30th Anniversary lineup.
This second wave focuses on first partner Pokémon from the Johto, Unova, and Galar regions and continues the three-part First Partner Illustration Collection series.
The First Partner Illustration Collection – Series 2 is scheduled to release on June 19, 2026.
The collection’s MSRP is listed at around 14.99 USD (and 14.99 GBP in the UK), though local prices may vary by retailer.
Series 2 represents the middle release in this three-part collection and plays a key role in completing the generational arc started in Series 1.
Series 2 highlights first partner Pokémon from three regions: Johto, Unova, and Galar.
Each of the nine featured starters appears as an illustration rare–style promo in the special promo pack included with each collection.
Series 2 highlights first partner Pokémon from three regions: Johto, Unova, and Galar.
Each of the nine featured starters appears as an illustration rare–style promo in the special promo pack included with each collection.
The Johto region is represented by the classic trio of Chikorita, Cyndaquil, and Totodile.
These Johto starters receive new illustration rare–style artwork in the Series 2 promo lineup.
From Unova, the featured first partner Pokémon are Snivy, Tepig, and Oshawott.
As with the other regions, these Unova starters appear as part of the nine-card promo pool in Series 2.
The Galar region is represented by Grookey, Scorbunny, and Sobble.
Together with Johto and Unova, these Galar starters complete the nine illustration rare–style promos available in the Series 2 promo pack.
This confirms that Series 2 will follow the same structure as Series 1, allowing collectors to plan for completion and consistency.
Each Pokémon TCG: First Partner Illustration Collection – Series 2 includes one special promo booster pack containing 3 of 9 illustration rare–style promo cards.
In addition to the promo pack, every box comes with 2 Pokémon TCG booster packs and 1 sticker sheet featuring first partner Pokémon artwork.
The special promo pack is designed to celebrate the bond between Trainers and their first partner Pokémon by bundling three themed illustration rare–style promos together.
As with Series 1, buyers should expect to receive 3 of the 9 possible promos per box, so completing the full set will usually require multiple boxes or purchasing singles on the secondary market.
Series 2 in the 30th Anniversary lineup
Series 2 is the middle entry in the three-part First Partner Illustration Collection line, which spans all 27 first partner Pokémon across its releases.
Collectors aiming to complete the entire 30th Anniversary first partner promo set will need cards from Series 1, Series 2, and the upcoming Series 3 to cover every region.
Should you buy Series 2?
Series 2 is a strong pickup if you are a fan of Johto, Unova, or Galar starters, or if you are trying to complete the full 30th Anniversary first partner promo run.
With a relatively low MSRP, a focused set of promos, and two extra booster packs in each box, it offers a mix of collectible value and pack-opening fun for both players and collectors.
Updated in May 2026 to reflect the officially revealed release date, confirmed regions, and finalized contents for the Pokémon TCG: First Partner Illustration Collection – Series 2.
Series 2 represents a critical bridge between early and modern Pokémon generations. For many collectors, Johto and Unova mark formative eras of Pokémon history, while Galar connects the anniversary celebration to more recent games and fans.
This balance makes Series 2 one of the most anticipated waves in the First Partner Illustration Collection.
Series 2 is shaping up to be a key completion piece rather than a standalone novelty. Collectors interested in finishing the full 30th Anniversary First Partner set should plan for Series 2 early, especially given the randomized promo distribution.
As more information becomes available, this page will be updated.