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.
While full details have not yet been officially revealed, the overall structure of the First Partner Illustration Collection is now clear, allowing collectors to understand what Series 2 represents and how it fits into the broader anniversary lineup.
The First Partner Illustration Collection is a multi-series Pokémon TCG product line created specifically for the Pokémon 30th Anniversary. Each series focuses on starter Pokémon from select generations and features original Illustration Rare promo artwork designed to highlight the identity, locations, and themes of each region.
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.
Pokémon has confirmed that:
There will be three total First Partner Illustration Collection series
Each series releases at different points throughout 2026
Each collection includes Illustration Rare promo cards and sealed booster packs
The box format remains consistent across all series
This confirms that Series 2 will follow the same structure as Series 1, allowing collectors to plan for completion and consistency.
Based on the generational structure revealed with Series 1, Series 2 is widely expected to feature starter Pokémon from Johto, Unova, and Galar.
This expectation is based on:
The need to cover all nine Pokémon generations across three series
The generational grouping used in Series 1
Logical chronological spacing between generations
These generation assignments have not yet been officially confirmed, and this page will be updated immediately when Pokémon releases full details.
While specific promo cards have not yet been revealed, Series 2 collections are expected to include:
1 promo booster pack containing 3 Illustration Rare promo cards
2 Pokémon TCG booster packs
1 themed sticker sheet
The randomized promo format means that completing all Illustration Rare promos will require multiple boxes or secondary market purchases.
Based on the artistic direction seen in Series 1, collectors can reasonably expect Series 2 Illustration Rare promos to:
Incorporate iconic regional landmarks
Feature generation-specific items and symbols
Blend Pokémon, environment, and nostalgia into a single scene
Emphasize visual storytelling over traditional card layouts
If Series 1 is any indication, Series 2 artwork will likely lean heavily into regional identity rather than simple character portraits.
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 with:
Official release date
Confirmed starter Pokémon
Promo artwork reveals
Buying considerations