The Return of Darkness: Team Rocket Rises Again
The highly anticipated new Pokémon card set , "The Glory of Team Rocket," will be released in Japan on April 18th – and it promises nothing less than a triumphant march by arguably the most notorious organization in the Pokémon world. Team Rocket, known for its ruthless schemes and iconic appearances, isn't in the shadows this time – but in the spotlight.
The set is brimming with dark designs, powerful cards, and nostalgic references for fans of the original. In this post, we take a closer look at the 10 most exciting cards from the new set—whether for their playability, design, or simply their atmosphere.
The card prices will be updated in the coming days as soon as initial market data becomes available. Until then, let yourself be fascinated by the dark side of the Pokémon universe—because The Glory of Team Rocket isn't just a name, it's a statement.
Why is the new Team Rocket set so hyped?
1. Nostalgia meets modern design
Team Rocket has been an integral part of the Pokémon franchise's history since its early days. Many fans associate Jessie, James, Meowth, and the rest with childhood memories, legendary anime moments, and the first Dark Pokémon cards ever. The new set captures these emotions with a mix of classic flair and contemporary artwork.
2. Dark Pokémon celebrate their comeback
Cards with the "Dark" attribute are extremely popular with collectors. They were once a hallmark of the Rocket sets, but were rarely revisited over the years. With The Glory of Team Rocket, they're finally making a full-blown comeback—dark, powerful, and aesthetically pleasing.
3. High-quality illustrations & special rarities
The artwork shown so far has generated excitement in the community. Many cards boast elaborate, atmospheric illustrations that appeal not only to Team Rocket fans but also to collector design enthusiasts. Additionally, rumors are circulating about exclusive Secret Rares, making the set even more desirable.
4. Return of iconic characters
Jessie, James, and other familiar Rocket members are represented not only as Trainer cards, but also in exciting new combinations and illustrations. For many fans, this is an emotional highlight—and one more reason to secure the set.
The Top 10
10th place: Team Rockets Kramurx
In The Glory of Team Rocket, Murkrow returns as the emblematic scout of the underworld—cunning, cunning, and always a wing beat ahead. With artwork that perfectly captures its dark aura, it fits Team Rocket's style and strategy like no other Pokémon.
9th place: Team Rocket's Smogmog
Few Pokémon embody the classic Team Rocket era more than Weezing—James' longtime partner from the anime series. In The Glory of Team Rocket, the poison gas Pokémon celebrates its dark comeback with artwork that practically screams smog, sabotage, and nostalgia. With abilities that specifically utilize status effects and confusion, Weezing is not only a homage to the past but also a tactical tool in battle. Together with the Team Rocket Chairman's Trainer card, it forms the perfect duo of loyalty, cunning—and a touch of Chaos Gas.
8th place: Team Rockets Woingenau
🃏 Wobbuffet – The Hidden Star What would Team Rocket be without Wobbuffet? This iconic Pokémon, which regularly caused chaos, laughs, and surprising twists with its legendary "Wobbuffet!", is an integral part of Team Rocket's DNA. In The Glory of Team Rocket, it returns with a strong presence, equipped with counter-attacking abilities that drive opponents to despair. Wobbuffet may seem harmless at first glance, but those who underestimate it will quickly feel the consequences.
7th place: Team Rockets Rattikarl
As one of the first Pokémon in Team Rocket's arsenal, Raticate represents raw aggression and ruthless efficiency. In The Glory of Team Rocket, it returns with a new look and a focus on fast, direct damage. Small, underrated—but extremely dangerous. Raticate proves once again that you don't need legendary Pokémon to instill fear and terror, just sharp teeth and the right boss behind you.
6th place: Team Rockets Iksbat
Crobat, the evolved and even more insidious form of Golbat, sneaks into the decks of Dark Strategists in The Glory of Team Rocket with silent wing beats. Fast, agile, and elusive, Crobat is perfect for hit-and-run tactics and controlling plays. Its menacing artwork and poisonous abilities reflect exactly what Team Rocket is all about: striking before the opponent knows what's happened.
5th place: Team Rocket's Houndoom
With its flaming breath and sinister gaze, Houndoom is a natural fit for Team Rocket. In The Glory of Team Rocket, it appears as a fearsome finisher—fast, merciless, and with fierce precision. Its design combines dark elegance with raw power, perfectly in keeping with the set's theme: Strength from the Shadows. Anyone who sees Houndoom on the field knows things are about to get serious.
4th place: Giovanni's Nidoking
If there's one Pokémon that embodies the raw power and dominance of Giovanni, the leader of Team Rocket, it's Nidoking. In The Glory of Team Rocket, it appears as his personal trump card—a symbol of strength, control, and relentless determination. With its massive build, thunderous attacks, and artwork that exudes authority, Giovanni's Nidoking isn't just a powerful card, it's a statement: Anyone who stands in Team Rocket's way will face the king.
3rd place: Giovanni's Meowth
Few Pokémon are as closely associated with Team Rocket as Meowth – but in The Glory of Team Rocket, it's given a new, unusually serious stage: alongside Giovanni himself. Unlike the cheeky anime Meowth, this version reveals the coldly calculating, loyal side of the iconic Pokémon. With sophisticated abilities based on deception, coin flips, and luck, Giovanni's Meowth perfectly reflects the manipulative tactics Rocket uses to trap its opponents. Small but dangerous – and always one step ahead.
2nd place: Team Rocket's Moltres
In The Glory of Team Rocket, Moltres appears in a new, sinister form—tamed and corrupted by Team Rocket's machinations. This legendary Fire-type Pokémon, once a symbol of pure power, now blazes with dark energy and unleashes attacks that not only burn but destroy. The grim artwork underscores the corrupted majesty of this once-sacred being. Team Rocket's Moltres is no longer a guardian—it's a weapon. And when it appears, there's only one thing to do: get out of the way.
1st place: Giovanni's Mewtwo
At the center of The Glory of Team Rocket is a card already considered the most coveted in the set: Giovanni's Mewtwo. This legendary Pokémon, created by human hubris and controlled by Rocket technology, embodies the darkest vision of power in the Pokémon universe. With artwork that combines raw psychic energy and cold control, Mewtwo presents itself not as a hero—but as Giovanni's instrument. His abilities? Devastating. His presence? Intimidating. As the set's Chase card, Giovanni's Mewtwo is a must-have for collectors, strategists—and anyone who wants to experience the dark side of the Pokémon world at its most powerful.
More Special Rares from the Team Rocket Set
In addition to the cards already listed, there are other interesting artworks in this set that we don't want to withhold from you. This list also includes some cards that could fetch high prices in the future. Here are the legal Special Rares from "The Glory of Team Rocket."
More Special Cards
10th place: Peru
This alternate illustration of Perlu transports us to a tranquil, almost magical underwater world. Surrounded by shimmering bubbles, seaweed, and soft light, the small shell Pokémon seems almost like a hidden gem on the seabed. The alt art not only captures Perlu's natural beauty but also serves as a reminder of how detailed and atmospheric Pokémon cards can be.
9th place: Lohgock
Blaziken returns with explosive energy in this set. In a dynamic battle pose, surrounded by flames, it embodies pure determination and speed. The card impresses not only with its action-packed artwork, but also with abilities that reward fast attacks and aggressive speed. A must-have for anyone who loves Fire-type Pokémon—and prefers to attack before thinking in their matches.
8th place: Kangaskhan
With its young in its pouch and a watchful gaze, Kangaskhan has always been a symbol of strength, protection, and familial bonding. In this set, it impresses with lovingly designed artwork that exudes both power and nurturing.
7th place: Regirock EX
Regirock, the legendary Pokémon of the rock element, appears in this set with imposing artwork that perfectly captures its unwavering strength and steadfast presence. A true bulwark of rock and energy, it shines not only with its defensive power but also with its ability to provide strategic advantages. With its virtually indestructible appearance, Regirock is a true giant that should be included in any team that values consistency and stability.
6th place: Zacian
Zacian, the Legendary Sword Pokémon, impresses with its majestic appearance and tireless fighting spirit. In this card, it shines in its powerful "Sky Warrior" form and embodies everything you'd hope for in a Legendary Pokémon: elegance, strength, and determination. With its lightning-fast attacks, Zacian is not only a visual delight but also a true threat on the field. A Pokémon that shines both in-game and as a collectible.
5th place: Giovanni's Snobilikat
Snobilikat, the elegant yet cunning Pokémon, proves to be the perfect complement to Giovanni's sinister plan in The Glory of Team Rocket. With its regal demeanor and ability to be both unstoppable and cunning in battle, Snobilikat is a true masterpiece of strategy. Its icy attacks and elegant presence on the field are a reminder that true power isn't always loud—but often lies in calmness and precision. A highlight for anyone who relies on the subtle nuances of Team Rocket's strategy.
4th place: Team Rockets Maritellite
A Pokémon that often operates in the background, Agatha becomes a secret ally of Team Rocket in The Glory of Team Rocket. With its fast agility and precise attacks, it acts like a master of stealth. Its artwork perfectly reflects its silent yet menacing presence—always ready to surprise the opponent with a well-aimed blow. Agatha is the perfect card for strategists who want to play subtly and overwhelm their opponents at the right moment.
3rd place: Team Rocket Board
Giovanni, the ruthless leader of Team Rocket, is the mastermind behind every scheme and every plot. At his side is the Rocket Board, a group of elite members who are united behind the sinister plans meant to shake the Pokémon world.
2nd place: Team Rocket Iksbat EX
Crobat, the clever and cunning Pokémon, flies with a nimble and dangerous presence in The Glory of Team Rocket. As part of Team Rocket, it not only operates quickly but also with targeted tactics that plunge the opponent into chaos. With its sharp claws and ability to surprise and outsmart opponents, Crobat is the perfect scout and supporter for Rocket strategies. It's the card that distracts the opponent while the true plans are spun in the shadows.
1st place: Giovanni's Mewtwo EX
Giovanni's Mewtwo isn't just a Pokémon—it's the embodiment of power, control, and dark science. In The Glory of Team Rocket, Mewtwo doesn't appear as a free, independent being, but rather as a tool in Giovanni's hands, created to be unstoppable. With its overwhelming psychic powers and ability to dominate the game, Mewtwo is a true masterpiece of Team Rocket strategy.
Conclusion for the best cards from “The Glory of Team Rocket”
A dark highlight for collectors and fans
"The Glory of Team Rocket" is far more than just another Pokémon card set—it's a love letter to one of the most iconic chapters in Pokémon history. With its successful mix of nostalgia, striking artwork, and the return of dark Pokémon, it hits a nerve with the community.
Whether as a collector's item, a game enhancer, or simply because of its special aesthetics, this set has the potential to become a true classic.
We're excited to see how the cards' prices will evolve and what surprises might be revealed once the set is officially released.
One thing is already certain: Team Rocket may be considered antagonists in the Pokémon world – but in the world of trading cards, they are currently experiencing their greatest triumph.
