The anticipation has been building, and now it’s official – the fourth installment of the Pokémon TCG’s Scarlet & Violet set has been unveiled! Say hello to “Paradox Rift,” a thrilling expansion that brings the enigmatic Paradox Pokémon to the trading card game for the very first time, more than a year after their debut in the video games.
According to the Pokémon Center website, the Paradox Pokémon lineup includes four confirmed characters: Iron Valiant ex and Iron Hands ex from the future, and Roaring Moon ex and Sandy Shocks ex from the past. These time-traveling creatures are set to add a dynamic new dimension to the TCG battles we know and love.
In many ways, the introduction of Future and Ancient Paradox Pokémon mirrors the innovative approach seen in the Sword & Shield series’ battle styles. These unique Pokémon types boast distinct frames and special abilities that directly tie into their presence on the battlefield. While it might not take center stage as prominently as battle styles did, this exciting addition promises to diversify gameplay and strategy.
Expanding beyond the Paradox Pokémon, this new expansion has also confirmed the ex treatment for Garchomp, Mewtwo, Gholdengo, and Armarouge. This revelation hints at the potential inclusion of cards from the Japanese Raging Surf expansion. If this holds true, it marks the return of Technical Machines, which were last seen in the Platinum era. The question of whether these will join Paradox Rift or wait for subsequent releases, perhaps in 2024 or beyond, remains to be answered.
Throughout this year, the Pokémon TCG has been steadily unfolding the layers of the Scarlet & Violet generation. From the gradual integration of type-changing terrastalisation to the launch of Obsidian Flames – its third expansion – the journey has been one of anticipation. With the inclusion of Paradox Pokémon, we’re now stepping into a comprehensive representation of all that Scarlet & Violet brings to the table. The timing couldn’t be better, especially with the recently revealed return of ACE SPEC cards in 2024, promising an exciting and dynamic future for Pokémon TCG enthusiasts. Stay tuned as the Paradox Rift expansion takes us on an unprecedented adventure in the realm of trading card excellence.
Paradox Rift is scheduled to be the last release of 2023 for the Pokemon TCG. For Paradox Rift, you’ll be able to pick up two different Elite Trainer boxes, based on Iron Valiant or Roaring Moon, complete with on-theme sleeves and a storage box.