First Partner Illustration Collection – Series 1 Revealed for 2026 Release
The Pokémon TCG is celebrating 30 Years of First Partner Pokémon with a brand‑new product line: the First Partner Illustration Collection. The first entry in this series, Series 1, has now been officially revealed and will launch on 20 March 2026.
This product line is not explicitly branded as a “30th Anniversary” item, but it clearly ties into the milestone year with its theme and promotional materials.
A New Anniversary‑Style Product Line
Series 1 introduces a fresh concept built around Starter Pokémon from multiple generations. Each box includes:
- 1 special booster pack containing 3 of 9 Illustration Rare‑style promo cards
- 2 standard Pokémon TCG booster packs
- 1 sticker sheet featuring First Partner Pokémon
The promo cards have not yet been revealed, and no images of the promos are available at this time.
Price & Release Details
- Release Date: 20 March 2026
- MSRP: $14.99 USD (confirmed)
- Theme: “30 Years of First Partner Pokémon!”
This product is expected to be widely available and is positioned as an accessible collectible for both new and longtime fans.
A Tribute to Starter Pokémon Across Generations
Series 1 focuses on Starter Pokémon from Kanto, Sinnoh, and Alola, echoing the structure of earlier anniversary products. While PokéGuardian’s article does not list the specific Pokémon, other sources confirm these regions are the focus of Series 1.
The product description emphasizes nostalgia and the bond between Trainers and their first Pokémon partner — a theme central to the franchise’s identity for three decades.
Connection to Past Anniversary Products
This release draws clear inspiration from the First Partner Packs of 2021, which celebrated Pokémon’s 25th anniversary. Those packs featured jumbo reprints of each region’s Starter trio along with booster packs.
The new 2026 version modernizes the concept by replacing jumbo cards with Illustration Rare‑style promos, aligning with the Scarlet & Violet era’s art‑focused card design direction.
More Series Coming in 2026
Series 1 is only the beginning. Additional First Partner Illustration Collections (Series 2 and Series 3) will release later in 2026, covering the remaining regions and completing the full anniversary‑themed lineup.
Final Thoughts
The First Partner Illustration Collection – Series 1 is shaping up to be a nostalgic, affordable, and highly collectible product for Pokémon’s milestone year. With exclusive Illustration Rare promos, a low price point, and a focus on beloved Starter Pokémon, this release is likely to appeal to collectors, sealed product fans, and casual players alike.
As soon as promo card images are revealed, expect excitement — and demand — to rise quickly.