Pokémon – History, Cards, Games & Collectibles
2026 marks thirty years of Pokémon – and the trading card game has entered a new era. Here is the history, how the TCG works today, what is releasing this year, and what is worth owning in Pokémon collectibles.
Techbox, Thessaloniki
The history: it started with insects
Satoshi Tajiri collected insects as a child in the suburbs of Tokyo. Pokémon grew out of that: creatures you catch, raise and trade with friends.
Pokémon Red and Green launched on the Game Boy in 1996. In 2026 the franchise turns thirty, and Pokémon is now the highest-grossing media franchise in the world – ahead of Marvel, Star Wars and Mickey Mouse.
Why this matters to collectors: Pokémon is the one franchise where the product itself is inherently collectible. The cards are not merchandise around the franchise – they are the franchise. And their secondary market is larger than entire other properties.
How the TCG works
If you are starting now, three things are worth knowing:
The basic pack of cards. You do not know what is inside – that is the point.
Several boosters together with sleeves, counters and a storage box. The best value for someone starting out.
Every few months a new set arrives with its own cards, artwork and mechanics.
What is releasing in 2026 – the Mega Evolution era
The Scarlet & Violet era has concluded. It has been succeeded by the Mega Evolution era, tied to Pokémon Legends: Z-A, which launched in October 2025.
- Ascended Heroes – January 2026, with over 290 cards and 13 Mega Evolution Pokémon ex.
- Pitch Black – July 2026, headlined by Mega Darkrai ex. A darker visual direction, tied to Legends Z-A: Mega Dimension.
- 30th Celebration – 16 September 2026. The anniversary set, and the first simultaneous worldwide release in the TCG's history. Every pack holds six cards, all foil, and guarantees one of 30 uniquely numbered Pikachu – each by a different artist.
- Delta Reign – November 2026, headlined by Mega Rayquaza ex. The final main set of the era.
Release dates move – we update this guide whenever something changes officially.
The rarities – what the stars mean
The Mega Evolution era introduced two new tiers. The numbers give a sense of what collectors are chasing:
- Mega Attack Rare: roughly one in every 29 packs.
- Mega Hyper Rare: three gold stars, full gold foil across the card face. Roughly one in every 540 packs in Ascended Heroes – the rarest standard pull of the era.
This is also why Elite Trainer Boxes are popular: more packs means more chances.
What is worth collecting
- TCG cards: booster packs, Elite Trainer Boxes and tins from the current sets.
- Figures: Jazwares, Bandai and Banpresto – from play figures to detailed statues.
- Nintendo Switch games: the mainline titles, with Legends: Z-A the most recent major release.
- Plush: Pikachu, Eevee and its evolutions – among the safest gifts for children.
- Accessories: sleeves, binders and playmats for anyone collecting seriously.
Gift guide
An Elite Trainer Box – cards, sleeves and everything needed.
A Pikachu or Eevee plush, or play figures.
Booster boxes, binders, premium figures.
Booster packs, keyrings, small figures, mugs.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the current Pokémon TCG era?
- The Mega Evolution era, which succeeded Scarlet & Violet. It is tied to Pokémon Legends: Z-A and brings back Mega Evolution as a central mechanic.
- What is an Elite Trainer Box?
- A box containing several booster packs along with card sleeves, damage counters and a storage box. It is the most sensible purchase for someone starting out, because it provides both cards and the accessories they will need.
- What is 30th Celebration?
- The anniversary set for thirty years of Pokémon, releasing in September 2026. Every pack holds six cards, all foil, and guarantees one of 30 uniquely numbered Pikachu, each designed by a different artist.
- Are your Pokémon cards genuine?
- Yes, without exception. Everything comes from authorised distributors of The Pokémon Company. We do not deal in reproductions.
- Where can I find authentic Pokémon products in Thessaloniki?
- At the Techbox store (Al. Papanastasiou 100) and online at techbox.com.gr. You can order online and collect from the store with no shipping cost.
