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Pokémon TCG Pocket is taking trainers back to the tropical glow of Alola with its next major mobile expansion: Celestial Guardians. Set to launch on April 30, 2025, this upcoming release brings over 200 new cards, loads of Gen 7 hype, and a string of events to mark the game’s six-month anniversary.
Whether you're a longtime collector or just diving into Pocket's bite-sized format, here’s everything you need to know about Celestial Guardians—from rare pulls to must-watch events.
What Is the Celestial Guardians Expansion?
Celestial Guardians is the third major set (labeled Set A3) in the Pokémon TCG Pocket line. Themed around the Alola region and its beloved Generation 7 Pokémon, this expansion reintroduces iconic faces like Solgaleo, Lunala, and Alolan Raichu, alongside an impressive cast of Trainers and EX cards.
It’s not just about adding new cards—this expansion celebrates Pocket’s six-month anniversary, making it a landmark moment for the app and its growing community.
When Does Celestial Guardians Release?
Mark your calendars: April 30, 2025. That’s when Celestial Guardians officially drops. But some of the event content kicks off even earlier, so players should prep ahead.
What’s in the Set?
Here’s a quick breakdown of what collectors and players can expect:
Card Count: Over 200 new cards
Set Number: A3
Main Theme: Generation 7 and the Alola region
Pokémon Cards to Watch
Fans of the Sun & Moon era will appreciate the return of familiar faces and items:
Solgaleo ex

Lunala ex

Alolan Raichu ex (with a special Rainbow variant)

Alolan Vulpix, Alolan Marowak (Art Rare), Oricorio, and Alolan Meowth
Two different versions of each Gen 7 starter: Rowlet, Litten, and Popplio
Trainer and Item Cards to Watch
Fans of the Sun & Moon era will appreciate the return of familiar faces and items:
Lillie (in a special Immersive Supporter format)

Ilima, Lana, Kiawe, Mallow, Acerola, Sophocles
Rotom Dex and Rare Candy also return to shake up gameplay
Are There Special Events Tied to the Set?
Absolutely. Pokémon TCG Pocket is pulling out all the stops for its half-year celebration. Here’s a snapshot of the event calendar:
Key Events:
Riolu + Pachirisu Wonder Pick Event: April 16–26
Fighting-Type Mass Outbreak (featuring Lucario ex): April 28–May 4
Half-Year Celebration: April 30–May 28
As part of these events, players can earn Promo Pack A Series Vol. 7 boosters—these may include exclusive rares like Rayquaza ex Full Art.
How Will This Affect the Meta?
With powerful EX cards like Solgaleo ex and Lunala ex entering the scene, the Celestial Guardians expansion is poised to shift the current meta. Expect new synergies between Alolan forms and Trainer support that could redefine optimal deck builds in Pocket's quickplay format.
The continuation of Pokémon TCG Pocket’s monthly release cadence—following March’s surprise Shining Revelry—signals a consistent rhythm for both casual and competitive players to stay engaged.
Final Thoughts: Why Celestial Guardians Matters
Celestial Guardians is more than just another set drop—it’s a celebration of Pocket’s growing legacy and a love letter to the Alola region. Between the EX card power plays, reimagined Trainer favorites, and exclusive promos, this expansion feels like a must-play moment for any serious collector or battler.
If you're looking to reconnect with Gen 7 classics or jump into the evolving Pocket meta, April 30 is the day to dive in.
Download the Rare Candy App to keep track of your physical cards as well as TCG Pocket cards!