The world of collectibles is alive in 2025, and two particularly noteworthy fads are winning over aficionados the eccentric Labubu doll and the Scarlet & Violet—Destined Rivals expansion of the Pokémon Trading Card Game. These objects have something unique regardless of your preferences for soft toys or card-battling strategizing. This post explores Labubu doll appeal, the exciting Destined Rivals collection, its sought-after card list, and pre-order navigating advice to equip you to join the collecting frenzy.
The phenomena of Labubu Dolls
From a niche toy to a worldwide success, the Labubu doll has swept the collection scene. Designed by Pop Mart, these fuzzy, grinning animals range from 3-inch keychains to 31-inch colossal figurines and are plush and vinyl based. Pop Mart has unveiled more than 300 original Labubu designs since 2019, driven by series such Exciting Macaron, Have a Seat, and Big Into Energy creating enormous demand. Usually starting at $20–$30 for soft bag charms, uncommon “secret” Labubus—such as the gray rainbow-teethed doll from Big Into Energy—can sell $500 on sites like StockX.
What gives the Labubu doll such seductive appeal? The excitement of the blind box is in not knowing which design collectors will find until they open it. Kids and adults will find this gamble appealing together with Labubu’s cozy but eccentric look. Traveling across the country for special drops, collectors like Ensito20 highlight the commitment this toy inspires. Customizing their dolls with knockoff Prada or Louis Vuitton looks discovered on Etsy allows fans to personalize their collections.
Here are some pointers for anyone visiting Labubu for first time:
• Purchase from reputable vendors. To steer clear of fakes—often known as “Lafufu”—buy straight from Pop Mart’s website or approved stores. See for official tags and packaging.
• Discover the URL trick. Users of TikHub reveal tips on how to grab in-stock blind boxes by adjusting Pop Mart’s website URLs during launches.
• Join Communities: Discord servers and Facebook groups provide trading prospects and guidance on rare doll spotting.
Collectors should be alert, nevertheless, about exaggerated secondary market pricing. Although a $30 Labubu might look like a steal, the possibility of finding a rare one would cause blind box overspending. Spend sensibly and relish the search for your ideal Labubu doll.
A Pokémon TCG Sensation: Destined Rivals
The Pokémon TCG launched its tenth Scarlet & Violet expansion, Destined Rivals, a set previously praised as among the best in the series on May 30, 2025. Having 244 cards, this expansion offers an exciting twist: Trainer’s Pokémon mechanics are returning and now feature the nefarious Team Rocket. Under Giovanni’s direction, players can embrace the evil side with Team Rocket’s Mewtwo ex or match heroic duads like Cynthia and Garchomp ex or Ethan and Ho-Oh ex.
Especially appealing for nostalgia and with its breathtaking artwork is Destined Rivals. While Team Rocket’s Wobbuffet promo hints to Jessie and James’ legendary antics, cards like Ethan’s Ho-Oh ex, showing a vivid sunset, inspire Pokémon Gold and Silver memories. Reviewers who found even simple cards worth admiring say that the enhanced pull rates and expressive commons make every pack interesting.
Destined Rivals is treasure for collectors. Offering great value pursuit cards, the set comprises around 45 special picture cards and 15 Pokémon ex cards. For outside viewers, its ties to Japanese sets like The Glory of Team Rocket and Heat Wave Arena provide depth. The strategic deck-building choices also appeal to players since Trainer’s Pokémon form coherent teams instead of haphazard combinations. Destined Rivals provides whether your battle is collecting or fighting.
Examining the list of intended rivals cards
With 182 main cards and 62 secret rares, the Destined Rivals card list is a treasure mine for Pokémon TCG aficioners. Notable cards comprise:
• Cynthia’s Garchomp ex (#232/182) is a rare, valuable special illustration treasured for its artwork and fighting prowess.
• Ethan’s Ho-Oh ex (#230/182): A fan-favorite for its gold rare version and vintage look.
• Perfect for Team Rocket-themed boards, Mewtwo ex (#231/182) is a nasty standout.
• The Wobbuffet from Team Rocket is the Elite Trainer Box promo, an homage to the comedy team of the anime.
Official sites like tcg.pokemon.com or fan resources like justinbasil.com provide the whole Destined Rivals card list together with visual instructions and translations. With complete art cards adding to their value, collectors should be aware that secret rares, numbered over 182 (e.g., 201/182), are much sought for.
For players, the card list exposes strategic jewels. While Team Rocket’s cards lend mischievous flare, Trainer’s Pokémon for characters like Misty, Steven, and Arven give special skills. While you should concentrate on high-rarity cards like special illustration rares to maximize your collection, don’t ignore commons with outstanding artwork since collector demand is growing on them.
Negotiating Rivals with Designed Directions Order pre-orders
Scalping and great demand made securing Destined Rivals items difficult. Opening at stores including Best Buy, Target, and the Pokémon Center, pre-orders provide Elite Trainer Boxes (ETBs), Builder & Battle Boxes, and Booster Boxes. Though several purchases were canceled owing to scalper crackdowns, the Pokémon Center ETB with a stamped Team Rocket Wobbuffet promo was especially well-liked.
Approach pre-orders or future releases of Destined Rivals as follows:
• Act quick: Best Buy and GameStop’s pre-orders ran fast. Track restocks using X systems similar to @PokemonDealsTCG.
• Check Multiple Retailers: Destined Rivals was widely accessible, so check Target, Walmart, or local game stores unlike unique sets.
• Steer clear of Scalpers: eBay’s secondary markets boost prices. Stay with MSRP or wait for restocking.
For those who missed pre-orders, cards from the Destined Rivals card list are available on sites like TCGplayer or Cardmarket, usually at less than buying packs.
Conlusion
The height of the collection frenzy for 2025 is embodied in the Labubu doll and Pokémon TCG Destined Rivals. These trends provide fun, nostalgia, and investment possibilities whether your search is for a rare Labubu or designing a deck with Cynthia’s Garchomp ex. Explore the Destined Rivals card list, get your pre-orders, and start the adventure! Dive in!