Unique designs, cultural relevance, and strategic gaming define the world of collectibles; Labubu dolls and the Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) Scarlet & Violet—Destined Rivals are winning over fans all around. This article examines the attractiveness of Labubu dolls, the buzz around the Destined Rivals set, their card list, and pre-order information, so combining their unique appeal for collectors and players.
A Cultural Collectible Phenomenon: Labubu Dolls
Made by Hong Kong-based artist Kasing Lung, Labubu dolls—which feature quirky, monster-inspired forms—have gone global. Originally seen in Lung’s children’s book The Monsters, these odd animals—which feature toothy grins, pointed ears, and amusing gestures—first became sought-after vinyl toys under the How2Work name. They are a mainstay in the designer toy sector since their mix of adorable but mischievous looks appeals to both sexes.
Every Labubu doll is a piece of art, usually published in limited editions or as blind box series whereby collectors open sealed packages to expose a random design. Popular shows like TAMAZ and Little Mischief have original themes—such as celestial or food-inspired motifs—with uncommon “secret” varieties generating collector frenzy. Prices range from $10 for a single blind box to hundreds for unique pieces, particularly those autographed by Lung or connected to partnerships with companies like Pop Mart or Uniqlo.
Beyond toys, Labubu’s influence speaks to streetwear and pop culture buffs. Although their scarcity feeds a booming secondary market on sites like eBay and Instagram, their vivid colors and expressive designs make them display-worthy. On X, collectors frequently upload unboxing videos or trade advice, where the excitement of tracking rare figurines takes front stage. Taking care of Labubu dolls means avoiding direct sunlight to maintain their vivid colors and gently cleaning using a cloth.
The popularity of the dolls mirrors a larger trend in collectibles whereby demand is driven by emotional connection and exclusivity. With each figure telling a tale of inventiveness and workmanship, Labubu provides a lighthearted approach into the world of designer toys regardless of experience level.
Pokémon TCG: Destined Rivals Expansion—Scarlet & Violet
Released on May 30, 2025, the Scarlet & Violet—Destined Rivals addition of the Pokémon TCG still enthralls both players and collectors. Destined Rivals presents a riveting story focused on the conflict between heroic Trainers and the nefarious Team Rocket as the ninth set in the Scarlet & Violet series. Comprising 244 cards (182 main set cards and 62 secret rares), this set brings back the Trainer’s Pokémon mechanic with a twist so players may either embrace Team Rocket’s nefarious intentions or match famous figures.
From Japanese sets like The Glory of Team Rocket (April 18, 2025), Heat Wave Arena (March 14, 2025), and Marnie and Steven decks (February 21, 2025), the expansion draws on Including Misty (Gen 1), Ethan (Gen 2), Steven (Gen 3), Cynthia (Gen 4), Marnie (Gen 8), and Arven (Gen 9), it shows Owner’s Pokémon connected to Trainers across generations. Under Giovanni’s direction, the set’s thematic depth—pitting heroes like Ethan and Ho-Oh ex against Team Rocket’s Mewtwo ex—adds strategic and narrative richness to gameplay.
Destined Rivals stresses great artwork; Full Art cards, which have collector numbers outside the main set (e.g., 201/182), are now categorized as hidden rares. Reviewers have lauded the pull rates and deck-building possibilities of the expansion since they capture its nostalgic charm and creative ideas. Tournament play starting on June 13, 2025, provides legal access for competitive players to investigate novel tactics.
Key Highlights List of Destined Rivals Cards
Comprising a mix of Pokémon species, Trainer cards, and mystery rares, the Destined Rivals card list is a treasure mine for collectors and players. Notable cards below highlight their diversity and value; values represent raw card estimates as of June 2025:
Ethan’s Pinsir (#1/182): priced at $0.05, a Grass-type card beginning off the set
Yanmega ex (#3/182): About $0.50, a strong Grass ex card
At $0.08 Cynthia’s Roserade (#8/182) is a Trainer’s Pokémon with strategic value.
Smoliv (#21/182): Worth $0.06, a common Grass card
Pricing at $0.61, Team Rocket’s Moltres ex (#31/182) are a Fire-type standout.
Value at $0.32, Ethan’s Typhlosion (#34/182) is a vintage Fire card.
Mewtwo ex (#231/182): A secret uncommon Psychic ex, commanding $15–$20. Team Rocket
Value between $12–$18, Cynthia’s Garchomp ex (#232/182) is a secret rare Fighting ex.
Ethan’s Ho-Oh ex (#230/182) is a $10–$15 hidden rare Fire ex.
Trainer cards covering Judge, Ethan’s Adventure, Cynthia’s Power Weight, and Spikemuth Gym, so strengthening deck strategies.
With their complex drawings, the set’s hidden rares are much sought for; cards like Team Rocket’s Archer UR demand top prices. Pricing and management tools on sites like Pokellector or TCGplayer let collectors monitor their collections. The thorough description provided by Justin Basil’s Pokémon TCG Resources’ visual set list helps players build their decks.
Target Rivals Pre-Order Information and Availability
Early in February 2025 in areas including Singapore, pre-orders for Destined Rivals started; major stores including Best Buy, Walmart, Target, and GameStop opened orders in March. The official release of the set on May 30, 2025 coincided with prerelease activities between May 17 and May 25 whereby gamers may try Build & Battle Boxes. Among important goods are:
Nine booster packs, a Team Rocket’s Wobbuffet promo stamped in Pokémon Center editions, sleeves, and accessories make up Elite Trainer Box (ETB). Target ($49.99), Walmart, and Best Buy have these available.
Ideal for collectors hunting rare cards, booster boxes feature 36 packs. At GameStop and Magic Madhouse, priced $120–$150.
Six booster packets, sold at Target for $26.99, make up the Bundle.
Offered for $20–$30 at local gaming stores, Build & Battle Box has a 40-card deck and four booster packs.
3-Pack Blisters: Priced between $12 and $15, promo cards like Zebstrika or Kangaskhan
With some stores like Titan Toyz offering booster boxes at $295.99, X posts from accounts like @PokemonDealsTCG and @paladincards20 emphasized pre-order links and restocks. High demand brought scalping issues; collectors were encouraged to purchase from reliable sources to prevent inflated prices. While IGN’s pre-order advice advises TCGplayer for singles to target specifically cost-effectively, GameStop’s Pro membership gives savings.
Stock issues continued after launch, with collectors on Reddit’s r/PokemonTCG_UK revealing discoveries at nearby stores including Asda. Pre-ordering via Pokémon Center guaranteed special promos, although numbers were restricted. Yume Cards provided Japanese set pre-orders with free delivery over $350 to international consumers.
Linking Labubu and Rivals: The Collectible Mindset
Although Labubu dolls and Destined Rivals appeal to distinct markets, their shared passion is the excitement of collecting. Both stress artistry, community involvement, and rarity. Labubu’s blind box mechanism reflects the erratic nature of opening Pokémon booster packs, where the possibility of obtaining a secret rare or chase figure drives thrills. Social media sites like X magnify this, as evidenced in posts from @CeladonCA endorsing Destined Rivals items, when collectors share pulls or swaps.
There is a great emotional commitment to these pastimes. While Destined Rivals’s nostalgic Trainer Pokémon play on childhood memories, Labubu’s quirky designs bring delight. Whether one is creating a competitive Pokémon deck or seeking a rare Labubu variety, both markets value strategy and endurance. Driven by scarcity, their secondary markets highlight the value of authenticity and condition; graded Pokémon cards (by PSA or CGC) and well-preserved Labubu figures attract top pay.
Advice for players and collectors.
Start with a blind box series to enjoy the unpacking excitement for Labubu aficionados; but, investigate secondary market pricing for uncommon figurines to prevent overpaying. To keep current on releases, join internet communities on Reddit or X. Based on TCGplayer’s pricing data, think about singles instead of sealed items for deck-building for Pokémon TCG aficioners. To test Destined Rivals cards early, go to prerelease events; store cards in protective sleeves to keep value.
Both interests need for budgeting since hunting rare objects can be expensive. Whether finishing a Labubu series or learning a Garchomp ex deck, set specific targets to keep concentrated. Trade, share tactics, or celebrate discoveries by interacting with local or internet groups, therefore improving the experience.
Conlusion
Combining artistry, strategy, and community, Labubu dolls and Pokémon TCG: Scarlet & Violet reflect the dynamic realm of collectibles. While Destined Rivals‘ extensive card list and narrative depth thrill Pokémon gamers, Labubu’s impish charm enthralls designer toy enthusiasts. Whether unwrapping a rare Labubu or pulling a Team Rocket’s Mewtwo ex, the excitement comes from the chase and the tales these objects reveal. To negotiate their ever-changing marketplaces, be informed by reliable stores and communities; embrace the passion driving these cherished pastimes.