Destined Rivals Release Day Prep Guide

The wait is almost over! The highly anticipated Pokémon TCG: Scarlet & Violet – Destined Rivals expansion is set to launch on Friday, May 30, 2025. With Team Rocket's Mewtwo ex and Cynthia’s Garchomp ex leading the charge, this set is packed with 83 new cards, including 17 Pokémon ex, 23 Illustration Rares, and 6 Hyper Rare gold-etched cards.

If you're in the UK and eager to get your hands on the latest cards, here's a comprehensive guide to retailers, their opening times, and online ordering options.

Places to Queue For (In-Store)

• Smyths Toys

  • Products Available: Booster Boxes, Single Packs, Blister Packs, Elite Trainer Boxes.

  • Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM.

  • Website: smythstoys.com

• WHSmith

  • Products Available: Booster Boxes, Single Packs, Blister Packs, Elite Trainer Boxes.

  • Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM.

  • Website: whsmith.co.uk

• Game

  • Products Available: Booster Boxes, Single Packs, Blister Packs, Elite Trainer Boxes.

  • Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM.

  • Website: game.co.uk

• Argos

  • Products Available: Booster Boxes, Single Packs, Blister Packs, Starter Decks.

  • Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM.

  • Website: argos.co.uk

• HMV

  • Products Available: Booster Boxes, Single Packs, Blister Packs, Collector's Items.

  • Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM.

  • Website: hmv.com

• Menkind

  • Products Available: Booster Boxes, Single Packs, Blister Packs, Elite Trainer Boxes.

  • Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM.

  • Website: menkind.co.uk

Stores Online to Monitor (For Pre-Orders & Delivery)

If you'd rather monitor and secure your Destined Rivals products online, these retailers offer delivery options and pre-orders:

• Pokémon Center UK

  • Products Available: Booster Boxes, Single Packs, Blister Packs, Elite Trainer Boxes, Exclusive Pokémon Center Elite Trainer Boxes.

  • Opening Hours: Online 24/7.

  • Website: pokemoncenter.com

• Zatu Games

  • Products Available: Booster Boxes, Single Packs, Blister Packs, Elite Trainer Boxes.

  • Opening Hours: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM (Wed-Sat); Closed on Sundays.

  • Website: board-game.co.uk

• Chaos Cards

  • Products Available: Booster Boxes, Single Packs, Blister Packs, Elite Trainer Boxes.

  • Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Mon-Sat); 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Sun).

  • Website: chaoscards.co.uk

• Magic Madhouse

  • Products Available: Booster Boxes, Single Packs, Blister Packs, Elite Trainer Boxes.

  • Opening Hours: Online 24/7.

  • Website: magicmadhouse.co.uk

• JD Williams

  • Products Available: Booster Boxes, Single Packs, Blister Packs, Elite Trainer Boxes.

  • Opening Hours: Online 24/7.

  • Website: jdwilliams.co.uk

• John Lewis

  • Products Available: Booster Boxes, Single Packs, Blister Packs, Elite Trainer Boxes.

  • Opening Hours: Online 24/7.

  • Website: johnlewis.com

• Selfridges

  • Products Available: Booster Boxes, Single Packs, Blister Packs, Elite Trainer Boxes.

  • Opening Hours: Online 24/7.

  • Website: selfridges.com

• Very

  • Products Available: Booster Boxes, Single Packs, Blister Packs, Elite Trainer Boxes.

  • Opening Hours: Online 24/7.

  • Website: very.co.uk

• Zavvi

  • Products Available: Booster Boxes, Single Packs, Blister Packs, Elite Trainer Boxes.

  • Opening Hours: Online 24/7.

  • Website: zavvi.com

Local Game Stores (For In-Person & Pre-Order Options)

Many local independent game stores offer great customer service and early access to pre-orders. It's worth checking out these locations near you, as they may have exclusive stock or offer early access events for dedicated fans.

1. Local Game Stores (Check Locally)

   • Products Available: Typically, Booster Boxes, Single Packs, Blister Packs, and Pre-Orders for upcoming sets.

   • Opening Hours: Varies by store.

   • Tips: Call or visit your local game store to ask about pre-ordering Destined Rivals and securing your spot in line for the release day.

   • How to Find: Check local listings or visit websites like Yelp or Google Maps to search for independent game stores in your area.

🧠 Final Thoughts

With high demand expected for Destined Rivals, it's advisable to check multiple retailers and consider online ordering if in-store stock is limited.

We run completely free stock notifications within our Discord server. If you want to be alerted within 15 seconds of an item coming into stock, click here.